Former Goa CM Ravi Naik Passes Away; PM Modi & Leaders Pay Tribute To Veteran Leader

Ravi Naik, former Chief Minister of Goa and the state’s Agriculture Minister, passed away on 15 October following a sudden cardiac arrest, his family confirmed. His passing marks the end of a significant chapter in Goan politics, where he remained an influential leader for over four decades.

“Saddened by the passing away of Shri Ravi Naik Ji, Minister in the Goa Government. He will be remembered as an experienced administrator and dedicated public servant who enriched Goa’s development trajectory. He was particularly passionate about empowering the downtrodden and marginalised. My thoughts are with his family and supporters in this hour of grief. Om Shanti,” PM Modi posted on X.

Goa Chief Minister Pramod Sawant also paid tribute, posting, “Deeply saddened by the demise of our senior leader and Cabinet Minister Shri Ravi Naik Ji. A stalwart of Goan politics, his decades of dedicated service as Chief Minister, and Minister across key portfolios have left an indelible mark on the state’s Governance and people.”

Sawant further praised Naik’s leadership, humility, and consistent commitment to public service.

A Long Political Journey

Naik began his political career in the 1980s with the Maharashtrawadi Gomantak Party (MGP) before joining the Indian National Congress, where he rose to prominence. He served as Goa’s Chief Minister twice, first briefly in 1991 and then again in 1994, with a combined tenure of approximately 850 days.

Additionally, he also represented North Goa in the Lok Sabha between 1998 and 1999.

In a significant political shift, Naik joined the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) ahead of the 2022 Goa Assembly elections. He was later appointed as Agriculture Minister in the Pramod Sawant-led government.

Known for his grassroots connections and efforts to uplift the underprivileged, Ravi Naik maintained a respected presence across party lines. His death has left a void in the political landscape of Goa.

Naik’s contributions to governance, agriculture, and social welfare will be remembered by both his supporters and political colleagues.

As Goa mourns the loss of a seasoned statesman, tributes continue to pour in from across the political spectrum.

Also Read: PM Modi To Interact With Bihar Booth Workers Under ‘Mera Booth Sabse Majboot’ Campaign