A Life of Service: Vidya Stokes Turns 99, Embodies a Legacy of Integrity

In a warm and rare moment for Himachal Pradesh politics, veteran leader Vidya Stokes celebrated her 99th birthday on Sunday. Chief Minister Thakur Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu personally visited her at her Shimla home to extend heartfelt wishes for her continued health and long life. He honored her as “a towering figure whose integrity and contribution will inspire generations.”

At 99, Stokes is one of the state’s most enduring and beloved public figures. Her remarkable political journey, spanning nearly half a century, is a story of quiet strength, deep humility, and an unwavering commitment to serving others.

Her path into politics began from a place of personal loss. Born on December 8, 1927, in Kotgarh, she entered active politics in 1974 following her husband’s passing, contesting and winning the assembly seat he left behind. What started as a step forward from tragedy blossomed into one of the most influential careers in Himachal’s history.

The profound trust people placed in her is clear: she was elected to the state Legislative Assembly eight times—in 1974, 1982, 1985, 1990, 1998, 2003, 2007, and 2012. In government, she took on critical roles, shaping the state’s future as Minister for Power, Horticulture, Irrigation, Public Health, and Science & Technology. She also broke barriers by becoming Himachal’s first woman Speaker of the Legislative Assembly.

But Stokes’ impact reached far beyond the assembly halls. She was a driving force for farmers and rural communities, leading cooperative movements and heading numerous agricultural organizations. Her influence even extended to the world of sports, where she served as President of the Indian Women’s Hockey Association and, at 83, played a key role in unifying the nation’s hockey bodies as President of Hockey India.

Perhaps the most telling detail of her character is that throughout her long career, she refused to accept any government salary or perks—a powerful statement of her belief that politics is a service, not a means for privilege. Her life has been a lesson in simplicity, discipline, and integrity.

As Himachal Pradesh celebrates this iconic leader, her 99th birthday is more than a milestone; it’s a reminder of a values-driven era in public life. Vidya Stokes’ legacy is a rare and inspiring one: a lifetime of selfless service, leadership without arrogance, and a relevance that only grows with time.