New Delhi

India Mourns: Former Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh Passes Away at 92

New Delhi: India mourns the loss of one of its most respected leaders, former Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh, who passed away at the age of 92. The veteran economist and statesman took his last breath at Delhi’s All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), where he was admitted after experiencing breathing difficulties.

Nation Pays Tribute to a Visionary Leader

Dr. Singh, who served as the Prime Minister of India from 2004 to 2014, was a towering figure in Indian politics and economics. Known for his integrity and humility, he was instrumental in ushering in economic reforms that transformed the nation’s financial landscape.

Congress leader Robert Vadra was among the first to confirm the news of Dr. Singh’s demise. His wife, Gursharan Kaur, was present at AIIMS during his final moments. The news of his passing has led to heightened security at the hospital, with Delhi Police and paramilitary forces stationed both inside and outside the premises. Union Health Minister J.P. Nadda is expected to visit AIIMS shortly.

A Life of Service and Simplicity

Born on September 26, 1932, in a village in the Punjab province of undivided India, Dr. Singh’s journey from a humble background to becoming the Prime Minister was marked by relentless dedication to public service. He completed his early education at Punjab University in 1948 and later earned an honors degree in Economics from Cambridge University and a D.Phil from Oxford University.

Dr. Singh and his wife Gursharan Kaur raised three daughters, and he was widely admired for his simplicity, hard work, and unflinching commitment to the nation.

Legacy of Reforms and Leadership

Before stepping into politics, Dr. Singh had an illustrious career in government service. He began as an Economic Advisor in the Ministry of Commerce in 1971 and went on to hold key positions such as:

  • Chief Economic Advisor
  • Secretary of the Finance Ministry
  • Vice Chairman of the Planning Commission
  • Governor of the Reserve Bank of India
  • Chairman of the University Grants Commission

As Finance Minister from 1991 to 1996, Dr. Singh played a pivotal role in liberalizing India’s economy during one of its most challenging periods, laying the foundation for the nation’s rapid growth.

Awards and Recognitions

Dr. Singh’s contributions earned him numerous accolades, including:

  • Padma Vibhushan (1987)
  • Jawaharlal Nehru Birth Centenary Award (1995)
  • Asia Money Award and Euro Money Award (1993, 1994)
  • Adam Smith and Wright Prizes (1955, 1956)

He was also awarded honorary doctorates from prestigious institutions like Cambridge and Oxford Universities.

A Symbol of Humility and Dedication

Known for his calm demeanor and steadfast dedication, Dr. Singh’s leadership style was marked by quiet determination and a deep sense of responsibility. His tenure as Prime Minister saw significant strides in economic growth, social welfare, and international relations.

A Nation in Mourning

As the nation mourns the loss of Dr. Manmohan Singh, his contributions to India’s political and economic spheres will remain etched in history. A visionary leader, he leaves behind a legacy of service, reform, and a commitment to the values of democracy and inclusivity.

The country stands united in honoring the memory of a statesman who dedicated his life to building a modern and progressive India.

Umesh Kumar

Umesh is a senior journalist with more than 15 years of experience. Freelance photo journalist with some leading newspapers, magazines, and news websites and is now associated with Local Post as Consulting Editor

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