Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday paid his last tribute to ex-PM Manmohan Singh, who took his last breath on Thursday at AIIMS Delhi. PM Modi called his demise a big loss to the nation and lauded his rise from a humble background to occupy some of the most important positions in the country.

Modi lauded Singh as a distinguished member of parliament, emphasising that his life was a reflection of his honesty and simplicity. He added that Singh's contributions to the nation's progress, particularly in reforms, would leave a lasting legacy.

His life will always serve as a lesson for future generations on how someone can rise above deprivation and struggles to attain the heights of success, he said.

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The Prime Minister on Friday also offered condolences to Manmohan Singh's family on his demise. Besides PM Modi, Union Home Minister Amit Shah and Union Health Minister and BJP National President JP Nadda also paid their last respects to Manmohan Singh.

Meanwhile, the mortal remains of the former PM will be kept at the All India Congress Committee (AICC) headquarters in Delhi for public viewing. According to the Congress party sources, the 'last darshan' will be scheduled for Saturday between 8:00 to 10:00 in the morning.

Singh, remembered for driving the 1991 economic liberalisation reforms as Finance Minister, will be cremated at Rajghat, the venue for the last rites of India’s Prime Ministers.

Several politicians and personalities from all walks of life have been expressing their sorrow over the demise of former PM Manmohan Singh. Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday night said that condoled the demise of former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh saying that India mourns the loss of one of its most distinguished leaders.

Manmohan Singh was born on September 26, 1932. Apart from being an economist, Manmohan Singh served as Reserve Bank of India governor from 1982-1985. He was the 13th PM of India with his tenure from 2004-2014 and was the longest-serving PM after Jawaharlal Nehru and Indira Gandhi.

(With inputs from agency)