Congress leaders recall former PM’s economic reforms, public service and contribution to inclusive development
New Delhi, Sept 2026 : Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge on Saturday paid tribute to former Prime Minister Dr Manmohan Singh on his birth anniversary, recalling his contribution to India’s economic transformation, nation-building and public service.
In a post on X, Kharge described Singh as a visionary statesman whose landmark economic reforms changed India’s growth trajectory, created new opportunities and contributed to lifting millions out of poverty.
Kharge also highlighted Singh’s humility, integrity and wisdom, saying these qualities defined his public life. He said the former Prime Minister placed inclusive growth and the welfare of vulnerable sections at the centre of governance.
“On his birth anniversary, we pay our heartfelt homage to a statesman whose legacy of honest public service, inclusive development and transformative reforms will continue to inspire generations,” Kharge said.
Singh, who was born on September 26, 1932, served as India’s Prime Minister from 2004 to 2014. Before becoming Prime Minister, he served as Finance Minister from 1991 to 1996, a period widely recognised as a major turning point in India’s economic history. The Prime Minister’s Office biography notes that Singh played a key role in ushering in a comprehensive programme of economic reforms during his tenure as Finance Minister.
Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar also remembered Singh, describing him as a scholar, economist and statesman who served the country with humility, integrity and a strong sense of duty.
Shivakumar said Singh believed that economic growth should go hand in hand with equity, opportunity and dignity for citizens. He also recalled Singh’s contribution to Bengaluru and Karnataka.
Referring to the foundation stone ceremony for the Bengaluru Metro, Shivakumar said Singh had emphasised the importance of Bengaluru’s development alongside the progress of Karnataka, viewing the two as closely connected.
“His vision, wisdom and unwavering commitment to public service continue to inspire us in our own efforts to build a stronger Karnataka and a more prosperous India,” Shivakumar said.
The Congress party also issued a tribute, describing Singh as a distinguished economist and statesman whose humility, integrity and commitment to public service shaped his long political career. The party said his contribution to India’s economic progress and development would continue to be remembered.
Singh’s political and administrative career spanned several decades. He served in key positions including Governor of the Reserve Bank of India, Deputy Chairman of the Planning Commission, Economic Adviser and Finance Ministry Secretary before entering active politics. He became a Rajya Sabha member in 1991 and was sworn in as Prime Minister in May 2004. He began his second term in 2009.
During his two terms as Prime Minister, his governments oversaw major rights-based legislation and welfare programmes, including the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act, the Right to Information Act and the Right to Education Act.
Singh died in December 2024 at the age of 92. His legacy continues to be associated with both the economic reforms of the early 1990s and his decade as Prime Minister.
