Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday paid a heartfelt tribute to former Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh, expressing profound sorrow over his passing, describing it as an immense loss for the nation.
In his tribute, PM Modi reflected on Dr. Singh’s remarkable journey, from overcoming the adversities of the partition era to his pivotal role in shaping India’s economic reforms. He emphasized Dr. Singh’s legacy as a man of integrity, humility, and intellect.
“The passing of Manmohan Singh Ji has caused deep sorrow in all our hearts. His departure is a great loss for the nation. Coming to India during the period of partition and achieving success in every field of life here is no ordinary feat. His life teaches us how to rise above struggles and reach greater heights. This lesson will continue to inspire future generations,” PM Modi said.
The Prime Minister highlighted Dr. Singh’s significant contributions to the country, noting his service in various crucial positions. “As an economist, he served the Indian government in many capacities. As Finance Minister under Prime Minister PV Narasimha Rao, he steered the country through a financial crisis and laid the foundation for a new economic path. His contributions as Prime Minister will forever be etched in India’s progress,” PM Modi added.
PM Modi also praised Dr. Singh’s integrity and simplicity, recalling his dedication to parliamentary duties. “His humility, gentleness, and intellectualism became the hallmark of his parliamentary life. I remember that when his term in the Rajya Sabha ended earlier this year, I remarked that his dedication was an inspiration to all. Despite his age, he would attend important sessions in a wheelchair and fulfill his parliamentary duties,” he said.
The Prime Minister further noted that despite his global education and significant government roles, Dr. Singh never lost touch with his humble roots. “He rose above party politics, maintained contact with people from all parties, and remained accessible to all,” PM Modi said.
PM Modi also reminisced about his meetings with Dr. Singh when he was the Chief Minister of Gujarat. “As Chief Minister, I had open discussions with Dr. Singh on national and international issues. Even after coming to Delhi, I would meet him for discussions, which I will always cherish,” he added.
Offering his condolences to Dr. Singh’s family, PM Modi extended his tributes on behalf of the entire nation. “In this difficult moment, I express my heartfelt condolences. On behalf of all the people of the country, I offer my tribute to Manmohan Singh Ji,” he said.
Dr. Manmohan Singh passed away at AIIMS, Delhi, on Thursday evening at the age of 92 due to age-related medical complications. Following a sudden loss of consciousness, he was rushed to the hospital. Singh, renowned for his role in India’s 1991 economic liberalization as Finance Minister, will be cremated near Rajghat, where the last rites of Prime Ministers are performed.
Born on September 26, 1932, Dr. Singh served as India’s 13th Prime Minister from 2004 to 2014, making him the longest-serving Prime Minister after Jawaharlal Nehru and Indira Gandhi. His tenure was marked by transformative economic policies, including the introduction of the National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (NREGA) and the Right to Information Act (RTI).
Dr. Singh retired from the Rajya Sabha earlier this year after serving for 33 years.