New Delhi, 27 December 2024 – India will observe seven days of state mourning to honor former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh, who died on Thursday night at AIIMS in New Delhi. The Union Home Ministry announced that the national flag would be flown at half-mast during this period, from December 26, 2024, to January 1, 2025, as a tribute to the late leader.
In a statement to all state and union territory chief secretaries, the Home Ministry expressed “profound sorrow” over Singh’s death and confirmed that a state funeral would be held. “The Government of India announces with deep regret the passing of Manmohan Singh, former prime minister of India, on December 26, 2024, at AIIMS hospital in New Delhi,” the statement read.
The directive outlined that no official entertainment would take place during the mourning period, underscoring the solemn nature of the national tribute.
Additionally, the national flag will fly at half-mast on the day of Singh’s funeral at all Indian missions and high commissions abroad, ensuring the gesture extends internationally.
Details regarding the time and location of the funeral have not yet been disclosed. Singh, a respected economist and statesman, served two consecutive terms as India’s prime minister from 2004 to 2014.