When Kapil Sibal, the current president of the Supreme Court Bar Association and a former union minister, who served under Dr. Manmohan Singh, wrote on X,“ Few human beings have humility as an endearing trait having reached the pinnacle of power. The India story of economic growth began with the economic reforms he ushered in 1991. Not “accidental” but was the “quintessential” Prime Minister”, he succinctly summed up the greatness of the former PM!
Few threads shine as brightly as those of Dr. Manmohan Singh in the tapestry of India’s rich history. On December 27, as the sun dipped below the horizon, India bid a sorrowful farewell to a beacon of integrity and wisdom. His passing at 92 leaves a void in the hearts of millions. A beloved statesman, Dr. Singh’s life was a testament to the power of humility, intellect, and unwavering dedication to the nation.
Born on September 26, 1932, in the modest village of Gah, Punjab, now in Pakistan, Dr. Singh’s life was shaped by the tumultuous events of the partition. These early years instilled in him a profound commitment to peace and stability. For the common man, his journey from these humble beginnings to the prestigious corridors of Panjab University, Cambridge, and Oxford was nothing short of inspirational. His academic achievements, culminating in a D.Phil. in Economics, served as a beacon of hope, proving that dedication and intellect can transcend even the most formidable obstacles.
In 1991, as Finance Minister, Dr. Singh found himself at the helm of an economy teetering on the brink of collapse. His visionary policies of liberalization, privatization, and globalization were lifelines that revitalized the nation’s economic landscape. For the everyday Indian, these reforms meant more than statistics; they heralded new job opportunities, access to a wider marketplace, and a promise of prosperity. Dr. Singh’s foresight opened the doors to foreign investments and technological advancements, laying the groundwork for a modern Indian economy.
From 2004 to 2014, Dr. Singh’s leadership as Prime Minister was characterized by compassion and progressive policies that touched the lives of millions. The National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (NREGA) was a monumental initiative, ensuring 100 days of wage employment to rural households and lifting many out of poverty. On the other hand, the Right to Education Act transformed education from a privilege to a fundamental right, offering hope and opportunity to millions of children across the nation. While the National Rural Health Mission aimed to bridge the healthcare divide, bringing much-needed medical services to rural India, the Right to Information Act (RTI) of 2005, enacted during his tenure, empowered citizens by promoting transparency and accountability in governance, a legacy of empowerment for generations to come.
Dr. Singh was not the archetypal politician; he was a statesman revered for his intellect and integrity. His soft-spoken demeanor and unwavering dedication to the nation transcended political divides, earning him respect from allies and adversaries alike. His ability to navigate complex economic and international challenges with grace made him an enduring symbol of ethical governance.
Dr. Singh’s legacy is a testament to the power of intellect and principled leadership. For the common man, he was more than a leader; he was a symbol of hope and progress. His life’s work was dedicated to creating opportunities and improving the quality of life for every Indian citizen
As we gather to mourn this monumental loss, we offer our deepest condolences to his family and loved ones. Dr. Manmohan Singh’s legacy will continue to guide India towards peace, prosperity, and progress. His memory will forever be cherished by a nation that he served with unwavering dedication and love.
Dr. Singh’s gentle spirit will forever reside in the quiet corners of our hearts, where memories linger and hopes are born. He taught us that true greatness lies not in power, but in humility and service. As we say goodbye, let us carry forward his vision of a just, transparent, and prosperous India. May his soul rest in eternal peace, and may his life’s work continue to inspire us all; for in the hearts of millions, Dr. Singh will always live on.
(The author is a freelance writer and educationist based in Chandigarh)
