Fri Dec 27 09:00:20 UTC 2024: **Former Principal Secretary Recalls Manmohan Singh’s Humility and Dedication to India**
THIRUVANANTHAPURAM, INDIA – December 27, 2024 – T.K.A. Nair, former Principal Secretary to Prime Minister Manmohan Singh, has described the late leader as a humble individual with deep respect for the people he served. In an interview with The Hindu, Nair recalled Singh’s unwavering commitment to the country, even in the face of harsh criticism.
Nair emphasized Singh’s self-effacing nature, noting that he never sought to take personal credit for achievements. He highlighted the success of the first United Progressive Alliance (UPA) government, crediting Singh with initiating many programs still in effect today. The Indo-U.S. nuclear deal, a particularly challenging undertaking fraught with opposition, was cited as a testament to Singh’s steadfast belief in what he considered beneficial for India.
Addressing the criticism that Singh’s PMO was nicknamed the “Mallu Club” due to the high number of Malayali officers, Nair explained that this was not a deliberate policy but rather a result of selecting senior officers based on merit and experience.
Nair concluded by expressing his deep respect for Singh, describing him as a mentor and a figure he held in high regard.
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