Manmohan Singh, one of India’s longest-serving prime ministers, has passed away at the age of 92. Singh was widely regarded as the architect of key economic liberalization reforms that transformed India during his tenure as Prime Minister from 2004 to 2014. His death marks the end of an era for India’s political landscape, where he earned both respect and criticism for his leadership style and contributions.
Singh’s health had reportedly deteriorated, leading to his hospitalization in Delhi, where he succumbed to his condition. His passing has prompted tributes from leaders across the political spectrum.
What Are the Tributes Paid to Manmohan Singh by Political Leaders?
Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed his condolences on social media, stating, “India mourns the loss of one of its most distinguished leaders.” Modi praised Singh’s “wisdom and humility,” recalling their interactions during which Singh’s qualities were always evident. He noted that Singh made significant efforts to improve the lives of ordinary Indians during his tenure.
Congress leaders also paid heartfelt tributes. Priyanka Gandhi, daughter of former Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi, described Singh as “genuinely egalitarian, wise, strong-willed, and courageous until the end.” Her brother, Rahul Gandhi, leader of the Congress party, shared his grief, saying he had “lost a mentor and guide.”
Singh’s legacy includes not only his economic reforms but also his role in bringing the country to the global stage, making India a major player in international politics. He was the first Sikh to serve as India’s prime minister and was deeply involved in shaping India’s foreign policy during his tenure.
What Was Manmohan Singh’s Early Life and Career Like?
Born on September 26, 1932, in a rural village in undivided Punjab, Singh’s early life was marked by poverty, with his village lacking both electricity and water. His academic journey was driven by sheer determination. After completing his undergraduate degree at Panjab University, Singh went on to earn a master’s degree from Cambridge University and a DPhil from Oxford University.
In a memoir written by his daughter Daman Singh, she recalls her father’s early struggles with finances. “His tuition and living expenses came to about ÂŁ600 a year. The Panjab University scholarship gave him about ÂŁ160. For the rest, he had to depend on his father,” she wrote. Despite financial constraints, Singh’s discipline and thriftiness allowed him to manage his expenses.
How Did Manmohan Singh Rise to Prominence as Finance Minister in 1991?
Singh’s political career took a major turn in 1991 when he was appointed India’s finance minister at a time when the country was on the brink of economic collapse. Singh’s unexpected appointment as finance minister marked the beginning of a historic phase in India’s economic history. His ambitious reforms, which included cutting taxes, devaluing the rupee, privatizing state-run companies, and encouraging foreign investment, revived the economy. Inflation was controlled, and growth rates soared during the 1990s.
Singh’s most notable achievement as finance minister was his role in bringing India out of economic and nuclear isolation. In a landmark deal, Singh secured access to American nuclear technology, which earned him respect on the global stage. However, the deal also led to political challenges, as it caused the government’s Communist allies to withdraw their support, forcing Singh’s Congress party to find new allies.
What Was Manmohan Singh's Legacy as Prime Minister?
Singh became prime minister in 2004, leading a coalition government. His first term saw impressive strides in India’s economy, but it was during his second term, from 2009 to 2014, that his administration became marred by corruption scandals. The infamous “2G spectrum” and “coal scam” controversies led to allegations of widespread corruption involving several ministers in his government, costing the nation billions of dollars.
Despite the scandals, Singh remained a respected figure in Indian politics. He was admired for his integrity, intellect, and calm demeanor but was also criticized for being soft and indecisive. Some detractors labeled him as “India’s weakest prime minister.” LK Advani, a senior leader from the rival BJP, was among those who leveled this criticism.
Singh defended his record, saying, “We have worked with utmost commitment and dedication for the country and the welfare of its people.” He insisted that his government had made considerable efforts for the betterment of India, despite the challenges they faced.
How Did Manmohan Singh Approach Foreign Policy and International Relations?
Singh was a pragmatic leader when it came to foreign policy. He continued the peace process with Pakistan, although it faced setbacks due to attacks blamed on Pakistani militants, notably the 2008 Mumbai attacks. He also made significant strides in strengthening ties with Afghanistan, becoming the first Indian leader to visit the country in nearly 30 years. Singh’s approach to China also stood out as he brokered a deal to reopen the Nathu La pass, which had been closed for over 40 years, in an attempt to ease the border dispute between the two countries.
However, his relations with Iran became a point of contention. Singh’s decision to distance India from Iran, a long-time ally, angered many opposition leaders, but Singh defended his stance, maintaining that it was in India’s best interest.
What Was Manmohan Singh Like as a Public Figure?
Singh was known for his low-key personality. A man of few words, he often preferred to avoid the limelight. His social media presence was minimal, with sparse and seemingly dull updates that contrasted with the more colorful personalities of modern-day politicians. However, his calm demeanor and intellectual rigor earned him the admiration of many, especially those who appreciated his steady, thoughtful approach to governance.
Singh was famously reserved when confronted with criticism. In response to the coal scandal that rocked his second term, Singh defended his silence, saying, “It is better than thousands of answers.” This response became emblematic of his reserved and measured approach to leadership.
What Did Manmohan Singh Do After His Time as Prime Minister?
In his later years, Singh remained active in Indian politics as a senior leader of the Congress party. Despite his age, he continued to engage with the country’s pressing issues. During the COVID-19 pandemic, he offered his insights on how India could mitigate the economic fallout. Singh suggested that the government needed to provide direct cash assistance to citizens, make capital available for businesses, and overhaul the financial sector to stabilize the economy.
Singh’s vision and leadership left an indelible mark on India. “I honestly believe that history will be kinder to me than the contemporary media, or for that matter, the opposition parties in parliament,” he said in 2014, reflecting on the way his tenure was viewed by the public.
What Is the Legacy of Manmohan Singh and Who Survives Him?
Manmohan Singh is survived by his wife and three daughters. He will be remembered as the man who led India through significant economic changes and helped raise the country’s profile on the global stage. His calm and methodical approach to governance, along with his achievements in foreign policy and economic reforms, will ensure that his legacy endures in Indian history.
