NEW DELHI: The Indian government has entered a period of mourning for former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh, following his death at the age of 92. Government offices have lowered the national flag as the nation pays tribute to the leader credited with transforming India's economy.
Manmohan Singh, who served as Prime Minister from 2004 to 2014, passed away on Thursday, prompting the Ministry of Home Affairs to announce state mourning until January 1, 2025. During this week, the national flag will fly at half-mast across India, and official entertainment will be suspended.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed his condolences, describing Singh as “a kind-hearted individual, a scholarly economist,” and credited him with steering the nation through financial crises and laying the groundwork for its economic development. “His contributions as the prime minister toward the country’s development and progress will always be cherished,” Modi added. Singh’s unique status as the first Sikh to lead the country marked his historical significance.
Born in Gah, Pakistan, Singh migrated to India during the partition. He pursued higher education at the University of Cambridge and earned his doctorate at Oxford. His early career included roles as economic adviser to the Indian government, Governor of the Reserve Bank of India, and Finance Minister, where he played pivotal roles during India’s economic reform period.
Singh’s tenure significantly impacted India's emergence as one of the world's fastest-growing economies. Notably, he introduced major economic reforms during the early 1990s, transitioning India from a closed economy to one embracing liberalization.
He was also instrumental during the landmark civil nuclear agreement with the United States, solidifying India’s position on the world stage, especially as he navigated complex international waters without previously signing the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty.
Political analyst Sanjay Kapoor noted, “Manmohan Singh will be remembered for initiating economic reforms and aligning the country with the West.” He added, “He raised millions out of poverty and strengthened democratic institutions.”
Following Singh's death, the Congress Party has requested the Union government designate his memorial alongside the banks of the Yamuna River, where many former Prime Ministers have been memorialized. The government has agreed to allocate space for Singh's memorial, though the immediate funeral rites will occur at the Nigambodh Ghat crematorium on Saturday at 11:45 AM.
Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge communicated with both Prime Minister Modi and Home Minister Amit Shah, requesting Singh’s funeral be at a site fitting for his stature. Kharge expressed in his letter, “His contributions and achievements are phenomenal; he holds a revered place in the psyche of the country.”
This tradition of memorializing former leaders supports the significance Singh held within Indian politics, as echoed by tributes passed by various leaders. The Congress Working Committee paid homage, highlighting Singh’s contributions to India’s political and economic landscapes.
Among the first to pay respects was Prime Minister Modi, who emphasized, “The nation has lost an able statesman.” Similar sentiments were echoed by other prominent figures, including Congress leader Sonia Gandhi, who termed his passing as “a personal loss.”
Singh’s funeral will feature full state honors, adhering to the traditional practices for notable leaders. Modi laid a wreath, underscoring the national importance of Singh’s legacy.
U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken referred to Singh as one of the greatest champions of the U.S.-India relationship, commending his leadership. Russian President Vladimir Putin also recognized Singh as “an outstanding statesman” who strengthened India-Russia ties.
Singh’s final procession will allow the public and party members to pay their respects before his cremation. His remains will be brought to the AICC headquarters at 8 AM on Saturday, followed by the procession to the crematorium at 9:30 AM.
Dr. Manmohan Singh's death marks the end of a significant chapter for Indian politics, reflecting on the transformative leadership he provided during challenging economic times. His contributions not only shaped the nation’s economic framework but also secured India’s place on the global stage.
