Former Indian Prime Minister Manmohan Singh, 92, passed away on December 26, 2024, at the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) in New Delhi. His health deteriorated after experiencing sudden loss of consciousness at home. Despite resuscitative measures started immediately at home and his subsequent transport to the hospital, he was declared dead at 9:51 PM.
Manmohan Singh, widely respected as the architect of India's economic reforms, served as Prime Minister from 2004 to 2014 and as Finance Minister during significant economic changes starting in 1991. Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed the nation's grief, stating, "India mourns the loss of one of its most distinguished leaders, Dr. Manmohan Singh Ji." Modi highlighted Singh's extensive efforts to improve people's lives and noted his notable presence and contribution to economic policy.
Singh's tenure as Finance Minister was marked by radical reforms, particularly during the 1991 crisis, when he liberalized India’s economy, opening it to foreign investment and marking the nation's transition from socialist policies to mixed economy. "No power on earth can stop an idea whose time has come," he famously declared. His leadership during this era is remembered by many as the foundation of modern India’s economic growth.
Rahul Gandhi, Congress MP, shared his sorrow, noting Singh’s humility and wisdom. He tweeted, "Manmohan Singh Ji led India with immense wisdom and integrity. My heartfelt condolences to Mrs. Kaur and the family. I have lost a mentor and guide." Singh's role as both economist and politician was underscored by countless individuals reflecting on his character, including his ability to empathize with the less fortunate and advocate for social welfare initiatives during his administration.
The period of 1991 to 2014 is often described by political leaders as pivotal for India's development. P. Chidambaram, who served alongside Singh, remarked, "The life and work of Dr Manmohan Singh and the period from 1991 till 2014 will be a golden chapter in the history of India," reflecting on Singh’s legislative and administrative contributions.
Beyond economic reform, Singh's approach to governance was characterized by his quiet demeanor and commitment to dialogue, as noted by Mamata Banerjee, West Bengal Chief Minister, who admired his intellect and gentle nature. "I had worked with him and saw him from very close quarters," she said, expressing her sadness over his passing.
His leadership faced challenges, particularly during his second term, where corruption scandals marred his government’s image, leading to the Congress party's defeat by the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) in 2014. Nevertheless, even critics acknowledge his contributions to India, with many emphasizing his efforts to stabilize and grow the economy during his time as both Prime Minister and Finance Minister.
Following the announcement of Singh's death, the Indian government declared seven days of national mourning to honor his contributions. All scheduled government programs were canceled as various leaders from across the political spectrum expressed their condolences. Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman and Congress leaders alike recognized Singh's soft-spoken nature and his significant impact on India's economic policies.
The enduring legacy of Manmohan Singh will be remembered not only for his economic reforms but also for his character as he navigated the complex world of Indian politics with integrity. His family and three daughters, alongside numerous admirers, are mourning his loss. Singh’s humble beginnings, rising from his childhood in what is now Pakistan, to becoming India’s first Sikh Prime Minister, highlighted his remarkable life story.
Singh's presence as one of India's key leaders, especially during transformative years, solidifies his place within the nation's history, and many believe his story will resonate as one of dedication and significant contribution to India.
