GDay India

Gaura Feb25 WD
collapse
Home / Opinion / Reflecting on Dr. Manmohan Singh’s Legacy: Gurpal Singh’s Insight into His Leadership and Influence

Reflecting on Dr. Manmohan Singh’s Legacy: Gurpal Singh’s Insight into His Leadership and Influence

13-01-2025  Gday India

Gurpal Singh, Principal Lawyer at Saundh, Singh & Smith Lawyers, has built a distinguished legal career with over 25 years of experience. As a highly respected figure in Melbourne’s legal community, Gurpal’s career spans multiple areas of law, including commercial, corporate advisory, and family law. His journey began in India, where he practiced at the Punjab and Haryana High Court and the Supreme Court of India before relocating to Australia in 2006. In addition to his legal expertise, Gurpal has made significant contributions to education, teaching at LaTrobe University, and establishing his own successful practice in Melbourne.

In a recent conversation, Gurpal shared his reflections on his meetings with the late Dr. Manmohan Singh, India's former Prime Minister, whose legacy continues to inspire millions. Below are excerpts from that insightful conversation about Dr. Singh’s impact on both India and the global community, particularly the Punjabi diaspora.

10
Key Discussions with Dr. Manmohan Singh on the Future of the Punjabi Community
Gurpal Singh recalls having met Dr. Manmohan Singh several times throughout his life, particularly noting their discussions around Sikhism, Gurbani, and community values. “Dr. Singh was actively involved in projects related to Gurbani and the interpretation of Guru Granth Sahib,” Gurpal shares. Dr. Singh's deep commitment to Sikh principles was evident in every aspect of his life, and he encouraged the Punjabi community to embody these values in their daily actions. Gurpal recalls how Dr. Singh placed great emphasis on truthful behavior, integrity, and the responsible financial management of a nation’s resources—principles that also aligned with his approach to governance.

Dr. Singh’s ability to weave cultural values into national development created a lasting impact not only on India but also on the global stage. The key messages from their meetings centered on how the Punjabi community could preserve and promote their heritage while engaging meaningfully with the world at large.

Dr. Singh’s Leadership and Its Impact on India’s Global Standing
Gurpal Singh believes Dr. Singh’s leadership significantly influenced the relationship between India and its diaspora, especially the Sikh community. According to Gurpal, Dr. Singh’s international profile, calm demeanor, and intellectual contributions to global economic discussions raised India’s stature on the world stage. “Dr. Singh made a highly positive impact on the international respect of the Indian diaspora and particularly the Sikh community,” Gurpal explains.

His calmness and diplomatic approach garnered admiration from world leaders, all of whom were eager to be seen with him during high-profile meetings. Dr. Singh’s remarkable economic policies, particularly on poverty alleviation, also earned him global recognition. Under his leadership, India was seen not only as a rising economic power but also as a country committed to addressing global financial challenges, particularly in poverty-stricken regions. His intellectual contribution to world economics elevated India’s respect globally, showcasing the power of leadership grounded in humility and wisdom.

Influence of Dr. Singh’s Policies on Gurpal Singh’s Advocacy for the Indian Community in Australia
Gurpal Singh credits Dr. Singh’s work and lifestyle as a significant influence on his own approach to advocating for the rights of the Indian community in Australia. He draws inspiration from Dr. Singh’s commitment to focus, hard work, and dedication to national and international issues. “Dr. Singh stands out as a great role model for Indians in general, and Sikhs in particular,” says Gurpal. “He made his community proud.” These values, particularly in terms of hard work and integrity, have guided Gurpal in his work, particularly in his advocacy for migrant rights and his efforts to support and uplift the Indian community in Australia.
Dr. Singh’s commitment to the greater good of the country and his focus on policies that elevated India’s standing in the world were key lessons for Gurpal. This sense of duty and dedication to a cause greater than oneself has resonated with Gurpal and shaped his approach to both his legal career and his involvement in the wider community.

Future Initiatives for the Punjabi Community in Australia
Gurpal Singh emphasizes the importance of the Punjabi community staying connected to both India and the global community through the creation of world-class institutions. Specifically, he advocates for the establishment of a leading institution focused on Economics and Fiscal Policy, with a global reach and research-driven approach. “The Sikh community is under an obligation to set up a world-class institution in Economics and fiscal policy,” Gurpal says. He envisions this institution as a beacon of economic research, providing innovative solutions to global challenges.

Gurpal is passionate about ensuring that the Sikh community plays an active role in shaping the future of the world’s economy. He suggests that the institution be led by Sikhs of high caliber—comparable to figures like Ajay Banga, the current president of the World Bank—who can elevate the community’s influence in the global economic sphere. Gurpal sees this as a natural extension of Dr. Singh’s legacy, as the former Prime Minister’s work and vision laid the groundwork for a global leadership role for the Sikh community in economic matters.

The meeting between Gurpal Singh and Dr. Manmohan Singh encapsulates the profound impact Dr. Singh’s leadership had on both India and the international community. Gurpal’s reflections on Dr. Singh’s life, his leadership principles, and his commitment to both the Sikh community and global development provide valuable insights for future generations. Dr. Singh’s legacy continues to inspire those who seek to make a positive impact on the world, not just through politics, but through values of humility, hard work, and commitment to the betterment of humanity.

Gurpal Singh, through his advocacy and work in the Australian legal community, embodies the principles of dedication, integrity, and leadership that Dr. Singh so passionately promoted throughout his life. As the global Punjabi community looks to the future, it can draw on the lessons of Dr. Singh’s leadership, with Gurpal Singh leading the way in advocating for a strong, prosperous, and globally connected Punjabi diaspora.

(G’day India)
11
From left: Gurpal Singh, Gursharan Kaur (Mrs Manmohan Singh), Dr. Manmohan Singh and Dr Jagtar Singh Jachak (Former Head Granthi Golden Temple)


13-01-2025  Gday India

Ryval Media - AP Dhillon WD