India

Gurugram, Dec 27 (IANS) Haryana Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini said that the Vedas embody the knowledge that established India as the 'Vishwa Guru' (world leader).

He said that even today when we aim to restore India's status as the 'Vishwa Guru', it is important to promote the teachings of the Vedas.

He also mentioned that Haryana is a sacred land where the verses of the Vedas were written along the banks of the Goddess Saraswati river.

In this context, it is a great fortune that the Ved Prachar and Ved Bhashya Granth distribution programme was launched in Gurugram, the land of Guru Dronacharya, the Chief Minister said.

He expressed his confidence that Vedic knowledge will play a pivotal role in realising the Prime Minister's vision for a developed India.

CM Saini was addressing the gathering at the Ved Prachar and Ved Bhashya Granth Distribution programme in Gurugram on Thursday.

"Scholars who have researched the Vedas recognise them as the original source of our religion, science, art, music, medicine, and philosophy. The study of the Vedas is crucial not only from a religious perspective but also from cultural and scientific viewpoints. Referring to the teachings of saints, the Chief Minister highlighted that the Vedas provide the ultimate path, and by following their principles, one can attain peace and happiness," he said.

He added that this meaningful initiative will enable the general public, especially the younger generation, to read and understand the vast knowledge embedded in these ancient texts.

He further expressed that it is a matter of pride and honour for all of us that this significant work has been carried out in Haryana, the land of the Vedas, which has been the cradle of Indian civilisation.

"Our Vedas are the primary medium for propagating humanity across the world. The Vedas convey the message of "Manuhbhav," meaning "become a human," and this is achievable only when the Vedas become an integral part of our lives. While people of all religions promote their own beliefs, it is our Vedas that teach us how to be true human beings," he said.

Referring to the Prime Minister's views on the Vedas, the Chief Minister said that they are a treasure trove of knowledge and science, which continue to guide humanity even today.

"The Vedas impart values of harmony, equality, and respect for nature. The Vedas also address scientific principles, which are of utmost importance to the country," he added.

On this occasion, the Chief Minister also called for collective efforts to protect the environment and urged keeping the youth away from the evils of drug addiction.

BJP MLAs Bimla Chaudhary, Tejpal Tanwar, Mukesh Sharma, and other dignitaries were also present at the event.

--IANS

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Bhopal, Dec 27 (IANS) Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Mohan Yadav has expressed grief over the passing away of former Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh, saying that the departed ex-PM will always be remembered for his contribution to the economic development of the country.

Taking to X, Mohan Yadav wrote: "The demise of former Prime Minister of India and great economist Dr. Manmohan Singh is an irreparable loss for the political world. While paying tribute, I pray to God to grant peace to the departed soul.

"While performing the duties of RBI Governor, Finance Minister and Prime Minister, he participated in the efforts for the economic prosperity of the country with his efficient and farsighted policies and faced various challenges boldly. He will always be remembered for his contribution to the economic development of the country. I offer my deepest condolences to the bereaved family in this hour of grief."

Politicians from across the party lines in Madhya Pradesh expressed grief over the demise of former Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh, who passed away in Delhi late on Thursday.

Former Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister and Rajya Sabha MP Digvijaya Singh expressed condolences, saying Dr. Manmohan Singh has added to the dignity of every post he held.

"My heartfelt tribute to former Prime Minister Dr Manmohan Singh! As a true son of this country and democracy, Manmohan Singh not only served his term as Prime Minister very well but also brought the falling economy back on track with his wisdom in the 90s," Digvijaya Singh said in a social media post.

Congress veteran Kamal Nath, who was a minister in Dr. Manmohan Singh's cabinet, said the latter's demise had caused irreparable loss to the entire nation.

"I was among those fortunate people who got the opportunity to work as a Union Minister during his tenure as Prime Minister," Kamal Nath said in a statement.

Senior BJP leader and Union Agriculture Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan remembered Dr. Manmohan Singh as a man of simplicity.

"Dr. Manmohan Singh was very humble, simple and straightforward. As Chief Minister, I always got his guidance on many subjects. Dr. Saheb was synonymous with clean politics. His liberalisation policies in the 90s hold an important place in giving impetus to the Indian economy," he said.

Dr. Manmohan Singh, who died at the age of 92 on Thursday, was a visionary leader who is credited with bringing transformations to the country's economy when it was passing through a rough phase.

