Goa Chief Minister Manohar Parrikar has passed away at the age of 63 following a prolonged ailment.
Parrikar’s demise was announced by President Ram Nath Kovind via Twitter.
The Centre has announced national mourning on March 18 (tomorrow). Parrikar will be accorded a State funeral. The national flag will fly at half-mast in the National Capital and capitals of states and Union Territories.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi has tweeted: “Shri Manohar Parrikar was an unparalleled
leader. A true patriot and exceptional administrator, he was admired by all. His impeccable service to the nation will be remembered by generations. Deeply saddened by his demise. Condolences to his family and supporters. Om Shanti.”
Describing Parrikar as the “builder of modern Goa”, PM Modi has said that “Thanks to his affable personality and accessible nature, he remained the preferred leader of the state for years. His pro-people policies ensured Goa scales remarkable heights of progress.”
PM Modi has said that “India will be eternally grateful” to Parrikar for his tenure as the Defence Minister. “When he was RM (Raksha Mantri), India witnessed a series of decisions that enhanced India’s security capacities, boosted indigenous defence production and bettered the lives of ex-servicemen,” PM Modi said on Twitter.
Here’s what will happen on March 18:
> 9.30 am to 10.30 am: Mortal remains to be kept at the BJP head office in Panaji, Goa
> 10.30 am: Mortal remains to be taken to Kala Academy
> 10.30 am to 4.00 pm: Mortal remains to lie in state for public homage
> 4.00 pm: Funeral procession to begin for Miramar, Goa
> 5.00 pm: Last rites to be held at Miramar, Goa