“From groundbreaking economic policies to leading India through transformative years, Dr. Manmohan Singh leaves behind a legacy of wisdom, humility, and visionary leadership.”
New Delhi, December 27: Former Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh, a distinguished economist, scholar, and statesman, passed away on Thursday at the age of 92. Known as the architect of India’s economic reforms, Dr. Singh steered the nation through transformative years, leaving an indelible mark on India’s economic and political landscape.
A Visionary Leader and Economist
Dr. Manmohan Singh’s legacy is closely tied to his pivotal role as Finance Minister in 1991 when India faced a balance of payments crisis. With political determination and economic expertise, he implemented bold reforms—devaluing the rupee, reducing taxes, and opening up foreign investment. These steps not only stabilized India’s economy but also paved the way for unprecedented economic growth, a burgeoning middle class, and poverty alleviation.
His tenure as Prime Minister from 2004 to 2014 was marked by progressive policies and landmark legislation, including the Right to Education, Right to Food, and Right to Information Acts. The Indo-US Nuclear Deal under his leadership reshaped India’s global standing and strengthened bilateral ties with the United States.
A Gentle Statesman with a Steely Resolve
Born in 1932 in Punjab, Dr. Singh rose from humble beginnings to become an economist of global repute, with degrees from Cambridge and Oxford Universities. His profound knowledge and calm demeanor earned him widespread respect across party lines and on the international stage.
Throughout his career, he held critical positions, including Governor of the Reserve Bank of India, Finance Secretary, Deputy Chairman of the Planning Commission, and Chairman of the University Grants Commission (UGC).
Tributes Pour In
President Droupadi Murmu described Dr. Singh as “one of those rare politicians who excelled in academia, administration, and governance with equal ease. His contributions to reforming the Indian economy and his humility will always be remembered.”
Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar highlighted his leadership during the 1991 economic crisis, calling him a “visionary statesman and a leader of towering intellect.”
Congress leader Rahul Gandhi expressed his grief, saying, “I have lost a mentor and guide. Millions of us will remember him with the utmost pride.”
A Life Dedicated to Service
Dr. Singh’s career began as an Economic Advisor in 1971, and over the decades, he held multiple influential roles in policy-making and governance. He was a recipient of India’s second-highest civilian honor, the Padma Vibhushan (1987), and earned global accolades, including the Adam Smith Prize from Cambridge University.
A Legacy of Progress and Integrity
Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge described him as a “visionary statesman, a leader of unimpeachable integrity, and an economist of unparalleled stature.”
Dr. Singh’s leadership during the UPA era witnessed unprecedented GDP growth, landmark reforms, and significant strides in social welfare and governance.
As India mourns the loss of a true statesman, Dr. Manmohan Singh’s contributions to the nation’s progress, his intellectual prowess, and his unwavering commitment to public service will continue to inspire generations to come.
