Former Indian Prime Minister Manmohan Singh Passes Away at 92

Manmohan Singh, India's first Sikh prime minister and a key figure in the country’s economic transformation, has died at the age of 92. His passing was announced following his admission to the hospital due to age-related health issues.

Singh served as prime minister from 2004 to 2014, leading the nation through significant economic reforms that shifted India towards a global economic powerhouse. The government has declared seven days of mourning and will hold a state funeral in his honor.

Known for his humility and reluctance to seek the spotlight, Singh was appointed to lead the country by Congress leader Sonia Gandhi after a surprising electoral victory. He was notable for being the first non-Hindu to hold the office, serving an impressive two terms amidst India's often turbulent political landscape.

Born in 1932 in what is now Pakistan, Singh faced numerous challenges in his early life, including the trauma of the partition of India in 1947. He worked diligently to pursue his education, eventually earning degrees from prestigious institutions including Cambridge and Oxford.

Singh’s political career began in 1991 when he became finance minister during a critical economic crisis. His reforms deregulated the economy, allowing for private and foreign investment, and dismantling outdated economic controls, earning him recognition as India’s economic “liberator.” While his first term as prime minister was marked by significant growth and social initiatives, his second term faced criticism due to corruption scandals that damaged public trust.

Despite controversies, Singh is remembered for his intellectual leadership and dedication to improving the lives of millions of Indians. He is survived by his wife, Gursharan Kaur, and three daughters.