On December 28, 2024, India held a state funeral for former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh, who passed away on December 26 at the age of 92. The ceremony took place at Nigambodh Ghat in New Delhi, with dignitaries and citizens gathering to honor the esteemed leader.
State Funeral Proceedings
The funeral commenced with Singh’s body being transported from his residence to the All India Congress Committee headquarters, where party leaders and the public paid their respects. The casket, draped in the national flag, was then taken to Nigambodh Ghat for the final rites, conducted with full state honors. A seven-day mourning period was declared by the government, with flags flown at half-mast and cultural events canceled nationwide.
Dignitaries in Attendance
Prominent figures, including President Droupadi Murmu, Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar, Prime Minister Narendra Modi, and Congress leader Rahul Gandhi, attended the funeral to pay their respects. International dignitaries, such as the King of Bhutan, Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck, and the Foreign Minister of Mauritius, Dhananjay Ramful, were also present, reflecting Singh’s global stature.
Legacy of Manmohan Singh
Manmohan Singh, India’s first Sikh Prime Minister, served two terms from 2004 to 2014. Renowned as the architect of India’s economic reforms, he played a pivotal role in liberalizing the Indian economy in the 1990s, transitioning it towards a market-oriented model. His tenure also witnessed the landmark civil nuclear agreement with the United States, ending India’s nuclear isolation.
Public Mourning and Tributes
Across the nation, citizens mourned the loss of a leader celebrated for his integrity, humility, and visionary economic policies. Social media platforms were flooded with tributes, and memorial services were held in various states, underscoring the profound impact of Singh’s leadership on India’s development.
The state funeral of Manmohan Singh marked the end of an era in Indian politics. As the nation observes the mourning period, reflections on his contributions continue to inspire discussions on economic policy and governance, ensuring that his legacy endures in the annals of India’s history.
Also learn about Manmohan Singh, India’s Former Prime Minister and Economic Reformer, Passes Away at 92.
