"Manmohan Singh was an architect of the Indian economy": Former President Ramnath Kovind

New Delhi [India], December 27 (ANI): Former President Ramnath Kovind on Friday expressed his grief over the passing away of former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh. Kovind termed Dr. Singh an 'architect' of the Indian economy.
"The passing of Dr. Manmohan Singh is not just a setback for the nation but also a personal loss for me. I have known him for so long... He was an example of politeness... I believe that he was an architect of the Indian economy...I pay my tribute to him," former President Kovind said in a self made video.
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, in a heartfelt tribute to former Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh, PM Narendra Modi on Friday expressed deep sorrow over his passing, describing it as a great loss for the nation.
Addressing the nation over the demise of former Prime Minister, PM Modi recalled Dr. Singh's extraordinary journey--from overcoming the challenges of the partition era to shaping India's economic reforms--and highlighted his legacy as a man of integrity, humility, and intellect.
"The passing of Manmohan Singh Ji has caused deep sorrow in all our hearts. His departure is a great loss for the nation as well. Coming to India during the period of partition and achieving success in every field of life here is no ordinary feat. His life teaches us how to rise above struggles and reach greater heights, and this lesson will continue to guide future generations," he said.
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.
He retired from the Rajya Sabha earlier this year after serving for 33 years.
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)