Manmohan Singh Death News Live: Not having memorial for Manmohan Singh deliberate insult to India's 1st Sikh PM, says Congress

Manmohan Singh death news live: Not having memorial for Manmohan Singh deliberate insult to India's 1st Sikh PM, Cong says

The Congress on Friday said that not finding a location for the cremation and memorial for Manmohan Singh is a deliberate insult to the country's first Sikh prime minister. The party raked up the issue after the Union home ministry said in a statement that Singh's last rites will be held at New Delhi's Nigambodh Ghat at 11:45 AM on Saturday with full state honours.

Congress general secretary Jairam Ramesh said party president Mallikarjun Kharge wrote to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, urging him to conduct Singh's last rites at a location where a memorial could be built to honour his legacy.

"The people of our country are simply unable to understand why the Government of India could not find a location for his cremation and memorial that is befitting of his global stature, record of outstanding achievements, and exemplary service to the nation for decades. This is nothing but a deliberate insult to the first Sikh Prime Minister of India, Dr. Manmohan Singh," the Congress leader said.

Manmohan Singh death news live: Manmohan Singh was instrumental in enhancing infrastructure in Tamil Nadu, says Stalin

Former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh has been instrumental in enhancing the infrastructure facilities in Tamil Nadu and in ensuring various projects to the state, Chief Minister M K Stalin said on Friday.

Whether it was the Maduravoyal expressway or creating road infrastructure, much progress was made during the tenure of Singh as Prime Minister, he recalled. Speaking to reporters after paying homage at the Delhi residence of the former Prime Minister, Stalin said it was because of Manmohan Singh that the Metro Rail project came to Tamil Nadu.

Manmohan Singh death news live: Putin recalls Manmohan's role in elevating India-Russia ties

Russian President Vladimir Putin on Friday described former prime minister Manmohan Singh as an outstanding statesman and recalled his contribution in elevating India-Russia ties to a 'special and privileged strategic' partnership.

"As prime minister and when serving in other high-ranking positions, he accomplished a lot in promoting India's economic development and asserting its interests on the world stage," Putin said in his condolence message.

Manmohan Singh death news live: Ex-PM Manmohan Singh's funeral at Delhi's Nigambodh Ghat on Saturday, says MHA

The last rites of former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh will be conducted at 11:45 am on December 28 the Nigambodh Ghat crematorium in Delhi with State honours, the Union Home Ministry said. Singh died Thursday night at the AIIMS at the age of 92.

"It has been decided by the Government that State funeral will be accorded to Dr. Manmohan Singh. The funeral will take place at 11:45 AM on 28h December, 2024 at Nigambodh Ghat, New Delhi," the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) said in a communication on Friday.

Manmohan Singh death news live: CPC chairperson Sonia Gandhi remembers Manmohan Singh

Congress Parliamentary Party (CPC) chairperson Sonia Gandhi on Friday penned a note remembering former Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh who breathed his last in Delhi on December 26.

"In Dr Manmohan Singh's passing, we have lost a leader who was the epitome of wisdom, nobility and humility, who served our country with all his heart and mind. A luminous and beloved guiding light for the Congress party, his compassion and vision transformed and empowered the lives of millions of Indians.

He was loved by the people of India for his pure heart and fine mind. His advice, wise counsel and views were eagerly sought and deeply valued across the political spectrum in our country. Respected and admired by leaders and scholars all over the world, he was hailed as a statesman of immense wisdom and stature. Dr Manmohan Singh brought brilliance and distinction to every high office that he held. And he brought pride and honour to India. For me, Dr Manmohan Singh's death is a deeply personal loss," she wrote.

Manmohan Singh death news live: Haryana, Punjab govts announce 7-day state mourning

The Haryana and Punjab governments have declared seven days of state mourning following the demise of former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh.

The BJP government in Haryana and AAP-ruled Punjab issued orders in this regard in compliance with instructions from the Union home ministry. The two state governments have declared seven days of state mourning till January 1.

