Expressing shock over Pant's demise, Uttarakhand Chief Minister Vijay Bahuguna said he took remarkable initiative during his stint as Planning Commission vice chairman for the development of the hill state.
"His death is an irreparable loss for the nation, particularly for Uttarakhand," Bahuguna said in his condolence message.
Congress veteran and former Chief Minister N D Tiwari also expressed shock at his death saying it was a personal loss for him.
Expressing grief at Pant's death, senior BJP leader and former Uttarakhand Chief Minister B C Khanduri described him as a morally upright politician who served the nation in several important capacities.
"He will always be remembered for his integrity and neutral views," Khanduri said in his message.
Pant belonged to Bhowali, 12 kms from Nainital, where his ancestral house is located.