PANAJI
Former Chief of the Indian Army General Sunith Francis Rodrigues, who traces his roots to Curtorim in South Goa, passed away on Friday at the Manipal Hospital in Dona Paula.
He was 88 years old and served as Chief of Army Staff from 1990 to 1993.
Later, post-retirement from the Army, he also served as Governor of Punjab and the Union Territory of Chandigarh from 2004 to 2010.
Although born and brought up in Mumbai, then Bombay, General Rodrigues traced his family roots to Curtorim village in South Goa. Post-retirement years, he made Goa his home and lived here, during which he headed the International Centre, Goa for several years.
General Rodrigues has been hailed as “Thinker and Strategist” by the Military Headquarters.
In a series of tweets, the Additional Directorate General of Public Information (ADGPI), Indian Army, said:” General MM Naravane #COAS & All Ranks of #IndianArmy express heartfelt condolences on the sad demise of General Sunith Francis Rodrigues, who passed away today. Known as a Thinker and Strategist, he leaves behind a legacy of utmost dedication & service to the Nation.”
A follow-up tweet by @aggpi said: General S F Rodrigues was #COAS of #IndianArmy between 1990-93. In addition to his more than 40 years of illustrious service in the Army, he served two terms on the National Security Advisory Board and was Governor of Punjab between 2004 to 2010.”
“The Nation and #IndianArmy will always be indebted to his invaluable contribution and service to the Nation. #IndianArmy” read another tweet.
Meanwhile, Chief Minister Pramod Sawant condoled the death of the former Indian army chief.
“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 & all Goans are proud of his service to our motherland. Heartfelt condolences to the family,” Sawant said in a tweet.
Opposition Leader Digambar Kamat, also tweeted to condole the passing away of Gen. Rodrigues.
“Saddened by the passing away of former Army Chief & former Governor of Punjab, General Sunith Francis Rodrigues. He served our nation with dignity, dedication & devotion. He was a thinker & strategist. My condolences to his family. May his soul rest in peace,” Kamat tweeted.
