(Image source from: news18.com)
Goa Chief Minister and Former Defence Minister Manohar Parrikar (63) died at his private residence in Goa after long battle with pancreatic cancer on Sunday.
He is Bharatiya Janata Party’s tallest leader in Goa and was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer in February last year.
As the news broke out President, Vice President, Prime Minister offered their condolences and paid tributes.
The President Ram Nath Kovind said, “Extremely sorry to hear of the passing of Shri Manohar Parrikar, Chief Minister of Goa, after an illness borne with fortitude and dignity. An epitome of integrity and dedication in public life, his service to the people of Goa and of India will not be forgotten.”
Vice President Venkaiah Naidu in a message "Deeply saddened to learn about the untimely passing away of the Chief Minister of Goa, Shri Manohar Parrikar.
He is one of the most lovable and honest senior politicians of our country. He was a dynamic and dedicated individual who led life full of values and principles.
In his passing, the nation in general and Goa in particular lost its proud son. My heartfelt condolences to members of his bereaved family and I pray for his soul rest in peace."
Prime Minister Narendra Modi condoled the death of Parrikar, called him as unparalleled leader and exceptional administrator.
The Prime Minister said, “ Shri Manohar Parrikar was an unparalleled leader. A true patriot and exceptional administrator, he was admired by all. His impeccable service to the nation will be remembered by generations. Deeply saddened by his demise. Condolences to his family and supporters. Om Shanti.
Shri Manohar Parrikar was the builder of modern Goa. Thanks to his affable personality and accessible nature, he remained the preferred leader of the state for years. His pro-people policies ensured Goa scales remarkable heights of progress.
India will be eternally grateful to Shri Manohar Parrikar for his tenure as our Defence Minister. When he was RM, India witnessed a series of decisions that enhanced India’s security capacities, boosted indigenous defence production and bettered the lives of ex-servicemen”.
Parrikar, Born on December 13, 1955 his political career began as an RSS pracharak and he continued working for organisation even after graduating from IIT-Bombay as a metallurgical engineer.
He is the first IIT graduate to become a Chief Minister in 2000.
A four-time Chief Minister, Mr. Parrikar resigned as Goa CM and served as Defence Minister from 2014-17. After Assembly elections in goa in 2017 he returned back to the state to lead a coalition Government as Chief Minister.
The central government announced national mourning on Monday.Top leaders, including Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Nitin Gadkari, Amit Shah and Rajnath Singh will be in Goa to attend Manohar Parrikar's last rites today
By Sai Kumar
