Bhubaneswar, March 17: Odisha has lost one of its tallest leaders and a true architect of modern infrastructure and political strength. Dr. Debendra Pradhan, a stalwart in Odisha’s political history and a founding pillar of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) in the state, passed away in New Delhi on Monday at the age of 83. Dr. Pradhan breathed his last at his son Dharmendra Pradhan’s residence, following prolonged age-related health issues.

Dr. Pradhan’s demise marks the end of an era in Odisha’s political and developmental history. Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla, Union ministers Rajnath Singh, Jual Oram, and Giriraj Singh, along with Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi and BJP state president Manmohan Samal, expressed their deep condolences. Political leaders across party lines joined the nation in mourning the loss of a leader whose contributions reshaped Odisha’s infrastructure and political landscape.

A Legacy of Leadership and Transformation

Born on July 16, 1941, in the undivided Dhenkanal district of Odisha, Dr. Pradhan’s journey from a humble beginning to becoming a key figure in national politics is a story of dedication and perseverance. A doctor by profession, he completed his MBBS from SCB Medical College and Hospital in Cuttack. Despite a promising career in medicine, Dr. Pradhan chose to walk the path of public service, dedicating his life to the political and infrastructural development of Odisha.

As one of the first-generation leaders who laid the foundation of the BJP in Odisha, Dr. Pradhan played a pivotal role in expanding the party’s reach across the state. His tenure as the president of the BJP’s Odisha unit was marked by tireless grassroots efforts, recruiting cadres and nurturing future leaders like Jual Oram, Rudranarayan Pani, Jayaranarayan Mishra, and Suresh Pujari — many of whom rose to prominence under his mentorship.

Dr. Pradhan’s political career reached its peak when he served as the Union Minister of Surface Transport and Agriculture under the Atal Bihari Vajpayee-led government. His visionary leadership transformed Odisha’s infrastructure. When he took charge, the state had only 1,600 km of national highways — a network that nearly doubled during his tenure. Under his guidance, several state roads were upgraded to national highways, enhancing connectivity, fostering economic growth, and improving the lives of millions in Odisha.

Sacrifice and Dedication

Dr. Pradhan’s decision to sacrifice a lucrative medical career for political service speaks volumes about his commitment to the people of Odisha. He tirelessly traveled across the length and breadth of the state, building the BJP’s grassroots network and strengthening its presence in rural and urban Odisha alike. His ability to connect with people from all walks of life earned him immense respect and admiration.

Even beyond politics, Dr. Pradhan’s influence was felt in Odisha’s social and economic fabric. His work in the surface transport and agriculture sectors laid the groundwork for Odisha’s modernization, creating avenues for trade, employment, and rural development.

Family and Personal Life

Dr. Pradhan is survived by his wife, Basanta Manjari Pradhan, and his two sons, Soumendra Pradhan and Dharmendra Pradhan. Dharmendra Pradhan, a Lok Sabha member from Sambalpur, serves as the Union Minister of Education, Skill Development, and Entrepreneurship in the Narendra Modi government. Dr. Pradhan also leaves behind a legacy carried forward by his grandchildren.

A Nation Mourns

Prime Minister Narendra Modi, paying tribute to the departed leader, described Dr. Pradhan as a "towering figure whose contributions to Odisha and the nation will never be forgotten." Senior journalist Sriram Dash remarked, "Dr. Pradhan’s passing marks the end of an era in Odisha’s political history. His legacy of dedicated public service and political leadership will continue to inspire generations to come."

Family sources confirmed that Dr. Pradhan’s mortal remains will be brought to Odisha this afternoon. His last rites will be performed at Swargadwar, Puri, on Tuesday in accordance with traditional rites.

A Lasting Legacy

Dr. Debendra Pradhan’s life was one of relentless service and visionary leadership. His impact on Odisha’s infrastructure and political landscape will remain etched in the state’s history. From transforming national highways to mentoring future leaders, Dr. Pradhan’s legacy will endure as a guiding light for Odisha and the nation.

As Odisha bids farewell to one of its greatest sons, the state stands united in grief and gratitude — for a life well-lived and a legacy that will continue to shape Odisha’s future.

Article By A.K. Sahoo

(A Bhubaneswar-based Sr Journalist)

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