Obituary: CTA Holds a Prayer Service to Mourns the Demise of Former Indian Prime Minister Manmohan Singh and Former U.S. President Jimmy Carter

December 30, 2024

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Education Kalon (Minister) Tharlam Dolma Changra, the officiating Sikyong, extending her condolences during the prayer service. Photo / Tenzin Jigme Taydeh / CTA

Dharamshala: The leadership and staff of the Central Tibetan Administration (CTA) held a prayer service this afternoon to mourn the demise of the 13th Prime Minister of India, Shri Manmohan Singh, who passed away on 26 December 2024, and the 39th U.S. President, Honourable Jimmy Carter, who passed away on 29 December 2024.

During the prayer service, officiating Sikyong, Education Kalon (Minister) Tharlam Dolma Changra read a brief biography of the two late world leaders.

“They were both prominent leaders who strongly supported the Tibetan cause. They reflected on the profound impact of shaping the global conversation on human rights, justice, and the importance of peaceful coexistence. The Central Tibetan Administration extended its deepest condolences to the bereaved families of the departed leaders, and our thoughts and prayers were with them during this difficult time”, remarked the officiating Sikyong.

“Their legacies will continue to inspire generations of individuals who strive for justice, peace, and the protection of human rights worldwide.”

Brief Bio of Prime Minister Dr Manmohan Singh:
Dr. Manmohan Singh was born on 26 September 1932 in Gah, Punjab (now in Pakistan). He was a prominent Indian economist and politician who served as the 13th Prime Minister of India from 2004 to 2014. The late Prime Minister completed his education at Punjab University and later earned a doctorate in economics from the University of Oxford.

Dr Singh played a key role in India’s economic reforms during the 1990s when he served as the Finance Minister under Prime Minister Shri P.V. Narasimha Rao. His tenure saw the liberalisation of the Indian economy, which transformed the nation’s global economic standing. As Prime Minister, Dr Singh continued to foster economic growth, signed historic international agreements, and advocated for global peace and security. His leadership was instrumental in advancing the Tibetan issue, where he consistently supported the rights of Tibetans and the preservation of Tibetan culture.

After stepping down from his role as Prime Minister, Dr Singh remained a respected figure in Indian politics and a strong advocate for international cooperation. He passed away on 26 December 2024, leaving behind a legacy of intellectual leadership, economic reform, and diplomacy.

Brief Bio of President Jimmy Carter:
James Earl Carter Jr., known as Jimmy Carter, was born on 1 October 1924 in Plains, Georgia, USA. He served as the 39th President of the United States from 1977 to 1981. Prior to his presidency, he served as the Governor of Georgia and was known for his commitment to human rights and social justice.

As president, his administration was marked by efforts in international diplomacy, including the Camp David Accords, which led to a peace agreement between Egypt and Israel. He also emphasised human rights, environmental conservation, and the promotion of democracy. After leaving office, Carter continued his humanitarian work through the Carter Center, focusing on peace, health, and human rights initiatives worldwide.

Carter was a long-time supporter of the Tibetan cause, advocating for Tibetans’ rights and calling for a peaceful resolution to the Tibet-China conflict. He passed away on 26 December 2024 at the age of 100, leaving behind a remarkable legacy of service, compassion, and advocacy for global peace.

The leadership and staff of the Central Tibetan Administration hold prayer services to honour the passing of former 13th Prime Minister of India, Manmohan Singh, and 39th U.S. President, Jimmy Carter. Photo / Tenzin Jigme Taydeh / CTA