Thiruvananthapuram: The 15th Kerala Legislative Assembly paid heartfelt tributes to former Prime Minister Dr Manmohan Singh during its 13th session on Monday.

Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan lauded Singh’s significant contributions to India’s economic growth, highlighting his forward-thinking policies that modelled the nation’s development on successful Southeast Asian economies. "Although there were differences in our policy perspectives, Dr Manmohan Singh's commitment to constitutional values and the democratic system is truly commendable," Vijayan said. He described Dr Singh as not only a brilliant financial advisor but also a staunch advocate of secular values.

The Chief Minister also underscored Singh’s pivotal roles as the RBI Governor and Finance Minister in the Narasimha Rao government, noting his visionary approach to economic reforms.

Leader of the Opposition VD Satheesan highlighted Singh’s pro-people policies during his tenure as Prime Minister, including the waiver of Rs 72,000 in farm loans. Satheesan also credited Singh for strengthening India's social welfare programmes, such as MGNREGA and NRHM, which filled the national coffers while ensuring equitable redistribution of resources.

Speaker AN Shamseer, Kanhangad MLA E Chandrasekharan, IUML leader PK Kunhalikutty, Kaduthuruthy MLA Mons Joseph, Thiruvalla MLA Mathew T Thomas, and Piravom MLA Anoop Jacob also offered glowing tributes to Singh. The proceedings for the day were adjourned following the obituary reference.