March 7, 2025: Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah announced that Bengaluru City University (BCU) will be renamed after former Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh as a tribute to his contributions to the nation. The announcement was made during the presentation of the state budget in the Legislative Assembly on Thursday.

This move makes BCU the first university in the country to bear Singh’s name, following his demise on December 26, 2024, at the age of 92. The Congress-led Karnataka government’s decision aims to honour Singh’s lasting legacy, particularly his role in shaping India's economic reforms.

As part of the renaming initiative, Government Arts College and Government RC College will be brought under the university as constituent colleges, Siddaramaiah stated in his speech.

Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar had previously announced plans to set up a research and study centre at Bangalore University to focus on Singh’s contributions to economic reforms and national development. Speaking a day after Singh’s passing, Shivakumar highlighted the importance of preserving his legacy.

"Destiny is not in our hands, but I am proud to say that though Manmohan Singh is no more, he is still alive through his contributions to the nation. His legacy cannot be altered," he had said, stressing that the study centre would help students understand the reforms that transformed India's economy.

Dr. Manmohan Singh, who served as India’s 13th Prime Minister from 2004 to 2014, was instrumental in introducing economic liberalisation policies in the 1990s that propelled India's growth. His contributions in governance, financial policy, and education were widely acknowledged. Karnataka’s decision to rename BCU in his honour is seen as a fitting tribute to his immense influence on India’s economic and academic landscape.