In brief
Long-serving Prime Minister Manmohan Singh is remembered for his immense contributions to India's growth during a state funeral attended by dignitaries and citizens.
India mourned the loss of its former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh, who passed away at the age of 92, with a heartfelt state funeral in New Delhi. Serving from 2004 to 2014, Singh was crucial in shaping India's economic landscape and is celebrated as a key figure in the nation's economic liberalization. The official ceremonies drew in numerous mourners as his coffin, draped in flowers and the Indian flag, made its way through the streets, accompanied by an honor guard.Prime Minister Narendra Modi honored Singh's legacy at the event, describing him as one of the nation's most esteemed leaders. Many citizens turned out to pay their respects on Saturday, as his eldest daughter performed the last rites at the crematorium, surrounded by prominent figures including President Droupadi Murmu and Vice-President Jagdeep Dhankhar.Among the international attendees were the King of Bhutan and Mauritius' Foreign Minister, reinforcing Singh's global impact. He was granted full state honors, including a 21-gun salute, as a mark of respect from the nation. Following Singh's passing on Thursday, the Indian government declared a seven-day period of mourning.Prime Minister Modi reflected on Singh’s wisdom and humility during their partnerships, while Congress leader Rahul Gandhi expressed profound personal loss, labeling Singh as a mentor. U.S. President Joe Biden acknowledged Singh's essential role in enhancing Indo-U.S. relations, calling him a dedicated public servant and a true statesman.Singh's tenure as finance minister in 1991 was marked by transformative economic reforms. He famously proclaimed in his first budget speech, “No power on Earth can stop an idea whose time has come,” as he worked to boost economic growth and lift millions from poverty. As the first Sikh prime minister, Singh also made historical gestures, including an apology for the 1984 anti-Sikh riots. Despite political challenges in his second term, including corruption allegations, Singh's legacy remains instrumental in India's modern narrative.
