India News
Former Prime Minister of India, Dr. Manmohan Singh, passed away at the age of 92. He was rushed to AIIMS in Delhi this evening following severe health complications. Despite emergency treatment, doctors declared him dead shortly thereafter.
Dr. Singh was born on September 26, 1932, in Chakwal, now part of Pakistan. Serving as the Prime Minister from 2004 to 2014, he played a pivotal role in steering India's economic reforms. After Jawaharlal Nehru, Indira Gandhi, and Narendra Modi, Dr. Singh holds the record for one of the longest tenures as Prime Minister.
He served as a Member of Parliament for 33 years, entering the Rajya Sabha in 1991. Under Prime Minister P.V. Narasimha Rao, he served as the Finance Minister and was instrumental in laying the foundation for India’s economic liberalization. His earlier roles include serving as an economic advisor, Secretary in the Ministry of Finance, and Governor of the Reserve Bank of India (RBI).
Dr. Singh's tenure saw several transformative initiatives, including the launch of the National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (NREGA), aimed at providing jobs in rural areas. His continuation of the 1991 economic reforms significantly boosted foreign investments, privatization, and licensing policies. Key milestones under his leadership include the Indo-US nuclear deal, the Right to Information Act, and the National Rural Health Mission.
Despite being known as a man of few words, Dr. Singh's work spoke volumes. As Finance Minister (1991-1996), he spearheaded economic reforms that resulted in India's GDP achieving a record growth rate of 10.2%. He also facilitated the reservation of 27% seats for backward classes.
Opposition leader Rahul Gandhi praised Dr. Singh, calling him his mentor and a guiding light. “I have lost my teacher and pathfinder,” he said while extending condolences to the family. Priyanka Gandhi remarked on his profound understanding of economics and commended his honesty, which continues to inspire politicians across the spectrum.
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