Former Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh: A Life of Service and Transformation
Dr. Manmohan Singh, recognized as one of India’s eminent leaders, has a legacy rooted in the modest neighborhoods of Amritsar. Celebrated for his pivotal economic strategies, his decade-long leadership has profoundly influenced the country’s economic landscape.
Born on September 26, 1932, in Gah (now in Pakistan’s Chakwal district), Singh’s family migrated to Amritsar during the turbulent times of Partition. They established themselves in a small rented home near the Golden Temple in Petha Wala Bazaar. After the untimely passing of his mother, Singh was raised by his grandmother and was remembered by locals as a reserved and diligent child, deeply connected to the city that played a significant role in molding him.
Surjit Singh Kohli, a half-brother from Singh’s extended family, reflects on the former Prime Minister’s profound bond with Amritsar. He notes, “Manmohan Singh held a deep affection for Amritsar. He visited the Golden Temple every time he returned to the city,” Kohli shared with the news agency PTI. Other residents echoed that sentiment, highlighting Singh’s initiatives during his tenure as head of the UPA government, which led to various projects sanctioned for the city.
Singh completed his early education in Amritsar before earning a degree in economics from Hindu College. Rajinder Loomba, a retired professor from the college, recalls Singh’s humility during a past alumni gathering. “When he attended a convocation as the chief guest, he interacted with the college staff like an ordinary person, reminiscing about old times,” Loomba noted.
Raj Kumar, a longtime resident near Singh’s childhood home, fondly recalled the Singh family. “Dr. Singh lived here. I was just a child when they moved out, but they were a lovely family,” Kumar reminisced. He added that the house they occupied now lies in disrepair, uninhabited since they left.
Dr. Singh passed away at the age of 92 at AIIMS Delhi, having struggled with age-related health issues. His death has elicited widespread mourning across the nation, with tributes pouring in from various political figures and citizens. Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed his sorrow, stating that the country grieves the loss of a visionary leader.
A key architect of India’s economic overhaul, Singh’s 1991 reforms as finance minister were instrumental in opening the country’s economy to international markets, leading to remarkable growth. During his period as Prime Minister from 2004 to 2014, he implemented significant initiatives such as the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (MGNREGA) and the Right to Information Act.
His mortal remains will be made available for public viewing at the AICC headquarters in Delhi, with last rites planned to be held near Rajghat.
