Former Indian Prime Minister Manmohan Singh has reportedly passed away at the age of 92 after battling an illness.
According to reports, Singh, whose economic reforms were pivotal in transforming India into a global economic powerhouse, died on Thursday.
Serving as Prime Minister from 2004 to 2014, he is credited with overseeing a period of remarkable economic growth during his first term.
However, his second term was marred by a slowdown in growth, which somewhat overshadowed his earlier achievements.
The All India Institute of Medical Sciences reported that Singh was rushed to a hospital in New Delhi after collapsing at his residence on Thursday. Despite medical efforts, he could not be revived and was pronounced dead.
India is mourning the loss of one of its most respected leaders. Current Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed his condolences on X (formerly Twitter), saying, “India grieves the loss of one of its most esteemed leaders. As our Prime Minister, he made extensive efforts to improve people’s lives.”
Opposition Congress leader Rahul Gandhi, reflecting on Singh’s legacy, said, “I have lost a mentor and guide. He led India with immense wisdom and integrity. Millions of us who admired him will remember him with the utmost pride.” Gandhi, a prominent challenger to Modi and a member of the Nehru-Gandhi dynasty, praised Singh’s leadership and influence.
Mallikarjun Kharge, opposition leader in the upper house of parliament, described Singh as “a visionary statesman, a leader of unimpeachable integrity, and an economist of unparalleled stature.”
President Droupadi Murmu also paid tribute, writing on X that Singh would “always be remembered for his service to the nation, his unblemished political life, and his utmost humility.”
Singh’s passing marks the end of an era for India, leaving behind a legacy of economic reforms and leadership defined by wisdom, humility, and a steadfast commitment to the nation.
