Architect of economic reforms, icon of humble leadership

By Vikas Meshram*
The sad demise of Dr. Manmohan Singh marks the end of a rare political leadership. His exceptional intellectual capability, integrity, transparency, and unparalleled humility were his defining leadership qualities. A man of few words, he was always willing to listen to everyone, regardless of their stature. With his intellect, he resolved highly complex issues, making decisions that were in the best interest of the nation.
The rapid growth of India's economy today is rooted in the economic liberalization policies introduced by Dr. Manmohan Singh. These policies opened the doors for foreign investments in the Indian market, ended the license raj, and paved the way for an era of economic reforms. His visionary thinking also led to the launch of the National Rural Employment Guarantee Scheme, now known as MGNREGA, which served as a lifeline for the poor, villagers, and laborers during the COVID-19 pandemic.
As Prime Minister, despite strong opposition from both the right and left wings, he steadfastly pursued the Indo-US Nuclear Deal. Even though his UPA government faced a no-confidence motion in Parliament, his firm stance ensured India's emergence as a nuclear power. Under the agreement, India gained exemptions from the Nuclear Suppliers Group, allowing it to separate its civilian and military nuclear programs and import uranium from countries possessing nuclear technology.
During his tenure from 2004 to 2014, significant strides were made, including the implementation of the Right to Education Act for children aged 6 to 14, stricter laws to curb violence against women, and the enactment of the Lokpal Act to combat corruption. Although the Supreme Court struck down the judicial appointment law, Dr. Singh's government approved the Right to Information Act, empowering citizens to seek information from public authorities and enhancing transparency and accountability in governance. Initiatives like Bharat Nirman, the Jawaharlal Nehru Urban Renewal Mission, the National Rural Health Mission, mandatory marriage registration, gender budgeting, Aadhaar, and Direct Benefit Transfer brought transformative changes to society and paved the way for national progress.
During an agrarian crisis, his government waived ₹60,000 crore in farmer loans, providing much-needed relief. Born in 1932 in a modest family in undivided India, now Pakistan, Dr. Singh pursued economics and served in key positions such as Finance Secretary, Governor of the Reserve Bank of India, and Chief Economic Advisor. He became a Rajya Sabha member in 1991 and served as Finance Minister, later representing Assam in Parliament five times and Rajasthan once.
Under his leadership, India strengthened diplomatic ties with the United States, Japan, and the European Union. As Finance Minister during a critical economic crisis, India was compelled to mortgage its gold reserves due to adverse circumstances. Beyond his economic expertise, Dr. Singh will always be remembered for his deep commitment to national interests. During the early 1990s, under Prime Minister P.V. Narasimha Rao, he spearheaded India's economic reforms and later, as Prime Minister, underscored India's entrepreneurial spirit.
During the 2008 global financial crisis, his decisive actions shielded India from severe repercussions. Despite opposition within his party, he negotiated the Civil Nuclear Agreement with the United States, establishing India as a responsible global power. His dedication to improving relations with neighboring countries was extraordinary, fostering stronger people-to-people connections between India and Pakistan even after the 2008 Mumbai attacks, while holding Pakistani military establishments accountable for the attacks.
Dr. Singh's career, whether as an administrator, central minister, or Prime Minister, exemplified adherence to moral principles without seeking publicity. Even when facing challenges within his political party, he remained steadfast in his commitment to ethical governance. For decades to come, he will be remembered with reverence. His demise is a profound loss for India and the world. Leaders like him, with sharp intellect and simplicity, are rare.
Even in adversity, Dr. Singh maintained his humility and composure. In his farewell address as Prime Minister on May 17, 2014, following the Congress-led UPA's defeat in the Lok Sabha elections, he reiterated his characteristic modesty, emphasizing that his life was an open book despite the immense responsibilities he bore. As Finance Minister and Prime Minister, he consistently strived to give his best for the nation. He often remarked, "Hard work is my tool, and truth is my guiding light."
The enactment of the Right to Information Act in 2005 was a landmark achievement of his government, empowering citizens and ensuring accountability in governance. This act removed the veil of secrecy surrounding administrative processes, making people realize that democracy granted them rights beyond voting. Another significant reform during his tenure was the implementation of the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act in 2005, a milestone in rural development that continues to transform the lives of rural families by ensuring livelihood security.
Despite the positive response received in subsequent general elections, Dr. Singh refrained from boasting about his government's initiatives. His priority was always to serve the nation before himself. However, the UPA government ultimately fell due to its failure to counter allegations of corruption, which the BJP capitalized on to wrest power from Congress.
Under his visionary leadership, the implementation of the Indo-US Civil Nuclear Agreement acted as a game-changer, taking bilateral relations to new heights. Despite the devastating 2008 terror attacks, he prudently avoided retaliatory action against Pakistan, preventing both nations from being drawn into another war. While generally soft-spoken, he never hesitated to speak his mind when faced with unacceptable circumstances.
In a letter released before the final phase of voting in the 2024 Lok Sabha elections, he strongly criticized divisive rhetoric for electoral gains, calling it unfortunate, and urged NDA leaders to uphold the dignity of public discourse. Prime Minister Narendra Modi also paid tribute to him, acknowledging his commitment to India's development.
Dr. Manmohan Singh's legacy offers valuable lessons for future leaders of the nation. There is no doubt that he will be remembered as an extraordinary leader whose life and work will continue to inspire generations.
---
*Journalist

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