Dr Dutt passed away on 2 July 2025 at the age of 79. A 1969-batch IAS officer of the Madhya Pradesh cadre, he had earlier served with distinction in the Indian Army
Family, friends, and former colleagues gathered on Sunday at the India International Centre in the capital to remember Capt (Dr) Shekhar Dutt, SM, IAS (Retd.) , whose distinguished life in public service ended earlier this month. A prayer meeting was held to honour the memory of the former Defence Secretary, Deputy National Security Adviser, and Governor of Chhattisgarh , celebrating a life marked by courage, humility and an unwavering dedication to the nation.
Dr Dutt passed away on 2 July 2025 at the age of 79. A 1969-batch IAS officer of the Madhya Pradesh cadre, he had earlier served with distinction in the Indian Army during the 1971 Indo-Pakistan war, where he was awarded the Sena Medal for gallantry . His subsequent administrative career spanned key roles in India’s defence and strategic policymaking.
During the solemn gathering, several speakers recalled his measured wisdom and remarkable poise. One of the most heartfelt tributes came from Col Mehta, a close associate, who grew visibly emotional while reflecting on Dr Dutt’s warmth and mentorship. “He was a soldier’s soldier, and a public servant of rare calibre,” Mehta said, his voice trembling.
The session commenced with the solemn recitation of the Gayatri Mantra, followed by a Mohyal prayer led by Shri Shiv Mohan Mehta, General Secretary of the Mohyal Sabha, Speakers spoke of Dr Dutt’s calm bearing, sharp intellect and capacity to inspire. Among the speakers, many close associate, became visibly emotional recalling his mentor’s blend of humility, strength and quiet leadership. With a choked voice, he described Dr Dutt as “a soldier’s soldier and a public servant of rare calibre.”
Tributes flowed from across India’s strategic community, civil service, youth organisations and former colleagues. The Confederation of Young Leaders remembered him as a guiding light whose mentorship nurtured young minds and reinforced values of integrity and purpose
The Ministry of Defence’s earlier condolence noted that “a decorated soldier & visionary administrator, his contributions to India’s defence and national security will be remembered with deep respect”.
Those gathered celebrated not just a career of distinction, but a character defined by generosity, understated dignity and an unwavering commitment to India’s progress. With faith, reflections and shared stories, the prayer meeting offered solace — and a reaffirmation that Dr Dutt’s life remains a guiding example for future generations.