During this period of mourning, the national flag will fly at half-mast and no official entertainment programme will be organised.

Manmohan Singh death news live: Manmohan Singh's demise 'irreparable loss to nation', says Devendra Fadnavis

Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis on Friday expressed his condolences over the demise of former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh saying that his departure is a great and irreparable loss to the country.

"We all are in immense grief due to the demise of the former PM Manmohan Singh. He tried to fulfil all his duties being the finance minister, RBI governor, and prime minister of the country, especially his effort to give the country's economy a new direction ... His departure is a great and irreparable loss to the country. I express my condolences and pray for the peace of the departed soul," Fadnavis said.

Manmohan Singh death news live: CWC meet to pay homage to former PM Manmohan Singh begins

Congress Working Committee (CWC) meeting begins at the AICC headquarters in Delhi in the presence of party president Mallikarjun Kharge, CPP chairperson Sonia Gandhi, Lok Sabha LoP and MP Rahul Gandhi and other Congress leaders.

The meeting has been convened to pay homage to former Prime Minister Dr Manmohan Singh who breathed his last in Delhi on December 26.

Manmohan Singh death news live: Manmohan Singh's reforms transformed India, unshackled economy, say economists

Former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh's 1991 budget unshackled India's economy, significantly enhancing the economic prospects for hundreds of millions of Indians, first deputy managing director of the International Monetary Fund (IMF) Gita Gopinath said on Friday.

"Dr Manmohan Singh's 1991 budget unshackled India’s economy, significantly enhancing the economic prospects for hundreds of millions of Indians. His visionary reforms inspired countless young economists like me. Rest in peace, Dr Manmohan Singh," she said.

Former RBI Governor Raghuram Rajan said Singh was a brilliant economist with a visionary outlook on India's potential, combined with a fine sense of political feasibility. "He was a brilliant economist with a great vision of what India could be, combined with a fine sense of what was possible politically... the liberalisation and reforms he undertook with the support of Prime Minister Narasimha Rao laid the foundations of the modern Indian economy," he told PTI.

Manmohan Singh death news live: Manmohan Singh's contribution as an economist was immense, says Ramdas Athawale

Mourning Manmohan Singh's demise, Union Minister Ramdas Athawale said that significant progress in India's economy happened during the former PM's tenure.

"Dr Manmohan Singh was a great economist of India. Significant progress in the country's economy happened during his tenure. Though he was from the Congress party, his contribution as an economist to India was immense. His work as the RBI Governor was also notable ... He spoke less, but his way of working was very effective. The entire nation is mourning his demise," Athawale said.

Manmohan Singh death news live: Manmohan Singh's contributions to Bharat will always be remembered, says RSS

RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat and general secretary Dattatreya Hosabale on Friday condoled the passing of former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh, saying his contributions to Bharat will always be remembered.

"The entire nation is extremely saddened by the demise of former prime minister of Bharat and senior leader of the country Dr Sardar Manmohan Singh. Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh expresses its deepest condolences to his family and countless loved ones and admirers," they said in a joint statement.

Singh, despite coming from a humble background, adorned the highest post in the country, the statement said. "Renowned economist Dr Singh's contributions to Bharat will always be remembered and cherished. We pray the almighty to grant 'sadgati' to the departed soul," RSS said in the statement.

Manmohan Singh death news live: Envoys of US, Russia, China condole passing away of Manmohan Singh

Envoys of several countries, including Russia, China and the US, on December 27 expressed condolences over the passing away of Manmohan Singh, describing the former prime minister as an "outstanding leader" and hailing his commitment to the progress of India.

In a post on X, the French Embassy in India said his leadership "bolstered India's global standing and strengthened bonds with France". "It is a moment of poignant sorrow and grief for India and for Russia. Dr Manmohan Singh's contribution to our bilateral ties was immeasurable. His suave demeanour was always endearing as unquestionable was his expertise as an economist and his commitment to the progress of India," Russian envoy to India, Denis Alipov, said in a post on X.

