Dr. Manmohan Singh, one of India’s most distinguished economists and statesmen, passed away on December 26, 2024, in New Delhi at 92. As India’s Prime Minister from 2004 to 2014, Singh was regarded as the architect of India’s economic liberalization. His legacy is a profound blend of intellectual brilliance, administrative expertise, and a deep commitment to the nation’s development.
Early Life and Education
Born on September 26, 1932, in Gah, a village in the undivided Punjab province (now in Pakistan), Singh's early life was shaped by modest means and a relentless pursuit of education. Following the Partition of India in 1947, his family migrated to Amritsar, Punjab. Singh’s academic brilliance soon became evident, setting the foundation for a remarkable career.
Singh completed his undergraduate and master’s degrees in economics from Panjab University, Chandigarh, where he excelled academically. His pursuit of knowledge took him to the University of Cambridge in the United Kingdom, where he earned an additional degree in economics. Singh’s academic journey culminated in a doctorate from the University of Oxford, where he specialized in international trade under the guidance of the renowned economist I.M.D. Little. His doctoral thesis, “India’s Export Trends and Prospects for Self-Sustained Growth,” remains a seminal work in development economics.
Early Career: Academia and Public Service
Dr Singh began his professional career as an academic, teaching economics at Panjab University, Delhi School of Economics, and Jawaharlal Nehru University. However, his expertise soon attracted the attention of policymakers. He joined the Government of India in the 1970s, holding several key positions, including Chief Economic Advisor (1972–1976), Secretary in the Ministry of Finance, and Deputy Chairman of the Planning Commission.
Singh also served as Director of the Reserve Bank of India (1976–1980) and later as its Governor (1982–1985). His tenure at the RBI was marked by efforts to stabilize the Indian economy during challenging times. He later served as Deputy Chairman of the Planning Commission, where he played a pivotal role in shaping India’s development strategies.
Finance Minister and Economic Reforms
In 1991, India faced a severe economic crisis characterized by a balance-of-payments deficit, depleting foreign reserves, and an unsustainable fiscal deficit. Prime Minister P.V. Narasimha Rao appointed Dr Singh as Finance Minister, a decision that would prove transformative for India’s economy.
Singh’s tenure as Finance Minister (1991–1996) marked the beginning of India’s economic liberalization. His reforms included devaluing the rupee, dismantling the License Raj, reducing import tariffs, and opening key sectors to foreign investment. These measures not only averted an economic collapse but also set the stage for unprecedented economic growth. Singh’s vision and policies earned him recognition as the architect of modern India’s economic resurgence.
Entry into Politics
Although Singh had spent much of his career in academia and bureaucracy, his transition to active politics came in 1991 when he joined the Rajya Sabha, India’s upper house of Parliament, as a member of the Indian National Congress. Despite his technocratic background, Singh’s competence and integrity earned him respect across party lines. He continued to serve in the Rajya Sabha, representing Assam and remained an influential voice in economic policymaking.
Prime Ministerial Tenure (2004–2014)
First Term (2004–2009)
In the 2004 general elections, the Congress Party, led by Sonia Gandhi, won a decisive victory over the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). In a surprising move, Gandhi declined the prime ministership, instead nominating Dr. Singh for the position. Singh’s appointment as India’s 14th Prime Minister marked a historic moment—he became the first Sikh to hold the office and the first individual from a minority community to do so.
Singh’s first term focused on inclusive development. His government introduced the National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (NREGA), which provided employment opportunities to millions in rural areas. Other initiatives, such as the Right to Information Act (RTI) and the Mid-Day Meal Scheme, were instrumental in addressing issues of poverty and transparency.
On the foreign policy front, Singh’s tenure was marked by the India-U.S. Civil Nuclear Agreement, signed in 2008. The deal allowed India access to nuclear technology and fuel despite its non-signatory status to the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT). While the agreement bolstered India’s energy security, it also sparked significant political controversy domestically, with opposition parties and some allies accusing Singh of compromising national interests.
Second Term (2009–2014)
The Congress Party’s improved performance in the 2009 elections secured Singh a second term as Prime Minister. However, his second tenure was fraught with challenges. The global financial crisis, a slowing economy, and allegations of corruption, including the 2G spectrum and coal allocation scams, tarnished the government’s image.
Despite these setbacks, Singh’s government pursued key legislative reforms, including the National Food Security Act and the Land Acquisition Act. However, public discontent with the government’s performance contributed to the Congress Party’s defeat in the 2014 general elections. Singh stepped down on May 26, 2014, paving the way for Narendra Modi to assume office.
Post-Premiership Years
After leaving office, Singh continued to serve in the Rajya Sabha until his retirement in April 2024. He maintained a low profile but remained a respected figure in Indian politics and public life. Singh’s insights on economic and political issues were frequently sought, and his speeches often emphasized the need for balanced development and inclusive growth.
Legacy and Contributions
Dr Manmohan Singh’s contributions to India’s economic and political landscape are manifold:
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Economic Reforms: Singh’s tenure as Finance Minister laid the groundwork for India’s emergence as a global economic power. His liberalization policies transformed India into one of the fastest-growing economies in the world.
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Inclusivity in Governance: As Prime Minister, Singh’s policies aimed to bridge the gap between India’s affluent urban centres and its underdeveloped rural regions. Initiatives like NREGA and RTI empowered marginalized communities.
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Diplomacy: Singh’s pragmatic approach to foreign policy strengthened India’s relationships with major powers, particularly the United States. The India-U.S. nuclear deal is often cited as a milestone in India’s strategic partnerships.
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Integrity and Humility: Throughout his career, Singh was known for his integrity, humility, and commitment to public service. His personal simplicity and academic rigour set him apart from many of his contemporaries.
Personal Life
Manmohan Singh married Gursharan Kaur in 1958, and the couple has three daughters. Gursharan Kaur, a constant support in Singh’s life, played an active role during his tenure as Prime Minister, often engaging in community welfare initiatives.
Passing and Tributes
With the death of Dr. Manmohan Singh, a chapter in Indian politics comes to an end. Tributes poured in from across the world, with leaders acknowledging his contributions to India’s development. President Droupadi Murmu, Prime Minister Narendra Modi, and Congress leader Sonia Gandhi were among those who expressed their condolences. International figures, including former U.S. President Barack Obama, highlighted Singh’s role in strengthening global partnerships.
Conclusion
Dr. Manmohan Singh’s journey from a small village in Punjab to the highest office in the country is a testament to his vision, perseverance, and dedication. His reforms not only reshaped India’s economy but also inspired a generation of policymakers and leaders. As a scholar, economist, and statesman, Singh’s legacy will continue to influence India’s trajectory for years to come. His life’s work stands as a reminder of the transformative power of education, integrity, and service.
