India’s former prime minister, Manmohan Singh, widely regarded as the architect of India’s economic reform program and a landmark nuclear deal with the US, has died at the age of 92.
Manmohan Singh was admitted to New Delhi’s All India Institute of Medical Sciences late on Thursday after his health deteriorated due to a “sudden loss of consciousness at home,” the hospital said in a statement. It added that he was “being treated for age-related medical conditions.”
A mild-mannered technocrat, Manmohan Singh became one of India’s longest-serving prime ministers, holding the position for 10 years. He was chosen to fill the role in 2004 by Sonia Gandhi, the widow of the assassinated prime minister Rajiv Gandhi. He earned a reputation as a man of great personal integrity.
Manmohan Singh was elected to a second term as prime minister from 2009 to 2014, a period clouded by financial scandals and corruption charges over the organization of the 2010 Commonwealth Games. This led to the Congress party’s crushing defeat in the 2014 national election by the Hindu nationalist Bharatiya Janata Party under the leadership of Narendra Modi.
Early Life and Career
Manmohan Singh was born in Gah, Punjab (now in Pakistan) on September 26, 1932. He excelled academically, earning a first-class degree in Economics from Cambridge University and a DPhil from Oxford University. Singh’s expertise in economics paved the way for an illustrious career, including positions such as Chief Economic Advisor, RBI Governor, and Union Finance Secretary.
Architect of Economic Reforms
In 1991, as Finance Minister under Prime Minister P.V. Narasimha Rao, Singh implemented major economic reforms that liberalized India’s economy. These reforms are credited with rescuing India from a severe economic crisis and setting it on a path to rapid growth. His work earned him international acclaim and the nickname “Mr. Clean” in Indian politics.
Prime Ministerial Tenure
Singh became Prime Minister in 2004, chosen by Sonia Gandhi after the Congress party’s victory. His tenure was marked by significant achievements, including the landmark Indo-U.S. nuclear deal in 2008. This deal was a pivotal moment in India’s foreign policy, symbolizing a shift towards closer ties with global superpowers.
Challenges and Scandals
Despite his achievements, Singh’s tenure was not without controversy. His second term (2009-2014) was overshadowed by allegations of corruption, including scandals related to the 2010 Commonwealth Games and the 2G spectrum allocations. These issues damaged his reputation. Also and contributed to the Congress party’s defeat in the 2014 elections by Narendra Modi’s BJP.
Retirement and Legacy
After stepping down as Prime Minister, Manmohan Singh maintained a low profile. But continued to be respected for his contributions to India’s development. He retired from the Rajya Sabha in February 2024. Prime Minister Modi praised him as an “inspirational example” for guiding the country through challenging times.
Impactful Leadership
Manmohan Singh will be remembered for his economic reforms. That transformed India’s economic landscape and his efforts to strengthen international relations. His policies and leadership left a lasting impact on India’s growth trajectory. Despite the controversies, his contributions to the nation are undeniable.
The passing of Manmohan Singh marks the end of a significant chapter in Indian politics. His legacy as a reformer and statesman will be remembered for generations.