Former PM Manmohan Singh Passes Away at 92: Nation Mourns a Visionary Leader
Dr. Manmohan Singh, the two-time Prime Minister of India and the architect behind the transformative economic reforms of 1991, passed away at the age of 92. The veteran statesman breathed his last on Thursday evening in Delhi. His mortal remains were brought to his residence in the national capital, where senior leaders and citizens gathered to pay their final respects.
Final Farewell Plans
Dr. Singh’s mortal remains will be moved to the All India Congress Committee (AICC) headquarters on Saturday morning. Following a public tribute, his last rites will be performed near Rajghat.
Leaders Pay Homage
Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Union Home Minister Amit Shah, BJP President JP Nadda, and other prominent leaders visited Dr. Singh’s residence on Friday morning to honor the former Prime Minister. The outpouring of grief highlighted his immense contribution to Indian politics and governance.
A Leader Who Shaped Modern India
Dr. Manmohan Singh, an accomplished economist, rose to prominence as the architect of India’s economic liberalization during his tenure as Finance Minister in the Narasimha Rao government in the early 1990s. His groundbreaking reforms dismantled the license raj and set India on a path of rapid economic growth.
In 2004, he was unexpectedly chosen to lead the United Progressive Alliance (UPA) government after its victory over the BJP-led National Democratic Alliance (NDA). During his first term, Singh oversaw the signing of the historic civil nuclear agreement with the United States in 2005, bolstering India’s energy security and strategic ties with the U.S.
Singh returned as Prime Minister for a second term in 2009, facing increasing coalition challenges and controversies, including corruption scandals. Despite the challenges, his tenure remains a testament to his calm demeanor, economic expertise, and commitment to governance.
A Legacy of Leadership and Integrity
Before entering politics, Dr. Singh served as the Governor of the Reserve Bank of India and held various key positions, including the Finance Minister, where he played a pivotal role in opening up India’s economy. Known for his humility, intellect, and dedication, he became a symbol of integrity in Indian politics.
As the nation bids farewell to Dr. Manmohan Singh, his contributions to India’s economic and political landscape remain a lasting legacy, inspiring generations to come.
