The Prime Minister, Dr. Manmohan Singh, has expressed profound grief at the demise of Smt. Gyan Patnaik.

In a condolence message , the Prime Minister said, " Smt. Gyan Patnaik was a role model for women at a time when they were trying to make their mark in the mainstream of Indian society." 'Her exemplary career as a pilot and dedication to ensure the reach of science for the benefit of the masses through the Kalinga Foundation, will be remembered for years to come', he added.