Metro India News | Hyderabad 

Irrigation & Civil Supplies Minister Uttam Kumar Reddy paid glowing tributes to former Prime Minister Dr Manmohan Singh in the Legislative Assembly, describing him as a unique personality and a global statesman.

Speaking on the condolence motion introduced by Chief Minister A Revanth Reddy in the Assembly on Monday, Uttam Kumar Reddy highlighted Manmohan Singh’s vast contributions to India, including his pioneering economic reforms and welfare initiatives.

He recalled Manmohan Singh's service as Finance Secretary, Reserve Bank Governor, Deputy Chairman of the Planning Commission, UGC Chairman, Finance Minister, and Prime Minister.

He lauded Manmohan Singh’s tenure as Prime Minister, crediting him with waiving farmers' loans, enacting the National Employment Guarantee Scheme, and drafting the Land Acquisition Act with a humanist approach. He also emphasized Manmohan Singh’s instrumental role in granting tribal rights to forest lands and rehabilitating displaced persons through the R&R Act.

He praised Manmohan Singh’s statesmanship during the civil nuclear agreement with the United States, which was passed in Parliament despite opposition. He also acknowledged Manmohan Singh’s support for Telangana, stating his role during the movement was critical and that Manmohan Singh often engaged with Telangana leaders during the statehood struggle.

Highlighting Manmohan Singh’s humility, Uttam Kumar Reddy recounted his participation in protests as a plain-clothed MP, walking alongside party colleagues to oppose Central policies. He remarked that Manmohan Singh’s unassuming nature and dedication to public service remain an inspiration.

He described Manmohan Singh as the "backbone of Indian farmers," noting that his decision to waive loans for all farmers across India transformed rural livelihoods across the country.

He also emphasised that Singh’s economic reforms rescued India from a financial crisis and laid the foundation for the nation’s growth in subsequent decades.