Former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh passed away on Thursday at the age of 92, leaving behind a legacy in Indian politics and economics.
Serving as Prime Minister for two consecutive terms from 2004 to 2014, Singh was known for his clean personal image and his pivotal role in transforming India’s economy. Born on September 26, 1932, in the Punjab province of undivided India (now in Pakistan), he pursued his education at Punjab University, followed by a Master’s degree from Cambridge University and a D.Phil from Oxford.
First rose to prominence as India’s Finance Minister in 1991
Singh first rose to prominence as India’s Finance Minister in 1991 during a period of severe economic crisis. His unexpected appointment marked the beginning of a remarkable career that spanned academia, bureaucracy, and economic advisory roles, including serving as the Governor of the Reserve Bank of India.
In 1991, while in the Narasimha Rao government, Singh introduced crucial reforms in liberalization, privatization, and globalization through the Inion Budget. These initiatives revitalized the Indian economy by altering trade policies, reforming industrial licensing, enhancing the banking sector, and allowing foreign direct investment (FDI).
His policies led to reduced taxes, a devaluation of the rupee, and a surge in foreign investment, resulting in rapid industrial growth and controlled inflation throughout the 1990s.
Became PM in 2004
Despite his economic successes, Singh was aware of his lack of a strong political base. His attempts to secure a Lok Sabha seat in 1999 were unsuccessful, but he was later appointed to the Rajya Sabha by the Congress Party. In 2004, he became Prime Minister when Congress President Sonia Gandhi declined the position.
Nuclear agreement with the US
One of Singh's most notable achievements during his first term was the historic nuclear agreement with the United States, which granted India access to American nuclear technology. This agreement, however, came with challenges, as leftist parties withdrew their support, prompting the Congress to seek alliances with other parties to maintain a majority.
In the 2009 Lok Sabha elections, the United Progressive Alliance (UPA) won 262 seats, reigniting speculation about the Prime Minister's position. Singh said he would accept PM post only if he would be allowed to complete his term. With assurances from Rahul Gandhi that he had no ambitions for the role, Singh continued as Prime Minister until May 26, 2014.
Known for his modesty, calm demeanor, and hard-working nature, Singh's personality resonated with many. His social media presence was marked by simple posts that reflected his understated approach to life. Manmohan Singh was a man of few words, and his composed nature earned him admiration from various quarters.
Prakash Kumar Pandey
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