Dr Manmohan Singh

Manmohan Singh, India's 13th Prime Minister, remains an enigma wrapped in contradictions. Revered as the architect of India's economic boom, yet criticized for his perceived lack of political acumen, his legacy is a complex tapestry woven with triumphs and challenges.

Born in 1932, Singh's path was paved with academic excellence. Earning a doctorate from Oxford, he entered the Indian bureaucracy, becoming renowned for his expertise in trade and economic planning. His 1991 budget, as Finance Minister under P.V. Narasimha Rao, marked a watershed moment. Embracing liberalization, he dismantled socialist-era restrictions and opened the economy to global markets. This "Singh-Rao" era is credited with transforming India from a near-bankrupt state into a vibrant, growing economy.

Despite his economic success, Singh remained aloof from active politics. However, in 2004, Sonia Gandhi, leader of the Indian National Congress, surprised the nation by choosing him to lead the party in elections. Initially skeptical, Singh, the first Sikh Prime Minister, led the Congress to victory, ushering in an era of coalition politics.

Under Singh's leadership, India witnessed unprecedented economic growth, averaging 7.7% for a decade. Millions were lifted out of poverty, living standards rose, and India emerged as a global economic power.

Singh's government faced its share of controversies, including the 2G spectrum allocation scam and the Commonwealth Games corruption allegations. While Singh himself remained untainted, these scandals eroded public trust and contributed to the Congress's defeat in 2014.

On February 8, 2024, Manmohan Singh bid farewell to the Upper House and the Prime Minister Narendra Modi praised Manmohan for his outstanding cotribution.

Remembering the contribution of Dr Manmohan Singh, the Prime Minister said, “Due to his long tenure guiding the house and the nation, he will figure in every discussion of the democracy of our nation”. The Prime Minister suggested that all Members of Parliament try to learn from the conduct of such distinguished members as they are the guiding lights. The Prime Minister remembered the former Prime Minister coming on wheel chair to vote in the House as an inspiring example of a member’s dedication to his duties.