Former Goa CM and Agriculture Minister Ravi Naik Passes Away Due to Cardiac Arrest

New Delhi (The Uttam Hindu): Goa’s Agriculture Minister and former Chief Minister Ravi Naik passed away following a sudden cardiac arrest. His family confirmed the news. Prime Minister Narendra Modi paid tribute to the veteran leader, describing him as a dedicated public servant who made an indelible contribution to Goa’s development.

Posting on social media platform X, PM Modi wrote, “Deeply saddened by the demise of Goa Minister Ravi Naik. He will be remembered as an experienced administrator and a devoted public servant who played a key role in Goa’s development journey. He was particularly committed to empowering the underprivileged and marginalized. My condolences to his family and supporters in this time of grief. Om Shanti.”

Ravi Naik was a towering figure in Goan politics, known for a political career spanning over four decades. Before joining the Congress, he began his political journey in the 1980s with the Maharashtrawadi Gomantak Party (MGP). Naik served twice as Chief Minister of Goa — first briefly in 1991 and again in 1994 — with a total tenure of around 850 days. He was also a Member of Parliament from 1998 to 1999.

A key face of the Congress in Goa for many years, Naik joined the BJP shortly before the 2022 Goa Assembly elections and was appointed as the Agriculture Minister in the Pramod Sawant-led government.

Goa Chief Minister Pramod Sawant also expressed his condolences on X, saying, “Deeply saddened by the demise of our senior leader and Cabinet Minister Ravi Naik. As a political stalwart, former Chief Minister, and minister of several key departments, his decades of dedicated service left a lasting impact on Goa’s governance and people. His leadership, humility, and contribution to public welfare will always be remembered. My deepest condolences to his family, friends, and supporters.”

Known for his grassroots connection and efforts toward uplifting marginalized communities, Ravi Naik was respected across all political lines in Goa.