Chandra passed away last night at a hospital in Goa.
"Shri Naresh Chandra was an outstanding public servant, who left an indelible mark on matters of governance & policy. Pained by his demise," Modi tweeted.
He recalled an "insightful discussion" with Chandra when he, as the ambassador to the US, had invited him for dinner. "He (Chandra) believed in strong India-USA friendship," the prime minister added.