Arunachal Pradesh Governor, Chief Minister mourn Ananth Kumar 's demise

ITANAGAR: Arunachal Pradesh Governor Brig (Retd) Dr B D Mishra and Chief Minister Pema Khandu on Monday mourned the sad demise of Union Minister for Chemicals & Fertilizers and Parliamentary Affairs Ananth Kumar.

Kumar, a five-time MP from Bengaluru constituency, held charge of two key ministries - Chemicals and Fertilizers since May 2014 and Parliamentary Affairs since July 2016 in the Central Government. He was one of the few ministers to have served in the earlier NDA government led by Atal Bihari Vajpayee.

The Governor in his condolence message said that in the death of Kumar, the Nation has lost one of the grassroots leaders, distinguished public figure with huge political experience and a social worker. Conveying sincere and heartfelt condolences to the bereaved family on behalf of the people of the State, the Governor prayed to Almighty to bestow enough strength to bear the loss and for eternal peace for the departed soul.

In his condolence message to Kumar's wife, the Chief Minister said, "It pains my heart to write to you at this moment of extreme grief. I humbly endure to share with you the saddest times of your life though I know that it would be hard to do so and ease the pain you and your family are going through."

"The news of sad demise of Ananth Kumar, Union Minister and senior BJP leader has come as shock to me," Khandu said.

As Minister Chemicals and Fertilizers, Kumar created a revolution in fertilizers in India by moving to cent per cent neem-coated urea. He was instrumental in initiating affordable quality health care and opened over 3,600 Jan Aushadhi Kendras in the country. His focus on society was seen in his commitment to support the less privileged children by ensuring that they get food everyday in schools, the Chief Minister said.

"He will be remembered as a people's leader, a veteran parliamentarian and a supreme organizer. His demise is a great loss to the country. Though it will be difficult to share your grief at this moment, I and the people of entire the Northeast, particularly Arunachal Pradesh, extend our solidarity with you and your family," Khandu said.

"May Lord Buddha bless the departed soul with eternal peace in heavenly abode and give strength to you and your family to bear the irreparable loss," the message added.

Also Read: Arunachal News