MANMOHAN SINGH, WHO PUT INDIA ON FAST TRACK

Demise of Dr. Manmohan Singh late at night at ripe age of 92 years on 26th December is an irreparable loss to all Indians. A simple & noble soul, father of liberalisation, an economist & reformer par excellence, he was receiving treatment at AIIMS for age related complications subsequent to unconsciousness at home. He is survived by his wife and three daughters – Upinder, Daman and Amrit. Incidentally, he was born also on 26th day of month..

A photo of Manmohan Singh (MMS) began being flashed on T.V. and Social media from late night onwards. But it was a black and white photo of a beaming MMS taken in his erstwhile North Block chamber, which stole the show. It reminded the countrymen of the selfless service rendered by this frail looking but mentally sharp and intelligent bureaucrat turned Parliamentarian of 33 years standing.

Humble Beginnings

Rising from humble village level origins, he had his Graduation from Punjab University, followed by a degree in Economics from Cambridge University. He also secured a D.Phil. degree from Oxford University. One of his early achievements was to teach at Delhi School of Economics. By his avid and diligent performance, he was able to get the country rid of years of tepid growth and substantial deficit. Thus India could open up to the world, at last. The dreaded and mischievous Inspector Raj went away for ever.

A Reluctant Politician

Although he was honourably invited by P.V. Narasimha Rao to be the Finance Minister in 1991 and ‘pushed’ into the coveted chair of Prime Minister in 2004 by Sonia Gandhi, the Prima Donna of Congress party, yet he could survive and thrive despite not getting involved into the nuances of politics. Known for his humility, he wore many hats during his long and distinguished career.

Many Roles

He had the capability to withstand the currents of turbulent waters of Indian politics despite his simplicity, sincerity and high integrity on the one hand and his vast administrative experiences as a senior officer with UNCTAD, Chief Economic Advisor, Finance Secretary , Advisor to P.M.and Deputy Chairman, Planning Commission, on the other. He also served as Secretary General of the prestigious South Commission.

Background of Pakistan Village, Gah Begal

A noble soul, an extraordinary economist, and a reformer, he would inspire many Indians, especially from vulnerable sections who possessed requisite education but owing to lack of resources and guidance, did not have the means and access to the positions they desired.

Son of Gurmukh Singh Kohli, a private Clerk, he was born in Gah Begal, a backward village of Chakwal District of Punjab province of Pakistan, which neither had drinking water & electricity nor any health centre. His mother died when he was barely five months old. His grandmother looked after him, thereafter. He had to walk a long distance to school. At night, he had to study under the dim light of a Kerosene oil lamp. As a sign of gratitude, MMS got the village school renovated, built a hospital and played a role in bringing solar light to the village.

Commanded Respect

Though he was not a publicist, he was respected even by his opponents and leaders all over the world for his knowledge, virtues and knack NOT to get involved into games of connivance and controversies. Wherever he was, his name and fame carried him forward. In bi-lateral meetings and international conferences, delegates looked forward to listen to him.

Initiatives In Citizen’s Interest

Life of Indians has become rather easy and uncomplicated owing to the liberalisation drive he fathered in 1991 but these were also supported point blank by his shrewd leader. So part credit should go to the latter. No reform can be undertaken unless there is a strong and sustained political will.

He was also responsible for National Rural Health Scheme, enactment of Right to Information, Right to food to citizens, Right to Education Acts and for launch of long lasting MNREGA, which boosted rural wages.The ambitious AADHAR scheme was also launched in September, 2010. However, it is having some demerits relating to identification of beneficiaries.

Dr.Singh also received global praise for his competent handling of 2008 global financial crisis.

Tributes Paid

In the corridors of power, qualities of MMS were talked about and T.V., Social Media and newspapers were flooded with news and images of MMS. President Draupadi Murmu has said that Dr. Manmohan Singh will always be remembered for his service to the nation. His passing is a great loss to all of us.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi who learnt as also was critical of policies of Dr.Singh at one time, paid rich tribute to the departed soul. He said “As Prime Minister, Dr.Singh left a strong imprint on economic policy. Rising from humble origins, he made extensive efforts to improve people’s lives”.

Sonia Gandhi has called MMS a friend, philosopher and guide. His compassion and vision empowered the lives of millions of Indians.

Mallikarjun Kharge, President of Congress Party remembered him as a visionary statesman and a leader of unimpeachable integrity.

According to a former Chief Economic Advisor to Government of India, he was a combination of sharp intellect, innate modesty and personal integrity.

One of the best tributes, however, was paid by the former U.S.President Barack Obama. According to him, “Singh was a man of uncommon decency and wisdom who was a fitting emblem of the progress made by India”.

Summing Up

In retrospect, MMS through his academic acumen, thoughts and actions has left a strong imprint on India’s economic policy and liberalisation process.His service to the nation will long be remembered. He was a man of few words but was always driven by action. He lived his life full of dignity and self respect.A rare specie in public life, he was a silent doer apart from being an exceptional leader. As he was a remarkable human being, he was in a position to break the shackles of Licence Raj.

MAY HIS KIND SOUL REST IN PEACE.

(The author is former Chief Secretary of Sikkim)