Panaji: Goa Chief Minister, former Defence Minister and one of the tallest leaders of India Manohar Parrikar died after fighting pancreatic illness. He breathed his last at his residence today evening. He was sixty-three.
He is survived by his sons Utpal and Abhijat.
Parrikar led the Defence Ministry when Indian security forces conducted the successful surgical strike to avenge the attack at Uri.
Dubbed as the ‘Chief Minister of the Common’, Manohar Parrikar was known for his simple living and high standards of leadership. He made sure that everyone had easy access to him even when he became the Chief Minister of the State.
Indian President Ramnath 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 to public life, his service to the people of Goa and of India will not be forgotten.”
Prime Minister Narendra Modi said, “A true patriot and exceptional administrator, he was admired by all. His impeccable service to the nation will be remembered by generations.”
Parrikar is an alumnus of IIT-Bombay with a degree in metallurgical engineering and was the first IITian to be elected as an MLA in India.
The four-time- Chief Minister of Goa was born in Mapusa and joined RSS at an early age and continued his association with the organization after graduation. He became a Sanghchalak at the age of 26 and was a great organizer in the Ram Janmabhoomi movement.
He was elected to the Goa Assembly in 1994 and became Chief Minister for the first time in 2000.
In 2014, Parrikar was chosen as the Defence Minister by Narendra Modi and held this post till March 2017. He quickly made his mark with his unique ability to take quick decisions and brought transparency and efficiency into the defence ministry within a short span of time.
Manohar Parrikar, a close friend of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, was the face of BJP in Goa with his characteristic friendly smile and simple neat dressing.
He was taken ill since February 2018 and was treated in hospitals in Goa, Mumbai and the United States. He maintained a tight work schedule even while he was suffering the pains of his illness.
Manohar Parrikar will be missed by all. He will be remembered for his clean politics, commitment and selfless devotion to the country.
He fought till the end and went the hero’s way with fortitude and dignity.
