India bids farewell to former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh, architect of economic reforms, with full state honours and a week-long national mourning.
December 27, 2024: India is in mourning following the passing of Dr. Manmohan Singh, former Prime Minister and one of the most respected economists and political leaders in the country. Dr. Singh passed away at the age of 92 on Thursday. In his honor, the Government of India has declared seven days of national mourning, and his last rites will be conducted with full state honours.
During this period, the national flag will be flown at half-mast on all official buildings across the country, and all government programs scheduled for Friday have been canceled. Additionally, official entertainment and celebratory events have been put on hold as a mark of respect.
Also Read: Cricket Fraternity Pays Tribute to Former PM Manmohan Singh
Congress Pays Tribute
The Congress party has also announced a period of mourning. All official Congress events, including the party’s Foundation Day celebrations, have been postponed until January 3, 2025. Congress General Secretary KC Venugopal shared in a post on X (formerly Twitter):
“As a mark of respect for the departed former Prime Minister, Dr Manmohan Singh ji, all official programs of the Indian National Congress, including Foundation Day celebrations, stand canceled for the next seven days. The party flag will be flown at half-mast during this period of mourning.”
Also Read: Global Leaders Pay Tribute to Dr. Manmohan Singh: An Icon of Leadership and Diplomacy
Legacy of Dr. Manmohan Singh
Dr. Manmohan Singh served as Prime Minister for two consecutive terms (2004-2014) and earlier as Finance Minister (1991-1996) under PV Narasimha Rao’s government. His 1991 economic liberalization policies are widely credited with transforming India into a global economic power, steering the country out of a severe financial crisis.
Also Read: Manmohan Singh: The Architect of Economic Reforms and a Leader of Integrity
Dr. Singh’s leadership and integrity earned him deep respect across political lines. His tenure is marked by landmark initiatives in economic reforms, welfare schemes, and diplomatic relationships.
Tributes Pour In Across Political Lines
Leaders from all political parties paid tribute to Dr. Singh.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed his condolences on X:
“India mourns the loss of one of its most distinguished leaders, Dr. Manmohan Singh Ji. Rising from humble origins, he rose to become a respected economist. His interventions in Parliament were also insightful. As our Prime Minister, he made extensive efforts to improve people’s lives.”
Congress leader Rahul Gandhi shared an emotional tribute:
“Manmohan Singh Ji led India with immense wisdom and integrity. His humility and deep understanding of economics inspired the nation. My heartfelt condolences to Mrs. Kaur and the family. I have lost a mentor and guide. Millions of us who admired him will remember him with the utmost pride.”
A Mentor and Guide
Dr. Manmohan Singh was not only a statesman but also a mentor and guide to many political leaders, economists, and civil servants. Known for his calm demeanor, sharp intellect, and humility, his leadership during India’s economic reform era will remain etched in history.
As India bids farewell to one of its most revered leaders, citizens across the country remember Dr. Singh’s contribution to India’s economic and political landscape. His legacy will continue to inspire generations to come.
The state funeral will be held with full honours, attended by national leaders, dignitaries, and people from all walks of life, marking the end of an era in Indian politics.
Tags: Manmohan Singh, Former Prime Minister, National Mourning, State Honours, Congress, Indian Politics, Economic Reforms, Tribute to Manmohan Singh
