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Unveiling the Enigma: Inside the Making and Unmaking of Manmohan Singh

Yasushi Inoue

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Prologue: The Unassuming Colossus

In the annals of Indian history, Manmohan Singh stands as an enigmatic figure, a quiet scholar thrust into the tumultuous world of politics. His tenure as Prime Minister from 2004 to 2014 left an indelible mark on the nation's trajectory. Through his steadfast leadership and deft economic reforms, he ushered in an era of unprecedented growth and prosperity. Yet, beneath the surface of the unassuming economist lay a complex web of challenges and controversies that shaped his legacy.

The Accidental Prime Minister: The Making and Unmaking of Manmohan Singh

by Sanjaya Baru

4.1 out of 5

Language	:	English
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The Humble Beginnings: A Journey from Punjab to Oxford

Manmohan Singh was born into a Sikh family in Gah, a remote village in undivided Punjab. His early life was marked by poverty and the horrors of the Partition. Displaying exceptional academic brilliance, he excelled in his studies, earning a scholarship to study economics at Oxford University. In the hallowed halls of academia, he honed his analytical skills and developed a profound understanding of economic principles.

The Economic Wizard: Guiding India's Transformation

Upon his return to India, Singh joined the prestigious Indian Administrative Service. His exceptional abilities quickly propelled him to the forefront of economic policymaking. As the Finance Minister under Prime Minister Narasimha Rao in the early 1990s, he played a pivotal role in introducing landmark economic reforms. These reforms, known as "Singh's Liberalization," opened up India's economy to global markets, leading to a surge in foreign investment and economic growth.

The Accidental Prime Minister: A Statesman in the Shadow

In 2004, Sonia Gandhi, the President of the Indian National Congress, surprised the nation by choosing the reticent Singh to lead the party into the general elections. Despite his lack of charisma and political experience, Singh's reputation as an economic wizard resonated with voters, leading to a resounding Congress victory.

As Prime Minister, Singh presided over a decade of sustained economic growth and social progress. His flagship programs, such as the National Rural Employment Guarantee Scheme and the Right to Information Act, aimed to alleviate poverty and promote transparency. However, his tenure was not without challenges. The 2008 global financial crisis and rampant corruption scandals tested his leadership.

Controversies and Criticism: The Shadow of Unfulfilled Promises

Singh's legacy as Prime Minister is marred by several controversies. The 2G spectrum allocation scam, the Coalgate scandal, and the Commonwealth Games corruption case cast a shadow over his government. Critics accused him of being too passive and indecisive, particularly in the face of growing corruption. Some argue that he was overshadowed by Congress President Sonia Gandhi and her son, Rahul Gandhi, who wielded significant influence behind the scenes.

The Scholar Statesman: A Legacy of Economic Transformation

Despite the controversies, Singh's contributions to India's economic development cannot be overstated. His bold reforms and prudent policies laid the foundation for the country's sustained growth. As a scholar and economist, he brought a unique perspective to governance, emphasizing evidence-based decision-making and technocratic efficiency.

: The Enigma Unveiled

Manmohan Singh's journey, as chronicled in "The Making and Unmaking of Manmohan Singh," is a tale of remarkable achievements and unfulfilled aspirations. He emerged as an unlikely leader, navigating the complexities of Indian politics with both skill and restraint. His legacy as an economic reformer and statesman will continue to be debated for years to come. Yet, beyond the controversies and criticisms, the quiet scholar from Gah left an enduring mark on the nation he served.

The Accidental Prime Minister: The Making and Unmaking of Manmohan Singh

by Sanjaya Baru

4.1 out of 5