US ambassador Eric Garcetti remembered Singh as a leader "who set in motion a historic chapter in US-India relations". "Remembering the selfless contributions of our dear friend and former prime minister, Dr Manmohan Singh, who set in motion an historic chapter in US-India relations. His dedication to India's growth and prosperity continues to inspire us. Grateful for his leadership and vision," the US envoy said in a social media post.

Manmohan Singh death news live: PDP chief pays tribute to Manmohan Singh, calls him 'a man of action'

PDP chief Mehbooba Mufti on Friday paid tribute to Dr. Manmohan Singh who breathed his last on December 26 in Delhi. Offering condolence to the former PM's family, Mufti said, "He was a man of action ... I wish his soul rest in peace ... I pray to god to give strength to his family to bear this loss".

Calling Dr. Singh a gem of a person, the PDP chief said, "The nation lost a gem ... In 2002, PDP and Congress were in talks for an alliance. Back then, Sonia Gandhi sent Manmohan Singh here, and for the first time, I met such a humble person".

Manmohan Singh death news live: Union Minister Hardeep Puri remembers Manmohan Singh, calls him a 'stalwart'

Union Minister Hardeep Singh Puri remembered former PM Manmohan Singh and called him a 'stalwart'. "The passing away of the former PM is a great loss. He was a great statesman, a stalwart. I had the privilege of knowing him, nearly for 50 years ... He will be remembered for many things - he was the architect of the economic reforms along with PV Narasimha Rao ji, but the contest became more important. He was able to navigate the economy when it was facing many challenges. Initially, it was a balance of payment crisis ... When he saw those difficulties, economic reforms were carried out - which formed the basis of growth which came later," he said.

"Equally, if you look at the foreign policy front - the India-US relationship moves from one of a history of hesitation, which led to the basis of a strategic partnership... There was so much opposition to the Nuclear deal but it was Manmohan Singh's resolve and determination which ensured that the deal went through ...," Puri added.

Manmohan Singh death news live: Final journey to begin saturday at 9:30 AM, says KC Venugopal

Manmohan Singh's final journey to commence from AICC HQ to cremation ground at 9.30 am Saturday, says KC Venugopal.

Manmohan Singh death news live: Union cabinet passes condolence resolution in memory of Dr. Manmohan Singh

The Union Cabinet, chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, has passed a Condolence Resolution in honor of Dr. Manmohan Singh, former Prime Minister of India. The Cabinet observed a two-minute silence to pay tribute to Dr. Singh.

In a mark of respect, the government has declared seven days of state mourning, which will last until January 1, 2025. During this period, the National Flag will be flown at half-mast across Bharat. Additionally, the flag will be flown at half-mast in all Indian Missions and High Commissions abroad for the same duration.

Dr. Singh will be accorded a State Funeral. On the day of the State Funeral, a half-day holiday will be declared in all Central Government offices and Central Public Sector Undertakings (CPSUs).

Manmohan Singh death news live: Andhra Pradesh CM Chandrababu Naidu travels to Delhi to pay homage to Manmohan Singh

Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu departed for New Delhi on Friday to pay his respects to former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh, who passed away on December 26.

"Chief Minister Naidu traveled to Delhi to pay homage to the mortal remains of former PM Manmohan Singh," an official statement said.

After offering his tributes, Naidu is expected to return to Amaravati by evening. According to the schedule, he will arrive at Vijayawada Airport by 5:30 pm and proceed to his residence in Undavalli around 6 pm.

Manmohan Singh death news live: Akhilesh Yadav calls Singh a global economic visionary

Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav expressed profound grief over the passing of former Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh, hailing him as a global economic visionary.

"We have lost one of the greatest economists in the world. As Finance Minister and Prime Minister, he elevated India's economic stature on the global stage," Yadav said.

Reflecting on Singh's inspiring journey, he added, "Coming from a humble background, he rose to the nation's highest office, setting an example of perseverance and excellence."

