The passing of Dr. Manmohan Singh on December 26, 2024, at the age of 92, has prompted a wave of reflection on his significant contributions to India's economic and strategic landscape. Singh, who served as Prime Minister from 2004 to 2014, was the architect of India's economic liberalization during his tenure as Finance Minister from 1991 to 1996, which transitioned the economy from a stagnant 'Hindu growth rate' to an impressive growth rate of over 7 percent annually [09ab6cfa]. His leadership was marked by the championing of the India-US civil nuclear deal in 2008, a pivotal moment that transformed India's global nuclear status and strengthened its international relations [09ab6cfa].
In the wake of Singh's death, political tensions have escalated in India. The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has accused Congress leader Rahul Gandhi of exploiting Singh's death for political gain, claiming that his remarks during this sensitive time reflect 'expedient politics' [5b1aa037]. Gandhi has been vocal about Singh's contributions, emphasizing the need for unity and integrity in leadership.
The Telangana Assembly has unanimously passed a resolution requesting the Indian government to confer the Bharat Ratna, India's highest civilian award, posthumously on Singh, reflecting the widespread respect he garnered across political lines [5b1aa037]. Singh's legacy includes not only economic reforms but also strategic partnerships, though he faced criticism for bureaucratic issues and his response to the 2008 Mumbai terror attacks [09ab6cfa].
As the nation mourns, other significant events have unfolded. The Indian Army has installed a statue of Maratha warrior king Shivaji at Pangong Lake, raising questions about the implications of such actions in the politically sensitive region [5b1aa037]. In sports, Australia triumphed over India by 184 runs in the fourth Test match, adding to the ongoing cricket rivalry [5b1aa037].
On the economic front, the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has projected India's GDP growth at 6.6% for the fiscal year 2025, indicating resilience in the economy despite recent challenges [5b1aa037]. This projection comes amidst ongoing farmers' protests in Punjab, where a bandh has disrupted traffic, highlighting the ongoing struggles within the agricultural sector [5b1aa037].
The political landscape is further complicated by the Aam Aadmi Party's (AAP) promise of an ₹18,000 honorarium for priests if re-elected in Delhi, showcasing the party's strategy to appeal to religious sentiments [5b1aa037]. In international news, the Taliban has ordered NGOs in Afghanistan to cease employing women, raising concerns about gender rights in the region [5b1aa037].
As India navigates these complex political and economic dynamics, the legacy of Manmohan Singh continues to resonate, influencing discussions on governance and leadership in contemporary India.