Former Prime Minister of India, Dr. Manmohan Singh, passed away on December 26, 2024, at the age of 92, leaving behind a remarkable legacy as one of the nation’s most distinguished leaders. His death was confirmed by the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), which stated he lost consciousness at home and was unable to be resuscitated upon arrival at the hospital. Singh was undergoing treatment for age-related medical conditions.
Singh’s passing has initiated mourning across India, with Prime Minister Narendra Modi stating, “India mourns the loss of one of its most distinguished leaders. He made extensive efforts to improve people’s lives.” Singh was renowned as the architect of India’s economic reform program during the early 1990s, which transitioned the country from economic stagnation to rapid growth.
Born on September 26, 1932, Singh hailed from Gah, now part of Pakistan, and pursued higher education at Cambridge and Oxford, attainying notable academic achievements. He became renowned for his role as Finance Minister under the leadership of then-Prime Minister P.V. Narasimha Rao, where his policies helped edge India away from the brink of economic disaster.
Singh took office as Prime Minister from 2004 to 2014 after Congress won the national elections unexpectedly. His tenure marked significant accomplishments, including the introduction of welfare programs aimed at alleviating poverty and enhancing education. Notably, he achieved the historic nuclear deal with the United States, which paved the way for India to enter the global nuclear energy community.
Despite these successes, Singh faced numerous challenges during his second term. His government was beset by controversies and corruption scandals, which many believe hampered his public standing and the Congress party's fortunes. Modi’s BJP won the 2014 elections decisively, attributing their victory partly to Singh’s declining popularity.
Singh later expressed his belief, claiming, “I honestly believe history will be kinder to me than the contemporary media or, for my part, the opposition parties.” This sentiment pointed to his hope for long-term recognition of his contributions against the backdrop of political tumult.
The government has declared seven days of mourning to honor Singh, with officials canceling cultural events and flags flying at half-staff across the nation. He will be accorded a state funeral, acknowledging the significant impact he had during his time as Prime Minister.
Rahul Gandhi, leader of the Congress party and Singh’s longtime colleague, remarked, “I have lost a mentor and guide. Millions of us who admired him will cherish his memory.” He commended Singh’s deep economic insights, showcasing the impact he had on not just his party, but also the wider Indian populace.
Reuters reported on the highlights of Singh’s achievements, within which he was celebrated for steering India through remarkable economic growth during his first term, with GDP growth reaching around nine percent. His administration focused on integrating India more fully within the global economy and curbing the rampant poverty afflicting many citizens.
Critics during his tenure pointed toward the shortcomings and corruption scandals, particularly surrounding the 2010 Commonwealth Games, which marred his later years as Prime Minister, though Singh maintained his innocence through it all, earning him the nickname "Mr. Clean."
U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken also acknowledged Singh’s positive influence on U.S.-India relations, calling him “one of the greatest champions of the U.S.-India strategic partnership.” Blinken emphasized Singh’s dedication to fostering collaboration between the two nations and remembered him as diligent and insightful.
Following Singh’s death, cultural and political leaders alike expressed their condolences and admiration for his life’s work, remarking on his honesty and simplicity. Modi, paying homage to Singh, shared, “His life was...a reflection of his honesty and simplicity.” This statement sums up the collective respect combined with grief as the country reflects on the legacy of Manmohan Singh.
From his remarkable academic beginnings to fulfilling the highest political office, Singh exemplifies the path of hard work, integrity, and vision. His contributions to India's progression as a global economic player will continue to influence future leaders and policymakers for generations to come.
The politician is survived by his wife Gursharan Kaur and three daughters, leaving behind not only personal loss but also the indelible mark of his era in Indian politics.
