Former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh was born in a village in undivided Punjab (now in Pakistan) and his family experienced the tragedy of partition. Perhaps this is why Singh often championed communal harmony during his long public service. Singh, who initiated economic reforms in India, passed away Thursday night at the age of 92. His birthplace, Gah, is in the western region of Punjab province, which is now part of Pakistan. Known as a renowned economist, Singh earned respect both in India and internationally.
Degree from Oxford
According to the website 'PMIndia.gov,' Dr. Singh completed his matriculation at Punjab University in 1948. He earned a first-class honors degree in Economics from Cambridge University in 1957. Later, in 1962, Singh obtained his D.Phil. in Economics from Nuffield College, Oxford University. He served as India's Prime Minister for two terms from 2004 to 2014.
Manmohan Singh, known for his quiet demeanor and vast knowledge, frequently spoke about communal harmony and democratic values, which are the essence of India as a nation. In 2004, during a program in Amritsar, he reminisced about his roots.
He said, 'There is no better way to honor the teachings of Guru Granth Sahib than to live peacefully with each other and be in harmony with nature. We must learn to resolve our problems through dialogue and respect our peers, irrespective of their status, faith, or caste.'
Seven-day National Mourning
Following Manmohan Singh's demise, the central government has canceled all government events scheduled for Friday. A seven-day period of national mourning has been declared. Dr. Manmohan Singh's funeral will be conducted with full state honors.