Manmohan Singh death news: Farooq Abdullah remembers Singh’s work on renewable energy and Kashmiri Pandit rehabilitation

National Conference leader Farooq Abdullah paid tribute to former Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh, recalling his visionary leadership and impactful contributions during his tenure.

"I had the privilege of serving as a minister in his Cabinet. It was during his time that renewable energy was given its rightful recognition. Dr. Singh was also the only leader who took concrete steps to rehabilitate our Kashmiri Pandits in the Valley," Abdullah said.

He stressed on Singh’s legacy of action over rhetoric, adding, "Only those who truly work are criticized. His work speaks volumes about his commitment to the nation."

Manmohan Singh death news: Union Minister G Kishan Reddy pays tribute to former PM  

Union Minister G Kishan Reddy expressed his condolences on the demise of former Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh, acknowledging his immense contributions to India as an economist, RBI Governor, Finance Minister, and Prime Minister.

"Dr. Manmohan Singh made significant contributions to the nation’s progress. The economic reforms he introduced were marked by immense commitment and confidence. It is because of his visionary decisions that the country enjoys a stable economic foundation today," Reddy said, paying tribute to the late leader's legacy.

Manmohan Singh death news: ‘A visionary economist,’ Raghuram Rajan pays tribute to former PM  

Former Reserve Bank of India (RBI) Governor Raghuram Rajan paid tribute to Dr. Manmohan Singh, describing him as a brilliant economist with a visionary outlook on India's potential, complemented by a keen sense of political feasibility. Singh, the architect of India’s economic reforms, passed away at the age of 92 late on Thursday.

Rajan highlighted Singh’s understated and soft-spoken nature, which helped him attract some of the brightest minds to his team, including Montek Singh Ahluwalia, C. Rangarajan, and Rakesh Mohan. He praised Singh for his ability to combine a strong vision for India's future with a pragmatic understanding of what was politically achievable. Rajan credited the liberalisation and reforms that Singh spearheaded, with the support of then Prime Minister Narasimha Rao, for laying the foundation of modern India’s economy.

(PTI)

Manmohan Singh death news: Former President Ram Nath Kovind mourns the loss of Dr. Manmohan Singh

Former President Ram Nath Kovind expressed deep sorrow over the passing of former Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh, calling it not just a national loss but a personal one as well. In a heartfelt tribute, Kovind reflected on his long association with Dr. Singh, describing him as an epitome of politeness and humility. "He was an architect of the Indian economy, and his contributions will always be remembered," Kovind said. "I pay my tribute to him."

Manmohan Singh death news: Assam declares seven-day state mourning

The Assam government, led by Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma, has declared a seven-day state mourning from December 12 to January 1, 2025, in memory of Dr. Singh. During this period, the national flag will fly at half-mast at all state government establishments, and all official entertainment programs have been canceled.

Manmohan Singh death news: Himachal Pradesh closes government facilities for two days

In honor of former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh, the Himachal Pradesh government has announced a two-day closure of all government facilities on December 27 and 28. This includes all government departments, boards, corporations, and educational institutions. The state has also declared these two days as paid holidays for daily wage employees.

Meanwhile, the Municipal Corporation of Shimla has partially postponed the Winter Carnival, originally scheduled from December 27 to January 1. While cultural activities will be postponed, other scheduled programs will continue through January 2. Stalls on the Ridge will remain operational.

Manmohan Singh death news: N. Chandrasekaran pays tribute to Dr. Manmohan Singh

“We mourn the passing of Dr. Manmohan Singh, a visionary leader who played a pivotal role in shaping a new, liberalised India and positioning it confidently on the global stage. Dr. Singh will be remembered for his profound insights, humble nature, and unwavering commitment to his values. His inspiring leadership earned him admiration and respect worldwide.” – N. Chandrasekaran, Chairman, Tata Sons.

