New Delhi, 26 December (H.S.): On the first death anniversary of former Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh, leaders across the political spectrum — including figures from the Congress, Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), and various state governments — paid heartfelt tributes, recalling his immense contributions to India’s economic transformation, inclusive growth, and national development.

Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge, in a post on X, described Dr. Singh as “a transformative leader in India’s nation-building journey,” highlighting his pivotal role in ushering in landmark economic reforms that reshaped the country's fiscal direction and lifted millions out of poverty. “His humility, integrity, and vision for inclusive progress will continue to inspire generations,” Kharge wrote.

Leader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhi paid his respects, remarking that Dr. Singh’s “visionary leadership empowered India economically and gave a new identity to the nation on the global stage.” He further noted that Singh’s “historic efforts and courageous decisions for the poor and the marginalized will remain an enduring chapter in India’s story of progress.”

Congress General Secretary Priyanka Gandhi Vadra remembered the late statesman as “a man of equality, conviction, and grace,” adding, “His simplicity, honesty, and lifelong dedication to the service of India will always be a source of inspiration.”

Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath described Dr. Singh as a “Padma Vibhushan awardee and a distinguished statesman” whose contributions as both Finance Minister and Prime Minister were invaluable to India’s developmental journey.

Several other leaders, including Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta, Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Mohan Yadav, and Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma, also paid floral tributes, remembering his calm leadership and economic wisdom.

Born on 26 September 1932 in Punjab, Dr. Manmohan Singh earned his Bachelor’s (1952) and Master’s (1954) degrees in Economics from Panjab University, followed by an Economic Tripos at the University of Cambridge (1957) and a D.Phil. in Economics from Oxford University (1962).

Over his illustrious career, Singh served as India’s 24th Finance Minister and 13th Prime Minister, shaping major policy reforms such as economic liberalisation, fiscal consolidation, and social welfare expansion.Dr. Singh passed away on 26 December 2024, at the age of 92, after a prolonged illness. His enduring legacy — that of integrity, intellect, and quiet leadership — continues to influence India’s political and economic thought.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar