The nation continues to mourn the loss of former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh, who passed away in New Delhi at the age of 92 on Thursday. Revered as an economist and a statesman, Singh’s contributions shaped modern India, from ushering in the 1991 economic reforms to steering the Indo-US nuclear deal as a two-term Prime Minister from 2004 to 2014.
Kumar Mangalam Birla, chairman of the Aditya Birla Group, called Singh “one of India’s tallest leaders and finest economists.” He noted that the 1991 reforms under Singh’s leadership triggered a multi-decade economic transformation, expanding possibilities for millions of Indians.
Former West Bengal governor Gopalkrishna Gandhi remarked, “Decency shrivels, civility withers in Indian politics as the gentle chapter-turner crosses over.”
Rahul Gandhi and Congress leaders paid their last respects, highlighting Singh’s legacy as a leader with intellect, humility, and an unwavering commitment to India’s progress.
Atul Keshap, president of the US-India Business Council, hailed Singh as a pivotal figure in strengthening India-US relations. “Through his leadership in the 2008 civilian nuclear agreement, he modernized bilateral ties and built a foundation for strategic and economic collaboration,” said Keshap.
P.K. Mishra, principal secretary to Prime Minister Modi, shared memories of Singh as a professor at the Delhi School of Economics. “He made complex economic concepts accessible, and his humility remained constant throughout his career,” Mishra said.
Manmohan Singh’s journey was one of remarkable achievements. Born on September 26, 1932, in Punjab (now in Pakistan), he graduated from Panjab University and earned a DPhil in economics from Oxford. His career spanned key roles, including chief economic adviser, RBI governor, and architect of India’s economic liberalization as finance minister under P.V. Narasimha Rao in 1991.
As Prime Minister, Singh instituted landmark social programs and deftly navigated the global financial crisis of 2008. His statesmanship and humility continue to inspire generations, leaving an indelible mark on the nation and the world.
