JAMMU: Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Monday paid rich tributes to former Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh, acknowledging his landmark reforms and pro-people initiatives during his tenure.
The Chief Minister was speaking during the obituary reference in the Budget Session of the J&K Legislative Assembly.
Recalling Dr. Singh’s contributions to Jammu and Kashmir, the Chief Minister said, “He inherited a complex and difficult situation, yet he chose the path of dialogue and reconciliation. His efforts brought us closer to resolving long-standing issues than at any other time in recent history.” Referring to the unrest in 2010, CM Omar Abdullah highlighted Dr. Singh’s role in addressing the crisis and restoring normalcy. “His commitment to the rehabilitation of Kashmiri Pandits was unwavering. Under his leadership, steps were taken to facilitate their return, including the establishment of townships like Jagti and the PM Package for employment,” he said.
Speaking on the occasion, the Chief Minister, who is also the Leader of the House, noted that just four months ago, the Assembly had paid tribute to former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee, and today, they gathered once again to mourn the loss of another statesman—Dr. Manmohan Singh.
“Dr. Singh was a man of great wisdom and integrity. He never used the power of his office for personal gain,” he said, adding that Dr. Singh’s journey—from studying under streetlights to earning degrees from Oxford and Cambridge—was a testament to his dedication and intellect. “His rise from an economic advisor to Planning Commission Deputy Chairman, Finance Minister, and eventually the Prime Minister of India was marked by success at every step,” he added. Reflecting on Dr. Singh’s economic reforms, CM Omar Abdullah recalled how he took charge as Finance Minister when the country was in dire economic straits.
“India lacked the financial resources even to run the government. It was his vision and policies that paved the way for economic reforms, transforming India from a struggling economy to one of the world’s largest. The economic liberalization he spearheaded, including the dismantling of the license-permit raj, unleashed the potential of the private sector and set India on a path of sustained growth,” he said.
The Chief Minister also highlighted Dr. Singh’s contributions beyond economic reforms. “His government initiated crucial social welfare measures, including the Indira Awas Yojana, which provided housing for the poor, and MGNREGA, which ensured employment for millions.”
Acknowledging Dr. Singh’s contributions to J&K’s infrastructure development, the Chief Minister said, “The Jammu-Srinagar Highway, a critical lifeline for the region, was initiated under his tenure. The Chenab Rail Bridge, the highest railway bridge in the world, was another testament to his commitment to connecting Kashmir with the rest of India. Though he did not live to see the first train cross that bridge, its completion remains a tribute to his vision.” Recalling Dr. Singh’s last press conference, CM Omar Abdullah quoted him as saying, “History will be a better judge of me than contemporary times.”
He remarked, “Today, as we reflect on his legacy, we recognize the wisdom in those words. He was a leader respected not only in India but across the world—from Washington to London, from Tokyo to Beijing.”
Sharing his personal experience, the Chief Minister said, “I had the privilege of working closely with Dr. Singh and learning from his quiet yet resolute leadership. He never raised his voice, never sought attention, and never hesitated to correct a mistake when needed.” He concluded by stating that “His absence leaves a void, but his contributions will continue to shape India for generations to come.”
The Chief Minister also paid rich tributes to other former legislators during the obituary reference.
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