Jairam Ramesh Highlights Misattribution of Manmohan Singh's Initiatives to Successors

Former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh has passed away, prompting Congress general secretary Jairam Ramesh to praise his significant contributions. Ramesh noted that many initiatives Singh introduced during his tenure were later marketed as achievements of his successors. He emphasised that those who attempted to tarnish Singh's reputation only exposed their own true nature.

Ramesh highlighted Singh's remarkable career, which included roles such as Chief Economic Adviser, Finance Secretary, and Governor of the Reserve Bank of India. Singh also served as Deputy Chairman of the Planning Commission, Finance Minister, and Prime Minister. An alumnus of Oxford and Cambridge, he won the Adam Smith Prize at Cambridge in 1956.

Singh's Economic Reforms

Singh was known for his soft-spoken yet determined nature. He played a pivotal role in transforming India's economy through budgets in 1991 and 1992. His tenure as Prime Minister saw significant legislation on rural employment, tribal rights, and reservations for scheduled castes, tribes, and OBCs. He also focused on primary education, food security, and land acquisition.

The Indo-US nuclear agreement was a notable achievement during Singh's leadership, enhancing India's global standing. Ramesh mentioned that under Singh's leadership, India experienced its highest GDP growth rate. Singh was described as a gentleman who harboured no ill-will and practised politics based on dialogue and consensus.

Legacy and Personal Traits

Ramesh reflected on Singh's humility and integrity, noting that despite attempts to undermine him, Singh remained unfazed. "Many of the initiatives he took as PM were marketed, branded, and projected as his successors contributions," Ramesh stated. However, Singh would simply respond with his characteristic smile.

Ramesh shared a personal connection with Singh, having been recruited by him to the Planning Commission in September 1986. He expressed gratitude for the opportunity to work closely with Singh for 38 years. "In his inimitable and distinctive way, Manmohan Singh has left his indelible imprint on our history," Ramesh concluded.