Prime Minister Narendra Modi paid tribute to Nand Kishore Goenka, a social worker who died on July 13, 2026 [2].
Goenka's death marks the loss of a figure deeply embedded in India's social and national service networks. His influence extended through his lifelong commitment to community welfare and his ties to the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) [3].
Goenka was 96 years old at the time of his death [1]. His mortal remains arrived in Hisar, Haryana, on July 14, 2026, where they were placed for public respects [4].
Prime Minister Modi expressed his condolences and wrote to Dr. Subhash Chandra, the Chairman of Essel Group and son of the deceased. The Prime Minister said the death was an irreparable loss to society [2].
In a statement, Modi said, "Today morning our beloved father Nand Kishore Goenka, breathed his last. Though all in family are saddened. My desire is to celebrate his 96 year's life, which was full of samaj seva, cow seva, and national service as RSS sayam sevak" [3].
Goenka was renowned for his dedication to samaj seva, or service to society, and gau seva, the service and protection of cows [3]. These activities formed the core of his public identity and his association with the RSS, a prominent right-wing volunteer organization in India [3].
Leaders across the political spectrum joined the Prime Minister in honoring Goenka's legacy. The gathering in Hisar served as a final point of contact for those who worked with him in various social capacities [4].
“irreparable loss to society”
The high-level tributes from the Prime Minister underscore Goenka's role as a bridge between corporate influence, represented by the Essel Group, and the grassroots ideological framework of the RSS. His death highlights the intersection of traditional social service and nationalistic volunteerism within India's current political and social landscape.