Manmohan Singh death news: "Big loss" to the nation

Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed his deep sorrow at the passing of former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh, describing his demise as a significant loss to the nation. In his tribute, PM Modi highlighted Singh's remarkable life, emphasizing his honesty, simplicity, and distinguished career as a parliamentarian.

Modi further praised Singh for embodying the spirit of resilience, saying, "His life will always serve as a lesson on how a person can achieve success by overcoming deprivation and struggle."

Manmohan Singh death news: Telangana announces state mourning for 7 days in honour of Manmohan Singh

The Telangana government has declared seven days of state mourning and a holiday for government offices and educational institutions on Friday to honour the late former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh, who passed away in Delhi.

Chief Secretary Santhi Kumari, in a communication to district Collectors and Superintendents of Police, stated that the national flag would fly at half-mast during the mourning period.

Official sources told PTI that Chief Minister A Revanth Reddy would travel to New Delhi to pay his respects to Singh.

Manmohan Singh death news: RSS leaders condole Manmohan Singh's demise

Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) chief Mohan Bhagwat and general secretary Dattatreya Hosabale on Friday expressed their condolences following the passing of former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh, remembering his significant contributions to the nation.

In a joint statement, they said, "The entire nation is deeply saddened by the demise of former Prime Minister of Bharat and senior leader Dr. Sardar Manmohan Singh. The Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh extends its heartfelt condolences to his family, as well as to his numerous admirers and loved ones."

The statement further highlighted Singh's remarkable journey, stating, "Despite his humble beginnings, Dr. Singh reached the highest office in the country."

"Renowned economist Dr. Singh's lasting contributions to Bharat will always be remembered and cherished. We pray that the almighty grants 'sadgati' to his departed soul," the RSS leaders concluded.

(PTI)

Manmohan Singh death news: David Cameron recalls Manmohan Singh's warning of military action after 2011 Mumbai bombings

Former British Prime Minister David Cameron revealed in his memoir that during a conversation following the July 2011 Mumbai bombings, former Indian Prime Minister Manmohan Singh warned that India would have to take military action against Pakistan if another such attack occurred.

The 2011 Mumbai bombings, also known as 13/7, were a series of coordinated explosions at multiple locations in Mumbai, including Opera House, Zaveri Bazaar, and Dadar West, on July 13. The attacks left 26 people dead and 130 injured.

In his 2019 memoir For the Record, Cameron reflected on his relationship with Singh, describing him as a "saintly man" but one who was resolute in the face of threats to India. Cameron wrote, “I got on well with Prime Minister Manmohan Singh. He was a saintly man, but he was robust on the threats India faced. On a later visit, he told me that another terrorist attack like that in Mumbai in July 2011, and India would have to take military action against Pakistan.”

Manmohan Singh death news: Kaushik Basu hails Dr. Singh as one of the world’s greatest political leaders

Former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh, known for his sharp intellect, humility, and personal integrity—qualities seldom seen in politics—will be remembered as one of the greatest political leaders, not just in India, but globally, said former World Bank chief economist Kaushik Basu on Friday.

Basu, who served as Chief Economic Adviser (CEA) to the Indian government from 2009 to 2012, emphasized that Singh’s modesty stemmed from his profound courage and self-confidence.

“I have no doubt that he will be remembered as one of the great political leaders, not just of India, but of the world,” Basu remarked.

He added that Singh’s economic reforms in the early 1990s transformed India from a struggling developing nation to one of the world’s fastest-growing economies.

Manmohan Singh death news: PM Narendra Modi and Amit Shah pay tribute to late former PM

PM Narendra Modi and Amit Shah pay tribute to late former PM Dr. Manmohan Singh, offering condolences to his family at his residence.

Manmohan Singh death news: US Secretary of State offers condolences on passing of the former PM, hails his role in strengthening US-India ties

The United States has expressed its condolences following the death of former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh, with Secretary of State Antony Blinken praising Singh as “one of the greatest champions of the U.S.-India strategic partnership.”

