India is mourning today as the former Prime Minister and legendary economist, Dr. Manmohan Singh, passed away on December 26, 2024, at 92. His last journey will begin tomorrow from the AICC headquarters. Tributes have been coming from all over the world to pay homage to his contributions to the nation and the world.
Dr. Manmohan Singh’s Journey
From a Small Village to National Leadership
Singh hails from a small village. And then, to a height, one can only wonder. With great toil and the finest mind, he became the finest with his credentials that rivaled only the best the world could claim. Singh had it in him, taking his little village background into prime ministerly positions in India.
Architect of India’s Economic Liberalization
The Bold Reforms of 1991
Manmohan Singh is generally credited as the architect of India’s economic liberalization. As finance minister in 1991, he introduced bold reforms that rescued India from an economic crisis. These policies paved the way for India’s rapid growth and positioned the nation as a global economic power.
A Shift Towards a Market-Driven Economy
Under his regime, India moved from a command economy towards a market-determined one. His policies encouraged investment in foreign firms, creating ample employment avenues and stimulating industry growth. Singh’s policies marked the start of the economic prosperity of New India.
Tributes from Across the Globe
World Leaders Honor Dr. Singh
World leaders have condoled Singh’s death. The U.S. Ambassador Eric Garcetti called him the pioneer of U.S.-India relations. Russian envoy Denis Alipov appreciated Singh for the role he played in developing bilateral ties. The French Embassy underscored his efforts to bolster India’s global standing.
A Statesman Respected Worldwide
Chinese Ambassador Xu Feihong called Singh an “outstanding leader” admired across the globe. Japan’s Prime Minister Ishiba and France’s President Emmanuel Macron acknowledged his immense contributions.
Simplicity and Integrity in Leadership
Despite the mountainous achievements, Singh was seen to be humble. Stories of his preference for a Maruti 800 over luxurious official cars reflect simplicity. Leaders across the political spectrum, including PM Narendra Modi, praised Singh’s integrity and honesty.
PM Modi said that the life of the economist and statesman has now become a textbook for the future generation. “His reforms have given a new direction to the economy,” Modi remembered him as Finance Minister and RBI Governor.
Dr. Manmohan Singh Leadership as Prime Minister (2004-2014)
Manmohan Singh was the Prime Minister of India from 2004 to 2014. His government saw landmark policies, including the India-U.S. nuclear deal. Singh’s government increased welfare programs and improved India’s infrastructure.
Social activist Anna Hazare appreciated Singh’s anti-corruption stance. Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav called him one of India’s best Prime Ministers. “His decisions reflected wisdom and foresight,” Yadav said.
Dr. Manmohan’s Contributions Beyond Politics
More of what he envisions is beyond economics only. He focused on renewable energies and international partnerships. His former CM Farooq Abdullah has said that he tried to integrate India with his neighbors and made them go peacenicking. He believed in inclusive growth internationally.
A Global Figure
Singh was not only an icon of India but a global icon. Former President Ram Nath Kovind said that he was the “architect of the Indian economy.” All his reforms echoed around the world and won worldwide respect from a world-class economist.
The French Embassy described him as a statesman admired worldwide. Congressman Partap Singh Bajwa compared him to the “Einstein of the economy.” Everyone, across parties, accorded his unparalleled contributions to his credit.
A Legacy of Humility and Reform
A Quiet but Influential Leader
A quiet but influential leader, Singh was. “He believed in working without making noise,” said BJP MP Naveen Jindal. His tenure has witnessed reforms that continue to define India’s growth story.
Resilience and Dedication as Hallmarks
Singh’s life is a symbol of resilience and dedication. Vice-President Jagdeep Dhankhar said he would be remembered for his long-lasting legacy, and he was a “towering figure in Indian politics.” Sharad Pawar and Sonia Gandhi were among the leaders who paid their last respects to this silent visionary.
State Mourning and National Grief
The Himachal Pradesh government declared a two-day holiday in respect to Singh’s memory. Flags were flown at half-mast, and events were postponed as a mark of respect. Leaders from all regions reflected on the transformational impact that Singh has left on India.
Conclusion: Remembering a Visionary Leader
Manmohan Singh’s death marks the end of an era. The vision, wisdom, and humility he has left in India will never be forgotten. He is a statesman who reshaped India’s future and inspired millions.
Goodbye to a leader whose legacy will inspire generations for all time. The life of Dr. Manmohan Singh was a testament to the power of intellect, integrity, and perseverance. Contributions like these will echo forever in the annals of history.
