On December 26, India bid farewell to its only Sikh Prime Minister, Dr. Manmohan Singh, who passed away at the age of 92. Dr. Singh, known for his transformative role in shaping modern India’s economy, had been admitted to AIIMS in Delhi, where he breathed his last. His demise marks the end of an era defined by his intellect, humility, and dedication to public service.
Born on September 26, 1932, in a village in the Punjab province of undivided India, Dr. Singh rose to become one of the country’s most respected statesmen. He began his career as Chief Economic Advisor in 1972 and later served as the Governor of the Reserve Bank of India from 1982 to 1985. However, his most defining moment came in 1991 when, as Union Finance Minister in PV Narasimha Rao’s government, he spearheaded India’s economic liberalization, laying the foundation for its global economic integration.
Dr. Singh entered the Rajya Sabha in October 1991 and remained a member for an unprecedented 33 years, retiring in April 2024. As Prime Minister from 2004 to 2014, he steered India through significant challenges, earning admiration for his intellect and integrity. His passing leaves behind an indelible legacy.
