Centre announces half-day holiday for govt offices, CPSUs on Dr Manmohan Singh's state funeral day

The Union Cabinet, chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, on Friday passed a Condolence Resolution in memory of former Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh, who passed away at the age of 92. The resolution noted on the day of the State Funeral, the Central Government offices and Central Public Sector Undertakings (CPSUs) will observe a half-day holiday to allow the nation to pay its respects to the departed leader.

The Indian leader will be accorded a State Funeral with full state honours, an honour reserved for the highest leaders and public figures, on Saturday.

The Cabinet paid its tribute to Dr. Singh by observing a two-minute silence, marking a solemn moment of reflection for the nation.


In honour of his extraordinary service to the country, the Centre also declared state mourning for seven days, from December 27 to January 1, 2025. During this mourning period, the National Flag will be flown at half-mast across the country, symbolising the nation’s collective grief and respect for the former leader.

The Union Government has also directed that the National Flag be flown at half-mast in all Indian Missions and High Commissions abroad for the full seven-day mourning period, further reflecting the nation’s respect for Dr. Singh’s legacy on the global stage.

Dr. Singh’s contributions to India’s economic liberalisation, his role in strengthening democratic institutions, and his diplomatic acumen made him a respected figure not only in India but also on the world stage.

His leadership during some of the nation’s most challenging times will be remembered as one of the most defining periods in modern Indian history, said PM Modi in a video statement on Friday.