India Bids Farewell to Former Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh, Last Rites Will Be Performed in New Delhi, Tomorrow Morning

The nation mourns the loss of one of its most celebrated leaders, Dr. Manmohan Singh, who passed away on Thursday, December 26, 2024, at the age of 92. His last rites will be performed at Nigambodh Ghat in New Delhi on Saturday, December 28, at 11:45 am, with full military honors.

State Funeral for a Visionary Leader

The Ministry of Home Affairs announced that Dr. Singh’s funeral will be conducted with the highest state honors. A statement from the Ministry reads:
“It has been decided by the Government that a State funeral will be accorded to Dr. Manmohan Singh. The Ministry of Defence is requested to make arrangements for a State funeral with full military honours.”

Dr. Singh passed away at the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) in Delhi, where he was admitted to the emergency ward earlier in the evening. His passing marks the end of an era for Indian politics and economic reforms.

A Life of Remarkable Achievements

Born on September 26, 1932, Dr. Manmohan Singh was a distinguished economist, visionary, and one of India’s most influential leaders. As the 13th Prime Minister of India, he led the country from 2004 to 2014, leaving behind a legacy of economic reforms and landmark policies.

Key Contributions:

• Economic Reforms of the 1990s:
  As Finance Minister, Dr. Singh played a pivotal role in liberalizing India’s economy, ushering in an era of growth and globalization.
• Legislation:
  His tenure as Prime Minister saw the implementation of transformative policies like the National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (NREGA) and the Right to Information Act (RTI).
• Global Economic Leadership:
  Dr. Singh guided India through the 2008 global financial crisis with skill, ensuring economic stability and growth.

Tributes Pour In

National and international leaders have expressed their grief and paid homage to Dr. Singh’s contributions.

• President Droupadi Murmu:
  Highlighted his role as a statesman and economist, stating that his leadership will inspire generations to come.
• Prime Minister Narendra Modi:
  Remembered him as a leader who served India with dedication and brilliance, offering condolences to his family and followers.
• Congress Leader Sonia Gandhi:
  Recalled her close friendship with Dr. Singh, calling his loss a profound blow to the nation.

World leaders, including those from the United States, Canada, France, Russia, Pakistan, and Sri Lanka, also extended their condolences. They lauded his efforts in strengthening bilateral relations and contributing to global economic cooperation.

Legacy and Influence

Dr. Manmohan Singh’s political journey spanned decades, including a remarkable 33 years as a member of the Rajya Sabha. Known for his integrity, intellect, and humility, he was a guiding force behind India’s transformation into a global economic powerhouse.

His leadership style was marked by quiet determination, thoughtful policies, and a commitment to the welfare of all citizens. Dr. Singh’s vision and contributions will continue to shape India’s future.

A Nation in Mourning

As the country prepares to bid farewell to this towering figure, Dr. Manmohan Singh’s legacy stands as a testament to his service to India and humanity. His loss leaves a void in the nation’s political and economic landscape that will be hard to fill.