Born on September 26, 1932, in Gah, West Punjab (now in Pakistan), Dr. Manmohan Singh was a celebrated economist and politician who left an indelible mark as the Prime Minister. He headed the Congress-led government at the Centre from 2004 to 2014.

As the first Sikh to hold the office of PM, Dr. Singh’s leadership is often credited for steering India through a period of significant economic transformation.

--IANS

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Chennai, Dec 27 (IANS) Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M.K. Stalin has expressed deep sorrow over the demise of former Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh.

In a post on X, Stalin wrote: "Deeply saddened by the passing of former Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh, a statesman whose intellect and leadership steered India’s economic transformation. His tenure marked an era of steady growth, social progress, and reforms that improved the lives of millions.

"Dr. Manmohan Singh’s partnership with Thalaivar Kalaignar was instrumental in advancing Tamil Nadu’s development. Their mutual respect and collaboration brought vital projects to fruition and strengthened the state’s progress across various sectors. Dr. Manmohan Singh valued Tamil Nadu’s aspirations, ensuring that the voices of the South resonated in national policies, even during turbulent times."

Reflecting on the bond between Dr. Singh and his father, late former Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M. Karunanidhi, Stalin remarked: “Dr. Manmohan Singh and Thalaivar Kalaignar stood together, exemplifying the strength of coalition politics built on trust and respect for regional identities. His calm, thoughtful leadership reflected a rare quality—a leader who spoke less but achieved more, driven by action rather than rhetoric.”

Stalin also highlighted Dr. Singh’s connection with Tamil Nadu, saying: “To the people of Tamil Nadu, Dr. Manmohan Singh was not only a Prime Minister but also a friend of the state. His ability to understand and address our needs helped strengthen Tamil Nadu’s role in India’s growth story. His modesty, despite his vast knowledge and stature, left a lasting impression on all who had the privilege of working alongside him.”

The Chief Minister concluded by extending condolences: “On behalf of the people of Tamil Nadu and the DMK, I extend my deepest condolences to his family, friends, and the entire Indian National Congress party. Dr. Manmohan Singh’s legacy of wisdom, humility, and service will continue to guide and inspire future generations.”

--IANS

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Jaipur, Dec 27 (IANS) Rajasthan Chief Minister Bhajan Lal Sharma on Thursday instructed all District Collectors to ensure that no borewells are left open within the next two weeks to prevent any loss of life, officials said.

The Chief Minister urged all departments to adopt a mission-mode approach to minimise road accidents and instructed officials to promptly identify and address accident-prone locations and repair black spots on a priority basis.

He also emphasised taking action against those responsible for accidents caused by uncovered borewells.

"All borewells should be closed within the next two weeks," he said.

Addressing a review meeting on road safety at the Chief Minister's residence on Thursday, CM Sharma announced that special awareness campaigns would start in January.

These campaigns will target schools, colleges, and workplaces to educate people about road safety and encourage adherence to traffic rules.

The Chief Minister outlined a strategic approach based on the "6E Formula" for improving road safety and emergency response which includes education, engineering, enforcement, emergency care, evaluation and engagement.

He directed officials to ensure strict compliance with traffic rules and take firm action against violators.

The measures include installing modern CCTV systems for surveillance and speed monitoring, implementing automated challan systems for offenders and ensuring that vehicles without permits do not operate, the Chief Minister said.

He also emphasised the need to enhance trauma care, promote reflective tape for non-motorised vehicles, and pre-position ambulances based on iRAD data via district road safety committees.

The Chief Minister instructed officials to close illegal road cuts and remove encroachments, maintain road furniture and prevent stray animals on roads, enforce vehicle fitness rules, take strict action against overloading and overcrowding and analyse the root causes of accidents to prevent recurrence.

He also said that a special plan is to be developed for immediate improvement of black spots, with quality assurance as a priority.

Accountability will be fixed for delays in road construction, ensuring contractors and departments are held responsible, the Chief Minister added.

Illegal parking on highways will also be strictly prohibited, with proper parking arrangements implemented, he said.

The Chief Minister highlighted the government's efforts in forming division-level road safety task forces and integrating emergency services under the Emergency Response Support System.

He proposed honouring individuals and organisations contributing to road safety on special occasions to encourage accident responders and good samaritans.

CM Sharma concluded by stressing the need for regular monitoring of district-level road safety committees at the state level to ensure effective implementation of safety measures.

--IANS

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Patna, Dec 27 (IANS) Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar expressed grief over the demise of former Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh who passed away on Thursday at the age of 92 in Delhi.

