New Delhi: Senior IAS officer of Gujarat cadre and Secretary in the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT) Dr Guruprasad Mohapatra passed away on Saturday due to Covid-related complications. Prior to taking over as DPIIT Secretary, Mohapatra, a 1986 batch IAS officer, had served as the chairman of the Airports Authority of India.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has expressed deep grief over the demise of Dr 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!”

Cabinet Secretary Rajiv Gauba has also expressed deep shock at the untimely death of Secretary DPIIT. In his condolence message, Gauba said: “Dr Mohapatra was a dear colleague and an outstanding civil servant with exceptional qualities of strategic thinking and leadership.”

As the head of one of the Empowered Groups, he worked with utmost dedication in the ongoing fight against Covid-19 pandemic. Even after he had tested positive and was not well, he continued to work for long hours, monitoring the supply of oxygen across the country, under very challenging circumstances, said Gauba in a statement.

“He will be remembered for his proactive approach and his commitment to public service. His untimely death is an irreparable loss to all of us. I extend my deepest condolences to the members of his family,” he said. /BI/