At 71, Manmohan Singh is about to start a new chapter in Indian history by becoming the country's first Sikh prime minister.

Unlike when he became finance minister, the country's economy is now on a surer footing. But that does not mean his task is any easier. This time he has to ensure that the benefits of the new economic regime start reaching the poor. And he has to do that while managing a coalition of a dozen disparate parties.

The last time around, Prime Minister Narasimha Rao backed Manmohan Singh all the way. He will need similar support from Congress President Sonia Gandhi this time if he is to deliver on their party's promises.

Family members of Dr Manmohan Singh including his brothers Daljit (L) and Surjit (R) watch as he appears on a television news programme in their home in Amritsar.

Photograph: RAVEENDRAN/AFP/Getty Images