"An irreplaceable loss," Himachal LOP Thakur condoles demise of former PM Manmohan Singh

Shimla (Himachal Pradesh) [India], December 27 (ANI): Former Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister and Leader of the Opposition, Jairam Thakur, expressed deep sorrow over the demise of former Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh, describing his death as an irreplaceable loss.
He said that the entire country is mourning the loss of Dr. Manmohan Singh.
"Hailing from a small village, Dr. Manmohan Singh studied at some of the world's prestigious institutions and contributed to the nation in significant ways. As an economist, he will be remembered as a pioneer of India's current economic liberalization. He led the country during challenging times and guided it through various difficulties," former Himachal CM said.
"Dr. Manmohan Singh initiated economic reforms in 1991, which provided a new direction to India's economy on the global stage. Under his leadership, the country's economic growth rate improved, and India established itself as a rapidly developing economy," he added.
He further said that Dr. Singh, known for his simplicity and humility, made a tremendous contribution to the country as an economist.
"As Prime Minister, he worked sincerely for the upliftment of all sections of society, beyond political party lines, and will always be remembered for this. His leadership skills and the political traditions he established will continue to inspire the country for a long time," the BJP leader said.
"Dr. Manmohan Singh's leadership and foresight have had a profound impact on Indian politics and society, and his achievements will always be remembered. We express our deepest condolences on his passing. May God grant peace to the departed soul and provide strength to the grieving family and his admirers," he added.
Manmohan Singh passed away at AIIMS, Delhi, on Thursday evening at the age of 92 due to age-related medical conditions. He had a sudden loss of consciousness at home, after which he was rushed to AIIMS Delhi.
Meanwhile, Congress MP and Lok Sabha Leader of Opposition (LoP) Rahul Gandhi paid his last respects to former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh at his residence in the national capital.
Congress MP Rahul Gandhi also offered condolences to the former PM's family. In his condolence message, the Lok Sabha LoP said, "Manmohan Singh Ji led India with immense wisdom and integrity. His humility and deep understanding of economics inspired the nation. My heartfelt condolences to Mrs. Kaur and the family. I have lost a mentor and guide. Millions of us who admired him will remember him with the utmost pride."
Congress leaders Sonia Gandhi, Priyanka Gandhi Vadra, KC Venugopal, Devendra Yadav, and several other party leaders were also present at the residence of the former PM.
Congress leaders Sonia Gandhi, Priyanka Gandhi Vadra, KC Venugopal, Devendra Yadav, and several other party leaders were also present at the residence of the former PM.
Manmohan Singh was born on September 26, 1932. Apart from being an economist, Manmohan Singh served as Reserve Bank of India governor from 1982-1985. He was the 13th PM of India, with his tenure from 2004-2014, and was the longest-serving PM after Jawaharlal Nehru and Indira Gandhi.
Serving as the finance minister of India in PV Narasimha Rao's government, Singh has been given credit for economic liberalisation in the country in 1991. The reforms made the Indian economy more accessible to foreign investors, which increased FDI and reduced government control. It greatly contributed to the country's economic growth.
The national flag has been draped over the bier carrying the mortal remains of former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh at his residence in Delhi. According to sources, the last rites of the former PM will be carried out with full state honours. (ANI)