India

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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Jammu, Dec 27 (IANS) Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Thursday expressed profound sorrow and grief over the demise of former Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh who passed away at the age of 92.

In his condolence message, the Chief Minister described Dr. Singh as a towering statesman and the architect of India’s economic reforms in the early 1990s, which transformed the nation’s economy.

"Dr Singh’s visionary leadership and pathbreaking reforms laid the foundation for India’s economic boom, liberalizing markets and elevating the country to new heights of growth and development," Omar Abdullah said.

Recalling Dr. Singh's tenure as Prime Minister, the Chief Minister highlighted his relentless efforts to uplift millions of Indians out of poverty through inclusive policies.

He also expressed gratitude for Dr. Singh’s significant contributions to Jammu and Kashmir.

"Dr. Manmohan Singh's deep concern for the development of Jammu and Kashmir was evident throughout his tenure. His initiatives, including the extension of rail connectivity to the Kashmir Valley, brought new opportunities for the region and its people," he said.

The Chief Minister also remembered Dr. Singh’s keen interest in fostering peace and development in the state.

"His efforts to engage with the people of Jammu and Kashmir, along with his unwavering support for dialogue and reconciliation, reflected his deep commitment to the welfare of the region," Omar Abdullah added.

"Dr. Manmohan Singh’s humility, intellect and dedication to the nation will always be remembered. His loss is an irreparable one for the country,” the Chief Minister said, offering his heartfelt condolences to Dr. Singh’s family, friends, and admirers during this difficult time.

The Chief Minister prayed for eternal peace to the departed soul and strength to the bereaved family to bear this loss.

Dr. Singh, who served as the 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.

He is survived by his wife, Gursharan Kaur, and their three daughters. Funeral arrangements are expected to be announced soon, with the nation’s leaders, including Prime Minister Narendra Modi, expected to participate in honouring his memory. Dr. Singh's death marks the end of an era in Indian politics. His leadership and legacy will continue to inspire future generations.

In April this year, Manmohan Singh retired from Rajya Sabha, with Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge praising his long parliamentary career.

Manmohan Singh shot to prominence as the country's Finance Minister in the government headed by P.V. Narasimha Rao during 1991-96, having brought in sweeping reforms that transformed the economy.

--IANS

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New Delhi, Dec 27 (IANS) Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar on Thursday expressed grief over the demise of former Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh who passed away here at the AIIMS at the age of 92, saying "India has lost a leader of towering intellect and statesman par excellence".

Taking to X, the Vice President wrote: "Deeply pained to learn about the passing of Dr. Manmohan Singh Ji, former Prime Minister and a distinguished economist who transformed India's economic landscape. A Padma Vibhushan awardee and architect of India's economic liberalisation in 1991, he boldly steered our nation through a critical transition, opening new pathways for growth and prosperity.

"As the Vice-President of India, I had the privilege to engage in meaningful, insightful interactions with Dr. Singh at his residence. His profound understanding of economy, gentle demeanor and unwavering commitment to India's progress will forever be etched in my memory."

Vice President Dhankhar said: "In Dr. Singh's passing, India has lost a leader of towering intellect and a statesman par excellence. His legacy will forever guide Bharat's growth trajectory. My heartfelt condolences to his family and countless admirers in this difficult hour."

The news of Dr. Singh's demise was confirmed by AIIMS New Delhi.

"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.,” said the hospital in a statement.

Dr. Singh, who served as the 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.

He is survived by his wife, Gursharan Kaur, and their three daughters. Funeral arrangements are expected to be announced soon, with the nation’s leaders, including Prime Minister Narendra Modi, expected to participate in honouring his memory. Dr. Singh's death marks the end of an era in Indian politics. His leadership and legacy will continue to inspire future generations.

In April this year, Manmohan Singh retired from Rajya Sabha, with Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge praising his long parliamentary career.

Manmohan Singh shot to prominence as the country's Finance Minister in the government headed by P.V. Narasimha Rao during 1991-96, having brought in sweeping reforms that transformed the economy.

--IANS

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Guwahati, Dec 27 (IANS) On the occasion of Veer Bal Diwas on Thursday, Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal, paid heartfelt tributes to the unparalleled courage and sacrifice of Sahibzade Zorawar Singh and Fateh Singh, the sons of Guru Gobind Singh.

Attending the event at Guru Singh Sabha Gurdwara in Assam's Dibrugarh, Sonowal expressed his gratitude for participating in the celebrations alongside the Sikh community.

On this significant occasion, the Union Minister paid tribute to the two valiant sons and bowed in reverence to Mata Gujri and Guru Gobind Singh.

"Every generation must draw inspiration from the indomitable courage and sacrifices of these martyrs to serve the motherland with devotion and patriotism," Sonowal said during his address.

