Sat Dec 28 02:45:57 UTC 2024: ## Former Indian Prime Minister Manmohan Singh Passes Away at 92

**New Delhi, India –** Former Indian Prime Minister Manmohan Singh, a renowned economist and architect of India’s 1991 economic reforms, passed away Thursday night at the age of 92. His death prompted an outpouring of grief and tributes from across India and the world.

Singh’s last rites will be held with full state honors at 11:45 am on Saturday at Nigambodh Ghat crematorium in Delhi. His body will lie in state at the All India Congress Committee (AICC) headquarters from 8:30 am to 9:30 am Saturday, allowing the public and Congress workers to pay their respects. The procession to the crematorium will begin at 9:30 am.

The decision to hold the funeral at Nigambodh Ghat sparked some controversy, with Congress leaders expressing disappointment that a more prominent location, allowing for a memorial, wasn’t chosen. While the government has committed to providing space for a memorial, Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge had previously requested a location suitable for both the funeral and a future memorial.

Numerous dignitaries, including current Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Congress leaders Sonia Gandhi and Mallikarjun Kharge, and leaders from various political parties, paid their respects at Singh’s residence on Friday. Condolences also poured in internationally from countries including the US, Canada, France, Sri Lanka, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Nepal, and Malaysia.

Singh’s legacy extends beyond his time as Prime Minister (2004-2014). His role as Finance Minister in 1991, where he spearheaded crucial economic liberalization, is widely credited with transforming India’s economy. Tributes highlighted his humility, integrity, and commitment to public service. Several initiatives to honor his memory, including the establishment of a research center, have been proposed. The Rashtrapati Bhavan cancelled its Saturday change of guard ceremony in observance of national mourning.

The government has declared seven days of national mourning. Flags will be flown at half-mast, and all official entertainment programs are suspended.

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