Former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh, who passed away on Thursday, left an enduring impact on Karnataka, particularly through his visionary policies that highlighted Bengaluru as India’s global face. His famous statement, “people see India through the prism of Bengaluru,” underscored the city’s growing importance as a hub for innovation and progress.

During his tenure in UPA-I, Singh launched vital reforms that supported the rural economy, especially in Karnataka. His government implemented a ₹72,000 crore crop loan waiver, benefitting farmers in districts like Belagavi, Kodagu, and Shimoga. Additionally, the Prime Minister’s Rehabilitation Package allocated ₹2,689.64 crore to aid small farmers.

Beyond financial relief, Singh’s policies included the establishment of the National Commission on Farmers, led by agricultural scientist MS Swaminathan, to improve rural livelihoods. His government also introduced the Rural Self-Employment Training Institutes (RSETIs), inspired by Karnataka’s RUDSETI model, which led to the creation of nearly 600 centers nationwide to empower youth.

Singh’s influence in Bengaluru deepened with the inauguration of the Kempegowda International Airport in 2008 and the first metro train in 2011, advancing the city’s connectivity and urban development. He also supported education and infrastructure, laying the foundation for an elevated highway linking Electronic City, a critical route for Bengaluru’s IT sector.