In a statement, Blinken highlighted Singh’s pivotal role in strengthening the U.S.-India relationship, noting that his efforts laid the foundation for the accomplishments the two countries have achieved together over the past two decades. "Dr. Singh was one of the greatest champions of the U.S.-India strategic partnership, and his work laid the foundation for much of what our countries have accomplished together in the past two decades," Blinken said.

Offering condolences to the people of India, Blinken emphasized Singh’s leadership in advancing the U.S.-India Civil Nuclear Cooperation Agreement, which marked a significant investment in the bilateral relationship.

Indian American Congressman Ro Khanna also shared his tribute, recalling his work with the Bush administration on the U.S.-India Nuclear Deal. "I was proud to work with the Bush administration on securing the U.S.-India Nuclear Deal and have a letter thanking me for my work on that from Prime Minister Singh in my office. He will always have my respect and admiration," Khanna said.

Manmohan Singh death news: "A change leader" - Binoy Job, former PMO Director, pays tribute to Manmohan Singh

Binoy Job, former Director in the Prime Minister's Office (PMO) and spokesperson for Dr. Manmohan Singh, expressed his heartfelt condolences on the passing of the former Prime Minister.

Job hailed Dr. Singh as "one of the greatest leaders" and commended his transformative contributions to both India and the world.

Manmohan Singh death news: Harsh Goenka pays tribute to former PM Manmohan Singh

RPG Group Chairman Harsh Goenka expressed his condolences on the passing of former Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh, describing him as "a true statesman whose quiet demeanor belied his transformative impact."

Goenka praised Dr. Singh as the architect of India's economic reforms, noting that he shaped modern India with "intellect, grace, and integrity." He further highlighted that Singh was a leader who "let actions speak louder than words."

Manmohan Singh Passes Away News Live: Sikkim CM Prem Singh Tamang pays tribute to Dr. Singh

Sikkim Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang expressed his condolences on the passing of former Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh, calling him a "visionary leader" whose pivotal role in economic reforms and public service left a lasting impact on the nation.

In a heartfelt social media post, CM Tamang conveyed his sympathy to Singh's family and loved ones, highlighting the former prime minister's enduring legacy. "His contributions to India's progress will continue to inspire future generations," Tamang wrote.

Manmohan Singh Passes Away News Live: Kumar Mangalam Birla pays tribute to Dr. Manmohan Singh

"India has lost one of its most distinguished leaders and finest economists. Dr. Manmohan Singh’s monumental contribution — the transformative 1991 economic reforms — sparked a multi-decadal economic boom and, more importantly, reshaped India’s future. His intellect, wisdom, and humility were a beacon throughout his decades in public service, leaving an indelible imprint on the nation’s conscience. His extraordinary journey from humble beginnings to the office of Prime Minister embodies the limitless potential of India and serves as an enduring inspiration to generations of Indians."

— Mr. Kumar Mangalam Birla, Chairman, Aditya Birla Group

Manmohan Singh Passes Away News Live: Pankaj Saran Reflects on Manmohan Singh’s legacy and his efforts for peace with Pakistan

Former Deputy National Security Advisor Pankaj Saran, who served closely with former Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh, expressed his deep sorrow over Singh's passing, describing it as "very unfortunate." Singh, who passed away late Thursday at the age of 92, was remembered not only as an intellectual and world-renowned economist but also as a man of humility and simplicity.

Saran, who had held various key positions in India and abroad, including serving as India's envoy to Russia and High Commissioner to Bangladesh, recalled Singh’s efforts to establish peace with Pakistan during his tenure. He noted that Singh “tried very hard” to foster peace, though his efforts did not ultimately succeed.

Reflecting on Singh's leadership style, Saran described him as a “consensus builder” who was never destined for the role of prime minister but served with dedication for a decade. “He was a very simple man, and though he never expected to become prime minister, he served for 10 years,” Saran recalled.

