Jharkhand mourns the sudden passing of its respected Education Minister, Ramdas Soren, an event that casts a dark shadow over the state’s efforts to improve learning for all. His tireless work to strengthen schools and make sure education reaches every child is now deeply missed. This unexpected news leaves the state reflecting on a significant loss and raises questions about the future path for its vital education system.
Passing of a State Leader
Jharkhand is deeply saddened by the passing of its School Education, Literacy. Registration Minister, Ramdas Soren. He was 62 years old. Mr. Soren passed away on Friday, August 15, 2025, while receiving treatment at a private hospital in New Delhi. His death marks a significant loss for the state’s political landscape and its education sector. The news was confirmed by Kunal Sarangi, the national spokesperson for the Jharkhand Mukti Morcha (JMM), who stated that Mr. Soren’s condition had been critical.
Mr. Soren had been admitted to the hospital on August 2, following a serious fall in the bathroom at his residence in Jamshedpur. The fall resulted in a brain injury and a blood clot, leading to his urgent hospitalization. He was initially taken to Tata Motors Hospital in Jamshedpur but was later airlifted to Apollo Hospital in New Delhi for more advanced medical care. Despite the tireless efforts of a multidisciplinary team of senior specialists who closely monitored his condition and provided intensive care, his health continued to be critical. he remained on life support until his demise.
A Journey of Public Service
Born on January 1, 1963, in Ghorabandha village in East Singhbhum district, Ramdas Soren’s journey in public life began at the grassroots level. He started his political career as the gram pradhan, or village head, of the Ghorabanda panchayat. This early experience shaped his deep connection with the common people, especially within the tribal community, where he was highly regarded.
Mr. Soren quickly rose through the ranks within the Jharkhand Mukti Morcha (JMM) party. He became the Jamshedpur East president of JMM in 1990. His commitment and hard work led him to contest elections for the state assembly. While he faced setbacks, including a loss as an independent candidate in the 2005 Assembly polls, his perseverance was notable. He successfully entered the Jharkhand Assembly for the first time in 2009, representing the Ghatshila constituency.
Although he lost the seat in 2014, Mr. Soren made a strong comeback in 2019, reclaiming the Ghatshila seat. He secured this seat for the third time in the most recent 2024 elections, defeating Babulal Soren of the BJP. His consistent electoral success and unwavering dedication made him an influential figure.
Mr. Soren held several essential ministerial positions in the Jharkhand government. He was inducted into the state cabinet and held portfolios such as Minister of School Education, Literacy. Registration. He was also noted to have been a minister for the Water Resources Department, Higher Education. Technical Education in previous capacities.
Commitment to Education and Tribal Welfare
As the Minister for School Education, Literacy. Registration, Ramdas Soren was known for his focus on improving the education system across Jharkhand. His efforts aimed at enhancing the quality of school education, strengthening the necessary facilities. making administrative services more efficient and open. He was widely recognized as a steadfast voice for tribal rights and actively worked towards reforms in the state’s education sector.
Mr. Soren’s simple lifestyle and strong connection to the people at the local level were defining aspects of his public persona. He was viewed as a committed public servant who steadily climbed from local governance roles to holding key ministerial positions. His contributions to the state’s development and his commitment to the welfare of its people will be long remembered.
“Ramdas Soren, a dedicated Jharkhand Education Minister and JMM legislator, was known for his grassroots connection and commitment to public service. Born in a farming family, Soren started as gram pradhan and rose to prominence. He served as a key figure in Hemant Soren’s cabinet before his recent passing.”
Widespread Tributes and Condolences
The news of Ramdas Soren’s passing sent a wave of sorrow across Jharkhand and beyond. Leaders from various political parties, social organizations. members of the education community expressed their deep grief.
Chief Minister Hemant Soren shared his condolences, writing on social media, “Ramdas Da (brother) should not have left us like this. Last greetings to Dada. ” This statement reflected the personal and professional regard held for the departed minister. Jharkhand Governor Santosh Kumar Gangwar also expressed profound sadness, calling his passing an “irreparable loss to the state. “
A table outlining key reactions from prominent figures:
| Figure | Statement or Sentiment | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Chief Minister Hemant Soren | Expressed deep sorrow, “Ramdas Da should not have left us like this. Last greetings to Dada.” | |
| Jharkhand Governor Santosh Kumar Gangwar | Deeply saddened, called it an “irreparable loss to the state.” | |
| JMM National Spokesperson Kunal Sarangi | Confirmed the news with profound grief; highlighted the personal and irreparable loss for many. | |
| BJP State Spokesperson Pratul Shah Dev | Expressed sorrow, described Soren as a “true soldier and agitator of the JMM party,” noted the state’s “double blow” after Shibu Soren’s recent passing. | |
| Jharkhand Rural Development Minister Dipika Pandey Singh | Stated his contributions to the state will always be remembered. | |
| Former Chief Minister Raghubar Das | Paid tributes, expressed hope for peace for his soul and strength for his family. |
Mr. Soren’s eldest son, Somesh Soren, was among the first to inform the public of his father’s passing through a social media post, stating, “With great sorrow I am informing you all that my father is no longer among us. ” Many remembered him as a sensitive, hardworking. visionary leader whose contributions would be remembered for years to come.
Impact on State and Future Steps
The passing of Ramdas Soren is a significant blow to the Jharkhand Mukti Morcha, which is also mourning the recent loss of party patriarch Shibu Soren earlier this month. The state government has declared a period of state mourning to honor Mr. Soren’s contributions and his dedication to public service.
The responsibilities of the Education and Literacy Department had been temporarily assigned to Sudivya Kumar Sonu during the Monsoon Session following Mr. Soren’s illness. The exact impact on ongoing education reforms and policies will become clearer in the coming days as the state processes this loss.
Mr. Soren’s mortal remains are expected to be brought back to Jamshedpur on Saturday for the final rites.
