Manmohan Singh and his enduring contributions to the North-East

Dr Manmohan Singh's association with the Northeast goes beyond political representation—it is a story of deep-rooted ties and sustained efforts to address the region's unique challenges.

- ABHIJIT DEB

Known for his humility, integrity and vision, India's 14th Prime Minister left a lasting mark on Assam and the broader Northeast through his policies, developmental initiatives, and empathetic leadership. Dr Singh's journey from an academic economist to the highest office in the country is intertwined with his nearly three-decade-long representation of Assam in the Rajya Sabha.

Beyond being a statesman and reformer, he became a symbol of stability and progress for the northeast, championing its causes at the national level and bridging its aspirations with India's broader developmental goals.

THE ASSAM CONNECTION: A TENANT AND A LEADER

Dr Singh's association with Assam began in 1991 when he was first elected to the Rajya Sabha from the state. Renting a modest top-floor house in Guwahati's Sarumotoria locality, owned by Hemoprova Saikia, widow of former Assam chief minister Hiteshwar Saikia, he maintained this connection throughout his tenure, even as Prime Minister.