Silent Departure of Manmohan: A Tribute to a Visionary Economist

Dr. Manmohan Singh, renowned as an economist and former Prime Minister of India, bid farewell to the world at the age of 92. He breathed his last on Thursday night at AIIMS, Delhi, after battling age-related ailments.

In the later phase of his political career, Dr. Singh served as a Rajya Sabha member representing Rajasthan. Known for his simplicity and humility, he is celebrated as the architect of India’s economic liberalization.

A Humble and Endearing Personality

I have personally witnessed the simplicity and grace of Dr. Singh and his wife, Gursharan Kaur. In 1998, when Ashok Gehlot became the Chief Minister of Rajasthan and visited Dr. Singh, then the Leader of the Opposition in Rajya Sabha, the couple welcomed him warmly at their modest residence on Tughlaq Road. Unlike the grandeur typical of politicians’ homes, their bungalow was serene and unassuming. Gursharan Kaur herself served tea to the guests, leaving a lasting impression.

Even when Dr. Singh became Prime Minister in 2004, his humility remained unchanged. During a congratulatory visit with Ashok Gehlot, the same modesty and warmth were evident, earning him immense respect.

A Legacy of Economic Reforms

Dr. Singh’s contributions as Finance Minister under P.V. Narasimha Rao are legendary. Facing a severe economic crisis in 1991, he initiated transformative reforms that opened India’s economy to global markets. These measures, though initially criticized, yielded remarkable results, positioning India on a path of sustained growth.

His tenure saw the removal of license-permit raj, the liberalization of trade policies, and the encouragement of private investments. These reforms revitalized India’s economy, earning him the title of the architect of modern economic policies.

An Illustrious Career

Dr. Singh’s illustrious career included key roles such as Vice Chairman of the Planning Commission, Governor of the Reserve Bank of India, and Chief Economic Advisor. He was instrumental in shaping India’s economic policies during crucial periods of its history.

In 2004, he became India’s Prime Minister, serving two consecutive terms—an achievement second only to Jawaharlal Nehru. Despite health challenges, including multiple bypass surgeries, he continued to lead with dedication and resilience.

Early Life and Academic Brilliance

Born on September 26, 1932, in undivided Punjab, Dr. Singh’s journey from a small village to international recognition is inspiring. After completing his education at Punjab University, he pursued higher studies at Cambridge and Oxford, earning a Ph.D. His groundbreaking book, India’s Export Trends and Prospects for Self-Sustained Growth, remains a cornerstone in economic literature.

Personal Values and Family

Dr. Singh’s personal life reflected his values of simplicity and integrity. His wife, Gursharan Kaur, and their three daughters shared his grounded lifestyle. Despite being the Prime Minister’s daughter, one of his daughters continued to live in a small government quarter in Chanakyapuri, embodying the family’s ethos of humility.

A Statesman Remembered

From tackling economic challenges to handling crises like the 2008 global recession and the Mumbai terror attacks, Dr. Singh’s tenure as Prime Minister showcased his calm and decisive leadership. His contributions to India’s progress remain etched in the nation’s memory.

As India mourns the loss of this gentle visionary, his life stands as a testament to the power of intellect, integrity, and humility in public service.