New Delhi: K. Natwar Singh, a veteran Congress leader and former external affairs minister, passed away on Saturday (August 10) night at the age of 93, following a prolonged illness.He breathed his last at Medanta Hospital in Gurugram, near Delhi, where he had been undergoing treatment for several weeks, as per reports.Born in 1931 in Bharatpur, Rajasthan, Singh began his career as a diplomat before venturing into politics. Singh’s career in diplomacy began in 1953 when he was inducted into the Indian Foreign Service.He held various key positions in the Indian government, including external affairs minister from 2004-05 under former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh.From March 1982 to November 1984, Singh held the position of secretary in the Ministry of External Affairs, where he played a crucial role in shaping India’s foreign policy. His distinguished service was recognised with the prestigious Padma Bhushan award in 1984, one of India’s highest civilian honours.Singh’s first term as an MP began in 1984 when he joined the Congress and was elected from Bharatpur. His political ascent continued in 1985 when he took oath as minister of state, overseeing key portfolios such as steel, coal, mines, and agriculture under Rajiv Gandhi’s leadership. A year later, in 1986, he assumed the role of minister of state for External Affairs, further solidifying his expertise in diplomacy.Singh has penned several notable books such as “The Legacy of Nehru: A Memorial Tribute” and “My China Diary 1956-88”, which offer valuable insights into his diplomatic experiences. His autobiography, “One Life is Not Enough”, provides a candid and introspective look at his life and career.On social media platform X, President Droupadi Murmu expressed her condolences and noted that Singh was a “man of letters”.Sad to learn about the demise of former Union Minister Shri K. Natwar Singh. In his long career, he wore many hats, from a distinguished diplomat to an outstanding parliamentarian. Honoured with Padma Bhushan, he was also a renowned man of letters. My heartfelt condolences to his…— President of India (@rashtrapatibhvn) August 11, 2024Prime Minister Narendra Modi underlined that Singh “made rich contributions to the world of diplomacy and foreign policy”.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. pic.twitter.com/7eIR1NHXgJ— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) August 11, 2024Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge also paid his condolences.Our deepest condolences on the passing away of Former Union Minister, Shri K. Natwar Singh ji.An acclaimed intellectual and a Padma Bhushan recipient, he made a profound contribution to India’s diplomacy and external affairs.Our thoughts are with his family, friends and… pic.twitter.com/3jZwrcIkWz— Mallikarjun Kharge (@kharge) August 11, 2024
