Former Union Minister Debendra Pradhan died at the age of 84; Prime Minister, Prime Minister mourns

In an image posted by @narendramodi via X on March 17, 2025, Prime Minister Narendra Modi pays tribute to Debendra Pradhan, a veteran of New Delhi. |Picture source: pti/@narendramodi

Experienced BJP leader Debendra Pradhan, Minister of the Atal Bihari Vajpayee Government, passed away on March 17, 2025.

He was 84 years old and had two sons survived, including Dharmendra Pradhan, the Minister of Education of the Union.

Three-term Odisha BJP President Pradhan took his last breath at his son’s official residence in Teen Murti Lane in New Delhi.

President Droupadi Murmu condemned his death, saying he had known him for years and had the opportunity to witness his dedication to public service and contributed to the development of Odisha and the country.

“I pay tribute to his son and union minister Shri Dharmendra Pradhan, other family members and admirers,” she said in an article on X.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi paid tribute to the mortal body of Pradhan and praised him for his efforts to strengthen the Odisha BJP.

“Dr. Debendra Pradhan Ji was successful under the leadership of diligent and modest. He made many efforts to strengthen the BJP of Odisha. His contribution as MP and minister is also worth noting, as the emphasis on poverty and social empowerment is painful. His last attitude was given to his death. His last respect and my final respect and his family was shown in his family.

Several union ministers also visited the teenager’s Murti Lane residence in honor of the tribute.

Professional doctor Pradhan began his political journey in Talcher and rose from the grassroots stage. He first became the governor of the BJP in 1988 and served for two consecutive terms until 1993. He returned to the position in 1995 and continued until 1997.

He won the 1998 Lok Sabha election from the Deogarh seat and was re-elected in 1999.

Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi said he was a popular public leader and a competent MP.

Majhi said: “From 1999 to 2001, he fulfilled his duties as Minister of Transport and Agriculture.

Governor Haribabu Kambhampati said Pradhan is committed to the progress of the country.

Kambhampati said: “He dedicated his life to people’s unwavering commitment and determination. His contribution will be remembered forever. My heartfelt condolences to his sons, Union Minister Shri Dharmendra Pradhan and his family.”

Naveen Patnaik, the leader of the opposition in the state, said he will be remembered for his unparalleled organizational skills and unwavering personality.

“The state lost an influential politician and a popular politician in the death of Dr. Pradan,” he said.

Family sources say Prahan’s mortal remains will be taken from New Delhi to Bhubaneswar by night.

Deputy Chief Minister Pravati Parida said Pradhan worked to strengthen it in the state when people were afraid to join the BJP.

“He joined the BJP after he quit the medical community. Since its establishment in 1980, he joined the BJP as a grassroots worker,” she said.