PM Modi and Odisha Chief Minister offer condolences to Padma Shri Shanti Devi

Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed his condolences on the death of Shanti Devi, a social worker and Padma Shri awardee who died last night at her home in Gunupur, Odisha's Rayagada district, and was 88 years old.

On November 9, 2021, President Ram Nath Kovind presented Shanti Devi, better known as Lugdi Devi, with the coveted Padma Shri award. She was well-known for her commitment to helping the poor and restoring peace in Maoist-affected districts of Odisha.

PM said in a tweet, “Shanti Devi Ji will be remembered as a voice of the poor and underprivileged. She worked selflessly to remove suffering and create a healthier as well as just society. Pained by her demise. My thoughts are with her family and countless admirers. Om Shanti.”

Naveen Patnaik, the chief minister of Odisha, expressed his condolences on her passing.

“Saddened to learn of the death of Padma Shri Award-winning social worker Shanti Devi. Her lifelong efforts to help the needy and tribal have always been inspiring. Her contribution to social work is invaluable. I extend my heartfelt condolences to the bereaved family and wish them well,” said Patnaik in a tweet.

Born in Balasore district in 1934, Shanti Devi began social work at an early age and founded the Seva Samaj ashram at Gunupur in Odisha. She worked towards the education of tribal girls. 

She had founded an ashram at Gobarapallin village in Rayagada district and worked tirelessly for the development and education of tribal girls.