Dr. Manmohan Singh, the former Prime Minister of India who oversaw significant economic reforms, has passed away, bringing to close the life of one of India’s most respected leaders. He died on December 26, 2024, at 9:51 PM at the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) in New Delhi, marking the end of his remarkable 92-year lifespan. The Indian government has declared seven days of state mourning, with tributes pouring from across the political spectrum.
Singh, who served as Prime Minister from 2004 to 2014, is best remembered as the architect of the economic policies implemented during the 1990s which transformed India’s economic status on the global stage. Survived by his wife Gursharan Kaur and three daughters, Dr. Singh's legacy extends well beyond his years as Prime Minister. He was the first Sikh to hold the position and made history as the first leader since Jawaharlal Nehru to be re-elected for a second term.
Born on September 26, 1932, in Gah, Punjab (now Pakistan), Dr. Singh’s early life was marked by the traumatic events of Partition, during which his family migrated to India. His educational achievements were stellar; he completed his Economics Tripos at the University of Cambridge and doctorate at Oxford University before returning to India to teach and work within the government.
Under the administration of then Prime Minister P.V. Narasimha Rao, Dr. Singh served as Finance Minister and introduced sweeping reforms, abolishing the License Raj and helping to rescue India from a crippling balance of payments crisis. His economic strategies shifted India from socialism toward capitalism, laying the groundwork for future growth.
During his decade-long premiership, Dr. Singh was instrumental in implementing landmark social welfare initiatives such as the National Employment Guarantee Act, which provided at least 100 days of employment annually for rural households. His government also saw the introduction of the Right to Education Act, which recognized education as a fundamental right.
Foreign policy under Dr. Singh was marked by significant achievements as well. He played a key role in the 2006 Indo-US Civilian Nuclear Agreement, enhancing India's standing on the world stage. His tenure was also characterized by improved relations with neighboring countries, including attempts to engage more constructively with Pakistan.
Dr. Singh's passing prompted tributes from leaders across the political spectrum. Current Prime Minister Narendra Modi stated, "Dr. Singh left a strong imprint on our economic policy, making extensive efforts to improve people’s lives." Opposition leader Rahul Gandhi, who referred to Singh as his “mentor and guide,” expressed deep sorrow over the loss. "His humility and deep appreciation for economics inspired the nation," he stated on social media.
Meanwhile, Sonia Gandhi described Dr. Singh's death as a “deeply personal loss” and hailed his gentle manner and resoluteness. Other regional leaders such as Hamid Karzai, the former President of Afghanistan, also shared their condolences, recalling Dr. Singh's approach toward regional cooperation and stability.
A well-known anecdote from Singh’s time as Finance Minister highlights the mutual respect forged between him and then Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee. Their relationship, rocky at first, grew to be one of cordiality, built on shared interests and values over time. Singh recalled Vajpayee encouraging him to maintain resolve even when faced with opposition—"Even if we don’t support you, you must stay strong on your path.”
Dr. Singh remains regarded as one of the architects of modern India, often dubbed the “reluctant Prime Minister” due to his humble demeanor and limited political ambitions. Yet, paradoxically, he executed some of the most transformative policies modern India has witnessed.
The respect he garnered was evident during his final farewell at Nighambodh Ghat, where many friends, family, and well-wishers gathered. Rahul Gandhi and Sonia Gandhi were seen leading the procession alongside Dr. Singh’s remains, with mournful chants reverberated among the crowd.
The government has announced plans to create a memorial for Singh, ensuring his contributions will be remembered. His death signifies not only the loss of a prominent leader but the closing of a chapter within Indian politics characterized by integrity, grace, and dedication to the public well-being.
Greets and remembrances continue to flood social media, with many sharing the poignant quote from Singh’s last press conference: "I honestly believe history will be kinder to me than the contemporary media or the opposition parties." This reflection reveals the gentle yet firm spirit with which Dr. Singh navigated the turbulent waters of Indian politics, embodying the very ideals of leadership necessary for challenging times.
Many will find it increasingly important to memorialize Singh's spirit—one of reasoned dialogue, respect across the aisle, and true commitment to the principles of economic reform, lifting millions out of poverty, and fostering regional peace. Dr. Manmohan Singh's legacy will certainly continue to shape the contours of Indian policy and government for generations to come.
