Nation Mourns the Loss of an Eminent Economist and Statesman
Key Points:
- Former PM Manmohan Singh passed away at AIIMS Delhi at age 92.
- Singh was India’s 13th Prime Minister, serving from 2004 to 2014.
- Known for economic reforms, he was a pivotal figure in modern India.
NEW DELHI – Former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh, a distinguished economist and statesman, passed away at the age of 92 in Delhi on Thursday evening. Admitted to AIIMS Delhi following a sudden health deterioration, Singh was pronounced dead at 9:51 PM despite resuscitative efforts.
A Life of Brilliance and Service
Born on September 26, 1932, in Gah, West Punjab (now Pakistan), Singh overcame the challenges of partition to establish himself as one of the most respected figures in Indian governance. He held key positions, including Chief Economic Advisor and Governor of the Reserve Bank, before rising to prominence as Finance Minister in the PV Narasimha Rao government.
As Finance Minister (1991–1996), Singh spearheaded transformative economic reforms that liberalized India’s economy. These initiatives laid the foundation for the country’s modern economic landscape.
Leadership as Prime Minister
Singh served as India’s 13th Prime Minister from 2004 to 2014, leading the Congress-led UPA government. His tenure brought landmark policies such as the National Rural Health Mission and the Right to Information Act. Under his leadership, India signed a historic civil nuclear deal with the United States, elevating the nation’s global stature.
While Singh’s first term was celebrated for its progressive policies, his second term faced challenges, including corruption allegations in the 2G spectrum and coal block allocation cases. Despite these hurdles, Singh remained committed to governance and stepped away from active politics after the Congress’s defeat in 2014.
Tributes Pour In
Robert Vadra, Congress leader Priyanka Gandhi’s husband, expressed his condolences, saying, “I am deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Fmr Prime Minister Manmohan Singh ji. Thank you for your service to our Nation. You will always be remembered for the economic revolution you brought to the country.”
Senior Congress leaders, including Priyanka Gandhi, were seen arriving at AIIMS Delhi.
Nation Prepares for Farewell
As India mourns the loss of one of its most revered leaders, details of Singh’s final rites are awaited. His contributions to the nation’s economic and political landscape ensure his legacy will endure.
