A testament to resilience
Refer to ‘Lessons that MMS taught us’ (The Great Game); Dr Manmohan Singh’s legacy offers profound lessons in leadership. His commitment to economic liberalisation, despite political adversity, showcased his visionary policy. His quiet dignity in the face of media trials illustrates the grace under pressure that defines true statesmanship. His efforts towards peace with Pakistan, though not fully realised, remind us of the potential of diplomacy. He taught us that in a diverse nation like India, leadership must transcend petty divisions, fostering unity and inclusivity. His tenure stands as a testament to resilience.
Amanjot Kaur, Mohali
Misjudging Manmohan Singh
Apropos of ‘Lessons that MMS taught us’; the article aptly highlights the unjust vilification of Dr Singh, whose leadership shaped India’s future. The media and political opportunists tried to undermine his statesmanship. Despite relentless opposition from the Left, Dr Singh persisted with radical policies like the India-US civil nuclear deal, securing India’s global standing. His diplomatic efforts to foster peace with Pakistan and initiating border talks with China mirrored his vision for India’s progress. Our leaders must emulate his commitment to unity and development over divisive politics to ensure India’s prosperity.
Chanchal S Mann, Una
An impactful interaction
Then Prime Minister Manmohan Singh was on a visit to Chandigarh when I sought a meeting with him. He listened to me with rapt attention and appeared sympathetic to the issues I raised regarding ex-servicemen. However, there was no staff officer with him to record the details. I was concerned that with no record of the points raised, the PM may not remember most of the issues. So, I decided to write to Dr Singh recalling our meeting and listed out the points that I had raised. I was a little apprehensive that my letter may not be brought to his attention by his staff. A few days later, I received a letter signed by the Prime Minister, acknowledging my letter. Such was Dr Singh — simple, humble and an intellectual of standing.
Lt Gen Harwant Singh (Retd), by mail
A tribute to the ex-PM
Having seen the Partition first hand, Dr Manmohan Singh knew what peace meant and worked incessantly to preserve it. The economy of the country lay asunder when he entered office as the Finance Minister. The New Industrial Policy was put into place and the economy opened up. When the UPA managed to form the government, it chose Dr Singh as the PM. One of the biggest achievements of his rule was the introduction of MGNREGA. He also initiated friendly ties with Pakistan. The game-changer in foreign relations during his tenure was the defence agreement signed with the Bush administration in 2005 and the civil nuclear cooperation agreement in 2008. He was called names, mocked and accusations were levelled against him frequently, but he always evaded these with a smile — neither reacting nor responding. The world is surely less kind without him.
Bhavuk sharma, by mail
A mixed legacy
Dr Manmohan Singh was a person with a deep understanding of what ailed the Indian economy and the linked social issues. He was a person who understood what battles were not worth fighting for while focusing on what was important. He let Sonia Gandhi dominate the PM’s office. He lacked the Machiavellian qualities to run the office of the PM, only because he was made to act like a puppet. Had he come through the ranks after intense struggle, he wouldn’t be the man we admire, but perhaps a more independent-minded PM — better or not, who knows. He did his best within the circumscribed authority he had. His own party was his Achilles heel and prevented him from realising his vision — which was right, grounded, people-centric and inclusive.
Vikas Kuthiala, Gurugram
