New Delhi— India today bid farewell to one of its most transformative leaders, Dr. Manmohan Singh, former Prime Minister and architect of the country’s economic liberalization, who passed away at the age of 92 due to age-related complications.

The death of the renowned economist-turned-statesman marks the end of an era in Indian politics. A two-term prime minister and the brain behind India’s 1991 economic reforms, Singh leaves behind a legacy of intellect, integrity, and quiet leadership.

A Lifelong Servant of Public Policy

Born on September 26, 1932, in Gah, now in Pakistan’s Punjab province, Singh overcame early hardships to become one of India’s most respected economists. Educated at Cambridge and Oxford, Singh went on to hold key positions in the Indian government and international institutions, including the Reserve Bank of India, the Planning Commission, and the International Monetary Fund.

In 1991, amid a near financial collapse, Singh was appointed Finance Minister in Prime Minister P.V. Narasimha Rao’s government. His introduction of sweeping reforms—liberalizing the Indian economy, dismantling the “License Raj,” and encouraging foreign investment—marked a turning point in India’s economic trajectory. His understated but bold leadership is credited with saving India from economic isolation and setting it on a path of sustained growth.

Singh served as India’s 13th Prime Minister from 2004 to 2014, leading the United Progressive Alliance (UPA) through two full terms. During this time, he oversaw key social and economic policies, including the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (MGNREGA), Right to Education Act, and the landmark U.S.-India Civil Nuclear Agreement, which elevated India’s global standing.

Though his government was later marred by corruption scandals and an economic slowdown, Singh himself remained personally untainted. His calm demeanor, scholarly approach, and preference for consensus earned him a reputation as a leader who put country before politics.

Tributes from Around the World

News of Singh’s passing prompted an outpouring of condolences from across the political and global spectrum. Prime Minister Narendra Modi called him “a distinguished leader whose vision shaped modern India,” while former U.S. President Barack Obama—who once referred to Singh as “a man of uncommon wisdom and grace”—praised his role in strengthening global cooperation.

A state funeral was held in New Delhi on December 28, with full military honors and a 21-gun salute. Dignitaries from around the world and across party lines gathered to honor a man whose legacy transcended political divides.

Though not known for fiery speeches or populist appeal, Manmohan Singh’s influence was profound. He is remembered not just for the economic resurgence he helped engineer, but for embodying a rare combination of humility, intellect, and principled leadership.

“History will remember him not only as a great economist but as a statesman who changed the destiny of millions,” said Congress leader Sonia Gandhi, under whom Singh served as Prime Minister.

In a political landscape often marked by rhetoric and confrontation, Singh’s legacy serves as a reminder that quiet conviction can drive historic change. His life’s work will continue to shape India’s development for generations.