Fri Dec 27 08:01:55 UTC 2024: ## Nation Mourns Passing of Former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh
**New Delhi, December 27, 2024** – Former Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh, a towering figure in Indian politics and economics, passed away on Thursday at the age of 92. His death sparked an outpouring of grief and tributes from across the political spectrum and internationally.
Dr. Singh, who served as Prime Minister from 2004 to 2014, was rushed to AIIMS hospital in New Delhi after suffering a sudden loss of consciousness at his residence. Despite medical efforts, he was pronounced dead at 9:51 PM.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi led the tributes, calling Dr. Singh’s death a “big loss to the nation” and praising his rise from humble beginnings. He lauded Dr. Singh’s contribution to India’s progress, remembering him as an “inspirational example” for Indian democracy. Similar sentiments were echoed by numerous national and international leaders. Former British Prime Minister David Cameron, in his memoir, revealed a conversation with Dr. Singh following the 2011 Mumbai bombings, where the latter had warned of potential military action against Pakistan if another such attack occurred.
Dr. Singh’s legacy extends beyond his political career. He is widely credited as the architect of India’s economic reforms in the 1990s and for his skillful navigation of the Indo-U.S. nuclear deal. His tenure as Prime Minister also saw the implementation of landmark social programs like MNREGA, the Right to Information Act, and the Right to Education Act. His commitment to environmental conservation and climate action was also highlighted, with the introduction of the National Action Plan on Climate Change and the Forest Rights Act.
Tributes poured in from across the globe. The Chinese foreign ministry expressed condolences, noting Dr. Singh’s positive contributions to India-China relations. U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken hailed him as “one of the greatest champions of the bilateral strategic partnership.” The RBI Governor and former World Bank chief economist Kaushik Basu also praised his economic contributions and leadership.
Several state governments announced state mourning and holidays to honor the former Prime Minister. A state funeral is planned, and seven days of national mourning have been declared, with the national flag flown at half-mast throughout the country. Numerous political events, including the Congress party’s foundation day celebrations, have been postponed. Several sporting events also paid tribute, with the Indian cricket team wearing black armbands during a Test match against Australia.
Dr. Singh’s passing marks the end of an era in Indian politics, leaving behind a legacy of economic reform, social progress, and quiet yet effective leadership.
First Piper 