India bids farewell to its former Prime Minister, Dr. Manmohan Singh, who passed away on December 26, 2024, at the age of 92. Dr. Singh breathed his last at AIIMS, Delhi, following a sudden decline in health. A man of integrity and intellect, his passing marks the end of an era in Indian politics and economics, leaving the nation in mourning and gratitude.
A Scholar of Global Renown
Dr. Manmohan Singh earned his DPhil in Economics from Oxford University in 1962. His ground-breaking work, India’s Export Trends and Prospects for Self-Sustained Growth (1964), critically analysed India’s trade policies. He served as a professor at Punjab University and Delhi School of Economics before becoming Secretary General of the South Commission in Geneva (1987–1990).
The Architect of India’s Economic Liberalization
In 1991, as Finance Minister during a severe economic crisis, Dr. Singh introduced reforms that opened India’s economy to the world. Concluding his July Budget speech,
“No power on earth can stop an idea whose time has come. the emergence of India as a major economic power happens to be one such idea.” – he declared
This vision set the nation on a transformative path.
A Decade as India’s Prime Minister
Dr. Singh, India’s Prime Minister from 2004 to 2014, achieved milestones like the India-US Civil Nuclear Agreement and expanded welfare programs. His steady leadership during the 2008 financial crisis earned global respect.
Awards and Global Recognition
Dr. Singh’s contributions were celebrated with numerous awards, including the Padma Vibhushan (1987) and the Adam Smith Prize (1956). He was twice named Finance Minister of the Year by Euromoney (1993) and Asia money (1993, 1994) and received the Jawaharlal Nehru Birth Centenary Award (1995).
A Legacy of Humility and Service
Despite his immense achievements, Dr. Singh remained a humble servant of the nation. His words, “I am a small person in a big office, and I will do my best to do my duty,” exemplified his humility and dedication. As India mourns his loss, his legacy as a visionary leader and compassionate human being will continue to inspire generations.
Rest in Peace Dr Dr. Manmohan Singh
