Former PM Manmohan Singh Retires From Rajya Sabha
India’s former Prime Minister, Dr. Manmohan Singh retired from the Rajya Sabha on 3rd April 2024. He is 91 years old, out of which he’s been a member of the Rajya Sabha for 33 years.
On 3rd April 2024, India bid farewell to former Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh as he retired from the Rajya Sabha at the age of 91. Dr. Singh, who served as India's Prime Minister for two consecutive terms from 2004 to 2014, has left an indelible mark on the country's political and economic landscape.
Dr. Singh, a member of the Rajya Sabha throughout his political career, represented Assam for five terms before shifting to Rajasthan in 2019 until his retirement. His tenure in office saw significant economic reforms and social welfare initiatives, earning him both praise and criticism.
Born on 26th September 1932 in Punjab, Dr. Singh pursued a career in economics, academia, and bureaucracy before entering politics. He served as the Governor of the Reserve Bank of India from 1982 to 1985 and later as India's Finance Minister from 1991 to 1996.
Dr. Singh is credited with spearheading policies that opened up the Indian economy to global competition, a move that laid the foundation for India's economic liberalization. During his tenure as Prime Minister, he launched several social welfare initiatives, including the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee (MNREGA) scheme and the right to education for every child.
Contrary to popular belief, Dr. Singh's government also initiated key programs such as Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) and Aadhaar, the national identity number, which have since become integral to governance in India.
His retirement from the Rajya Sabha marks the end of an era, drawing emotional tributes from political leaders across the spectrum. Former Congress chief Sonia Gandhi will now represent Rajasthan in the Rajya Sabha, filling the seat left vacant by Dr. Singh.
Congress chief Mallikarjun Kharge penned a heartfelt letter to Dr. Singh, acknowledging his invaluable contribution to the nation. He hailed Dr. Singh as a leader, guide, and benefactor to the poor, middle class, and aspirational youth.
Chief Ministers Siddaramaiah of Karnataka and M. K. Stalin of Tamil Nadu also extended their gratitude and well wishes to Dr. Singh, recognizing his service to the country.
Even Prime Minister Narendra Modi acknowledged Dr. Singh's contribution, stating that his thoughts as a leader and as a member of the opposition have been of immense value. Dr. Singh's legacy as the architect of India's economic liberalization and champion of social welfare initiatives will continue to inspire generations to come.
ISH extends its heartfelt thanks to Dr. Manmohan Singh for his dedicated service to the nation.
