Dr. Manmohan Singh, former Prime Minister of India, passed away on December 26, 2024, at the age of 92. A press release from the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), New Delhi, confirmed that he was brought to the hospital’s emergency department at 8:06 PM after a sudden loss of consciousness. Despite resuscitative measures, he could not be revived and was declared dead at 9:51 PM.
The press release stated, “With profound grief, we inform the demise of Former Prime Minister of India, Dr. Manmohan Singh, aged 92. He was being treated for age-related medical conditions and had a sudden loss of consciousness at home on 26th December 2024. Resuscitative measures were started immediately at home. He was brought to the Medical Emergency at AIIMS, New Delhi at 8:06 PM. Despite all efforts, he could not be revived and was declared dead at 9:51 PM.”
Tributes pour in for the distinguished leader
Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed his grief on Twitter, saying, “India mourns the loss of one of its most distinguished leaders, Dr. Manmohan Singh Ji. Rising from humble origins, he rose to become a respected economist. He served in various government positions as well, including as Finance Minister, leaving a strong imprint on our economic policy over the years. His interventions in Parliament were also insightful. As our Prime Minister, he made extensive efforts to improve people’s lives.”
PM Modi further recalled their interactions, stating, “Dr. Manmohan Singh Ji and I interacted regularly when he was PM and I was the CM of Gujarat. We would have extensive deliberations on various subjects relating to governance. His wisdom and humility were always visible. In this hour of grief, my thoughts are with the family of Dr. Manmohan Singh Ji, his friends and countless admirers. Om Shanti.”
Dr. Manmohan Singh Ji and I interacted regularly when he was PM and I was the CM of Gujarat. We would have extensive deliberations on various subjects relating to governance. His wisdom and humility were always visible.
In this hour of grief, my thoughts are with the family of… pic.twitter.com/kAOlbtyGVs
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) December 26, 2024
A remarkable life: Early years, education, and political career
Born on September 26, 1932, in Gah, West Punjab (now in Pakistan), Dr. Singh’s journey from a humble background to becoming India’s first Sikh Prime Minister is an inspiring story. He graduated from Panjab University with a Bachelor’s and Master’s in Economics before earning a First-Class Honours degree from the University of Cambridge in 1957. In 1962, he completed his D.Phil. at Nuffield College, Oxford.
Dr. Singh’s political career began in 1971 as an Economic Advisor in the Ministry of Commerce. He later served as Chief Economic Advisor and Finance Secretary. His tenure as Finance Minister from 1991 to 1996 marked a turning point for India’s economy, as he spearheaded liberalization policies that transformed the country’s economic landscape.
A decade of leadership
Dr. Singh served as India’s Prime Minister from 2004 to 2014, focusing on inclusive growth and poverty alleviation. His leadership saw landmark legislation ensuring rights to food, education, work, and information. Despite controversies in his later years, his tenure is remembered for laying the foundation for India’s emergence as a global economic power.
Personal life and legacy
Dr. Singh is survived by his wife, Gursharan Kaur, and three daughters. Known for his humility and scholarly approach, he remains a respected figure in Indian politics. His contributions to economic reforms and governance continue to inspire generations.
Dr. Manmohan Singh’s passing marks the end of an era. His vision, policies, and dedication to India’s progress leave an indelible mark on the nation’s history.
