18 March,2026 01:52 PM IST | New Delhi | mid-day online correspondent
Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Pic/PTI
Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday bid farewell to 59 retiring Rajya Sabha members, describing Parliament as an "open university" and urging outgoing legislators to continue contributing to public life beyond their tenure.
Addressing the Upper House during the biennial farewell, PM Modi said such occasions transcend political divisions and bring members together in a shared spirit of respect and reflection.
Reassuring members who may not return to Parliament, PM Modi said political life does not end with the completion of a term. "In politics, there is no such thing as a full stop. The future awaits you," he said, highlighting that their experience will remain valuable to the nation.
He added that the knowledge and exposure gained during a Rajya Sabha tenure equips members to contribute meaningfully in other capacities.
The Prime Minister paid special tribute to veteran leaders H.D. Deve Gowda, Mallikarjun Kharge and Sharad Pawar, describing them as stalwarts who have dedicated decades to parliamentary service.
He lauded their continued commitment and regular participation in proceedings, calling their long-standing presence in Parliament "exemplary" and a model for younger lawmakers.
PM Modi also acknowledged the contributions of outgoing Deputy Chairman Harivansh, describing him as soft-spoken yet highly committed to his responsibilities.
He noted that Harivansh remained actively engaged even outside parliamentary sessions, travelling across the country to interact with youth and promote awareness on national issues.
In a lighter moment, the Prime Minister referred to Union Minister Ramdas Athawale, praising his wit and humour in the House.
He remarked that humour in parliamentary debates has declined in recent times due to constant public scrutiny, but described Athawale as "evergreen," expressing confidence that he would continue to contribute actively.
Reflecting on India's bicameral parliamentary system, PM Modi compared the legislative process to seeking a "second opinion," where decisions made in one House are reviewed by the other.
He said this process strengthens democratic decision-making by encouraging broader deliberation and diverse perspectives.
Rajya Sabha Chairman C.P. Radhakrishnan noted that 59 members from 20 states, including nine women, will retire between April and July upon completion of their terms.
He emphasised that the staggered retirement of one-third of members every two years ensures continuity while allowing new voices to enter the House.
Radhakrishnan also praised the contributions of senior leaders and described Harivansh's tenure as marked by dignity and impartiality.
Urging members to remain engaged in public life, the Chairman said retirement from the House should be seen as the beginning of new responsibilities rather than an end.
He concluded by noting that the contributions of outgoing members would remain part of the institution's legacy, reflecting their dedication to public service.
The farewell marked a moment of reflection and recognition, with leaders across party lines acknowledging the role of experienced parliamentarians in shaping legislative discourse and governance.
(With inputs from PTI)
