New Delhi, Dec 26, 2024: India mourns the loss of one of its most respected leaders, Dr. Manmohan Singh, who passed away on Thursday evening at the age of 92. The former Prime Minister had been under treatment for age-related ailments and suffered a sudden loss of consciousness at his residence earlier in the day.
Dr. Singh was rushed to the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), New Delhi, at 8:06 PM, where resuscitative efforts were initiated. Despite the best efforts of medical professionals, he could not be revived and was pronounced dead at 9:51 PM. The news of his demise was confirmed by Dr. Rima Dada, Professor In-Charge of the Media Cell at AIIMS, who expressed deep sorrow over the passing of the veteran leader.
A Life Dedicated to India
Born on September 26, 1932, in Gah, Punjab (now in Pakistan), Dr. Manmohan Singh rose from humble beginnings to become one of India’s most iconic leaders. He was a distinguished economist, an erudite scholar, and a statesman whose contributions to the nation spanned decades.
After completing his early education in Punjab, Dr. Singh went on to pursue higher studies in economics at the University of Cambridge and later obtained a doctorate from the University of Oxford. His academic brilliance earned him widespread recognition, and he began his career as an economist with the United Nations.
Architect of Economic Reforms
Dr. Singh is best remembered as the architect of India’s landmark economic liberalization in 1991 during his tenure as Finance Minister under Prime Minister P.V. Narasimha Rao. Faced with a severe balance-of-payments crisis, Dr. Singh introduced sweeping reforms that opened up the Indian economy to global markets, deregulated industries, and ushered in an era of economic growth and prosperity.
Tenure as Prime Minister
Dr. Singh served as India’s Prime Minister for two consecutive terms from 2004 to 2014, heading the United Progressive Alliance (UPA) government. His tenure was marked by several landmark initiatives, including the introduction of the Right to Information Act, the National Rural Employment Guarantee Scheme, and the India-US Civil Nuclear Agreement.
Renowned for his integrity, humility, and quiet determination, Dr. Singh was often referred to as a “gentleman politician” who prioritized the nation’s progress over political rhetoric. Despite facing criticism and challenges during his tenure, he remained steadfast in his commitment to India’s development.
Awards and Recognition
Dr. Singh’s contributions were recognized globally, earning him numerous accolades, including the Padma Vibhushan in 1987 and honorary doctorates from several prestigious institutions. He was widely respected as an economist and statesman, both within India and on the international stage.
A Nation in Mourning
Dr. Singh’s passing marks the end of an era. Tributes have poured in from leaders across the political spectrum, with many recalling his vision, wisdom, and service to the nation. Funeral arrangements are expected to be announced soon, with leaders and citizens alike preparing to pay their respects to a man who shaped modern India.
Dr. Manmohan Singh is survived by his wife, Gursharan Kaur, and three daughters. His legacy as a visionary leader and a true servant of the nation will continue to inspire generations to come.
