Dr. Manmohan Singh, India’s former Prime Minister, passed away on Thursday, December 26, 2024, at the age of 92. He was admitted to AIIMS, New Delhi, on Thursday evening after his health deteriorated. Despite receiving intensive medical treatment, he breathed his last at 9:51 PM. AIIMS confirmed his demise in an official bulletin, stating:
“With profound sorrow, we announce the passing of Dr. Manmohan Singh, former Prime Minister of India, at the age of 92. He was under treatment for age-related ailments. Earlier today, he suddenly lost consciousness at home, where initial resuscitation attempts were made. He was brought to the medical emergency of AIIMS at 8:06 PM, but all efforts to revive him proved unsuccessful.”
A Nation Mourns
Prime Minister Narendra Modi paid tribute to Dr. Manmohan Singh, saying:
“India mourns the loss of one of its most respected leaders, Dr. Manmohan Singh. Rising from humble beginnings, he became a distinguished economist and served in various key positions, including Finance Minister. His deep understanding of economic policies shaped our nation’s trajectory. As Prime Minister, his efforts to improve the lives of our citizens were remarkable.”
Senior Congress leaders, including former Union Minister Salman Khurshid and former Haryana CM Bhupinder Singh Hooda, also expressed their grief. Known for his simplicity, integrity, and exceptional economic vision, Dr. Singh’s demise is a monumental loss for Indian politics and the economy. His funeral will be conducted with full state honors.
Dr. Manmohan Singh: A Visionary Leader and Architect of Modern India
Early Life
Dr. Manmohan Singh was born on September 26, 1932, in Gah, a village in the Punjab Province of undivided India (now in Pakistan). Following the partition in 1947, his family migrated to India. A prodigious student from an early age, Dr. Singh excelled academically, completing his undergraduate studies at Punjab University before pursuing higher education at prestigious institutions such as the University of Cambridge and the University of Oxford. His academic journey laid the foundation for his illustrious career in economics and public service.
Trailblazing Career in Public Service
Dr. Singh began his career in the 1950s as a researcher in economic affairs, quickly earning recognition for his expertise and innovative ideas. In 1971, he was appointed Economic Advisor to the Government of India, marking the start of a distinguished career in public administration. Over the years, he held several influential roles, including Vice Chairman of the Planning Commission and Governor of the Reserve Bank of India, where his visionary approach left a lasting impact.
The Architect of Economic Reforms
In 1991, amidst one of the most severe economic crises in India’s history, Dr. Singh was appointed Finance Minister under Prime Minister P.V. Narasimha Rao. Tasked with reviving a faltering economy, Dr. Singh introduced groundbreaking liberalization reforms. His policies opened India’s markets to foreign investment, and deregulated industries, and initiated a path of accelerated economic growth. These reforms transformed India into a global economic power, earning him widespread acclaim as the architect of modern India’s economic transformation.
Life of Simplicity and Values
Dr. Singh was known for his humility, integrity, and simplicity. He shared a quiet yet profound bond with his wife, Gursharan Kaur, and was a devoted father to their three daughters. Beyond his professional life, he found solace in literature, classical music, and spiritual pursuits, embodying a balance of intellectual rigor and human warmth.
Prime Ministerial Legacy
Dr. Singh made history as the first Prime Minister of India to serve two consecutive terms (2004–2014) without contesting a Lok Sabha election, instead representing the Rajya Sabha. His tenure was marked by significant achievements, including landmark social welfare schemes, economic growth, and a strengthened global presence for India. He championed initiatives such as the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (MGNREGA) and played a pivotal role in advancing India’s civil nuclear agreement with the United States.
A Nation Mourns an Icon
Dr. Manmohan Singh’s passing marks the end of an era in Indian politics and economics. Revered as a statesman of unparalleled intellect and unwavering dedication to the nation, his contributions continue to inspire generations. His life’s journey is a testament to the power of vision, resilience, and quiet determination in shaping a nation’s destiny.
