Former Indian Prime Minister Manmohan Singh Passes Away at 92

New Delhi: Dr. Manmohan Singh, India’s former Prime Minister and a towering figure in Indian politics, passed away at the age of 92 at the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) in Delhi. Known for his intellect, integrity, and transformative economic vision, Dr. Singh leaves behind a legacy that reshaped modern India.

Early Life and Education

Born on September 26, 1932, in Gah, a village now in Pakistan, Dr. Manmohan Singh displayed an exceptional aptitude for academics. He pursued his undergraduate degree in economics at Panjab University, followed by a master’s degree from the University of Cambridge. Later, he earned a doctorate in economics from the University of Oxford, where his scholarly work on India’s trade policies cemented his reputation as a leading economist.

Economic Visionary

Dr. Singh began his career as an academic before entering public service. As India faced an economic crisis in 1991, he was appointed Finance Minister in the government of PV Narasimha Rao. His groundbreaking economic reforms, including liberalization and opening up India's markets, transformed the nation from a closed economy to a global powerhouse.

Dr. Singh’s tenure as Finance Minister is remembered as a turning point in Indian history, where he steered the country away from the brink of bankruptcy and laid the foundation for sustained economic growth. His mantra, "No power on earth can stop an idea whose time has come," reflected his commitment to modernization and progress.

Prime Ministerial Tenure (2004-2014)

Dr. Singh served as India’s Prime Minister for two consecutive terms under the United Progressive Alliance (UPA) government. His leadership was marked by major economic growth, social welfare programs, and a focus on inclusive development.

Key initiatives under his tenure included the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (MGNREGA), the Right to Information Act, and significant progress in India’s energy and infrastructure sectors. He also played a critical role in strengthening India’s position on the global stage, including the historic Indo-US Civil Nuclear Agreement.

Dr. Singh was widely admired for his calm demeanor, scholarly insights, and commitment to public service. He was a rarity in Indian politics—a technocrat who rose to the highest political office without the usual populist rhetoric. His emphasis on consensus-building and his non-confrontational style earned him respect across political lines.

Beyond his economic and political achievements, Dr. Singh’s humility and simple lifestyle set him apart. Even as Prime Minister, he was known for his unassuming nature and dedication to his work.

After stepping down as Prime Minister in 2014, Dr. Singh continued to contribute to public discourse as a senior statesman and member of the Rajya Sabha until his retirement in 2024. Despite health challenges in his later years, he remained a voice of reason and wisdom in Indian politics.

As the nation bids farewell to one of its most revered leaders, Dr. Manmohan Singh’s life and legacy will continue to inspire generations to come. His journey from a small village in Punjab to the highest echelons of power is a testament to the transformative power of education, dedication, and integrity.