Former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh (92) has passed away. Priyanka Gandhi’s husband Robert Vadra tweeted this. He was taken to AIIMS in Delhi after falling seriously ill this evening. Doctors treated him in the emergency ward there. However, doctors said that Manmohan breathed his last shortly after.
In a somber development, India bids farewell to one of its most distinguished statesmen, Dr. Manmohan Singh, who passed away at the age of 92. Known for his unwavering integrity, intellect, and service to the nation, Dr. Singh left an indelible mark on the socio-economic and political landscape of the country. His demise has sparked an outpouring of tributes from across the globe, with leaders and citizens reflecting on his remarkable contributions.
Dr. Manmohan Singh served as India’s Prime Minister from 2004 to 2014, a tenure marked by transformative economic reforms, diplomatic achievements, and an emphasis on inclusive growth. A renowned economist by training, Dr. Singh was instrumental in shaping India’s economic liberalization in 1991 during his tenure as Finance Minister under then-Prime Minister P.V. Narasimha Rao. His policies set the stage for India’s emergence as a global economic power.
A Humble Beginning
Born on September 26, 1932, in Gah, Punjab (now in Pakistan), Dr. Manmohan Singh’s journey from a small village to the corridors of power is a testament to his determination and brilliance. Despite limited resources, he excelled academically, earning scholarships to study at prestigious institutions, including the University of Cambridge and the University of Oxford. He completed his D.Phil in Economics from Nuffield College, Oxford, laying the foundation for his illustrious career.
Architect of Economic Reforms
Dr. Manmohan Singh’s role in India’s economic liberalization remains one of his greatest legacies. As Finance Minister in 1991, he presented a bold budget that dismantled decades of socialist policies, opening the Indian economy to global markets. His reforms addressed a severe balance-of-payments crisis and ushered in an era of unprecedented growth. Key measures included reducing import tariffs, deregulating industries, and inviting foreign direct investment.
His famous words during his budget speech, “No power on earth can stop an idea whose time has come,” resonated across the nation, symbolizing the dawn of a new economic era.
A Decade of Leadership
In 2004, Dr. Manmohan Singh became the 13th Prime Minister of India, leading the United Progressive Alliance (UPA) government. Despite initial skepticism about his political acumen, he proved to be a leader of vision and resilience. Under his leadership, India achieved significant milestones, including high GDP growth rates, enhanced rural development programs, and landmark legislations like the Right to Information Act and the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (MGNREGA).
His foreign policy initiatives strengthened India’s global standing. The Indo-U.S. Civil Nuclear Agreement, signed in 2008, marked a turning point in bilateral relations, opening new avenues for cooperation in energy and technology.
A Life of Simplicity and Service
Dr. Manmohan Singh was widely admired for his simplicity and humility. Despite his towering achievements, he remained grounded, often attributing his success to his mentors and colleagues. He was a devoted family man, and his wife, Gursharan Kaur, and their three daughters were his pillars of support.
Throughout his career, Dr. Singh maintained a reputation for honesty and integrity. Even his political adversaries acknowledged his sincerity and commitment to public service.
Tributes and Reflections
Following the news of his demise, tributes poured in from leaders, dignitaries, and citizens. Former Congress President Sonia Gandhi called him “the true architect of modern India,” while Prime Minister Narendra Modi lauded his contributions to economic reforms and nation-building.
International leaders also expressed their condolences. Former U.S. President Barack Obama described him as “a man of extraordinary intellect and character,” while United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres highlighted his role in advancing global development.
A Lasting Legacy
Dr. Manmohan Singh’s legacy extends beyond his economic and political achievements. He inspired generations with his dedication, humility, and vision for a prosperous and equitable India. His life serves as a reminder that leadership is about service and that progress requires courage, collaboration, and compassion.
As the nation mourns the loss of one of its most cherished leaders, his contributions will continue to guide India’s journey towards development and unity. Dr. Singh may no longer be with us, but his ideals and vision will live on, inspiring future generations to build a stronger, inclusive, and self-reliant India.
