LUCKNOW, March 17 -- Chief minister Yogi Adityanath on Tuesday paid tribute to former Uttar Pradesh chief minister Hemwati Nandan Bahuguna (1919-1989), who also served as a Union minister, on his 37th death anniversary, describing him as a popular leader, an efficient administrator and a freedom fighter.

Speaking on the occasion, Yogi said, "Bahuguna Ji took Uttar Pradesh's development to new heights. He consistently worked to strengthen social awareness and national consciousness."

"He was born in a small village in Pauri district of the then Uttar Pradesh (present-day Uttarakhand). He received early education in his village and later moved to Prayagraj for higher studies. During his student years, he became a student leader and joined...