Bhubaneswar: Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi today paid heartfelt tributes to former Union Minister and veteran BJP leader Late Dr. Debendra Pradhan on his first death anniversary, describing him as a “living symbol of service, sacrifice, and integrity.
“The memorial event was held in Bhubaneswar to commemorate the first anniversary of Dr. Pradhan’s passing. Dr. Debendra Pradhan, father of Union Minister Dharmendra Pradhan, had passed away on March 17, 2025, at the age of 84 in New Delhi after a prolonged illness.
In his statement, CM Majhi highlighted Dr. Pradhan’s inspiring life journey: “Today, I paid my deepest tributes to the former Union Minister and senior politician, Late Dr. Debendra Pradhan, by attending the first death anniversary organized on the occasion of his first death anniversary in Bhubaneswar. Late Dr. Debendra Pradhan was a living symbol of service, sacrifice and integrity.
The great example he set of giving up his government job as a skilled doctor and dedicating himself to serving the poor and helpless is still a source of inspiration for all of us today.”The Chief Minister also praised Dr. Pradhan’s organizational contributions and political legacy in Odisha.
His contribution in strengthening the organization of the Bharatiya Janata Party in Odisha as the State President is unparalleled. As an efficient MP and Union Minister, he has taken the voice of Odisha to the national level and done many important works for the development of the state.
“CM Majhi specifically recalled Dr. Pradhan’s visionary initiatives: “Especially, his visionary work in the expansion of the National Highway and establishment of Krishi Vigyan Kendras has made him the eternal idol of the people of Odisha.
“Looking ahead, the Chief Minister emphasized the enduring relevance of Dr. Pradhan’s principles: “Today, as we move towards building a ‘developed and prosperous Odisha’, his value-based politics will always be a guide for us. May his immortal ideals continually guide us on the path of welfare.
“The event saw participation from several prominent leaders, including Union Defence Minister Rajnath Singh and other BJP figures, underscoring Dr. Pradhan’s lasting impact on Odisha’s political landscape and the BJP’s growth in the state. Dr. Pradhan, a former three-time BJP state president and Union Minister of State for Surface Transport and Agriculture in the Atal Bihari Vajpayee government, remains remembered for his dedication to public service, agriculture, and infrastructure development.
