In a video statement, Modi said Dr Singh’s life teaches future generations to rise above adversity and achieve great heights.
Remembering the adversities Singh suffered due to the tragedy of Partition and his resilience in the face of odds, Modi said Singh would
“Dr Singh’s demise is a significant loss for the nation. Achieving success in every field of life is not an ordinary feat and Dr Singh was an achiever despite having lost much after he came to India during Partition. Dr Singh’s life teaches future generations how to rise above adversity and achieve great heights,” the prime minister said.
He highlighted Dr Singh’s numerous contributions to the Indian government at various levels as an economist and lauded Dr Singh’s role as the Governor of the Reserve Bank of India during challenging times.
“As Finance Minister in the government of former PV Narasimha Rao, Manmohan Singh guided the country out of a financial crisis and onto a new economic path. His contributions to the nation’s development and progress as prime minister will always be remembered. Dr Singh’s commitment to the people and the country’s development was always held in high regard,” the PM remarked.
Modi underscored that Dr Singh’s life was a reflection of his honesty and simplicity. He said Dr Singh’s distinguished parliamentary career was marked by his humility, gentleness and intellect.
The Prime Minister recalled that even at the end of Dr Singh’s tenure in Rajya Sabha earlier this year, he had praised Dr Singh’s dedication as an inspiration to all. Despite his physical challenges, Dr Singh attended important sessions in a wheelchair, fulfilling his parliamentary duties.
The Prime Minister said that despite receiving education from prestigious global institutions and holding top government positions, Dr Singh never forgot the values of his humble background.
He said Dr Singh always rose above party politics, maintaining contact with individuals from all parties and being easily accessible to everyone.
The Prime Minister fondly remembered his open discussions with Dr Singh on national and international issues during his tenure as chief minister and later in Delhi.
He expressed his condolences to Dr Singh’s family and paid tributes to him on behalf of all citizens.
PM Modi also visited the Motilal Nehru Marg residence of Dr Singh and paid him his respects.
Union Home Minister Amit Shah and BJP president JP Nadda also paid last respects to Singh.
Earlier today, Vice-President Jagdeep Dhankhar laid a wreath at the body of Singh.
Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge, Sonia Gandhi, Rahul Gandhi and Priyanka Vadra also paid their last respects.
The cremation is likely to be held on Saturday.
