Dr. Manmohan Singh, the 14th Prime Minister of India and a visionary leader celebrated for his pivotal role in India’s economic liberalization, passed away in New Delhi on Thursday at the age of 92. Singh breathed his last at the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), where he was admitted to the emergency department earlier in the evening. Despite efforts, including cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR), doctors were unable to revive him.
Born on September 26, 1932, in Gah village, West Punjab (now in Pakistan), Dr. Singh’s journey epitomized dedication, scholarship, and unwavering commitment to public service. He earned a Master’s degree in Economics from Panjab University, Chandigarh, and went on to complete his doctorate at the University of Oxford.
Dr. Manmohan Singh served as Prime Minister from May 22, 2004, to May 26, 2014, heading the Congress-led United Progressive Alliance (UPA) government for a remarkable 3,656 days. This tenure established him as India’s third longest-serving Prime Minister, following Jawaharlal Nehru and Indira Gandhi.
Before stepping into the political spotlight, Dr. Singh had a distinguished career in public service. His journey began in 1971 as the Economic Advisor to the Ministry of Foreign Trade, followed by his appointment as Chief Economic Advisor in 1976. He went on to hold key positions such as Director of the Reserve Bank of India, Alternate Governor for India at the Asian Development Bank, and Member (Finance) at the Atomic Energy and Space Commissions.
However, Dr. Singh’s most enduring legacy remains the landmark economic reforms of 1991, initiated during his tenure as Finance Minister. These reforms deregulated India’s economy, opened up foreign investments, and set the nation on a path to rapid economic growth and globalization.
During his time as Prime Minister, Dr. Singh championed inclusive growth, social welfare, and foreign diplomacy. He skillfully navigated India through global economic crises and strengthened the country’s strategic global partnerships.
India today mourns not just a leader but a statesman whose vision and dedication laid the groundwork for the nation’s economic resurgence. His loss marks the end of an era, but his contributions will continue to inspire generations.
