Manmohan Singh Remembered on 94th Birth Anniversary, Leaders Across Spectrum Pay Tribute

Congress leaders on Saturday paid tribute to former prime minister Manmohan Singh on his birth anniversary, remembering the economist-statesman for his contribution to India’s economic transformation, development and public service.

Congress Parliamentary Party chairperson Sonia Gandhi and Leader of Opposition in Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhi paid floral tributes to Singh at the AICC headquarters on Akbar Road. Several senior party leaders also gathered at the office to pay homage to the former prime minister.

A prayer meeting was separately organised by Singh’s family at his residence, which was attended by Rahul Gandhi.

Remembering Singh, Rahul Gandhi said his humility, integrity and foresight had given a new direction to the country’s economy and social justice. He recalled Singh’s historic decisions and contribution to nation-building, saying his legacy would continue to guide the country.

Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge described Singh as a visionary statesman whose landmark economic reforms had transformed India’s growth trajectory, created new opportunities and helped lift millions out of poverty.

Kharge also highlighted Singh’s humility, integrity and wisdom, saying he led with quiet dignity and compassion while keeping inclusive growth and the welfare of vulnerable sections at the centre of governance. He described the rights-based framework of Singh’s government as an enduring part of his legacy.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi also paid tribute to Singh, recalling his long years in public life and his service to the nation. In a post on X, Modi said Singh had spent many years in public life and served the nation with dedication.

Telangana Chief Minister A Revanth Reddy also paid homage to Singh, describing him as an economist of global stature, a statesman of integrity and a dedicated public servant. Reddy recalled Singh’s role in the landmark economic reforms as Union finance minister and his focus on growth, welfare and inclusive development as prime minister.

The Congress, in a separate post, remembered Singh as a distinguished economist and statesman whose humility, integrity and commitment to public service defined his long career.

Singh was born on September 26, 1932, in Gah, now in Pakistan. He died on December 26, 2024, aged 92.

He served as India's prime minister from 2004 to 2014, leading the Congress-led United Progressive Alliance government for two consecutive terms. Before becoming prime minister, Singh served as Union finance minister from 1991 to 1996 and played a central role in the economic reforms and liberalisation programme launched in 1991.

His decade as prime minister was marked by major economic and welfare initiatives as well as intense political debates over several issues. His role in shaping India's economic policy, particularly during the 1991 reforms, remained a defining part of his public life.