Breaking News
:

Dr. Manmohan Singh’s Legacy: 5 Landmark Decisions That Shaped Modern India

Dr. Manmohan Singh

Dr. Manmohan Singh, the architect of India’s economic reforms and a two-term Prime Minister, passed away on December 26, 2024. Known for his transformative vision, Singh’s leadership brought about profound changes that continue to define India’s socio-economic landscape. From steering the country out of an economic crisis in 1991 to introducing welfare policies during his tenure as Prime Minister (2004-2014), Singh left an indelible mark on India’s history. Here are five landmark initiatives under his leadership that became milestones in the country’s development:

1. Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (MGNREGA)

Introduced in 2005, MGNREGA guaranteed 100 days of wage employment annually to rural households. This revolutionary scheme not only improved rural incomes but also bolstered infrastructure development in villages. It became a cornerstone for poverty alleviation and empowered women economically by providing them direct access to paid employment.

2. Aadhaar: A Digital Identity Revolution

Launched in 2009, the Aadhaar initiative aimed to provide a unique identification number to every Indian citizen. This digital identity transformed service delivery by enabling direct transfer of government benefits to citizens’ bank accounts, reducing corruption and improving transparency.

3. Right to Education Act (RTE)

Enacted in 2010, this law guaranteed free and compulsory education for children aged 6 to 14. It played a crucial role in reducing educational inequality, improving enrollment rates, and decreasing dropout rates. The RTE Act remains a pivotal step in ensuring that every child in India has access to quality education.

4. National Food Security Act (NFSA)

Implemented in 2013, the NFSA provided subsidized food grains to approximately two-thirds of India’s population. Under this act, eligible households could purchase rice, wheat, and coarse grains at extremely low prices, ensuring food security for millions of underprivileged citizens.

5. Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT)

Launched in 2013, the DBT system aimed to transfer subsidies and financial benefits directly to beneficiaries’ bank accounts. This initiative drastically reduced leakages, curbed corruption, and ensured that subsidies for LPG, pensions, MGNREGA wages, scholarships, and more reached the intended recipients seamlessly.

Additional Milestones Under Manmohan Singh’s Leadership

India-US Civil Nuclear Agreement (2008): A game-changer in India’s energy strategy, this agreement gave India access to advanced nuclear technology and boosted its global standing in the energy sector.

National Rural Health Mission (NRHM): Launched in 2005, NRHM modernized rural healthcare infrastructure, trained health workers, and significantly reduced maternal and infant mortality rates.

Economic Growth and Reforms: Singh’s tenure witnessed India’s GDP growing at an impressive 8-9% between 2004 and 2008. His focus on improving FDI policies and advancements in IT and service sectors further cemented India’s position as a global economic powerhouse.

A Visionary Leader and Reformist

Dr. Manmohan Singh’s policies and initiatives laid the foundation for a modern and progressive India. His economic reforms, welfare schemes, and commitment to equitable development remain a testament to his visionary leadership. As India mourns his loss, the milestones he achieved continue to inspire and guide the nation.

Popular post

Live News

Latest post

You may also like

Subscribe Here

Enter your email address to subscribe to this website and receive notifications of new posts by email.

Join Us