Peerzada Abdal Mahjoor
Dr. Manmohan Singh, India’s 13th Prime Minister, passed away on December 26, 2024, at the age of 92, marking the end of an era in India’s political and economic history. Widely celebrated as the architect of India’s economic liberalization, Dr. Singh’s visionary leadership transformed the nation from a struggling economy into a global powerhouse. His exceptional contributions as an economist, policymaker, and statesman have left an indelible legacy on India’s socio-economic landscape.
Early Life and Academic Excellence
Born on September 26, 1932, in the village of Gah in Punjab, undivided India (now in Pakistan), Dr. Singh’s early life was shaped by resilience and an unyielding pursuit of education. His family’s migration to India after the Partition in 1947 marked a turning point in his journey. Dr. Singh earned his Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in Economics from Panjab University in 1952 and 1954, respectively. His academic brilliance earned him a scholarship to the University of Cambridge, where he graduated with First Class Honours in Economics in 1957. He later pursued a D.Phil. in Economics at Nuffield College, Oxford University, completing it in 1962.
A Distinguished Career in Public Service
Dr. Singh’s academic achievements seamlessly transitioned into a remarkable career in public service. He began his journey as an Economic Advisor in the Commerce Ministry in 1971, later serving as the Chief Economic Advisor in the Finance Ministry in 1972. His tenure as the Governor of the Reserve Bank of India (1982–1985) was marked by significant policy initiatives that set the stage for future economic reforms.
In 1991, India faced one of its worst economic crises, with dwindling foreign reserves and mounting fiscal deficits. It was during this time that Dr. Singh was appointed Finance Minister under Prime Minister P.V. Narasimha Rao. He implemented groundbreaking economic reforms, including the devaluation of the rupee, reduction of import tariffs, and liberalization of trade policies. These measures not only stabilized the economy but also set it on a trajectory of sustained growth, integrating India into the global market.
Prime Ministerial Tenure: 2004–2014
In 2004, Dr. Singh became India’s first Sikh Prime Minister, leading the United Progressive Alliance (UPA) government. His decade-long tenure was characterized by robust economic growth, averaging around 8.5% GDP growth during his first term. He championed several landmark legislations, including:
National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (NREGA): Aimed at providing livelihood security to rural households.
Right to Information Act (RTI): Ensured transparency and accountability in governance.
Food Security Act: Enhanced food distribution to vulnerable sections of society.
Architect of Economic Liberalization
Dr. Singh’s legacy as the architect of India’s economic liberalization is unparalleled. The reforms he initiated in 1991 dismantled protectionist policies, invited foreign investment, and encouraged privatization. These reforms not only averted a financial crisis but also laid the foundation for India’s emergence as one of the fastest-growing economies in the world. His ability to take bold decisions during challenging times has been lauded globally, cementing his place in history as one of India’s most influential economic reformers.
Advancements in Foreign Policy
As Prime Minister, Dr. Singh prioritized strengthening India’s global standing. He played a pivotal role in enhancing Indo-US relations, culminating in the landmark Indo-US Civil Nuclear Agreement in 2008. This historic deal ended decades of nuclear isolation for India, paving the way for cooperation in civilian nuclear energy and fostering stronger bilateral ties.
Challenges and Criticisms
Despite his achievements, Dr. Singh’s tenure faced its share of challenges. His second term as Prime Minister was marred by allegations of corruption, including the 2G spectrum and coal allocation scandals, which eroded public trust and led to political instability. His leadership style, characterized by quiet determination, was sometimes perceived as passive, especially during crises. Critics often questioned his ability to assert control over the coalition government he led.
Personal Life and Humility
Dr. Singh’s personal life reflected his values of simplicity and humility. Married to Gursharan Kaur, the couple had three daughters. Known for his integrity and scholarly demeanor, Dr. Singh remained a man of few words but profound actions. His commitment to public service and intellectual rigor earned him respect across political and social spectrums.
Health and Final Years
In his later years, Dr. Singh faced multiple health challenges, including cardiac surgeries. Despite these struggles, he continued to engage in public discourse, offering his insights on economic and political issues. His passing on December 26, 2024, due to age-related ailments, prompted an outpouring of grief and tributes from across the globe.
Global Tributes and Enduring Legacy
World leaders, political figures, and citizens mourned the loss of Dr. Singh. Prime Minister Narendra Modi hailed him as a statesman whose economic policies reshaped India’s future. Former Congress President Rahul Gandhi described him as a visionary leader whose tenure was marked by unprecedented growth and welfare initiatives.
Dr. Manmohan Singh’s journey from a humble village in Punjab to the highest office in the country is a testament to his dedication, intellect, and vision. His economic reforms not only averted a crisis but unleashed India’s potential on the global stage. As the nation remembers him, his legacy serves as an enduring inspiration for future generations to uphold integrity, pursue excellence, and work towards inclusive development.
Dr. Singh’s life and contributions will forever be etched in the annals of Indian history as a symbol of perseverance, vision, and transformative leadership.
About the Author
Note: Peerzada Abdal Mahjoor is a seasoned journalist with experience at BBC World Service Hindi, London, and All India Radio, Srinagar. Known for his insightful analysis and storytelling.
