In brief
Former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh, the architect of India's economic reform, passed away at 92 and was honored with a full state funeral attended by leaders, diplomats, and thousands of mourners.
Manmohan Singh, who served as India's Prime Minister from 2004 to 2014, was laid to rest with full state honors in a poignant ceremony in Delhi following his death on Thursday at the age of 92. Regarded as the architect of India’s economic liberalization, his passing has prompted national mourning, with Prime Minister Narendra Modi among the many dignitaries who paid their respects at the state funeral held on Saturday.Singh’s funeral procession wound through the streets of the capital as a significant outpouring of grief was witnessed, with many citizens turning out to honor a leader whose policies significantly altered the economic landscape of the nation. As the coffin, adorned with garlands and the national flag, made its way to the cremation grounds, it was flanked by an honour guard. His eldest daughter performed the final rites, lighting the pyre in front of numerous political figures, including President Droupadi Murmu and Vice-President Jagdeep Dhankhar.International attendance included foreign dignitaries such as Bhutan’s King Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck and the Foreign Minister of Mauritius, Dhananjay Ramful, reflecting Singh's global impact. The ceremony was marked by a solemn 21-gun salute and the announcement of seven days of national mourning by the government.In tributes following his death, Modi underscored Singh's distinguished service and his contributions to improving the lives of many, praising his wisdom and humility. Congress leader Rahul Gandhi expressed personal loss, identifying Singh as a mentor, while US President Joe Biden highlighted Singh's role in fostering unprecedented cooperation between India and the US, recognizing him as a dedicated public servant with remarkable vision.Singh, who was the first Sikh to serve as Prime Minister and the first leader since Nehru to win a second term, launched India’s economic reforms that lifted millions out of poverty. His tenure, however, did face challenges, including corruption scandals that marred his second term and contributed to his party's defeat in the 2014 elections. Remembrance of his significant legacy continues to resonate across the nation as India reflects on the life and contributions of this revered leader.
