Bajwa Demands Bharat Ratna for Dr. Manmohan Singh
Chandigarh (The Uttam Hindu): Leader of Opposition in Punjab, S. Partap Singh Bajwa, has called for conferring the Bharat Ratna, India’s highest civilian award, on former Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh. Bajwa highlighted Dr. Singh’s transformative contributions to India’s economic and social landscape, describing him as the architect of modern India’s economic resurgence.
“Dr. Manmohan Singh is a beacon of integrity, intellect, and humility. His contributions to India’s growth and global standing are unmatched. As a proud son of Punjab, he has brought honour to the state and the nation. The Bharat Ratna would be a fitting tribute to his lifetime of service and dedication to India’s progress,” Bajwa stated. Bajwa noted Dr. Singh’s pivotal role in introducing the 1991 economic reforms as Finance Minister, which liberalized India’s economy, dismantled the Licence Raj, and attracted foreign investments. These bold measures not only stabilized the country during a financial crisis but also set it on a path of sustained growth, establishing India as one of the fastest-growing economies in the world.
During his tenure as Prime Minister from 2004 to 2014, Dr. Singh’s leadership was marked by groundbreaking initiatives, including the Indo-US civil nuclear deal, which ended India’s nuclear isolation and ensured long-term energy security. Programs like the National Rural Health Mission, the Right to Education Act, and MGNREGA underscored his commitment to social justice and empowerment, benefiting millions across the country. Bajwa also highlighted Dr. Singh’s deep connection to Punjab, emphasizing his efforts to address the agrarian distress in the state. Under Dr. Singh’s leadership, the government introduced a historic loan waiver scheme that provided much-needed relief to thousands of distressed farming families, reaffirming his commitment to the welfare of Punjab’s people. Bajwa’s demand reflects the sentiments of millions who hold Dr. Singh in the highest regard. “It is time to honour his unparalleled contributions with the Bharat Ratna,” he urged.