Singh's global influence was also highlighted by Saran, who praised Singh’s ability to connect with world leaders. He was the first Indian prime minister to attend the G20 Summit in 2008, earning widespread respect for his economic insights. “He was widely respected among global leaders for his understanding of economics,” Saran said. “He was a great listener, an intellectual, and a fine person both in his personal life and official duties.”

(PTI)

Manmohan Singh Passes Away News Live: Former Maldivian President Abdulla Shahid mourns the passing of Dr. Manmohan Singh

Former Maldivian President Abdulla Shahid expressed his heartfelt condolences on the demise of former Indian Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh, who passed away on Thursday.

Reflecting on his interactions with Dr. Singh, Shahid shared how the former Indian leader’s wisdom and insights profoundly influenced him.

In a message posted on X, Shahid wrote:

“Deeply saddened to hear of the demise of former Prime Minister of India Dr. Manmohan Singh. I fondly recall his visit to the Maldives in 2011, where I, as then Speaker of Parliament, invited him to address a sitting of the Majlis — the first Head of State/Government to do so. I also recall our interactions during my first tenure as Foreign Minister in 2007. I greatly benefited from his wisdom and knowledge. He was always a friend of the Maldives.

May he rest in peace, and may his family and loved ones be comforted by the lasting legacy he leaves. My deepest condolences to the people and Government of India on this loss.”

Manmohan Singh Passes Away News Live: Focus on rural India

Merkel noted that Singh’s primary aim was to uplift the living standards of India’s rural population, which constituted two-thirds of the nation’s 1.2 billion people—about 800 million individuals, ten times Germany’s population.

“This amounted to 800 million people, ten times Germany’s entire population,” she wrote, emphasizing the sheer scale of the challenges Singh sought to address.

Manmohan Singh Passes Away News Live: Merkel’s admiration for Singh’s perspective

Former German Chancellor Angela Merkel also praised Singh in her writings, highlighting his ability to present the perspectives of developing economies during their interactions. She credited him for helping her better understand the challenges and aspirations of nations like India.

Manmohan Singh Passes Away News Live: A warm and productive relationship

Obama also reflected on his personal relationship with Singh, calling him a man of “uncommon wisdom and decency.” While Singh was cautious in foreign policy, Obama noted that their collaborations led to strengthened U.S.-India cooperation on counterterrorism, global health, nuclear security, and trade.

“Singh and I had developed a warm and productive relationship,” Obama wrote. “Our time together confirmed my initial impression of him as a man of uncommon wisdom and decency.”

Manmohan Singh Passes Away News Live: An emblem of progress

As one of the chief architects of India’s economic transformation, Singh, according to Obama, embodied the nation’s progress. “He seemed like a fitting emblem of this progress: a member of the tiny, often persecuted Sikh religious minority who’d risen to the highest office in the land, and a self-effacing technocrat who’d won people’s trust not by appealing to their passions but by bringing about higher living standards and maintaining a well-earned reputation for not being corrupt,” Obama wrote.

Manmohan Singh Passes Away News Live: Revisiting Obama’s memoir where he praises Dr. Singh’s economic vision

In his memoir, A Promised Land, Barack Obama credited Dr. Singh with the "modernisation of his nation’s economy" and hailed him as a “gentle, soft-spoken economist” who played a pivotal role in transitioning India to a market-based economy during the 1991 liberalisation era.

Obama described Singh as “a gentle, soft-spoken economist” whose white beard and turban, symbols of his Sikh faith, lent him “the air of a holy man.” Reflecting on Singh’s tenure as Finance Minister in the 1990s, Obama wrote that his policies lifted millions out of poverty and unleashed India’s entrepreneurial talents, leading to “soaring growth rates, a thriving high-tech sector, and a steadily expanding middle class.”

Manmohan Singh Passes Away News Live: India declares seven-day state mourning  

The Union Home Ministry has announced a seven-day state mourning across the country to honor former Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh, who passed away on Thursday. During this period, from December 26, 2024, to January 1, 2025, the national flag will be flown at half-mast at all locations where it is regularly displayed.

