Prime Minister Narendra Modi and several senior Union Ministers on Tuesday mourned the demise of renowned educationist, philanthropist and former Governor Dr. Dnyandeo Yashwantrao Patil, who passed away in Kolhapur after a prolonged illness. He was 90.
A recipient of the Padma Shri in 1991, Patil served as the Governor of Tripura, Bihar and West Bengal and was widely respected for building one of India’s leading educational networks through the D.Y. Patil Group. Over the years, he established numerous schools, colleges, universities and hospitals across Maharashtra and other parts of the country, earning recognition for his contributions to education, healthcare and social service.
In a post on X, PM Modi said, “Shri DY Patil Ji was at the forefront of serving society through philanthropy and education in particular. He always worked to improve the lives of others, especially the poor. Pained by his demise. My thoughts are with his family and admirers in this sad hour. Om Shanti.”
Union Home Minister Amit Shah described Patil’s passing as a profound loss to the nation. “The demise of Dr. D. Y. Patil, a renowned educationist, social worker, and former Governor, is deeply saddening. Dr. Patil, who made significant contributions to the fields of education and healthcare, dedicated his entire life to public service. May God grant the departed soul a place at His divine feet and give strength to his family, admirers, and well-wishers to bear this profound loss,” he said.
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh described Patil as a distinguished educationist who dedicated his life to advancing education and serving society with unwavering commitment. He said Patil’s contributions to nation-building and public service would always be remembered and extended condolences to his family and admirers.
Union Agriculture and Farmers Welfare Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan also expressed sorrow over the veteran leader’s passing, recalling his distinguished service as Governor of Bihar, Tripura and West Bengal. Chouhan said Patil’s invaluable contributions to education, governance and nation-building would remain an enduring legacy.
Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal paid tribute to Patil’s remarkable journey from humble beginnings to occupying high constitutional offices. He said the former Governor’s unparalleled contribution to education and healthcare would continue to inspire future generations and prayed for strength for the bereaved family.
Leader of Opposition in the Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhi also condoled the veteran educationist’s demise, describing him as a renowned social worker whose contributions to education and public service would always be remembered. He extended his condolences to Dr. Patil’s family, well-wishers and supporters.
Born on October 22, 1935, in Ambap village of Kolhapur district, Patil began his public life in politics with the Congress and served as a legislator in Maharashtra during the late 1960s and 1970s. He later shifted his focus to education, establishing a vast network of institutions that have educated thousands of students across the country.
(With agency inputs)