He further remarked, "At a tender age, Sahibzade Zorawar Singh and Fateh Singh endured the brutal atrocities of the Mughal aggressors with unparalleled resilience. Their supreme sacrifice for the honour of their faith and homeland is not just a chapter in India's history but a beacon of inspiration for humanity. Through Veer Bal Diwas, we aim to spread awareness about their great sacrifice and inspire generations to uphold justice and righteousness. This observance reinforces our commitment to the ideals of service and patriotism."

Sonowal, the BJP MP from Dibrugarh, urged everyone to unite in their dedication to faith, justice, and a virtuous path.

"Veer Bal Diwas is not merely a day of remembrance; it is a living stream of inspiration," the Union Minister added.

"It embodies the essence of 'Ek Bharat Shrestha Bharat' and reflects the legacy of Guru Gobind Singh's vision of placing the nation first. In New India, we are committed to correcting past missteps and reviving our rich heritage. Honouring the supreme sacrifice of the Sahibzadas through this initiative is a matter of great pride."

The Union Minister said, "I am confident that Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visionary efforts and genuine respect for our heroes will continue to inspire the youth to understand their history and contribute to the nation's bright future. On this special day, I once again bow to the courage and determination of Sahibzadas Zorawar Singh and Fateh Singh, who sacrificed their lives at the young age of 6 and 9, standing undeterred against the vast army of Aurangzeb."

Additionally, Union Minister Sonowal laid the foundation stone for a cultural centre at the Kacharibari Puberuan Sangha in Dibrugarh.

Funded through the MP Local Area Development Scheme, the Centre is envisioned as a significant hub for cultural and artistic excellence in the region.

--IANS

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Bhubaneswar, Dec 26 (IANS) Union Home Minister Amit Shah is scheduled to arrive in Bhubaneswar on December 28, said Vijaypal Singh Tomar, the BJP's Odisha in-charge, on Thursday.

Tomar added that Home Minister Shah is scheduled to reach Biju Patnaik International Airport, Bhubaneswar, on the evening of December 28. He will depart for Delhi on December 29 night.

He also said that Amit Shah will attend important government programmes during his visit to the state.

The BJP state in-charge noted that party workers will fully cooperate in the preparations for the public programmes of Amit Shah while the government officials will take care of his official programmes.

"He (Amit Shah) will be reaching on December 28, in the evening. He will stay in Bhubaneswar at night. On December 29, he is scheduled to attend the programmes of ITBP, a university, and an event at a sports stadium," the BJP state in-charge said on Thursday.

Tomar, however, clarified that the Union Home Minister's visit will not include Sambalpur, as it is not part of his schedule.

As per reports, during his one-day visit to Odisha, Amit Shah is expected to take part in a meeting of the party on the morning of December 29 via video conference from Bhubaneswar.

The Presidents of all the state units of BJP, Organisational General Secretaries, the state in-charges and deputy in-charges, and other national party leaders will attend the programme which is going to be held in Delhi on December 29.

Amit Shah is also likely to participate in a programme in Bhubaneswar which will be attended by BJP MLAs, MPs and other workers of the state.

While speaking to media persons, Tomar said that the party is currently busy finalising the presidents at the district level in all 30 districts of the state.

Amit Shah was in Bhubaneswar from November 29 to December 1 to participate in the three-day all-India DG/IGP conference.

--IANS

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New Delhi, Dec 26 (IANS) Congress MP Rahul Gandhi on Thursday expressed grief over the demise of former Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh who passed away here in the AIIMS at the age of 92, and offered condolences to the late ex-PM's family.

Taking to X, the Leader of Opposition in the Lok Sabha wrote: "Manmohan Singh Ji led India with immense wisdom and integrity. His humility and deep understanding of economics inspired the nation. My heartfelt condolences to Mrs. Kaur and the family. I have lost a mentor and guide. Millions of us who admired him will remember him with the utmost pride."

The news of Dr Singh's demise was confirmed by AIIMS New Delhi.

"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.,” said the hospital in a statement.

Dr. Singh, who served as the 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.

He is survived by his wife, Gursharan Kaur, and their three daughters. Funeral arrangements are expected to be announced soon, with the nation’s leaders, including Prime Minister Narendra Modi, expected to participate in honouring his memory. Dr. Singh's death marks the end of an era in Indian politics. His leadership and legacy will continue to inspire future generations.

In April this year, Manmohan Singh retired from Rajya Sabha, with Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge praising his long parliamentary career.

Manmohan Singh shot to prominence as the country's Finance Minister in the government headed by P.V. Narasimha Rao during 1991-96, having brought in sweeping reforms that transformed the economy.

