Leh: Dr Manmohan Singh’s passing is a tremendous loss for India.
As a visionary leader, he spearheaded India’s economic revolution in the 1990s, liberalizing the economy and steering the country toward rapid growth.
His remarkable tenure as Prime Minister in the UPA government was marked by significant achievements, including the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (MGNREGA), the National Food Security Act, the National Rural Health Mission, the Right to Information Act, and the Indo-US Nuclear deal.
Dr. Singh’s contributions extended beyond economics; he played a crucial role in strengthening India’s foreign policy, particularly with neighboring countries like Pakistan and China.
Dr Manmohan Singh had a special place in his heart for Ladakh. During 2010 flash flood in Ladakh, Dr Singh personally visited Leh and immediately sanctioned untied relief and rehabilitation fund of Rs 125 crore during which Chering Dorjay Lakrook was at the helm of Hill Council.
Later he sanctioned additional untied relief and rehabilitation fund of Rs 5 crore. Dr. Manmohan Singh’s praise for the smooth functioning of Leh’s Hill Council is a testament to the council’s effective governance at the grassroot level.
The Nimmu-Bazgo (Alchi) Hydroelectric project was conceptualized by Dr Singh when a delegation of Ladakh headed by the then J&K Power Minister Sh Rigzin Jora met him at his official residence at 7, Race Course in Delhi. Dr. Singh played a very crucial role in granting Ladakh exemption from income tax. During his tenure as Finance Minister, he had written strong notings in favour of granting income tax exemption. Later on, based on these notings, Vajpayee government granted income tax exemption.
The nation has lost not only a brilliant economist but also an exemplary leader who embodied integrity and dedication. Our deepest condolences go out to his family and loved ones during this difficult time.
