Bhubaneswar, 12 April (H.S.): Dr. Lakshmikant Dash, former Pracharak of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) and the Zonal Hita rakshya pramukh of Vanvasi Kalyan Ashram passed away. He had been battling blood cancer for a prolonged period. His demise has prompted heartfelt condolences from various quarters, including the RSS Odisha (East) unit and Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan.

In his condolence message, Shri Sameer Kumar Mahanti, Prant Sanghchalak of RSS Odisha (East), said, “Dr. Dash’s passing is a great loss to us. He was suffering from blood cancer for some time and fought the disease with courage and determination.” He further added that after completing his medical education, Dr. Dash chose to dedicate his life as a Pracharak of the RSS, beginning his service in Bargarh district.

Over the years, he served in several key roles, including at the Deendayal Research Institute and the Malachanchal Project. Since 1990, Dr. Dash was associated with the Vanvasi Kalyan Ashram and held the position of General Secretary for many years. His contributions to the upliftment of tribal communities and the propagation of national ideology in Odisha were immense and deeply impactful.

Offering condolences on social media, Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan expressed deep sorrow over the demise of Dr. Dash. I am saddened by the news of the passing of Dr. Lakshmikant Dash, a senior member of the RSS ideological family, former district Pracharak, and ex-General Secretary of Vanvasi Kalyan Ashram. He was currently serving as the Hita rakshya pramukh of Eastern Zone. Lakshmi Bhai was a dignified and soft-spoken personality. His contribution to spreading nationalistic values in Odisha will always be remembered, he wrote.

RSS has paid tribute to Dr. Dash, praying for the eternal peace of his soul. Shri Mahanti also prayed to Lord Jagannath to grant strength and solace to the bereaved family in this difficult time.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Monalisa Panda