The cooperators across the country are in deep mourning following the tragic death of former Gujarat Chief Minister Vijay Rupani in a devastating plane crash at Ahmedabad airport.
While the entire nation grieves the loss of lives in the accident, the cooperative community is particularly saddened by the passing of a leader who maintained close ties with the sector and supported its growth.
Tributes poured in from prominent cooperative leaders who remembered Rupani not just as a political figure, but as a friend of the cooperative movement. Many took to social media to express their shock and sorrow, sharing personal memories and photographs of moments spent with the late leader.
A childhood friend of senior cooperator and NUCFDC Chairman Jyotindra Mehta, Vijay Rupani would visit his home on every auspicious occasion. Indian Cooperative has previously covered several stories featuring the two flying kites together during festivals.
Mehta shared photographs of their memorable moments and expressed deep personal grief, calling Rupani’s death a loss not just for Gujarat, but for the entire cooperative sector.
Dileep Sanghani, President of the National Cooperative Union of India (NCUI), shared an emotional message,
stating, “The news of the death of former Gujarat Chief Minister Shri Vijaybhai Rupani in the Air India passenger plane crash at Ahmedabad airport is extremely tragic and deeply saddening. Vijaybhai was a significant leader who entered public life at a young age and worked with dedication and compassion. He will always be remembered for his noble deeds. My heartfelt condolences to his family and supporters in this time of grief.”
Dr. Chandra Pal Singh Yadav, Chairman of ICA-Asia Pacific and former Member of Parliament, also expressed deep anguish, saying, “The horrific plane crash in Ahmedabad is heartbreaking. Among the many lives lost was that of our dear friend and former Gujarat CM Shri Vijaybhai Rupani, which makes this tragedy even more painful. May God grant eternal peace to the departed souls and strength to the bereaved families. This is a moment of collective sorrow for the nation.”
NAFED Chairman Jethabhai Ahir wrote, “I am deeply shocked by the tragic demise of former Gujarat Chief Minister Shri Vijaybhai Rupani, who was known for his simplicity and spirit of service. The news of his passing in the Ahmedabad plane crash is heartbreaking. I pray that the Almighty grants peace to his noble soul and gives his family the strength to bear this immense loss. Om Shanti.”
Other national-level cooperative leaders also expressed their condolences and paid tributes, emphasizing Rupani’s unwavering support for cooperatives during his political career. His sudden demise has left a deep void in the hearts of cooperators and citizens alike.
The cooperative fraternity joins the nation in mourning the loss of a respected statesman and supporter of people-centric development.
