India mourns the loss of former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh, who passed away at the age of 92. Known as the architect of India’s economic liberalization, Singh’s legacy as a transformative leader spans decades. He served as Prime Minister from 2004 to 2014, after an illustrious career as Finance Minister and in academia.
A Remarkable Journey
Born on September 26, 1932, in a small village in Punjab, undivided India, Singh’s early life was marked by hardship. He pursued higher education at Cambridge and Oxford, earning acclaim for his academic brilliance. As India’s Finance Minister in 1991, he rescued the country from economic bankruptcy, introducing reforms that liberalized the economy. Singh’s bold measures, including currency devaluation and promoting foreign investments, laid the foundation for India’s economic rise.
In his iconic maiden budget speech, Singh quoted Victor Hugo, saying, “No power on Earth can stop an idea whose time has come.” This sentiment defined his tenure, as he steered the nation toward growth and stability.
Prime Ministerial Tenure
Manmohan Singh made history as the first Sikh Prime Minister of India and the first leader since Jawaharlal Nehru to be re-elected after completing a full term. His first tenure (2004-2009) was marked by a landmark nuclear deal with the United States, ending India’s nuclear isolation. Singh’s pragmatic foreign policies fostered peace talks with Pakistan, improved ties with China, and strengthened India’s global standing.
However, his second term (2009-2014) was marred by corruption scandals, policy paralysis, and economic challenges. Despite these setbacks, Singh maintained his integrity and remained steadfast in his commitment to public welfare.
Tributes from Leaders
Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed his condolences, highlighting Singh’s humility and wisdom. “India mourns the loss of one of its most distinguished leaders,” he said. Congress leaders Rahul Gandhi and Priyanka Gandhi remembered him as a mentor and a courageous leader.
A Statesman of Integrity
Singh was admired for his calm demeanor and consensus-building approach, even during politically turbulent times. While critics labeled him as indecisive, he focused on long-term goals rather than short-term gains. His dedication to public service and quiet resolve left a lasting impression.
Enduring Legacy
Manmohan Singh’s impact on India goes beyond politics. His economic reforms, pragmatic foreign policies, and vision for a modern India continue to inspire leaders and citizens alike. While controversies surrounded his later years, his contributions to India’s growth and development remain unparalleled.
As India bids farewell to a stalwart leader, history will remember Manmohan Singh as a visionary economist, a humble statesman, and a true servant of the nation. He is survived by his wife, Gursharan Kaur, and their three daughters.
