The Prime Minister, Dr. Manmohan Singh has condoled the passing away of veteran social worker and politician Dr. Mohan Dharia. In his condolence message the Prime Minister said his contribution to the processes of nation building is immense and that he deeply influenced the formulation of development policy in the country.

The text of the Prime Minister's condolence message is as follows:

"I had the privilege of knowing Shri Dharia for many decades, His long public career is an inspiring example of selfless service to the people.

Dr. Dharia's contribution to the processes of nation building is immense. He became a freedom fighter at an early age and went on to serve as a Member of Parliament, a Minister in the Central Government and Deputy Chairman of the Planning Commission. He deeply influenced the formulation of development policy in our country.

Dr. Dharia continued his service to the people even at an advanced age. Through his organization Vanarai he touched and improved thousands of lives especially in the rural areas.

His life and work have had an abiding influence on everyone who came to know about them.

On this very sad occasion, I extend my deepest condolences to the family, friends and followers of Dr. Dharia. I pray for his soul."