Manmohan Singh will be remembered as a noble leader dedicated to reforms: PM Modi

“He will always be remembered as a noble human being, as a learned economist and as a leader dedicated to reforms. As an economist, he served the Government of India at many levels. He played the role of Governor of the Reserve Bank during a challenging time. As the Finance Minister in the government of former Prime Minister, Bharat Ratna Shri P V Narasimha Rao ji, he paved the way for a new economy for the country surrounded by financial crisis. As Prime Minister, his contribution to the development and progress of the country will always be remembered,” he added.

PM Modi said Singh’s commitment towards the people and towards the country’s development will always be viewed with great respect.

“Dr Manmohan Singh’s life was a reflection of his honesty and simplicity. He was an extraordinary parliamentarian. His modesty, gentleness and his intellect were the hallmarks of his parliamentary life. I remember that when his term in the Rajya Sabha ended earlier this year, I had said that Dr Saheb’s dedication as an MP was an inspiration for everyone. On important occasions during the session, he used to come in a wheelchair and perform his parliamentary duties,” the message said.

“Despite receiving education from prestigious institutions of the world and holding many top positions in the government, he never forgot the values of his common background,” PM Modi said.

“Rising above party politics, he always kept in touch with people from every party and was easily available to everyone. When I was the Chief Minister, I used to have open discussions with Dr Manmohan Singh on many national and international issues. Even after coming here to Delhi, I used to talk to him from time to time and meet him. I will always remember my meetings with him and discussions about the country. I had talked to him even recently on his birthday,” Modi added.

A day after Singh’s demise, the Union Cabinet chaired by the Prime Minister also passed a Condolence Resolution on Friday morning in the memory of the former Prime Minister. The Cabinet paid homage to Manmohan Singh by observing a two-minute silence. Hailing his role “in ushering in a comprehensive policy of economic reforms”, the resolution said that “Singh has left his imprint on our national life.

“The Cabinet expresses profound sorrow over the sad demise of Dr. Manmohan Singh, former Prime Minister of India on 26th December, 2024, at All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi,” it said, adding, “In his passing away, the Nation has lost an eminent statesman, renowned economist and a distinguished leader.”

As per a statement issued after the Cabinet meeting, state mourning has declared for seven days till January 1, 2025. During this mourning period, the National Flag will be flown half-mast throughout Bharat, the government said, adding that the National Flag will also be flown at half-mast in all the Indian Missions/High Commissions abroad for seven days.

On Saturday morning, Singh will be accorded a State Funeral. On the day of State Funeral, a half day holiday will be declared in all the Central Government offices and public sector undertakings.

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