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8 Tweets Jan 02, 2025
India mourns the loss of former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh.
🧵 A Visionary Leader and Architect of Modern India.
Here are his major contributions to India... x.com
As FINANCE MINISTER (1991-1996):
1991 Economic Reforms:
Singh is widely credited with initiating and overseeing the liberalization of the Indian economy. Facing a severe balance of payments crisis, he introduced a series of reforms that included:
1️⃣ Devaluation of the Rupee: This aimed to make exports more competitive and imports more expensive, thereby addressing the trade imbalance.
2️⃣ Fiscal Correction: Measures were taken to reduce the fiscal deficit, a key element in stabilizing the economy.
3️⃣ Tax Reforms: Gradual reduction of import duties, income tax, and corporate tax aimed at simplifying the tax structure and promoting investment.
4️⃣ Deregulation and Liberalization: The reforms dismantled the "License Raj," a complex system of licenses and permits required to operate businesses. This move encouraged private sector participation and competition.
As PRIME MINISTER (2004-2014):
1️⃣ Economic Growth:
• India experienced a period of significant economic growth during Singh's tenure as Prime Minister.
• This was partly driven by the continuation of economic reforms and liberalization policies. x.com
2️⃣ National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (NREGA):
• This flagship program aimed to provide guaranteed employment to rural households, contributing to poverty reduction and rural development. x.com
3️⃣ Right to Information Act (RTI): The RTI Act, passed during Singh's government, empowered citizens to access information from government bodies, promoting transparency and accountability. x.com
4️⃣ National Food Security Act (NFSA):
• The NFSA aimed to provide subsidized food grains to a large portion of the population, addressing food security concerns. x.com
5️⃣ Value Added Tax (VAT)
• Implementation: Building on earlier reforms, the introduction of VAT in 2005 streamlined the indirect tax system.
• VAT was replaced by Goods and Services Tax (GST), all over India from 1 July 2017.
6️⃣ Strengthened Foreign Relations:
Singh's government pursued stronger ties with various countries.
1. The Indo-US Civilian Nuclear Agreement was a significant development during his tenure.
2. Strengthened Relations with the US: Singh prioritised building a stronger strategic partnership with the United States, encompassing cooperation in defense, trade, and technology.
3. Look East Policy: He further developed the "Look East Policy," initiated by his predecessor, to deepen engagement with Southeast Asian countries, fostering economic and strategic ties.
4. Improved Relations with China: Despite existing border disputes, Singh's government worked towards managing differences and expanding economic cooperation with China.
5. Engagement with Pakistan: Singh continued efforts to improve relations with Pakistan through dialogue and confidence-building measures, although progress remained challenging.
6. Focus on Multilateral Forums: He actively participated in and strengthened India's role in multilateral forums like the G20, BRICS, and the East Asia Summit, advocating for India's interests on global issues.

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