India's former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh, renowned for spearheading significant economic reforms, passed away on December 26, 2023, at the age of 92. Singh died following care for age-related medical conditions at the All India Institute of Medical Sciences in New Delhi. Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed the nation's sorrow, stating, "India mourns the loss of one of its most distinguished leaders."
Singh's life story is as remarkable as his political career. Born on September 26, 1932, in Gah, now part of Pakistan, Singh came from humble beginnings. He studied by candlelight and excelled academically, eventually earning places at prestigious institutions like Cambridge and Oxford, where he earned his doctorate. His academic work focused on the role of exports and free trade, laying the groundwork for his future economic policies.
His entry to politics was unanticipated. Initially serving as the Finance Minister from 1991 to 1996 during a period of economic crisis, Singh implemented reforms pivotal to India’s economic stabilization. He famously remarked during his maiden budget speech, "No power on earth can stop an idea whose time has come," emphasizing globalization and deregulation as keys to India's development.
Singh’s ascension to Prime Minister came when Sonia Gandhi, head of the Congress Party and pivotal to its 2004 election victory, abstained from the role to avoid political backlash stemming from her Italian heritage. Singh's leadership, marked by stability and economic growth, included initiatives such as welfare programs to alleviate rural poverty and historic nuclear trade agreements with the United States.
Despite these achievements, Singh's tenure was marred by challenges. His second term, from 2009 to 2014, faced allegations of corruption and governance issues within his coalition government. Criticism intensified as political gridlock and public dissatisfaction grew during his administration. Acknowledging the turbulent times, Singh stated, "I honestly believe history will be kinder to me than the contemporary media or, for the matter, the opposition parties in parliament."
While respected globally, domestically, he often grappled with perceptions of being overshadowed by Sonia Gandhi's prominence. His leadership style was characterized by reticence and humility, earning him the description of the "reluctant king." His policies contributed to making India one of the world's fastest-growing economies, yet the latter years of his administration were marked by declining growth rates and significant social unrest, including protests following high-profile crimes.
Following his party's defeat by the Bharatiya Janata Party under Narendra Modi in the 2014 elections, Singh returned to academia but remained vocal about his concerns for India's democratic integrity. His death garnered tributes highlighting his legacy as the architect of modern India's economy, his principles of secular governance and his quiet, yet impactful presence on the global stage.
Singh is survived by his wife, Gursharan Kaur, and their three daughters. Reactions to his passing reflected deep respect and nostalgia for his vision of India as an inclusive, economic powerhouse. Sonia Gandhi poignantly noted, "Manmohan Singh became prime minister at a time when the country was on the edge...his persona and policies had a calming effect. The country once again had the assurance...that the man at the top was not divisive."
Through his life and work, Manmohan Singh not only transformed India's economy but also became emblematic of its democratic values. His contributions will continue to shape discussions on India's future direction for generations to come.
