New Delhi: State Funeral for Manmohan Singh and Global Tributes
Manmohan Singh, the former Prime Minister of India, was cremated with full state honours on the banks of the Yamuna River in New Delhi on Saturday. The ceremony followed Sikh traditions, with priests chanting hymns. Singh’s body, draped in the Indian flag, was carried through the capital on a flower-decked carriage pulled by a ceremonial army truck.
Singh’s Life and Political Legacy
Singh, who passed away at the age of 92 on December 26, left behind a legacy of economic reforms and political leadership. Initially criticized for weak leadership, especially amid corruption allegations during his tenure, Singh later came to be regarded as one of India’s greatest leaders. His economic policies, including liberalizing India’s economy, were instrumental in shaping the nation’s growth, earning him recognition as the architect of India’s economic liberalization.
Modi and Global Leaders’ Tributes
Prime Minister Narendra Modi described Singh as one of India’s “most distinguished leaders.” President Droupadi Murmu and leaders from across the world, including U.S. President Joe Biden, praised Singh’s contributions, calling him a “true statesman” who paved the way for India’s progress. Biden remarked that Singh “charted pathbreaking progress that will continue to strengthen our nations — and the world — for generations to come.”
Singh’s Early Life and Journey
Born in 1932 in Gah, a village near Chakwal in present-day Pakistan, Singh pursued his education in economics at Cambridge and Oxford. He held senior civil service positions, worked as the Governor of the Reserve Bank of India, and served in various global agencies. In 1991, he was appointed Finance Minister and played a key role in rescuing India from its worst financial crisis. In 2004, he was named the Congress party’s candidate for Prime Minister and led India through a period of remarkable economic growth.
Legacy of Service
Manmohan Singh will always be remembered for his service to the nation, his unblemished political life, and his unparalleled humility. His leadership continues to inspire and his contributions to India’s development are deeply acknowledged globally.
