The nation mourned the loss of one of its most distinguished statesmen, Dr. Manmohan Singh, who passed away on December 26, 2024, at the age of 92. The former Prime Minister breathed his last at the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) in New Delhi. Dr. Singh, a stalwart of Indian politics and the architect of the 1991 economic reforms, succumbed to age-related health complications. Despite the best efforts of medical professionals, he was declared dead at 9:51 p.m., leaving behind a legacy etched in the annals of Indian history.
.@UNinIndia mourns the passing of former PM, Dr Manmohan Singh, a pioneer who transformed lives & advanced India’s global standing.
From the economy to rights, & also serving with @UN, he sought to leave no one behind. Condolences to Dr Singh’s family & the people of India 🇮🇳. pic.twitter.com/xV8MfI8Unu
— United Nations in India (@UNinIndia) December 27, 2024
Born in 1932 in Gah, a village that now lies in Pakistan, Dr. Singh rose from humble beginnings to become one of the most respected leaders globally. As an academician, economist, and statesman, he played a pivotal role in steering India through economic challenges and laying the foundation for its rapid growth.
The weight of grief bears down on me at the news of the passing of my honoured and cherished friend: Dr Manmohan Singh.
Obituaries, essays and books a plenty there will surely be about this great man, celebrating him as the architect of India’s economic reforms. As Prime… pic.twitter.com/44bA3s7vst
— Anwar Ibrahim (@anwaribrahim) December 27, 2024
His tenure as the Finance Minister under Prime Minister P.V. Narasimha Rao in the early 1990s saw the introduction of landmark economic reforms that liberalised India’s economy. Later, as the Prime Minister of India from 2004 to 2014, Dr. Singh oversaw significant strides in governance, social welfare, and economic development.
– Prime Minister for 10 years
– Father of Economic reforms
– Saved India in 1991 & 2008
– One of the most respected leaders across the worldYet ZERO coverage in Media ❌
Who has ordered the media to blackout? Really shameful.#ManmohanSingh pic.twitter.com/ZeQlaTnSc1
— Ankit Mayank (@mr_mayank) December 28, 2024
Tributes poured in from all quarters. President Droupadi Murmu described him as “one of the greatest sons of Bharat,” highlighting his unblemished political life and his ability to straddle the worlds of academia and administration. Prime Minister Narendra Modi called him a distinguished leader whose wisdom and contributions to India’s economic policy would be remembered for generations.
“I have tried to serve my country with the greatest sense of dedication and commitment.” He was often called the “silent Prime Minister,” but in 2014, months before the election, Manmohan Singh faced tough questions from the press. The former PM passed away at the age of 92. pic.twitter.com/rmzHeGKnVL
— Brut India (@BrutIndia) December 27, 2024
Dr. Singh’s legacy is not just confined to his policy decisions or governance. His words, often laced with deep wisdom and foresight, continue to resonate. Known for his calm demeanor and profound insights, his speeches were a reflection of his vision for India and the world. Below is a compilation of 30 iconic quotes by the late Prime Minister that encapsulate his philosophy and vision.
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“India is an old country but a young nation. And like the young everywhere, we are impatient. I am confident that the world will see the real potential of India emerge.”
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“Economic policies must be socially inclusive, ecologically sustainable, and growth-oriented.”
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“The reforms we undertook in 1991 have yielded rich dividends. They have made India one of the fastest-growing economies in the world.”
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“The future generations will judge us not by the number of cars we own or the size of our houses but by the number of people we have moved out of poverty.”
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“Globalization has thrown up new challenges, but it also offers enormous opportunities. It depends on how we handle it.”
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“Corruption is the enemy of development, and of good governance. We must relentlessly fight against it.”
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“Climate change is a global challenge that calls for a global response.”
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“The future belongs to those who embrace knowledge, technology, and innovation.”
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“We are a multi-ethnic, multi-religious society. We must celebrate our diversity and use it to build a more inclusive and equitable society.”
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“India must become a major player in shaping the global knowledge economy of the 21st century.”
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“Economic growth must be combined with equity, and wealth must reach the common man.”
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“Service to the nation is the highest calling for any citizen.”
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“Education is the single most important factor that will determine the future of our country.”
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“Democracy is not just a form of government; it is an article of faith for our people.”
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“Every challenge can be an opportunity if we look at it in the right spirit.”
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“Scientific research and technological development are the engines of economic progress.”
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“India lives in its villages, and we must ensure that they become part of the growth story.”
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“Good relations with our neighbours are essential for peace, stability, and prosperity in the region.”
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“Terrorism poses a great challenge to our society. We must act firmly and decisively to counter it.”
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“Our aspirations must be matched by the determination to act. India’s future lies in our hands.”
