Legacy of Dr. Gopalrao Patil: A Pillar of Pediatric Care and Politics

Dr. Gopalrao Patil, a distinguished paediatrician and a former member of the Rajya Sabha, has passed away at the age of 94 in Latur, Maharashtra. His demise occurred on Tuesday morning, following an illness, family sources confirmed.

Serving as a BJP member of the Rajya Sabha from 1994 to 2000, Patil was instrumental in several key parliamentary committees, including commerce, external affairs, and railways. He was also the founder of the Shiv Chhatrapati Shikshan Sanstha, responsible for establishing Rajarshi Shahu College in Latur.

Patil's contributions go beyond politics; he was revered as 'Devmanus' by locals for his free medical services in rural regions. His legacy is further enriched by his role in founding a branch of the Indian Pediatric Association and receiving multiple awards for his paediatric work. A relative of former Maharashtra Chief Minister Vilasarao Deshmukh, he leaves behind his wife, son, and three daughters. Esteemed figures like Diliprao Deshmukh and MP Shivaji Kalge attended his last rites.

(With inputs from agencies.)