India announces seven-day mourning for former PM

The Indian government has declared a seven-day national mourning period following the passing of former PM Manmohan Singh, a distinguished statesman and economist who served as prime minister from 2004 to 2014. Dr. Singh passed away in Delhi on Thursday at the age of 92.

During the mourning period, the Indian flag will be flown at half-mast across the country, while all government programs scheduled for this period are canceled. Singh’s last rites will be held with full state honors, New Delhi said on Friday.

The Indian National Congress Party, to which Singh belonged, has also suspended its official programs, including Foundation Day celebrations, for the next seven days. “The party flag will be flown at half-mast, and programs will resume on January 3, 2025,” the party’s general secretary, K.C. Venugopal, said. 

Tributes have poured in from around the globe for the two-time prime minister and visionary architect of India’s economic reforms. “India mourns the loss of one of its most distinguished leaders. As our Prime Minister, he made extensive efforts to improve people’s lives,” current PM Narendra Modi said. 

President Droupadi Murmu highlighted Dr. Singh’s role in transforming India’s economy: “He will always be remembered for his service to the nation, his unblemished political life, and his utmost humility.” 

Singh is widely recognized as the architect of India’s economic liberalization initiated in 1991, marking a shift from a heavily regulated and protectionist economy. The 1991 Indian economic crisis, which stemmed from a balance of payments deficit caused by excessive reliance on imports and other external factors, ultimately prompted the systematic opening of the economy to foreign investment.

During Singh’s tenure, he implemented transformative policies that significantly reshaped India’s economic landscape. External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar highlighted his impact on both domestic and foreign affairs, stating: “While regarded as the architect of Indian economic reforms, he was equally responsible for the strategic corrections to our foreign policy.” 

World leaders have praised the lasting relations he cultivated with their nations.

Russia’s ambassador to India, Denis Alipov, said Singh’s contribution to bilateral ties between Moscow and New Delhi was “immeasurable.” “His suave demeanor was always endearing as unquestionable was his expertise as an economist and his commitment to the progress of India,” Alipov stated on X.

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken conveyed his condolences, calling Singh as one of the “greatest champions” of the US-India strategic partnership, adding that “his work laid the foundation for much of what our countries have accomplished together in the past two decades.” 

Former Afghan President Hamid Karzai hailed Singh as a “steadfast ally and true friend to the people of Afghanistan.” “India has lost one of its most illustrious sons,” he said on X. Former Maldivian President Mohamed Nasheed called Singh “a good friend of the Maldives,” adding: “I always found him a delight to work with, and like a benevolent father figure.”

Indian billionaire Gautam Adani said, “A rare leader who spoke softly but achieved monumental strides through his actions, Dr Singh’s life remains a masterclass in leadership, humility and service to the nation and will inspire generations to come.”  Industrialist and founder of RPG Enterprises Harsh Goenka praised Singh as an architect of economic reforms who “shaped modern India with intellect, grace, and integrity,” adding: “A leader who lets actions speak louder than words. RIP.”