Team Herald
PANJIM: Former Chief of Army Staff General Sunith F Rodrigues, PVSM, VSM passed away at a private hospital following illness on Friday. He was 88.
General Rodrigues (Retd) was the 15th Chief of Indian Army from July 1, 1990 to June 30, 1993 and after his retirement he was appointed as Governor of Punjab from 2004 to 2010. He had also served two terms on the National Security Advisory Board and was also the Director of The International Centre Goa.
General Rodrigues (Retd), a native of Curtorim was born in Mumbai on September 19, 1993. He joined the Joint Services Wing of the Indian Military Academy in 1949 and was commissioned on December 28, 1952 into the Regiment of Artillery and rose to become the Chief of Army Staff.
Governor P S Sreedharan Pillai, Chief Minister Dr Pramod Sawant and other prominent personalities have condoled the death of General Rodrigues.
In his condolence message, the Governor said, “Son of Goa and a highly decorated army officer, he (General Rodrigues) contributed immensely to the strengthening of the Indian Army and was also a remarkable administrator during his tenure as Governor of Punjab and Administrator of Chandigarh. His distinguished service to the nation can never be forgotten.”
The Governor has conveyed his heartfelt condolences to the bereaved family members and prayed for his soul to rest in peace.
Chief Minister Pramod Sawant said, “Saddened by the demise of Former Chief of #IndianArmy Staff General S F Rodrigues, who also served as Governor of Punjab from 2004 to 2010. His family belonged to Curtorim in Goa and all Goans are proud of his service to our motherland. Heartfelt condolences to the family.”
Union Minister Shripad Naik said, “Anguished by the demise of former Chief of Army Staff, General Sunith Rodrigues. My heartfelt condolences to his family. Om Shanti.”
Leader of the Opposition Digambar Kamat, “Saddened by the passing away of former Army Chief and former Governor of Punjab, General Sunith Francis Rodrigues. He served our nation with dignity, dedication and devotion. He was a thinker and strategist. My condolences to his family. May his soul rest in peace.”