Bharat Ratna to Pandit Malaviya, Vajpayee a fitting recognition of their service to nation: PM Modi

New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday expressed his delight over the country's highest civilian award Bharat Ratna being conferred on former prime minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee and on noted educationist and eminent freedom fighter Pandit Madan Mohan Malaviya, saying it is a fitting recognition for their services to the nation.

"Bharat Ratna being conferred on Pt. Madan Mohan Malaviya and Shri Atal Bihari Vajpayee is a matter of great delight," tweeted Prime Minister Modi.

"Country's highest honour to these illustrious stalwarts is a fitting recognition of their service to the Nation," he added.

Prime Minister Modi remembered Pt Malaviya as a phenomenal scholar and freedom fighter.

"Pt. Madan Mohan Malaviya is remembered as a phenomenal scholar and freedom fighter who lit the spark of national consciousness among people," he tweeted.

Prime Minister Modi also acknowledged Vajpayee's invaluable contribution to the nation.

"Atal ji means so much to everyone. A guide, inspiration and giant among giants. His contribution to India is invaluable," he said in a series of tweets.

"The President has been pleased to award Bharat Ratna to Pandit Madan Mohan Malviya (posthumously) and to Atal Bihari Vajpayee," a press communique from the Rashtrapati Bhavan said.

The announcement came ahead of Vajpayee's 90th birthday on Thursday.