Dr. Manmohan Singh, India’s esteemed former Prime Minister and architect of India’s economic reforms, concluded his remarkable 33-year tenure in the Rajya Sabha on Wednesday. His departure signifies the end of an era, marked by astute leadership and significant contributions to the nation’s development.
At the age of 91, Manmohan Singh began his journey in the Upper House of Parliament in 1991 and went on to serve as the Finance Minister under Narasimha Rao followed by becoming the Prime Minister for two terms from 2004-2014. His time as India’s leader(2004-2014)was noted for its marked steps towards significant economic reforms including liberalization, privatization, and globalization among others that set the foundation for making India an economic superpower worldwide. All through his long innings in parliament though, Dr. Manmohan Singh remained an epitome of honesty, sagacity, and statemanship thereby attracting admiration from members of all political divides.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi, in a heartfelt farewell tribute to Dr. Manmohan Singh and other retiring Rajya Sabha MPs, applauded the former Prime Minister’s invaluable contribution to the Indian democracy. He acknowledged his role in shaping the nation’s destiny and recalled his unwavering commitment to parliamentary duties, citing his exemplary act of casting his vote in a wheelchair as a testament to his dedication.
PM Modi said, “I want to remember Dr. Manmohan Singh today, his contribution has been immense. For such a long time, the way he guided this House and the country, he will always be remembered for it.” He also hailed Dr. Manmohan Singh for coming to the Parliament in a wheelchair to cast his vote, saying that he set an example for other MPs to perform their duties. I remember in the other House, during the voting, it was known that the treasury bench would win but Dr. Manmohan Singh came in his wheelchair and cast his vote. This an example of a member being alert of his duties.”
Dr. Singh witnesses crucial legislative achievements. He spearheaded the National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (NREGA), the Right to Information Act (RTI), and the historic Indo-US civil nuclear deal, strengthening India’s democratic framework and global standing.
Dr. Manmohan Singh’s departure from the Upper House coincided with the entry of former Congress President Sonia Gandhi to the Rajya Sabha. Mrs. Gandi’s induction marks a generational shift in Indian politics, symbolizing the continuity of the Congress party’s legacy and its commitment to serving the nation’s interests.
While Dr. Manmohan Singh’s departure leaves a void in the parliamentary landscape, his legacy will continue to inspire future generations of leaders to uphold the principles of democracy, inclusivity, and progressive governance.
Additionally, along with Dr. Manmohan Singh, several other eminent personalities bid adieu to the Rajya Sabha, including Union Ministers Dharmendra Pradhan Mansukhs Mandviya, and Rajeev Chandrasekhar, among others.
The Indian public is preparing for the forthcoming Lok Sabha polls. The retirement of seasoned MPs underlines the necessity of fresh blood; these are the people who must now step into those shoes.
