Former Union Minister Debendra Pradhan dies at 84; President, Prime Minister mourn
The Hindu
Veteran BJP leader Debendra Pradhan, known for his dedication to public service, passes away at 84.
Veteran BJP leader Debendra Pradhan, who was a Minister in the Atal Bihari Vajpayee government, died on Monday (March 17, 2025).
He was 84 and survived by two sons, including Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan.
Pradhan, the three-time Odisha BJP president, breathed his last at his son's official residence at Teen Murti Lane in New Delhi.
Condoling his death, President Droupadi Murmu said that having known him for many years, she got the opportunity to witness his dedication to public service and contribution to the development of Odisha and the nation.
"My heartfelt condolences to his son and Union Minister Shri Dharmendra Pradhan, other family members and admirers," she said in a post on X.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi paid floral tributes to Pradhan's mortal remains, and hailed his efforts in strengthening the BJP in Odisha.
"Dr Debendra Pradhan Ji made a mark as a hardworking and humble leader. He made numerous efforts to strengthen the BJP in Odisha. His contribution as MP and Minister is also noteworthy for the emphasis on poverty alleviation and social empowerment. Pained by his passing away. Went to pay my last respects and expressed condolences to his family. Om Shanti," Modi posted on X.
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