Rajasekharaji's life was one of tireless commitment and service to the people, especially the poor and the underprivileged. His legacy will live on and will inspire many others in the times to come,' he said.

Manmohan Singh praised Reddy for his 'innovative programmes for the benefit of farmers and the downtrodden.' Under his leadership, Andhra Pradesh emerged as a 'role model' for other states.

He said YSR had distinguished himself in every position in his long and illustrious political career.

The prime minister said YSR was elected to the state legislative assembly at the young age of 28 and was a member of the Lok Sabha for four terms.

Saying his contribution to the Congress party was 'immense', Manmohan Singh said he led the party to two consecutive victories in Andhra Pradesh.

'As president of the Andhra Pradesh Congress Committee, he undertook a historic padayatra in 1998 which endeared him to the people of the state,' he said.

'As a chief minister, Rajasekharaji will be remembered for his unwavering commitment to the development of Andhra Pradesh and his administrative acumen. All his actions were guided by his deep sensitivity to the problems of the poor and the needy,' he added.

The prime minister said his wife Gursharan Kaur joined him in extending their heartfelt condolences to the bereaved family.

'I pray to god to give you the strength and the fortitude to guide you in this hour of profound personal loss,' the prime minister said.