India’s former Prime Minister, Manmohan Singh, who played a pivotal role in driving the country’s economic transformation and establishing its position as a global economic leader, has passed away at the age of 92.
Singh was admitted to the All India Institute of Medical Sciences in New Delhi on Thursday after experiencing a sudden loss of consciousness at home. Despite the hospital’s emergency efforts, he was declared dead that evening. The hospital noted that he had been receiving treatment for age-related health issues.
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Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed condolences, describing Singh as one of India’s most esteemed leaders. “As Prime Minister, he worked tirelessly to enhance the lives of our people,” Modi wrote on X.
Recognized for his signature blue turban, Singh was India’s first Sikh prime minister, serving from 2004 to 2014. During his tenure, he achieved the rare milestone of completing two full terms in office. As an Oxford-educated economist, he was credited with implementing groundbreaking reforms that liberalized India’s economy, ushering in unprecedented growth and lifting millions out of poverty.
Singh also strengthened India’s ties with the United States, most notably through the landmark nuclear energy agreement signed in 2008.
The United States joined in mourning his death, with Secretary of State Antony Blinken describing Singh as a champion of the US-India partnership. “We honor Dr. Singh’s commitment to bringing the United States and India closer together and deeply mourn his loss,” Blinken said in a statement.
