Pranab Mukherjee left an indelible mark on India’s development trajectory: Modi
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi has led an outpouring of condolence and rich tributes to former president Pranab Mukherjee, who died in New Delhi today, saying that he left an indelible mark on the politics and development of the country.
Meanwhile, India tonight announced a seven-day state mourning on the demise of Pranab Mukherjee.
During the state mourning, national flag will fly at half-mast on buildings across India and there will be no official entertainment, the Indian Home Ministry said.
"India grieves the passing away of Bharat Ratna Shri Pranab Mukherjee. He has left an indelible mark on the development trajectory of our nation. A scholar par excellence, a towering statesman, he was admired across the political spectrum and by all sections of society," Modi tweeted.
Pranab Mukherjee made "long-lasting contributions in key economic and strategic ministries. He was an outstanding parliamentarian, always well-prepared, extremely articulate as well as witty," the PM said.
As the president, Pranab Mukherjee had "made Rashtrapati Bhavan even more accessible to common citizens. He made the President's house a centre of learning, innovation, culture, science and literature. His wise counsel on key policy matters will never be forgotten by me," Modi said.
India grieves the passing away of Bharat Ratna Shri Pranab Mukherjee. He has left an indelible mark on the development trajectory of our nation. A scholar par excellence, a towering statesman, he was admired across the political spectrum and by all sections of society. pic.twitter.com/gz6rwQbxi6
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) August 31, 2020
The Indian premier recalled that when he was new to Delhi in 2014, "from Day 1, I was blessed to have the guidance, support and blessings of Shri Pranab Mukherjee. I will always cherish my interactions with him. Condolences to his family, friends, admirers and supporters across India."
India's Vice President M Venkaiah Naidu expressed profound grief on the passing away of Pranab Mukherjee and said he was "a statesman and an illustrious son of India who brought dignity and decorum to every post held by him. In his death, India has lost one of the outstanding leaders."
Hailing Pranab Mukherjee as "an encyclopaedia on parliamentary processes, contemporary political and other matters," Nadiu noted his scholarly knowledge, adding that he was an excellent parliamentarian and known for his oratorical skills.
"His phenomenal memory and quick grasp of the issues were legendary. He took an abiding interest in deepening democracy and strengthening various institutions. He was one of the great consensus figures and used to reach out to everybody across the political spectrum," Naidu said.
West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee expressed deep sorrow over the death of Pranab Mukherjee and said with his demise "an era has come to an end".
She recollected her long association with Mukherjee and extended her condolence to his son and daughter.
Mamata said "for decades he was a father figure. From my first win as MP, to being my senior cabinet colleague, to his becoming President while I was CM."
"So many memories. A visit to Delhi without Pranabda is unimaginable. He is a legend in all subjects from politics to economics. Will be forever grateful. Shall miss him immensely. My condolences to Abhijit and Sharmistha," she added.
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