Taking to X, Nitish Kumar wrote: "The demise of former Prime Minister of the country Dr. Manmohan Singh is sad. He was a skilled politician and economist. Under his leadership, India's economy got a new direction. The demise of Dr. Manmohan Singh is an irreparable loss for Indian politics. I pray to God for eternal peace of the departed soul."

Leader of the Opposition in the Bihar Assembly Tejashwi Yadav also expressed his deep condolence over the demise of the former Prime Minister.

"History will not only remember you but will also be your fan, Sir!! I express my deep condolences on the demise of the father of economic reforms in the country, the architect of economic change, a strong personality, a great politician, former Prime Minister and guardian Dr. Manmohan Singh. I pray to God to give a place to the noble soul in his lotus feet.

"Sardar Dr. Manmohan Singh presided over the historic progress and development of our economy and the country for decades. His wisdom, tolerance, foresight, humility and dedication will always be remembered. Apart from his gentleness and goodness, his positive, enthusiastic and inspiring words will always inspire me," Tejashwi Yadav posted on X.

Bihar unit Congress President Akhilesh Prasad Singh expressed deep grief and said: "As the most successful Prime Minister of the 21st century, he will continue to inspire us. Every people and every party worker salute the great son of the country."

The unfortunate passing of Dr. Manmohan Singh marks the end of an era. He was not only India’s Prime Minister for two consecutive terms from 2004 to 2014 but also the architect of the 1991 economic liberalization that laid the foundation for India’s modern economic growth.

His tenure as Prime Minister was marked by a steady and inclusive approach to governance, focusing on economic growth, social welfare, and strengthening India’s global standing.

The expressions of grief from political leaders across the spectrum highlight his impact as a statesman, economist, and unifier.

--IANS

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Thiruvananthapuram, Dec 27 (IANS) Condoling the passing away of former Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh on Thursday at the AIIMS in Delhi, Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan said he is deeply saddened.

"The passing of Dr. Manmohan Singh ji, former Prime Minister of India and a distinguished statesman was committed to the values of secularism and democracy. Heartfelt condolences to his family and loved ones,” wrote Vijayan in his social media page.

Vijayan added that Dr. Manmohan Singh was a hugely respected and revered economist and before being the Union Finance Minister, he was the governor of the Reserve Bank of India.

"As the Finance Minister he was instrumental in coming out with the liberalisation policies which changed the economic situation of the country," said Vijayan.

"When the Left pointed out the lapses in the new economic policies, he saw to it that he maintained the political dignity to the criticisms. As Union Minister of External Affairs he saw to it that India maintained cordial relations with all,” added Vijayan.

"His loss is going to be a huge loss for India,” said Vijayan.

Top Congress leaders of AICC's Kerala unit including Leader of Opposition V.D. Satheesan has cancelled all his programes in the coming days and he is leaving for Delhi to pay homage to the former Prime Minister.

"He will forever be remembered for the services he gave to the country and more importantly for the way he carried himself and the clean image he always kept,” said Satheesan.

State BJP president K. Surendran said the state unit of the BJP deeply condoles the demise of former Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh.

Veteran Congress legislator Ramesh Chennithala said the former PM is hugely responsible for taking India to a new level through his policies and he will be always known for the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act, which today is succor to thousands of people.

--IANS

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Hyderabad, Dec 27 (IANS) Telangana Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddy and Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu have condoled the demise of former Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh.

"One of the greatest economists, leaders, reformers, and above all, a humanitarian of our times Shri Manmohan Singh ji is no more,” posted Revanth Reddy on X.

The Chief Minister, who was attending Congress Working Committee (CWC) meeting at Belgavi in Karnataka called Dr. Manmohan Singh a man of virtue, impeccable integrity and a true architects of new India.

"A man of virtue, impeccable integrity, marked above all by a humane touch in decision making, Dr. Singh is one of true architects of new India. He showed how decency and class are much needed aspects of political & public life. He is a legend in whose passing away, India has lost a great son.

“Truly, in his own words, history will treat him far more kindly, and respectfully, than his own times perhaps did. My prayers and deepest condolence for the bereaved family members,” he added.

Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu also condoled the passing away of Dr. Manmohan Singh and termed it a great loss to the nation.

