Former Indian Prime Minister Manmohan Singh passed away on December 26, 2024, at the age of 92. Singh, a distinguished economist and politician, served as India’s Prime Minister from 2004 to 2014. He is survived by his wife, Gursharan Kaur, and their three daughters.
In a 2018 event in Mumbai, Congress leader Sonia Gandhi acknowledged her decision during the 2004 Lok Sabha elections, stating, “I knew my limitations. I knew Manmohan Singh would be a better prime minister than me.”
Singh’s political journey commenced in 1991 when he was appointed Finance Minister under Prime Minister Narasimha Rao. During this tenure, he introduced pivotal economic reforms that steered India towards liberalization. As Prime Minister, Singh oversaw the implementation of significant initiatives, including the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (MNREGA), the Right to Information Act, and the Right to Education Act. His leadership also facilitated the historic Indo-US Civil Nuclear Agreement, enhancing bilateral relations.
Global and national leaders have expressed their condolences and lauded Singh’s contributions. Prime Minister Narendra Modi remarked, “India mourns the loss of one of its most distinguished leaders, Dr. Manmohan Singh Ji. As our Prime Minister, he made extensive efforts to improve people’s lives.” Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi expressed, “I have lost a mentor and guide. Millions of us who admired him will remember him with the utmost pride.”
In honor of Singh’s service to the nation, the central government has declared seven days of state mourning. His last rites are scheduled for Saturday and will be conducted with full state honors.
