There is a significant gap in India’s political and economic landscape following the death of former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh at the age of 92. To commemorate his legacy, the country observes seven days of mourning.
Preface
On December 26, 2024, Dr. Manmohan Singh, a visionary economist and India’s 13th prime minister, died at the age of 92. The passing of Dr. Singh at AIIMS Delhi has left a profound hole in the hearts of Indians and admirers around the world. He was a statesman who was admired for his intelligence, humility, and revolutionary policies.
Leaders, citizens, and international dignitaries all expressed their sorrow over his passing, acknowledging the enormous legacy he leaves behind. His life, his incalculable contributions, and the events following his death are all covered in detail in this article.
The Last Hours of Manmohan Singh’s Death
When Dr. Manmohan Singh suddenly lost consciousness at home on the fateful evening of December 26, 2024, he was taken to AIIMS Delhi. Despite every effort by emergency department doctors to stabilize him, his condition quickly worsened. The hospital confirmed his death at 9:51 PM, stating that age-related complications were the main reason.
The country was rocked by the news of his death. To commemorate his memory, the government promptly proclaimed a seven-day period of mourning. All official entertainment and festivities have been halted during this period, and the national flag will fly at half-mast in all government buildings.
A Country in Sorrow
India is in mourning following the passing of Dr. Manmohan Singh. All political leaders put aside their differences to honor the man who served the country with honor and commitment.
In a heartfelt statement, Prime Minister Narendra Modi praised Dr. Singh as “one of India’s most distinguished leaders” and highlighted his humility and wisdom. Millions of people who saw Singh as a representation of intelligence and decency in public life agreed with Modi’s remarks.
Rahul Gandhi, the Congress leader who lamented the passing of his mentor, referred to him as a “guide and inspiration,” and Mallikarjun Kharge, the president of the Congress, called Singh “the architect of modern India’s economic success.”
International leaders also showered Dr. Singh with tributes, underscoring his prominence on the world scene. Singh’s personal admirer, former US President Barack Obama, described him as “a statesman of quiet dignity and exceptional intellect.” Additionally, leaders from Afghanistan, the Maldives, and other countries praised his contributions.
Manmohan Singh’s Legacy: The Pioneer of Economic Reforms
The most significant contribution Dr. Manmohan Singh made to India was his crucial part in the 1991 economic reforms. Singh introduced a number of policies as the Finance Minister in Prime Minister Narasimha Rao’s cabinet that turned India’s economy from on the verge of bankruptcy to a major player on the world stage.
Trade policy liberalization, import restriction reduction, and opening the Indian economy to foreign investment were among the reforms. These actions made India one of the world’s fastest-growing economies and set the stage for decades of expansion.
Singh’s vision was praised by businessmen such as Gautam Adani and Harsh Goenka. “Dr. Singh’s actions were more powerful than his words, and history will remember him as the mastermind behind India’s economic recovery,” Adani stated. He was referred to by Goenka as “a true statesman whose reforms brought prosperity to millions.”
A Trip from Lowly Origins
On September 26, 1932, Manmohan Singh was born in the Punjabi village of Gah, which is now in Pakistan. Among the difficulties he faced in his early years was the partition of India, which compelled his family to move to Amritsar. Singh thrived academically in spite of these obstacles, graduating from Oxford, Cambridge, and Punjab universities with degrees.
He became an economist as a result of his academic accomplishments. Before going into politics, he worked for organizations like the Reserve Bank of India and the United Nations. He was an obvious choice for important positions, such as Economic Advisor in the Ministry of Commerce and later Governor of the Reserve Bank of India, due to his intelligence and dedication to public service.
The Death of Manmohan Singh: A Worldwide Loss
The world as a whole, not just India, is grieving over Dr. Singh’s passing. Global leaders emphasized his contributions to regional cooperation and economic diplomacy.
Former President Hamid Karzai of Afghanistan called Singh “one of India’s most illustrious sons,” and former President Mohamed Nasheed of the Maldives called him “a father figure to many and a friend to all.” The profound respect Singh enjoyed on a global scale is reflected in these feelings.
A Decade of Stability Under Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh
Singh accomplished a lot during his time as prime minister from 2004 to 2014. He led the nation through the 2008 global financial crisis by implementing prudent policies that kept India’s economy strong.
The Indo-US Civil Nuclear Agreement, which transformed India’s energy policy, was one of the major projects he oversaw.
Enhancing access to healthcare in rural areas is the goal of the National Rural Health Mission.
The Right to Information Act gave people the ability to demand accountability from their government.
Even his detractors admired his leadership style, which was marked by quiet resolve and reaching consensus.
Manmohan Singh’s Death Aftermath
Plans have been made for Dr. Singh’s state funeral since his passing. The public can pay their respects to his mortal remains in state after they were transferred to his home at 3 Motilal Nehru Marg in New Delhi.
On Saturday, December 28, his funeral will be held with full state honors, and the Union Cabinet will hold a special meeting to commemorate his memory. It is anticipated that dignitaries from all over the world and leaders from all political stripes will be present.
India’s Reaction to Manmohan Singh’s Death
The passing of Dr. Singh is a time for reflection. His contributions throughout his life, especially the 1991 economic reforms, continue to be essential to India’s development. During his time as prime minister, he proved the value of calm leadership in handling difficult situations.
The principles he exemplified—humility, integrity, and an unwavering focus on the welfare of the country—are brought to light by his passing. Singh’s legacy will continue to direct India’s course as it encounters new difficulties in a world that is changing quickly.
Intimate Memories and Thoughts
In addition to his intelligence, Dr. Manmohan Singh was respected for his moral qualities. Droupadi Murmu, the president, stated: “His life was a testament to service, humility, and excellence.” This sentiment was echoed by both political allies and adversaries, who emphasized his ability to maintain his integrity in a frequently polarizing political environment.
Conclusion: Paying Tribute to an Indian Historical Giant
An era has come to an end with the passing of Dr. Manmohan Singh. While the country grieves, it also honors the life of a leader whose vision and commitment changed India.
Although his passing has left a huge void, his legacy lives on in the laws he put into place and the lives he impacted. Millions of people are inspired by Dr. Singh’s journey from a small Punjabi village to the highest echelons of political and economic leadership.
“India’s best days are yet to come,” he said. Together, let’s make them a reality.”*
As a country says goodbye to one of its most amazing leaders, these words will continue to motivate it.
