Manmohan Singh’s death: ‘Mild-mannered’, ‘reluctant’ – How global media covered former prime minister’s death – India News

Former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh, a distinguished economist and architect of India’s economic reforms, died on Thursday at the age of 92 of age-related ailments. The government has declared seven days of mourning, along with a state funeral, to honor the Congress leader. Prime Minister Narendra Modi offered his condolences, saying, “India mourns the loss of one of its most distinguished leaders.”

Tributes are pouring in from around the globe

Tributes to Singh’s legacy came from world leaders, diplomats and prominent figures. US Secretary of State Antony Blinken emphasized Singh’s pivotal role in the consolidation India-Relations with the US, including the landmark Civil Nuclear Cooperation Agreement, which significantly boosted US-India relations. He called him “one of the greatest champions of the US-India strategic partnership”.

Ambassadors from China, Israel, Russia and the US reflected on his contributions to bilateral and global relations.

China, Israel, Russia and the US have expressed their sorrow and remembered Singh’s efforts to a elevate India’s global position. China’s ambassador to India, Xu Feihong, expressed his sadness, calling Singh an “outstanding leader” revered by the Indian people. Israeli Ambassador Reuven Azar remembered Singh fondly for his leadership, which took India-Israel relations to new heights.

Global Media reflects on Singh’s legacy

International media outlets have recognized Singh’s achievements, controversies and the indelible mark he left on Indian politics.

The New York Times described Singh as a “soft-spoken” and “cerebral” leader responsible for the reforms that have propelled India as an economic powerhouse. He also acknowledged the controversies surrounding his second term, particularly over his handling of terrorism and corruption. The publication also highlighted the challenges facing Singh’s administration, particularly in dealing with domestic terrorism, the 2008 Mumbai terror attacks being a notable example, as well as controversies surrounding corruption scandals during his second term from 2009 to 2014.

Britain’s BBC referred to the former prime minister as “the architect of key liberalizing economic reforms”. The broadcaster pointed out that Singh’s appointment as Prime Minister marked the beginning of an agenda of ambitious and innovative economic reforms. His policies include fee cuts, devaluation of the rupee, privatization of state-owned enterprises and promotion of foreign investment.

The US-based Associated Press credited Singh with navigating India through a potential economic crisis through his reforms in 1991. The Washington Post highlighted his contributions to strengthening India-US relations, particularly the Civil Nuclear Agreement Indo-American.

The Washington Post described him as “the soft-spoken, Oxford-educated economist whose financial reforms helped transform his struggling, impoverished nation into a rising power.” It highlighted his rise from a technocrat to a leader who strengthened US-India ties, including the 2005 Civilian Nuclear Deal.

Reuters described Singh as a “reluctant prime minister” who eventually became one of India’s most accomplished prime ministers. The agency credited Singh with lifting millions out of poverty through economic reforms while navigating the complexities of coalition politics.

Al Jazeera described him as a “mild-mannered technocrat”, praising his integrity and highlighting the transformative economic reforms of 1991. It also recalled his 2014 statement: “I firmly believe that history will judge me more favorably than the media contemporary or the opposition parties in Parliament”.

Singh’s tenure as the 13th Prime Minister of India was marked by significant milestones:

Economic growth: As the architect of the 1991 reforms, Singh led India economy towards liberalization, opening the way for growth and development.

Strengthening global links: Singh deepened India’s relations with global powers, notably through the Indo-US Civilian Nuclear Agreement.

Challenges and criticisms: His leadership has struggled to control domestic terrorism, including the 2008 Mumbai attacks and corruption scandals during his second term.

Singh’s soft-spoken demeanor and technocratic expertise defined his leadership. His tenure as Prime Minister saw India’s emergence on the global stage and its recognition as a rising economic force.

Born in Punjab in 1932, Singh’s illustrious career spanned decades from his pivotal role in academia and the Reserves. Bank of India to his tenure as finance minister and prime minister. Retired from the Rajya Sabha earlier this year, he ended a 33-year legacy in the upper house of India’s Parliament.

Manmohan Singh’s passing marks the end of an era. His contributions to India’s economic policies and international diplomacy continue to shape the nation’s trajectory. Tributes across the globe underscore his influence, with leaders highlighting his vision, humility and dedication to India’s growth and prosperity.

Singh’s legacy as an economist, reformer and statesman will remain an enduring source of inspiration for generations to come.