Manmohan Singh, former Indian PM and architect of economic reforms, dies at 92

Manmohan Singh, the former Prime Minister of India, has passed away at 92. Serving as PM from 2004 to 2014, Singh was the architect of significant economic reforms that liberalized India’s economy. He was also India’s first Sikh prime minister. Singh, who had been in declining health, was hospitalized in Delhi before his death.

Tributes poured in from leaders such as Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who praised Singh’s wisdom and efforts to improve lives, and Congress leaders Priyanka and Rahul Gandhi, who highlighted his integrity and guidance.

Singh was born in 1932 in undivided Punjab. His rise to prominence began as Finance Minister in 1991, when he led transformative economic reforms. Despite his lack of a political base, he became India’s first non-elected PM in 2004 after Sonia Gandhi declined the position.

His first term as PM saw successes like the historic nuclear deal with the U.S., but his second term was marred by corruption scandals. Singh’s leadership was often seen as soft, and his government faced criticism for its handling of the economy and internal disputes.

Known for his calm demeanor and pragmatism, Singh was instrumental in advancing India’s foreign relations, particularly with Pakistan, China, and Afghanistan. Despite controversies, his legacy is marked by his efforts to bring India out of economic and nuclear isolation. He remained active in politics after retiring, contributing to national debates until his death.

Singh is survived by his wife and three daughters.