Gentle Reformer

The passing of Dr. Manmohan Singh at 92 marks the end of an era for India’s political and economic landscape. A man of quiet demeanour but towering intellect, Dr. Singh’s legacy is etched indelibly in the annals of modern India. As Finance Minister in 1991, he turned a nation on the brink of economic collapse into a rising power through reforms that redefined India’s destiny. As Prime Minister, he transformed the nation’s global standing, embracing policies that balanced pragmatism with profound vision.

Dr. Singh’s maiden Budget speech in July 1991 was nothing short of historic. Faced with a fiscal deficit nearing 8.5 percent of GDP, dangerously low foreign reserves and mounting balance of payments and current account deficits, he did the unthinkable by opening the gates to industrial delicensing. By dismantling protectionist barriers, he laid the groundwork for India’s integration into the global economy. In a display of rare candour, he acknowledged the policy failures of his predecessors, urging Parliament to embrace the winds of change with a humility and clarity that have since become rare commodities in political discourse.

The reforms were transformative. From the creation of the Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) to protect investors to his impassioned arguments for consumer welfare and wealth creation, Dr. Singh shaped an economy that would become synonymous with opportunity and innovation. Yet, his vision extended beyond material wealth. He warned against the perils of “mindless and heartless” consumerism, striking a balance between economic liberalization and social responsibility.

As Prime Minister, Dr. Singh’s quiet resolve shone through in moments of crisis. When the 2004 tsunami devastated the region, he demonstrated India’s newfound confidence on the global stage. Declining foreign aid, he mobilized India’s resources to assist neighbouring nations, marking its emergence as a humanitarian power and paving the way for Quad partnerships.

On foreign policy, Dr. Singh achieved breakthroughs that reshaped India’s place in the world. His deft negotiation of the civil nuclear deal with the United States allowed India access to nuclear energy without compromising its strategic autonomy. Similarly, his rapprochement with Japan, cemented by his warm relationship with Prime Minister Shinzo Abe, ended India’s post-nuclear test isolation. His integrity and intellectual gravitas earned him respect from leaders as diverse as George W. Bush and Barack Obama.

Dr. Singh’s humility was legendary. Even as Prime Minister, he chose a modest Maruti Suzuki 800 over a luxury BMW, signalling his deep connection with the common man. This simplicity belied the enormity of his contributions. For a man who seldom sought the limelight, his achievements spoke louder than any rhetoric could.

Critics often labelled him “maun” or silent, mistaking his reserve for passivity. But Dr. Singh’s quiet confidence and unyielding dedication were his greatest strengths. In a fractious political landscape, he remained a rare figure of unity and intellect. His legacy as the architect of India’s economic resurgence and a statesman of remarkable vision will endure, shaping the India of today and tomorrow.