"Manmohan is critical... Have you seen the news?" texted Swetha, my wife, aware of how much I admire and respect him. I was just settling back into bed for the day when I received her message. I rushed to watch the news, and by then, it was official: the sad demise of the gentleman.
Dr. Manmohan Singh was one of the few leaders in Indian politics with the vision and capability to lead the nation. His academic credentials need no introduction, and his integrity in nation-building is well-known. Coming from a humble background, he rose through the ranks—from Economic Advisor, to RBI Governor, to Planning Commission Vice Chairman, to Finance Minister, to Leader of the Opposition and eventually leading the country for a decade as Prime Minister. He set an example for all aspiring youths, demonstrating that education and hard work yield success. Notably, he was the first Prime Minister outside of the Nehru-Gandhi family to hold office for a decade.
LPG Reforms
Although he served in various capacities, his tenure as Finance Minister is particularly unforgettable. He steered the country out of bankruptcy and onto the path of modern economic growth. He is renowned for the LPG reforms—Liberalization, Privatization and Globalization—that opened up the Indian economy, unleashing its true potential.
If I have a professional career and my wife works in an MNC, it's largely because of this gentleman who steadfastly led the reforms, creating millions of opportunities for the youth of this nation. I'm forever indebted to him.
Foreign Policy
People often view him solely as an economic reformer, but his contributions extend beyond that. During his tenure as Prime Minister, he left a lasting impact on foreign policy. Notably, there were periods of relative peace along the India-Pakistan border during his leadership, a fact that often goes unacknowledged. He can be considered a successful PM in terms of border peace. He did not hesitate to take a tough stance when necessary. For instance, when two Italian marines accused of killing Indian fishermen were allowed to return to Italy and initially refused to return, Dr. Singh issued a stern warning in Parliament, leading to their eventual return to face trial. He also took a strong stand during the Devyani Khobragade incident with the U.S. government.
One more feather in his cap is the famous 123 Agreement, also known as the Indo-US Nuclear Deal. The conversation that took place the previous night, before signing the deal, exemplifies his impeccable integrity and 'nation-first' attitude.
Statesman
Former U.S. President Barack Obama once said, "When Dr. Manmohan Singh speaks, the world listens." This statement reflects the global respect and attention Dr. Singh commanded on international platforms.
For instance, during the 68th session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) in 2013, Dr. Singh delivered a powerful speech emphasizing India's commitment to global peace, economic development, and reforming international institutions to align with contemporary realities. His words resonated across nations solidifying his stature as a statesman with a vision for a better world.
To truly appreciate his global impact one must revisit his addresses at the UNGA, which serve as a testament to his intellect and leadership.
Inclusive Growth
He was also known for his commitment to social upliftment. The number of legislations passed during his tenure to ensure social inclusion and upliftment is significant. To name a few: the Right to Information Act (for transparency), the Right to Education Act (for social upliftment), the Forest Rights Act (for indigenous people's rights), MGNREGA (for social inclusion and upliftment), the National Food Security Act, and the Land Acquisition Act. A study estimated that during his tenure as PM, millions of people were lifted out of poverty.
Legislations like the SEZ Act, the SARFAESI Act, the Companies Act of 2013, and the implementation of the Competition Act exemplify his administrative ability to drive the country toward employment generation and a business-friendly environment.
Parliamentarian
As a member of Parliament, he was an outstanding parliamentarian, attending sessions diligently and addressing questions directly. He encouraged debates on various issues and faced tough questions and criticism head-on. He was elected to the Rajya Sabha from Assam and had previously contested the Lok Sabha elections unsuccessfully. There's a popular backstory that he lacked the funds to afford election expenses, and it's said that the late writer Khushwant Singh lent him the money to contest. At the age of 90, while being wheelchair-bound, he came to the house to vote against the Delhi Services Bill legislation, supporting Delhi CM Arvind Kejriwal, who had previously criticized him during his tenure as PM. This act of grace became his last public appearance.
Nation's Ingratitude
However, it's ironic that the very people—first and second-generation beneficiaries—who became economically affluent and settled abroad because of his reforms, vilified, trolled, and assassinated his character. He was humiliated and abused towards the end of his tenure as PM. The same media, with whom he interacted regularly and briefed during every foreign trip, conducted a trial against his ministry, tarnishing his image among the public. It's been more than a decade since he left office, and not a single charge against him has been proven.
The entire country needs to take a dip at Kumbh Mela to atone for the sin we committed by letting this man down.
Long- Lasting Impression
If you're working in IT industry/ MNC, dining at foreign chain restaurants like KFC/ Starbucks, wearing internationally branded clothing, using foreign-branded gadgets or relying on imported vehicles/ equipment, don't hesitate to thank this visionary leader. It is because of his reforms and efforts that all these became accessible to you.
His words about demonetization—"Organized loot and legalized plunder"—summarized the whole exercise. He once stated that people should look for alternate opportunities, as too many people depending on agriculture sector would make it unprofitable. He was criticized for saying this.
We were a country where poverty was glorified and being wealthy was often portrayed as a crime. Yet, he was right—agriculture remains largely unprofitable and is treated as a holy cow that cannot be touched. Dr. Singh was truly ahead of his time.
I always wanted to meet this gentleman and have a picture with him to cherish for a lifetime, but that is no longer possible. He is more deserving of the 'Bharat Ratna' honor, which I respectfully request the government to confer upon him.
During his last press conference, I clearly remember the date—January 3, 2014—when he said, "History will be kinder to me than the contemporary media and for that matter, the opposition parties in Parliament".
He was correct; history will be kinder to him than he anticipated. You will be remembered forever, Dr. Singh.
Dinesh
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