As a young officer, I had the opportunity of working as special assistant to Dr. Manmohan Singh Ji when he was deputy chairman of the Planning Commission. I remember him as a sagacious economic policy strategist who knew what policies would work for the Indian economy. My association with him as a young officer helped me sharpen my economic policy-making capabilities, which enormously helped when I held economic policy-making positions in Odisha and the Government of India.
Equally, his human qualities evoked great respect for him. He was a real example of a man with substance who was always humble. Whenever he spoke to me, he gave the impression that I was the most important person he was speaking to. That says a great deal, indeed.
Further along my career in civil service I had the privilege of working with Dr. Manmohan Singh ji when he was Finance minister when momentous transformative changes were introduced. Later whenever I met him he took a very keen interest in what I and my family were doing. I will always cherish those warm memories. His passing away is a great loss to the country and a personal loss to me. History will remember him as someone instrumental in giving a new direction to the Indian economy at a time when the economy was facing one of the most difficult times. A true economic visionary.
About the Author:
Dr. U. Sarat Chandran is a retired IAS officer, Ex Additional Chief Secretary Govt of Odisha, Ex Advisor to IMF, Ex-Secretary General Colombo Plan, Sri Lanka, Ex private secretary to Dr. Manmohan Singh when he was deputy chairman Planning Commission, several senior positions in Economic Affairs department, GOI.
Disclaimer
The opinions expressed in the article are the personal opinions of the author. The facts and opinions appearing in the article do not reflect the views of Pragativadi and Pragativadi.com does not assume any responsibility or liability for the same.
