On December 27, 2024, India bid farewell to one of its most esteemed leaders, former Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh, with full state honours. Dr. Singh, who served as the country’s 14th Prime Minister from 2004 to 2014, passed away after a prolonged illness. His death marked the end of an era in Indian politics, as he was widely regarded as a visionary economist and a symbol of humility, integrity, and dedication to the nation.
The funeral took place at the historic, serene, and often somber setting of the Lodhi Road Crematorium in New Delhi, attended by a vast number of dignitaries, political leaders, family members, and citizens, all paying tribute to the life and legacy of the man who was instrumental in shaping the country’s economic trajectory over decades. The national flag was flown at half-mast across the nation, a fitting tribute to a man who was often seen as a bridge between India’s political elite and its citizenry.
A Lifelong Dedication to Service
Dr. Singh’s career spanned several decades, during which he held numerous critical positions. His legacy as the Prime Minister of India will forever be linked to the economic reforms of the 1990s when he, as the Finance Minister in P.V. Narasimha Rao’s government, played a pivotal role in liberalizing India’s economy, steering it away from the burdens of a socialist past to a more market-oriented future. Under his stewardship, India emerged as one of the world’s fastest-growing economies. His tenure as PM, which lasted for a decade, saw India grow in both stature and strength on the global stage, with significant strides made in foreign policy, national security, and economic growth.
A Humble Leader
Dr. Singh was known for his reserved, humble nature, often choosing to let his work speak for itself rather than bask in the spotlight. In contrast to many of his contemporaries, he was never interested in grandstanding or seeking fame. His calm demeanor and measured approach earned him the respect of both political allies and adversaries. In an era dominated by polarizing figures, Dr. Singh stood out as a leader who valued reasoned debate, consensus, and a deep understanding of India’s diverse needs.
His academic background, a distinguished career as a professor, and expertise in economics made him a rare political leader. As Prime Minister, he led with a quiet but firm resolve. His leadership was often characterized by his ability to work behind the scenes to forge compromises and build partnerships, both domestically and internationally.
The Final Journey
The news of Dr. Singh’s passing prompted an outpouring of grief across the country. From ordinary citizens to political leaders, people took to social media and gathered in public spaces to remember the former Prime Minister. His family, including his wife Gursharan Kaur, children, and grandchildren, stood by his side during his final moments. They were joined by political leaders from various parties, including current Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge, and many others who took part in the memorial service.
As the funeral procession made its way to the Lodhi Road Crematorium, the streets of New Delhi were lined with people who had come to pay their last respects. The mood was somber, but there was also a sense of gratitude for the long and fruitful life of Dr. Singh, whose leadership had touched millions of lives.
In keeping with the traditions of state funerals, the body of Dr. Singh was draped in the Indian tricolour, and the national anthem was played as his final rites were performed. A gun salute was fired in his honour, a tribute reserved for the highest-ranking officials in the country. The ceremony was conducted with the dignity and reverence that befit a leader of his stature, as the late Prime Minister’s legacy was commemorated with a state-level farewell.
A Life of Achievement and Legacy
Dr. Singh’s political career is remembered for many milestones, but it is his role in India’s economic transformation that stands out as his most significant achievement. As the country’s Finance Minister during a critical phase in the early 1990s, he was the architect of India’s economic liberalization. His efforts led to significant structural reforms, including reducing tariffs, deregulating industries, and encouraging foreign investment. These reforms ushered in an era of rapid economic growth and global integration, positioning India as a key player in the world economy.
His tenure as Prime Minister was also marked by landmark initiatives in education, infrastructure, health, and agriculture. Programs like the National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (NREGA) and the Right to Information Act were introduced under his government, aimed at improving the lives of the common people and increasing transparency in governance.
However, Dr. Singh’s time in office was not without challenges. He faced several political controversies, including issues of corruption within his party and the government, which sometimes overshadowed his achievements. Yet, he managed to maintain his integrity and was steadfast in his commitment to democratic values and institutional processes. His ability to navigate India through these challenges, with grace and dignity, added to his reputation as a leader who never wavered from his principles.
On the global stage, Dr. Singh was respected for his expertise in economics and his ability to handle complex international issues. His leadership saw India’s relations with countries such as the United States, Russia, and China grow stronger. He was also instrumental in managing the country’s nuclear policy, particularly in the negotiation of the Indo-US nuclear deal, which was considered a defining moment in India’s foreign policy history.
A Leader Loved by Many
As Dr. Singh was laid to rest, the tributes poured in from every corner of the nation. Many leaders hailed him as a “man of wisdom” and a “pillar of India’s democracy.” The President of India, Droupadi Murmu, expressed her deep sorrow and praised Dr. Singh’s unparalleled contributions to the nation. Similarly, Prime Minister Narendra Modi acknowledged Dr. Singh’s role in India’s growth and his unwavering dedication to public service. Across the political spectrum, leaders from the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), the Congress party, and other regional parties expressed their condolences, highlighting Dr. Singh’s unique ability to rise above partisan politics for the greater good of the nation.
People who had worked alongside him, as well as countless ordinary citizens who admired his leadership, shared stories of how Dr. Singh’s personal integrity and calm demeanor had left an indelible mark on them. His death was not only the loss of a former leader but the loss of a man who embodied the values of service, sacrifice, and nation-building.
The End of an Era
Dr. Manmohan Singh’s passing marks the end of a transformative chapter in India’s political history. His vision, intellect, and moral compass shaped not just the economic policies of India but also the democratic ideals that the country holds dear. His departure leaves a void that will be hard to fill, and his legacy will continue to inspire future generations of leaders, economists, and citizens alike.
As India mourns the loss of Dr. Singh, it is clear that the country has lost a statesman of extraordinary caliber. His life and work will continue to serve as a reminder of the enduring power of vision, integrity, and quiet leadership in a world often dominated by noise and controversy.