Jobaaj Stories
Former Union minister and senior BJP leader Debendra Pradhan passed away in New Delhi on Monday at the age of 84. Born on July 16, 1941, in Nalam, Dhenkanal district of Odisha, he completed his MBBS from SCB Medical College and Hospital in Cuttack in 1966. He began his medical career as an Assistant Medical Officer in Talcher’s Dera region in 1967. However, in 1973, he opted for voluntary retirement to begin private medical practice.
Political Journey of Debendra Pradhan
Dr. Pradhan made his entry into politics by joining the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) in 1980. He quickly rose through the ranks and became the party president for the undivided Dhenkanal district in 1983. His leadership skills earned him the position of state BJP president in 1988, and he was re-elected in 1990. He served another term as state president from 1995 to 1997, during which Odisha witnessed the political rise of Naveen Patnaik.
In 1998, Debendra Pradhan was elected to the Lok Sabha from the Deogarh constituency. He was later appointed as the Minister of State for Surface Transport in the Atal Bihari Vajpayee-led government, where he made significant contributions to infrastructure development.
Political Leaders Pay Tributes
Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Union Home Minister Amit Shah, and several senior political leaders visited Debendra Pradhan’s residence in New Delhi to offer their condolences. The body of the late leader was flown to Bhubaneswar on Monday evening. His funeral will be held at Swargadwar in Puri on Tuesday.
Legacy and Contribution
Debendra Pradhan is remembered not only for his contributions to public health as a doctor but also for his service to the nation as a committed political leader. His son, Dharmendra Pradhan, currently serving as Union Education Minister, continues to uphold his father's legacy of public service.