"Deeply saddened by former Prime Minister and renowned economist, Shri Manmohan Singh Ji’s demise. An intellectual statesman, Dr. Singh embodied humility, wisdom, and integrity. From his economic reforms in 1991 as Finance Minister to his leadership as Prime Minister, he served the nation tirelessly and uplifted millions. His passing is a great loss to the nation. My heartfelt condolences to his family, loved ones and admirers," the Telugu Desam Party (TDP) chief posted on X.

Former Telangana Chief Minister and Bharat Rashtra Samithi (BRS) president K. Chandrasekhar Rao has also mourned the demise of Dr. Manmohan Singh.

He recalled that as a financial expert Manmohan Singh demonstrated his abilities in implementing the economic reforms brought by former Prime Minister PV Narasimha Rao when the country was in a difficult financial situation.

The BRS chief said Manmohan Singh was a great son of India who held several key positions. KCR noted that the historic development of creation of Telangana state occurred during Manmohan Singh’s tenure as the Prime Minister.

KCR mentioned that during the Telangana movement, the then TRS as its strategy for separate Telangana state had an alliance with the Congress party and recalled his association with Dr. Manmohan Singh as a minister in his Cabinet.

Deeply saddened by the sudden demise of former Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh Ji. His visionary policies and economic reforms laid the foundation for India’s rise as a global power. Heartfelt condolences to his family members. May his soul rest in peace.

The BRS chief said Dr. Manmohan Singh was a soft, gentle, erudite leader whose services as the Prime Minister are great.

Former Andhra Pradesh chief minister and YSR Congress Party president Y.S. Jagan Mohan Reddy also condoled the demise of Manmohan Singh.

“Deeply saddened by the sudden demise of former Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh Ji. His visionary policies and economic reforms laid the foundation for India’s rise as a global power. Heartfelt condolences to his family members. May his soul rest in peace,” posted Jagan Mohan Reddy.

BRS working president K.T. Rama Rao said Manmohan Singh was a silent architect of modern India, a visionary, a true intellectual, and a gracious human being.

“History will indeed be kinder and grateful to you. My heartfelt condolences to the friends and family of Former Prime Minister Dr Manmohan Singh ji. His legacy will continue to inspire many generations to come,” commented Rama Rao.

--IANS

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Bhubaneswar, Dec 27 (IANS) Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi on Thursday expressed deep grief on the passing away of former Prime Minister and noted economist Dr. Manmohan Singh.

"Deeply saddened by the passing of former Prime Minister, Dr. Manmohan Singh Ji. His dedication, integrity, and calm leadership will always be remembered. May Mahaprabhu Jagannath bless his soul and grant him eternal peace,” wrote CM Majhi on his official X handle.

As per the statement issued by the Chief Minister’s Office, CM Majhi in a message said that "late Manmohan Singh was a great son of the country".

The Chief Minister also noted that Dr. Singh had earned great respect across the globe for his knowledge and competency in the field of economics.

“As the finance minister, he gave a new direction to the country's economy. Due to his liberal economic policies, India began its journey as a major economy of the world. As Prime Minister, he accelerated the development of the country in various sectors,” added CM Majhi.

Several other leaders including Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan and ex-CM Naveen Patnaik have also expressed their condolences on the sad demise of the ex-PM Manmohan Singh.

Calling Dr. Singh as the architect of economic reforms, BJD supremo Patnaik wrote: "Deeply saddened to learn about the passing away of former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh. He has served the country illustriously in different capacities. The erudite and humble leader will be remembered as the architect of economic reforms which provided the foundation for the new India and brought positive changes in the lives of people. My thoughts and prayers are with the family, friends and followers."

Meanwhile, Deputy CM K.V. Singh Deo said that Dr. Manmohan Singh was a visionary leader, an exceptional economist, and a humble statesman.

He said Dr. Singh's contributions to India's growth and progress will always be remembered.

"Former PM Dr. Manmohan Singh ji was an embodiment of simplicity, humility and probity. He was among those rarest breed of politicians who served the country with distinction in several capacities,” wrote Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan.

"A scholar and a statesman, his policies left a long-standing impact on India's developmental landscape. Saddened by his demise. Sincere condolences to his family in this hour of grief," said Pradhan.

Former PM Dr. Manmohan Singh died at the age of 92 in Delhi on Thursday.

--IANS

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Guwahati/Agartala, Dec 27 (IANS) Chief Ministers of several northeastern states expressed their deep condolences over the death of former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh who died on Thursday at the AIIMS in Delhi at the age of 92.

Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma in a post on X said: "I have had the privilege of knowing Dr Manmohan Singh ji since 1991, when he was first elected to the Rajya Sabha from Assam, a state he represented for 28 years."

