"It is with a sense of profound sadness and loss that I learnt about the passing away of your husband Dr. Lakshmi Chand Jain.

I had the privilege of knowing Lakshmi for a very long time. He was a great patriot, and a strong believer in Gandhian values and decentralization of power. His ideas left a lasting imprint on formulation of public policy in our country.

As a young graduate, Lakshmi was actively involved in the Quit India movement. Soon after independence, he worked to organize relief for refugees of the partition. He helped introduce cottage industries into rehabilitation camps. He later campaigned for farm cooperative societies and became a volunteer with the Indian Cooperative Union (ICU). As Secretary of the All-India Handicrafts Board, he promoted decentralized production, introduced direct training and loans to self employed weavers and carpenters, and organized the Central Cottage Industries Emporium. As a Member of the Planning Commission, he took interest in the development of the North Eastern Region and Khadi & Village Industries. He was honoured with the Magsaysay award in 1988.

In Lakshmi's passing away, the country has lost one of our most distinguished social; policy analysts, who was deeply committed to the welfare of our people.

On a personal note, I have lost a dear friend and a valued colleague. I will always cherish my long association with Lakshmi.

On this sad occasion, I convey my heartfelt condolences to you and other members of the family, and Lakshmi's friends, colleagues, and admirers."