NEW DELHI, Dec 26 – India bids farewell to Manmohan Singh, the soft-spoken and reserved leader who left an indelible mark on the nation’s history. Singh, who served as India’s prime minister for two consecutive terms from 2004 to 2014, passed away on Thursday at the age of 92 after battling age-related ailments. He will be remembered as one of the most transformative figures in Indian politics.
Hailed as the architect of modern India’s economic resurgence, Singh was the first Sikh to occupy the position of prime minister. Under his leadership, the country experienced unprecedented economic growth, pulling millions out of poverty and placing India firmly on the global stage. Current Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed his condolences, stating, “India has lost a remarkable leader who dedicated his life to the nation’s progress.”
A Humble Beginning
Born into a modest family in a part of British India that is now in Pakistan, Manmohan Singh’s journey to prominence was marked by determination and academic brilliance. Studying under the dim light of candles, he earned a coveted place at Cambridge University, later completing his doctorate at Oxford with a dissertation on the role of trade and exports in India’s economy.
Before stepping into politics, Singh made his mark as a respected economist, serving as India’s central bank governor and later as an economic advisor to the government. His expertise and dedication to public service earned him widespread recognition, yet he had little interest in pursuing a political career.
The Reluctant Finance Minister
In 1991, a critical economic crisis pushed Singh into the political spotlight. With India facing a severe balance of payments crisis, he was appointed as the country’s finance minister. It was in this role that he unveiled transformative economic reforms, dismantling the socialist policies that had defined India for decades. Singh’s initiatives included deregulation and opening up the Indian economy to foreign investments, which laid the foundation for a period of rapid growth.
In his first budget speech, Singh quoted Victor Hugo, saying, “No power on earth can stop an idea whose time has come.” These words underscored his belief that India was poised to emerge as a global economic powerhouse. His reforms not only rescued India from economic peril but also ushered in an era of liberalization that reshaped the nation’s destiny.
An Unexpected Ascension to Prime Ministership
In 2004, Singh’s ascension to the prime minister’s office was unexpected. Following a surprising electoral victory, Sonia Gandhi, leader of the Congress Party, declined the role due to concerns that her foreign origin would spark political controversy. Instead, she entrusted Singh with leading the nation.
During his tenure, Singh capitalized on India’s economic boom to introduce a series of welfare programs aimed at addressing poverty and inequality. Notable among these initiatives was the rural employment guarantee scheme, which provided millions of impoverished families with jobs and financial security.
Singh’s leadership also saw the historic signing of a nuclear agreement with the United States in 2008, ending decades of restrictions and opening the door to peaceful nuclear energy trade. This agreement not only cemented India’s strategic ties with the U.S. but also signaled its growing importance on the world stage.
Challenges and Criticisms
Despite his achievements, Singh’s tenure was not without challenges. His efforts to further liberalize the economy were often thwarted by internal disagreements within the Congress Party and its coalition partners. Additionally, Singh faced criticism for being perceived as a leader overshadowed by Sonia Gandhi, who continued to wield considerable influence as the Congress Party president.
The latter years of Singh’s government were marred by corruption scandals involving members of his administration. Although Singh himself was widely regarded as honest and incorruptible, his perceived inability to act decisively against wrongdoing tarnished his reputation. The slowing of economic growth during his second term, coupled with public discontent over governance issues, further eroded his popularity.
Legacy of Humility and Resilience
Despite the setbacks, Singh remained steadfast in his belief that his work would be vindicated by history. Shortly before leaving office, he remarked, “I genuinely believe that history will judge me more kindly than my contemporaries or critics in the media.”
Known for his simple lifestyle and unassuming demeanor, Singh’s legacy extends far beyond his economic achievements. He exemplified humility, resilience, and a commitment to public service, qualities that earned him respect across political and ideological divides.
A Nation in Mourning
His passing marks the end of an era in Indian politics, but his contributions to the nation’s progress will continue to inspire future generations.
As India reflects on the life of this extraordinary leader, it is clear that Singh’s legacy is not defined by the controversies of his later years but by his transformative vision and unwavering dedication to the country he served so selflessly.