In a communication to the chief secretaries of all states and union territories, the ministry confirmed that a state funeral will be accorded to Dr. Singh, and no official entertainment will take place during the mourning period.

The directive also extends to Indian missions and high commissions abroad, where the national flag will be flown at half-mast on the day of the funeral as a mark of respect to the late leader.

Manmohan Singh Passes Away News Live: Indian Cricket Team wears black armbands to honor Dr. Singh

The Indian cricket team began the second day of the fourth Test against Australia at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) wearing black armbands to pay tribute to former Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh, who passed away in Delhi on Thursday.

"The Indian Cricket Team is wearing black armbands as a mark of respect to former Prime Minister of India Dr. Manmohan Singh, who passed away on Thursday," the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) announced in a post on X.

Manmohan Singh Passes Away News Live: Last rites of Dr Singh to be held on Saturday

The last rites of former Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh will take place on Saturday, Congress General Secretary KC Venugopal informed late Thursday night while speaking to ANI. An official announcement regarding the arrangements is still awaited.

“The last rites of former PM Dr. Manmohan Singh will be held the day after tomorrow. We will announce the details officially soon,” Venugopal said in Delhi.

Paying tribute to the late leader, Venugopal described Dr. Singh as a "real icon" of both the Congress Party and the nation.

Manmohan Singh Passes Away News Live: Tributes pour in for a statesman of integrity

Condolences and heartfelt tributes flooded in from political leaders and public figures, highlighting Dr. Singh’s contributions to India’s progress.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi called Singh "one of India’s most distinguished leaders," praising his intellect, humility, and lasting impact on economic policies. “As Prime Minister, he made extensive efforts to improve people’s lives,” Modi stated.

Vice-President Jagdeep Dhankhar recalled his interactions with Singh, emphasizing his "profound understanding of the economy and unwavering commitment to India’s progress."

Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge lauded Singh’s integrity and the transformative impact of his policies, crediting him with creating India’s middle class and lifting millions out of poverty.

Manmohan Singh Passes Away News Live: Tenure as Prime Minister - A focus on social welfare

Dr. Singh's decade-long tenure as Prime Minister witnessed significant strides in governance and social welfare. His government launched landmark initiatives such as the National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (NREGA) and the Right to Information Act, aimed at empowering the rural poor and fostering transparency.

Under his leadership, India also navigated the global financial crisis of 2008 with relative resilience, solidifying its position as a robust economy on the global stage.

Manmohan Singh Passes Away News Live: A visionary leader and architect of economic liberalisation

Born on September 26, 1932, in Punjab, Manmohan Singh's life epitomized dedication to the nation. After completing his education at Panjab University, Cambridge University, and Oxford University, where he earned a D.Phil in Economics, Singh embarked on a distinguished career.

Beginning as a professor at Punjab University and Delhi School of Economics, he transitioned to government service in 1971 as Economic Advisor in the Commerce Ministry. Over the years, he held key roles, including Chief Economic Advisor, Deputy Chairman of the Planning Commission, Governor of the Reserve Bank of India, and Finance Minister.

As Finance Minister during India’s 1991 economic crisis, Singh spearheaded the country’s economic liberalization. Amid depleting foreign reserves and an impending sovereign default, he introduced sweeping reforms, privatizing state-owned enterprises and opening the economy. His iconic words, "No power on earth can stop an idea whose time has come," marked the beginning of a transformative era.

Manmohan Singh Passes Away News Live: Manmohan Singh Passes Away in Delhi

Former Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh, aged 92, passed away on Thursday at AIIMS Delhi, where he had been admitted to the emergency department. While the cause of his hospitalization remains undisclosed, senior Congress leader Sonia Gandhi was present at the hospital.

Dr. Singh, revered as an economist, academician, and statesman, served as India’s 13th Prime Minister for two consecutive terms from 2004 to 2014.