Former Odisha minister Ananta Das passed away in the early hours of Sunday due to age-related ailments, his family confirmed. He was 85.

Das, who had been unwell for some time, breathed his last at his government residence in Bhubaneswar around 3:40 am, his son Biswajit Das said. He is survived by his wife, three sons, and a daughter.

A senior BJD leader, Das had served as the Minister of Higher Education and Industries in Odisha. A six-time MLA from Bhograi constituency in Balasore district, he played a key role in shaping the state’s education and industrial policies.

President Droupadi Murmu and Odisha Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik expressed their condolences, acknowledging his contributions to the state. “His work in the education and industrial sectors will always be remembered,” Patnaik said in a statement.

Several political leaders and party workers visited his residence to pay their respects. His last rites will be performed in his hometown, with full state honors.