Dr. Manmohan Singh, the 13 th Prime Minister of India, stands out as the most educated Prime Minister in the country’s history. Despite being labeled as “The Silent P.M.”, a term that simplifies his profound influence, Singh’s exceptional qualifications and accomplishments speak volumes. He is not only celebrated in India but also recognized globally as ‘the highest qualified prime minister‘.
Early Life and Academic Achievements
Born on September 26, 1932, in the small village of Gah in what is now Pakistan, Dr. Singh’s journey to academic excellence began with a doctorate in Economics from Oxford University. His academic prowess led him to prestigious roles within the Indian government, including Chief Economic Advisor, Governor of the Reserve Bank, and Head of the Planning Commission.
Pioneering Economic Reforms in India
Dr. Singh’s most notable contribution came during the 1991 economic crisis. Appointed as Finance Minister by then Prime Minister P.V. Narasimha Rao, Singh implemented structural reforms that liberalized India’s economy. These measures were instrumental in steering India out of the crisis and elevating Singh’s global reputation as a reform-minded economist.
Leadership and Political Career
Singh’s political journey is marked by significant milestones. He served as the Leader of the Opposition from 1998 to 2004, and his election as Prime Minister in 2004, a position he held until 2014, made him the second Indian Prime Minister after Jawaharlal Nehru to be re-elected after a full five-year term. Despite never winning a Lok Sabha seat, Singh’s leadership was underpinned by widespread faith and respect among the Indian populace.
Economic and Social Reforms
As Finance Minister, Dr. Singh dismantled the License Raj, which had been a major impediment to India’s economic growth. His policies spurred India to become the second fastest-growing major economy by 2009, achieving an unprecedented GDP growth rate of 9%. His tenure saw the replacement of the Sales Tax with Value Added Tax in 2005 and the launch of impactful initiatives like the National Rural Health Mission and the Sarva Shiksha Abhiyan. He also played a key role in enacting significant legislation like the National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (NREGA) and the Right to Information Act.
A Respected Global Statesman
Internationally, Dr. Singh is regarded as one of the world’s most revered leaders. Publications like ‘The Independent’ and ‘Newsweek’ have praised his decency, integrity, and leadership skills. Figures like Henry Kissinger and Australian journalist Greg Sheridan have commended his vision and impact on Asian history. His global recognition includes awards like the World Statesman Award in 2010 and a place in the 2010 Forbes list of the world’s most powerful people.
Academic Honors and Recognition
Dr. Singh’s academic excellence has been recognized by various universities worldwide. He has received honorary degrees from esteemed institutions such as Panjab University, University of Alberta, Oxford, Cambridge, Benaras Hindu University, University of Madras, King Saud University, and Moscow State Institute of International Relations. The Dr. Manmohan Singh Scholarship at St. John’s College is a testament to his academic legacy.
Legacy and Reflection
Dr. Singh’s legacy is marked by his statement, “History will be kinder to me than the contemporary media and the opposition parties in Parliament.” His tenure as Prime Minister reshaped India’s economic landscape and solidified his position as a respected leader and visionary in global politics.