On December 26, 2024, India lost one of its most cherished leaders, Dr. Manmohan Singh, at the age of 92. Widely recognized as the father of India’s economic reforms and a symbol of simplicity and integrity, Dr. Singh’s passing marks the end of a remarkable era.
Early Life and Academic Brilliance
Dr. Singh was born on September 26, 1932, in Gah, Punjab (now in Pakistan). Orphaned at an early age, he displayed exceptional academic abilities.
- Educational Achievements:
- Bachelor’s & Master’s in Economics from Panjab University.
- Completed the prestigious Economic Tripos from Cambridge University in 1957.
- Doctorate in Economics from Nuffield College, Oxford University in 1962, focusing on India’s export competitiveness.
His academic excellence earned him positions at the United Nations, the Delhi School of Economics, and later, prestigious roles in Indian policymaking.
Economic Architect of India
The 1991 Economic Crisis
India faced an unprecedented economic crisis in 1991, with dwindling foreign reserves and a risk of sovereign default. Then-Finance Minister Dr. Singh, under Prime Minister P.V. Narasimha Rao, spearheaded reforms that redefined India's economy.
Key Reforms Under His Leadership:
1. Liberalization: Opened Indian markets to global competition.
2. Privatization: Reduced the dominance of public sector enterprises.
3. Globalization: Facilitated foreign direct investment (FDI) and modernized trade policies.
4. Devaluation of the Indian rupee to make exports competitive.
Dr. Singh famously said in Parliament, “No power on Earth can stop an idea whose time has come.”
His vision laid the groundwork for India’s rise as an economic powerhouse.
Prime Ministerial Leadership (2004–2014)
In 2004, Dr. Singh became India’s first Sikh Prime Minister, leading two successive terms. His tenure was characterized by economic growth, social reforms, and global diplomacy.
Major Achievements:
1. India-US Civil Nuclear Deal (2008): Paved the way for India’s access to nuclear technology.
2. National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (NREGA): Transformed rural employment.
3. Right to Information Act (RTI): Strengthened transparency and accountability.
4. Accelerated IT and telecom growth, laying the foundation for India’s digital revolution.
5. India’s GDP growth peaked at 10.3% during his tenure in 2010.
Despite criticism, Dr. Singh maintained his image as a leader of integrity, focusing on policy over politics.
A Legacy of Simplicity and Humility
Dr. Singh’s demeanor reflected his values:
- A deeply religious man, he always credited his success to hard work and faith.
- Known for his soft-spoken nature, he often let his work speak louder than his words.
Awards & Recognition:
- Padma Vibhushan (1987) for exceptional service to India.
- Multiple honorary doctorates from institutions like Cambridge and Oxford.
- Listed among the 100 most influential people by Time Magazine.
Tributes Pour In
As India mourns his loss, leaders from across the globe have remembered him as a visionary.
- Prime Minister Narendra Modi: “Dr. Singh was an economist par excellence and a true statesman. His work will inspire generations."
- Congress President Sonia Gandhi: “He led India through some of its most challenging times with grace and competence.”
- The international community, including leaders from the US, UK, and IMF, hailed his contribution to global economics.
A Timeless Legacy
Dr. Manmohan Singh leaves behind a legacy of progress and hope. As an economist, policymaker, and leader, his vision for India continues to resonate, inspiring young leaders and citizens alike.
As we bid farewell, let us honor his memory by upholding the principles he stood for: progress, humility, and service to the nation.
