In brief
Former Indian Prime Minister Manmohan Singh, who played a pivotal role in the nation’s economic reforms, received a heartfelt farewell during a state funeral in Delhi following his passing at 92.
In a somber but dignified ceremony held on Saturday, India collectively mourned the loss of Manmohan Singh, one of its longest-serving prime ministers, remembered for his significant contributions to the country’s economic landscape during his tenure from 2004 to 2014. Singh passed away on Thursday, prompting a week of national mourning as citizens and dignitaries alike paid their respects to the man who was often referred to as the architect of India’s economic liberalization.Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who attended the state funeral, lauded Singh’s distinguished service and wisdom. A state funeral marked by a 21-gun salute took place as Singh's coffin was paraded through the heart of Delhi, surrounded by an honor guard and a sea of mourners, demonstrating the deep affection the country held for its former leader. In attendance were heads of state from various nations, including Bhutan's King Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck and Mauritius Foreign Minister Dhananjay Ramful, affirming Singh’s international stature and influence. Singh's eldest daughter lit his funeral pyre at the cremation site, with high-ranking officials such as President Droupadi Murmu and Vice-President Jagdeep Dhankhar by her side, signifying the somberness of the occasion.Singh’s legacy as a reformist leader will be long remembered; his first budget speech famously proclaimed, "No power on Earth can stop an idea whose time has come." His policies were instrumental in lifting millions out of poverty and cementing India’s position as one of the world's rising economic powers. However, his later years were shadowed by corruption scandals, which many speculate contributed to the Congress Party's defeat in the 2014 elections.Paying tribute, U.S. President Joe Biden reflected on Singh’s impact, stating that the unprecedented cooperation between the U.S. and India was made possible by Singh's "strategic vision and political courage." Meanwhile, opposition leader Rahul Gandhi expressed his personal loss, describing Singh as a mentor and guide.As India reflects on the life of Manmohan Singh, it acknowledges the indelible mark he left on the nation’s growth and development, a testament to his enduring legacy in shaping the future of a billion lives.
