The Prime Minister has expressed his grief over the passing away of noted industrialist and public figure Shri K.K.Birla. The Prime Minister's condolence message is as follows:

"I am deeply grieved to learn of the sad demise of Shri K.K. Birla, a leading industrialist and a well known public figure of our country.

Shri Birla's contribution to the development of our country is immense. His was a multifaceted personality. He ranks among the greatest industrial leaders that India has produced. His efforts for the promotion of technical education and Hindi literature in the country received wide acclaim. He set up the K.K. Birla Foundation for the promotion of Hindi literature.

Shri Birla was a member of the Rajya Sabha for eighteen consecutive years and was known for his active participation in the debates of the House. He provided exemplary leadership in making "The Hindustan Times", a leading daily newspaper in the country. Everything he did was touched with compassion and understanding.

Shri Birla's passing away is a great loss to our country. He leaves behind a void that will be difficult to fill, I extend my heartfelt condolences to the members of the bereaved family and to the wide circle of his friends, admirers and associates. I pray for the peace of the departed soul."