Noted social activist D. Prakash Rao died on Wednesday at the SCB Medical College Hospital in Cuttack. He was 63.

Rao succumbed to a brain stroke at 4.15 p.m., SCB Medical College Hospital Emergency Officer B.N. Mohaparan said.

“My father was under treatment at the SCB Medical College Hospital for 20 days and passed away this afternoon,” his daughter Bhanupriya said.

The hospital official said Rao was admitted after he tested positive for COVID-19, but had later recovered from the disease. However, his condition worsened after he developed certain neurological ailments.

Rao, a Padma Shri, was known for his contribution towards imparting education to slum and orphan children in Cuttack.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Odisha Governor Ganeshi Lal and Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik condoled the demise of Rao, who earned his livelihood and undertook social activities by selling tea at Buxi Buzar in Cuttack.

Mr. Patnaik said the social activist’s funeral will be held with full State honours.

“Saddened by the demise of Shri D Prakash Rao. The outstanding work that he has done will continue motivating people. He rightly saw education as a vital means to empowerment. I recall my meeting with him in Cuttack a few years ago. Condolences to his family and admirers. Om Shanti,” Mr. Modi said on Twitter.

Mr. Patnaik said the “Good Samaritan will always be remembered for his dedication to uplift the lives of children”.