Manmohan Singh, Former PM and Economic Reformer, Dies

Why in the news?

Former Indian Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh passed away at 92, remembered for his key economic reforms, leadership, and global influence, especially in U.S.-India relations.

Manmohan Singh, Former PM and Economic Reformer, Dies

Dr. Manmohan Singh: A Visionary Economic Reformer

  • Manmohan Singh, former Prime Minister of India, passed away on December 26, 2024, at the age of 92 at AIIMS, New Delhi.
  • Born on September 26, 1932, in Punjab, Singh was a distinguished academic, holding degrees from Cambridge and Oxford.
  • Known for his economic reforms, Singh was the architect of India’s 1991 economic liberalization as Finance Minister, leading to transformative changes in the country’s economic landscape.

Key Political and Policy Contributions

  • Manmohan Singh served as Prime Minister of India from 2004 to 2014, focusing on inclusive growth, social welfare, and international relations.
  • He implemented significant reforms, including the Right to Information Act, rural employment schemes, and enhanced foreign relations, notably with the United States and China.
  • Under his leadership, India made strides in both economic and foreign policy, positioning the nation as a global player.

Legacy and Tributes

  • Singh’s leadership was characterized by integrity and pragmatic decision-making, earning him global respect.
  • He was honored with the Padma Vibhushan for his contributions to the nation.
  • Singh is survived by his wife, Gursharan Kaur, and three daughters.
  • Politicians and world leaders, including Prime Minister Modi and Congress leader Rahul Gandhi, paid tribute to his immense contributions to India’s growth and the strengthening of U.S.-India relations.

Sources Referred:

PIB, The Hindu, Indian Express, Hindustan Times