India, July 13 -- India declared a one-day national mourning on Monday as a mark of respect for former Emir of Qatar, Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al-Thani, with Prime Minister Narendra Modi describing him as a "visionary leader".

Sheikh Hamad, known as the Father Emir of Qatar, passed away this morning at the age of 74. He ruled Qatar from 1995 to 2013 and is credited with ushering in socio-economic development in the energy-rich Gulf nation.

He also played a key role in deepening India-Qatar relations.

"We feel profound sadness at the death of the Father Emir of the State of Qatar, Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani," PM Modi said on social media.

"He was a visionary leader who guided Qatar to great levels of development and prosperity. ...