He said "Dr Sahab embodied humility and never surrendered to the trappings of power".

“In all my interactions with him, his simplicity and decency combined with his intellectual prowess always stood out. During his tenure as Prime Minister, I have had the opportunity to interact with him on several occasions regarding issues pertaining to Assam, and he always gave us a patient hearing and displayed a strong conviction towards social issues,” the Assam Chief Minister said.

Expressing his condolences, Tripura Chief Minister Manik Saha said: "Deeply saddened by the passing of former PM of India and veteran Congress leader Manmohan Singh Ji. His contributions in nation building and shaping the economic landscape of the country will always be remembered. May the departed soul find eternal peace!

Manipur Chief Minister N. Biren Singh in a post on X: "I am deeply saddened by the passing of Dr. Manmohan Singh, former Prime Minister of India. He was a visionary leader and his dedications to the nation have left an indelible mark on our country. My heartfelt condolences to his family and loved ones in this time of grief. May his soul rest in eternal peace."

Arunachal Pradesh Chief Minister Pema Khandu said: "Extremely saddening to learn of the demise of former Prime Minister and distinguished economist Dr Manmohan Singh Ji. It's a huge loss to the nation.

"His phenomenal contributions to economic reforms as the Finance Minister in the early 1990s laid the foundation of a vibrant and resilient India. Dr Singh's passing marks the end of an era in Indian politics. My heartfelt condolences to the bereaved family members, kin, admirers, and followers. May the departed soul rest in eternal peace. Om Shanti."

Mizoram Chief Minister Lalduhoma said: "Deeply saddened by the passing of Dr. Manmohan Singh Ji. His unparalleled contributions to India's growth and governance will always be remembered. Heartfelt condolences to his family. May his soul rest in peace."

Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad Sangma, expressing his condolences over the death of the former Prime Minister wrote on X: "Deeply saddened by the demise of former Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh ji. I recall his remarkable legacy as a distinguished economist, erudite scholar, and a leader who rose from humble beginnings.

"He will be remembered for his vast contributions towards the growth of modern India. On my own behalf and on behalf of the people of Meghalaya, I offer my heartfelt condolences to his family, friends, admirers, and supporters. India will always cherish, remember, and take inspiration from his contributions. May his soul rest in eternal peace."

--IANS

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Guwahati, Dec 27 (IANS) Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma on Thursday expressed condolence over the passing away of former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh who died in Delhi at the age of 92.

Taking to X, Sarma wrote: "I have had the privilege of knowing Dr Manmohan Singh ji since 1991, when he was first elected to the Rajya Sabha from Assam- a state he represented for 28 years. Dr Sahab embodied humility and never surrendered to the trappings of power. In all my interactions with him, his simplicity and decency combined with his intellectual prowess always stood out.

"During his tenure as Prime Minister, I have had the opportunity to interact with him on several occasions regarding issues pertaining to Assam, and he always gave us a patient hearing and displayed a strong conviction towards social issues. Coming from humble origins in a post partition India, he served the nation in several distinguished positions."

Sarma further said: "A generation of Indians will always remember his pivotal role in ushering a free market economy and ending decades of regressive socialist policies. In his demise the nation has lost a great patriot, an exceptional scholar, an unconventional politician and a fine statesman. My deepest condolences to Gursharan Madam, his family and well wishers. Om Shanti."

Former Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh, renowned economist and architect of India’s economic reforms, passed away on Thursday at the age of 92. He was admitted to the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) in Delhi following a deterioration in his health.

The news of Dr. Singh's death has been confirmed by the AIIMS in a statement that read: "With profound grief, we inform the demise of former Prime Minister of India, Dr. Manmohan Singh aged 92. He was being treated for age related medical conditions and had sudden loss of consciousness at home on December 26. Resuscitative measures were started immediately at home. He was brought to the medical emergency at AIIMS. Despite all efforts, he could not be revived and was declared dead at 9.51 p.m."

Dr. Singh, who served as country’s Prime Minister from 2004 to 2014, was known for his transformative role in steering India’s economy through a period of significant liberalisation.

His tenure is often credited for initiating major economic reforms in 1991 when he was the finance minister, which helped modernise India's economy and integrate it into the global market.

A man of humility and intellect, Dr. Singh was a respected figure both in India and globally. Under his leadership, India saw consistent economic growth, reducing poverty and strengthening the country’s position on the world stage.

--IANS

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