I G Patel in his book "Glimpses of Indian Economic Policy: An Insider’s View", on working with Shri Chavan in the Ministry of Finance. "He was able, quick to grasp and, while attentive to our advice, not devoid of political sagacity or practical wisdom to put his own stamp on the decision-making process.
He was a perfect gentleman, available at all times and not anxious to shirk responsibilities……. He was loyal to his staff; and one of his endearing habits was that he always read some book or the other whenever he found a little time instead of indulging in idle gossip."