India mourns the loss of one of its most revered statesmen, Dr. Manmohan Singh, who passed away at the age of 92 on Thursday, December 26, at the AIIMS Hospital in Delhi. The former Prime Minister, widely regarded as the architect of India’s economic liberalization, breathed his last after being admitted to the hospital’s emergency department due to critical health issues.
Condolences Pour In
Tributes and condolences have poured in from across the country and political spectrum. Robert Vadra, husband of Congress leader Priyanka Gandhi Vadra, shared an emotional message on X (formerly Twitter):
“I am deeply saddened to learn of the passing of former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh ji. My deepest condolences to his family and loved ones. Thank you for your service to our Nation. You will always be remembered for your Economic revolution and the progressive changes you brought to the country.”
Priyanka Gandhi Vadra, along with several other Congress leaders, was present at AIIMS earlier today, underscoring the immense respect and love Dr. Singh commanded.
A Statesman and Visionary Leader
Dr. Singh served as India’s Prime Minister from 2004 to 2014, leading the country through a decade of significant economic and social transformation. Known for his humility, intellect, and deep understanding of economics, he was a pivotal figure in modernizing India’s economy.
As Finance Minister in 1991, under Prime Minister PV Narasimha Rao, Dr. Singh introduced sweeping reforms that liberalized India’s economy, steering it away from a potential financial collapse. These policies laid the foundation for India’s emergence as a global economic powerhouse.
A Distinguished Career
Dr. Singh’s career was marked by numerous accomplishments, both academic and professional:
- Academic Background:
- Bachelor’s and Master’s in Economics from Panjab University.
- Economic Tripos from Cambridge University and a D.Phil in Economics from Oxford University.
- Government Service:
- Chief Economic Advisor, Finance Secretary, and Governor of the Reserve Bank of India.
- Secretary General of the South Commission in Geneva.
- Deputy Chairman of the Planning Commission and Advisor to the Prime Minister.
As Prime Minister, he focused on inclusive growth, rural development, and improving India’s global standing.
Legacy and Tributes
Dr. Singh’s contributions to India will remain etched in history. His tenure as Prime Minister was marked by the enactment of progressive policies such as the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (MGNREGA) and initiatives to strengthen India’s infrastructure, healthcare, and education sectors.
Despite facing political challenges, Dr. Singh maintained his reputation for integrity and calm leadership.
Nation in Mourning
As the nation grieves this monumental loss, leaders and citizens alike are reflecting on his legacy. Dr. Manmohan Singh will be remembered not just as a Prime Minister but as a statesman who reshaped India’s economic trajectory and left an indelible mark on its governance.
Our heartfelt condolences to his family and loved ones. May his soul rest in peace.
