Manmohan Singh
The long history of India boasts many great leaders. But the much shorter history of Indian democracy is already creating its own heroes, and Manmohan Singh, 77, is one of them.
As India's Finance Minister from 1991 to 1996, Singh realized that India had everything to gain by opening up to the world. Through his tireless efforts to cut bureaucracy and open markets, he released India's potential for the benefit of its people.
Now, as Prime Minister, he is guiding India into the ranks of the great powers. India today is a critical engine of global growth, a vital partner in global security and a model for democratic development. Perhaps more important, Singh is ensuring this progress is not enjoyed by a chosen few; he realizes that economic development is the best antipoverty program a government can design. Albert Einstein said, "Try not to become a man of success but rather try to become a man of value." In endeavoring to lift India's people to prosperity and stability, Singh has achieved both.
Nooyi is chairwoman and CEO of PepsiCo