Former prime minister Dr Manmohan Singh died here late Thursday of age-related medical conditions. He was 92. Dr Singh was the pioneer of economic reforms and India’s move towards globalisation, and his passing marks an end of an era.

“He was being treated for age-related medical conditions and had sudden loss of consciousness at home on 26 December. Resusciative measures were started immediately at home. He was brought to the medical emergency at AIIMS, New Delhi at 8.06 pm. Despite all efforts, he could not be revived and was declared dead at 9.51 pm,” AIIMS said in an official statement.

Dr. Singh, prime minister for two terms (2004-14), made history as finance minister in the early 1990s, launching economic liberalisaiton and globalisation. An economist of renown, he had previously also served as RBI governor and finance secretary. During his prime-ministership, he also held the external affairs portfolio. The civil nuclear deal with the United States was a major breakthrough, redefining India's status in the global fora.

The news brought heartfelt tributes.

“Former Prime Minister Dr Manmohan Singh Ji was one of those rare politicians who also straddled the worlds of academia and administration with equal ease. In his various roles in public offices, he made critical contributions to reforming Indian economy,” President Droupadi Murmu wrote in a post on X. “He will always be remembered for his service to the nation, his unblemished political life and his utmost humility. His passing is a great loss to all of us. I pay my respectful homage to one of the greatest sons of Bharat and convey my heartfelt condolences to his family, friends and admirers.”

Prime Minister Narendra Modi wrote: “India mourns the loss of one of its most distinguished leaders, Dr. Manmohan Singh Ji. Rising from humble origins, he rose to become a respected economist. He served in various government positions as well, including as Finance Minister, leaving a strong imprint on our economic policy over the years. His interventions in Parliament were also insightful. As our Prime Minister, he made extensive efforts to improve people’s lives.

“Dr. Manmohan Singh Ji and I interacted regularly when he was PM and I was the CM of Gujarat. We would have extensive deliberations on various subjects relating to governance. His wisdom and humility were always visible.”

The government announced that as a mark of respect to the departed dignitary, it was decided that seven days of state mourning will be observed throughout India from 26.12.2024 to 01.01.2025. During this period the National flag will be flown at half mast throughout India where it is regularly flown and there will be no official entertainment during the period of state mourning. The National flag shall also fly half-mast on the day of funeral in all Indian Missions/High Commissions of India abroad.

It has also been decided that the state funeral will be accorded to late Dr. Manmohan Singh, an official release said.