New Delhi: Secretary in the Department of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT) Guruprasad Mohapatra died of COVID-19 related complications on Saturday.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed deep grief over the demise of DPIIT Secretary, Dr. Guruprasad Mohapatra.
In a tweet, the Prime Minister said, "Saddened by the demise of Dr. Guruprasad Mohapatra, DPIIT Secretary. I had worked with him extensively in Gujarat and at the Centre. He had a great understanding of administrative issues and was known for his innovative zeal. Condolences to his family and friends. Om Shanti."
"Extremely saddened to hear about the loss of Dr. Guruprasad Mohapatra, Secretary DPIIT. His long-standing service and dedication to the Nation have left a lasting impact. I convey my deepest sympathies to his family and friends," Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal said in a tweet.
Union Minister Dharmendra Pradhan also took to Twitter to express his deep condolence. "A pioneer, he made unparalleled contributions in reforming the urban development landscape in Gujarat, led many public enterprises with distinction and also steered the commerce & aviation sector," Pradhan tweeted.
BJP Vice President Baijayant Jay Panda also took to Twitter to pay homage to the senior IAS officer.
Mohapatra was admitted to AIIMS in mid-April.
Also Read
Prior to taking over as DPIIT secretary in August 2019, Mohapatra served as chairman of the Airports Authority of India (AAI).
He was a Gujarat cadre 1986 batch IAS officer. He had earlier served as joint secretary in the Department of Commerce.
At the state level, he held the portfolio of Municipal Commissioner in Surat, Gujarat.