--IANS

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New Delhi, Dec 26 (IANS) President Droupadi Murmu on Thursday expressed grief over the demise of former Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh who passed away here in the AIIMS at the age of 92.

Taking to X, the President wrote: "Former Prime Minister Dr Manmohan Singh Ji was one of those rare politicians who also straddled the worlds of academia and administration with equal ease. In his various roles in public offices, he made critical contributions to reforming Indian economy. He will always be remembered for his service to the nation, his unblemished political life and his utmost humility. His passing is a great loss to all of us. I pay my respectful homage to one of the greatest sons of Bharat and convey my heartfelt condolences to his family, friends and admirers."

The news of Dr Singh's demise was confirmed by AIIMS New Delhi.

"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.,” said the hospital in a statement.

Dr. Singh, who served as the 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.

He is survived by his wife, Gursharan Kaur, and their three daughters. Funeral arrangements are expected to be announced soon, with the nation’s leaders, including Prime Minister Narendra Modi, expected to participate in honouring his memory. Dr. Singh's death marks the end of an era in Indian politics. His leadership and legacy will continue to inspire future generations.

In April this year, Manmohan Singh retired from Rajya Sabha, with Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge praising his long parliamentary career.

Manmohan Singh shot to prominence as the country's Finance Minister in the government headed by P.V. Narasimha Rao during 1991-96, having brought in sweeping reforms that transformed the economy.

--IANS

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Kolkata, Dec 26 (IANS) West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, who was the Railway Minister during the second term of the Congress-led UPA government led by former Indian Prime Minister Manmohan Singh, has expressed condolences over the veteran Congress leader's death.

In a statement issued on Friday night soon after the death of Manmohan Singh was announced, Banerjee issued a statement, claiming that she is "profoundly stunned and saddened by the sudden demise of our former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh".

"I had worked with him and saw him from very close quarters in the Union Cabinet. His erudition and wisdom were unquestionable, and the depth of the financial reforms ushered in by him in the country is widely acknowledged," the Chief Minister's statement said.

She also added that while the country will miss Manmohan Singh's stewardship, she will personally miss his affection.

"My sincere condolences to his family, friends and followers," the Chief Minister's statement added.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday expressed grief over the death of former PM Manmohan Singh, who passed away here in the AIIMS at the age of 92.

Taking to X, PM Modi wrote: "India mourns the loss of one of its most distinguished leaders, Dr. Manmohan Singh Ji. Rising from humble origins, he rose to become a respected economist. He served in various government positions as well, including as Finance Minister, leaving a strong imprint on our economic policy over the years. His interventions in Parliament were also insightful. As our Prime Minister, he made extensive efforts to improve people’s lives. Former Prime Minister 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) here following a deterioration in his health.

The news of 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 a 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."

Singh had been admitted for treatment in the hospital on Thursday night after being critically ill.

Singh, who served as the 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.

His government was also known for implementing crucial legislation in areas such as education, food security, and information.

Singh’s death has left the nation in mourning, with leaders from all political parties and across the world paying tribute to his legacy. His contributions to the field of economics and public service will be remembered for generations.

--IANS

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New Delhi, Dec 26 (IANS) Top political leaders and business tycoons on Thursday mourned the demise of former prime minister Dr Manmohan Singh, saying that his leadership, humility, and dedication will always be remembered.

Stressing that he was a visionary leader, Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman said that Dr Singh served as the Governor of RBI and as Finance Minister of India.

“Presented the milestone budget of 1991 which liberalised the Indian economy. Respected by all, he was soft-spoken and gentle. Condolences to his family and friends,” FM Sitharaman posted on X social media platform.

Union Ministry of Commerce and Industry, Piyush Goyal, said he was deeply saddened by the demise of the former Prime Minister and distinguished economist.

“His contributions to India's economic reforms charted a new path of development for the nation. A political stalwart, his wisdom, humility, and dedication to public service earned him respect and admiration across the political spectrum,” Goyal posted on X social media platform.

Union Minister of Electronics and IT, Ashwini Vaishnaw, posted: “Saddened by the loss of former PM Dr. Manmohan Singh Ji. His leadership, humility, and dedication will always be remembered.”.

Meanwhile, RPG Enterprises Chairman Harsh Goenka said Dr Singh was a true statesman whose quiet demeanour belied his transformative impact.

“An architect of economic reforms, he shaped modern India with intellect, grace, and integrity. A leader who let actions speak louder than words. RIP,” Goenka posted on X social media platform.

Mahindra Group Chairman Anand Mahindra wrote: “Farewell Dr. Manmohan Singh. You loved this nation. And your service to it will long be remembered. Om Shanti”.

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.

He is survived by his wife, Gursharan Kaur, and their three daughters.

--IANS

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