Former PM’s Last Rites to Be Performed at Nigambodh Ghat Tomorrow

New Delhi, December 27, 2024: The last rites of former Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh will be held on Saturday, December 28, at 11:45 am at Nigambodh Ghat in New Delhi with full State honours, the Union Home Ministry announced.

“It has been decided by the Government that a State funeral will be accorded to Dr. Manmohan Singh. The funeral will take place at 11:45 am on December 28, 2024, at Nigambodh Ghat, New Delhi,” stated the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) in an official communication on Friday.

The Ministry of Defence has been tasked with organizing the arrangements for the State funeral, which will include full military honours for the former prime minister.

Nation Mourns the Loss of a Visionary Leader

Dr. Manmohan Singh, aged 92, passed away earlier this week following a sudden collapse at his residence in New Delhi. He was immediately hospitalized but succumbed to his condition a few hours later. Singh’s demise marks the end of an era in Indian politics and economics.

In his honour, the Government of India has declared a period of national mourning until January 1, 2025. During this time, the national flag will fly at half-mast across all government buildings, and no official entertainment events will be held.

Tributes Pour In

Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar expressed profound grief over Singh’s demise. In his statement, Kumar said, “The demise of former Prime Minister of the country, Dr. Manmohan Singh, is deeply saddening. He was a skilled politician and economist. Under his leadership, India’s economy received a new direction. The demise of Dr. Manmohan Singh is an irreparable loss for Indian politics. We pray to God for eternal peace for the departed soul.”

Leaders from across the political spectrum have paid tributes to Singh, hailing his contributions to the nation. Known as the architect of India’s economic liberalization, Singh’s tenure as finance minister in the early 1990s transformed India’s economy. As prime minister from 2004 to 2014, he was lauded for his calm demeanor, integrity, and focus on inclusive growth.

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Legacy of Dr. Manmohan Singh

Born on September 26, 1932, in Gah, now in Pakistan, Dr. Manmohan Singh rose to prominence as an economist and policymaker before stepping into the political arena. He earned accolades for his instrumental role in steering India’s economic reforms during a financial crisis in the early 1990s.

As prime minister, Singh prioritized infrastructure development, education, health, and technology while navigating complex coalition politics. His tenure saw significant milestones such as the signing of the India-U.S. Civil Nuclear Agreement, the introduction of the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (MGNREGA), and the implementation of the Right to Education Act.

Despite facing criticism for some policy decisions and political challenges, Singh remained a respected statesman admired for his humility and intellect.

Preparations for the State Funeral

The Ministry of Defence is working closely with other agencies to ensure a dignified farewell for the former prime minister. Full military honours will be accorded during the State funeral, reflecting Singh’s stature as a national leader. Political leaders, diplomats, and dignitaries from across the country are expected to attend the ceremony at Nigambodh Ghat.

Dr. Manmohan Singh’s passing leaves behind a legacy of visionary leadership and a commitment to nation-building. As India bids farewell to one of its most revered leaders, the nation stands united in grief, paying homage to a man who dedicated his life to the progress and welfare of the country.

The State funeral will be broadcast live for those who wish to join in paying their final respects to the beloved former prime minister.