Manmohan Singh's funeral: Half-day holiday in central govt offices, PSUs; state mourning till Jan 1

The Union Cabinet, chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, on Friday passed a condolence resolution mourning the demise of former PM Manmohan Singh. The Cabinet paid homage by observing a two-minute silence in his memory.

State mourning has been declared for seven days till January 1, 2025, during which the national flag will fly at half-mast across India and in all Indian Missions and High Commissions abroad.

There will be no official entertainment during the period of state mourning.

"Dr. Manmohan Singh has left his imprint on our national life. In his passing away, the Nation has lost an eminent statesman, renowned economist and a distinguished leader," the resolution read.

In a separate video message, Prime Minister Modi described Manmohan Singh's death as a big loss to the nation, asserting that his commitment to the people and the country's development would always be respected. He was also effusive in praising Singh's personal virtues, noting that his life was a reflection of his honesty and simplicity.

Congress general secretary K C Venugopal on Friday said the mortal remains of Dr Manmohan Singh will be kept today at his Delhi residence for the public to offer their condolences.

He informed that on December 28, the mortal remains would be taken to the All India Congress Committee (AICC) headquarters at 8 am.

"The public and Congress workers will have the opportunity to offer their tributes between 8.30 am and 9.30 am tomorrow," Venugopal posted on X.

Dr Singh's final journey will begin from the AICC headquarters to the cremation ground at 9.30 am tomorrow, he added.

The Congress party has also cancelled all official programmes, including the Foundation Day celebrations, for the next seven days.

"This includes all the agitational and outreach programs. Party programmes will resume on 3rd January, 2025. The party flag will be flown at half mast during this period of mourning," Venugopal said.