Manmohan Singh, Visionary Economist and Former Indian Prime Minister, Dies at 92

Manmohan Singh, Visionary Economist and Former Indian Prime Minister, Dies at 92

The passing of former Indian Prime Minister Manmohan Singh at the age of 92 on Tuesday has left a profound void in India’s political and economic landscape. Tributes poured in from across the political spectrum and industry leaders, recognizing Singh’s indelible contributions to the nation.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi hailed Singh as “one of India’s most distinguished leaders” in a post on X. Despite being on opposite sides of the political divide, Modi acknowledged Singh’s legacy as a “respected economist” who left a “strong imprint” on India’s economic policies.

Architect of India’s Economic Transformation

Singh’s rise to prominence began long before his tenure as prime minister in 2004. As governor of the Reserve Bank of India in the early 1980s and later as finance minister in 1991, Singh was instrumental in steering India through a severe balance of payments crisis. Alongside then-Prime Minister P.V. Narasimha Rao, Singh spearheaded sweeping economic reforms that liberalized India’s economy, dismantled protectionist policies, and opened the country to foreign investment.

These transformative changes marked the beginning of India’s rapid economic growth in the decades that followed. “History will forever honour his pivotal role in the transformative 1991 reforms that reshaped India and opened its doors to the world,” wrote Gautam Adani, chairperson of the Adani Group, in his tribute.

Prime Ministerial Legacy

In 2004, Singh returned to the forefront of Indian politics when the Congress-led coalition swept the general elections. As prime minister, Singh presided over an era of significant economic growth, enabling landmark initiatives like the National Rural Employment Guarantee Act, which provided job security for millions of impoverished Indians.

However, his tenure between 2004 and 2014 was not without challenges. While the initial years were marked by prosperity, the latter half saw economic stagnation, stalled reforms, and allegations of corruption within his administration.

Champion of Diplomacy

Singh’s leadership extended beyond domestic policies to India’s foreign relations. He played a crucial role in strengthening ties with the United States, including brokering the historic 2006 nuclear agreement with then-President George W. Bush, granting India access to U.S. nuclear technology.

“Dr. Singh was one of the greatest champions of the U.S.-India strategic partnership, and his work laid the foundation for much of what our countries have accomplished together in the past two decades,” noted the U.S. Department of State.

Singh also fostered strong relations with Russia, regularly attending the India-Russia Annual Summits to deepen bilateral cooperation. Russian Ambassador to India Denis Alipov lauded Singh’s “immeasurable contribution” to the enduring partnership between the two nations.

A Legacy Remembered

Manmohan Singh’s enduring legacy is one of vision, intellect, and dedication to public service. From his role as the architect of India’s economic liberalization to his efforts in fostering global partnerships, Singh leaves behind a transformed India and an indelible mark on the world stage.

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