Rajya Sabha Chairman welcomes new members, asks them to enrich debate
New Delhi, July 25
Rajya Sabha Chairman C.P. Radhakrishnan on Saturday inaugurated a two-day Orientation Programme 'Prarambh' for the newly elected/nominated members of the House, urging them to dedicate themselves whole-heartedly to their roles.
The Chairman said that even small suggestions by members during Zero Hour, Question Hour, or Committee meetings can yield major policy transformations, a statement said.
Radhakrishnan added that while legislators may agree to disagree, there must be absolute commitment to the people and the Constitution, which serves as the common moral compass.
Reiterating his key principle, he said: "Debates, discussions or even disruptions, it must always lead to a decision."
He cautioned that disruptions failing to lead to a discussion toward a decision do not serve the right purpose.
Radhakrishnan emphasised that Question Hour and Zero Hour provide vital opportunities to individual members and their sanctity must be protected from disruptions.
The inaugural function was attended by Deputy Chairman Harivansh; Members of Parliament; Secretary-General of Rajya Sabha P.C. Mody and senior officers of the Rajya Sabha Secretariat.
Deputy Chairman Harivansh emphasised that new Members are entering the Parliament during 'Amrit Kaal'; and they can play a significant role in building a 'Viksit Bharat @2047' (Developed India @2047).
He enlightened the new Members that they have the right to hold the government accountable, offer constructive criticism, guide the government onto the right path, and provide advice.
"New Members can seek answers from the Union government, raise issues of public interest, and offer counsel on bills."
Radhakrishnan noted that 67 Members have entered the House for the first time.
He appreciated their presence on a weekend despite public commitments in their respective states, saying that their attendance reflects a strong commitment toward discharging Parliamentary responsibilities and strengthening democratic institutions.
Highlighting the unique character of the Upper House, Radhakrishnan described the Rajya Sabha as the cornerstone of India's federal democracy.
He remarked that while the House brings together diverse regional voices, Members come together on the floor to strengthen national unity and integration.
He remarked that 'we are united by one document -- the Constitution; one vision - Nation First (Rashtra Pratham); and one goal-a Viksit Bharat @ 2047'.
— IANS
Reader Comments
Interesting to see the emphasis on "Viksit Bharat @2047" from Deputy Chairman Harivansh. While the vision is admirable, it sounds like a long-term goal that needs concrete steps now. Are these new members being given enough freedom to question the government, or is it just a formality? Time will tell.
Love that the Chairman mentioned Zero Hour and Question Hour as vital opportunities. These are the true platforms for grassroots issues to be raised. I hope the new MPs don't waste them on political mudslinging and actually focus on development. Every small suggestion can indeed make a big difference.
I appreciate the spirit of the programme, but let's be realistic — politics in India is messy. Will this orientation actually change how MPs behave? The Constitution and "Nation First" are great principles, but they need to be enforced, not just spoken. Let's see if these 67 new members bring fresh energy or just more of the same.
"One vision - Nation First (Rashtra Pratham)" — this is what we need to hear. The Rajya Sabha is supposed to be the house of elders and wisdom, representing diverse regional voices. I hope the new MPs use their position to strengthen federal unity, not just party lines. Good start with this orientation! 👏
While I appreciate the call for commitment to the Constitution, I hope this isn't just tokenistic. The real test will be how these new members handle contentious bills. Are they allowed to disagree respectfully, or will they face pressure to toe the party line? True democracy needs both debate
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