Debendra Pradhan, ex-Union minister and Union education minister Dharmendra Pradhan’s father, dies at 83

Ashok Pradhan / Updated: Mar 17, 2025, 20:45 IST

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Debendra Pradhan, ex-Union minister and Union education minister Dharmendra Pradhan’s father, dies at 83

Bhubaneswar: Debendra Pradhan, a former Union minister and father of Union education minister Dharmendra Pradhan, passed away from age-related ailments at his residence in New Delhi on Monday. He was 83. He is survived by two sons and wife Basanta Manjari Pradhan.
A stalwart in Odisha politics and a three-time BJP state unit president (1988-1990, 1990-1993 & 1995-1997), Debendra was instrumental in establishing the BJP's foundation in Odisha during its formative years.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Union home minister Amit Shah, BJP president and Union minister JP Nadda were among those who paid their last respects to Debendra.
"Dr Debendra Pradhan Ji made a mark as a hardworking and humble leader. He made numerous efforts to strengthen the BJP in Odisha. His contribution as MP and Minister is also noteworthy for the emphasis on poverty alleviation and social empowerment. Pained by his passing away. Went to pay my last respects and expressed condolences to his family. Om Shanti," the PM posted in a condolence message on X.

Starting his political journey as BJP's Talcher mandal president (1980-1983), the medical practitioner-turned-politician went on to represent the erstwhile Deogarh Lok Sabha constituency twice (1998 and 1999). He served as Union minister of state for surface transport (1998-1999) and later held dual portfolios of surface transport and agriculture (1999-2001) in the Atal Bihari Vajpayee govt.
Family and BJP sources said the last rites of the departed leader will be performed at Puri Swargadwar on Tuesday.
Chief minister Mohan Charan Majhi, in his condolence message, praised Debendra as "a popular leader and skilled parliamentarian" who contributed significantly to the state's development. "The country and state have lost a distinguished public servant," said the CM. He also spoke with Dharmendra to express his sympathies.
The loss of the influential political figure was widely mourned by people from various walks of life. Leader of opposition Naveen Patnaik remembered Debendra for his "unparalleled organizational skills and amiable personality", noting his administrative prowess during his ministerial tenure.
State BJP president Manmohan Samal and leaders across partylines expressed their grief over the veteran leader's demise.

About the Author

Ashok Pradhan

Ashok Pradhan is currently chief of bureau The Times of India in Bhubaneswar. He is an alumnus of the Indian Institute of Mass Communication, Dhenkanal (1999-2000).

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