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The passing of Manmohan Singh, India's former Prime Minister, has plunged the nation into a period of mourning. A state funeral, held in Delhi on Saturday, paid tribute to a man widely considered the architect of India's economic liberalization. Singh, who served as Prime Minister from 2004 to 2014, died on Thursday at the age of 92. His death marks the end of an era for India, a period characterized by significant economic growth and transformative policy changes largely attributed to his leadership. The ceremony, attended by dignitaries from across India and the globe, served as a testament to Singh's profound impact on the nation's trajectory.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi, despite representing a different political party, acknowledged Singh's immense contributions, describing him as one of India's most distinguished leaders. Modi's presence at the funeral, alongside President Droupadi Murmu, Vice-President Jagdeep Dhankhar, and numerous senior members of Singh's Congress Party, underscored the bipartisan respect for Singh's legacy. The funeral procession, a solemn and respectful affair, saw Singh's coffin, draped in the Indian flag and garlands, carried through the streets of Delhi with military honors, including a 21-gun salute. The outpouring of grief from citizens across the capital demonstrated the deep respect and affection held for the former Prime Minister.
Singh's influence extended far beyond India's borders. Foreign dignitaries, including the King of Bhutan and the Mauritian Foreign Minister, attended the funeral, a reflection of his international stature. US President Joe Biden issued a statement praising Singh's strategic vision and political courage, highlighting the unprecedented level of cooperation between India and the United States that flourished under his leadership. Biden's tribute highlighted Singh's impact on international relations and his role in shaping India's global standing. These international accolades further solidify Singh's legacy as a respected figure on the world stage.
Manmohan Singh's impact on India's economy is undeniable. Serving as the country's Finance Minister in 1991, he played a pivotal role in initiating economic liberalization, a policy shift that dramatically altered India's growth trajectory. His famous quote, "No power on Earth can stop an idea whose time has come," encapsulates his unwavering belief in the transformative power of economic reforms. As Prime Minister, he continued to implement and build upon these reforms, leading to significant poverty reduction and propelling India towards becoming one of the world's fastest-growing major economies. His economic policies had a tangible and lasting effect on the lives of millions of Indian citizens.
However, Singh's tenure as Prime Minister was not without its challenges. His second term was marred by a series of corruption allegations and scandals, which contributed to his Congress party's significant defeat in the 2014 general election. Despite these setbacks, his legacy remains firmly rooted in his achievements in economic reform and his long-standing dedication to public service. His formal apology in 2005 for the 1984 anti-Sikh riots, a deeply sensitive issue in Indian history, demonstrated his commitment to addressing past injustices and his willingness to acknowledge difficult truths. He was the first Sikh Prime Minister and the first Indian leader after Jawaharlal Nehru to be re-elected after serving a full first term. This historic achievement underscores his remarkable political standing and ability to garner public support.
Manmohan Singh's life and career serve as a testament to his commitment to public service and his unwavering belief in the transformative potential of economic reform. His legacy is complex, encompassing both triumphs and challenges, but his contribution to India's economic and political landscape remains undeniable. He will be remembered not only for his policy achievements but also for his humility, wisdom, and commitment to the well-being of the Indian people. The state funeral, attended by a multitude of mourners and dignitaries, provided a fitting tribute to a remarkable leader who significantly shaped the course of modern India. The depth of the nation's mourning serves as a testament to the enduring respect and admiration held for Manmohan Singh, a leader who dedicated his life to serving his nation.
Source: Manmohan Singh: Former India PM mourned in state funeral