Prime Minister Narendra Modi has expressed profound condolences following the death of former External Affairs Minister K. Natwar Singh. Singh passed away on Saturday night at the age of 93 after a prolonged illness.
In a tribute posted on his X account, PM Modi wrote, “Pained by the passing away of Shri Natwar Singh Ji. He made rich contributions to the world of diplomacy and foreign policy. He was also known for his intellect as well as prolific writing. My thoughts are with his family and admirers in this hour of grief. Om Shanti.”
Singh died at Medanta Hospital in Gurugram, near Delhi, where he had been receiving treatment for several weeks.
His Journey
Born in 1931 in Bharatpur, Rajasthan, Natwar Singh had a distinguished career as a diplomat and politician. He joined the Indian Foreign Service in 1953 and served in various high-profile roles, including as ambassador to Pakistan and a member of Prime Minister Indira Gandhi’s office from 1966 to 1971. In 1984, he transitioned from diplomacy to politics, winning a Lok Sabha seat from Bharatpur on a Congress ticket.
Singh’s political career saw him serve as Minister of State for Steel, Coal and Mines, and Agriculture before becoming Minister of State for External Affairs in 1986. He was also elect President of the UN Conference on Disarmament and Development in 1987 and led the Indian delegation to the 42nd Session of the UN General Assembly.
In addition to his diplomatic and political achievements, Singh was an accomplished author, having penned around a dozen books, including his autobiography ‘One Life is Not Enough’ and works such as ‘The Legacy of Nehru: A Memorial Tribute’ and ‘Tales from Modern India.’
His last rites are schedule to be in Delhi on Sunday.
