PM Modi Bids Farewell to Retiring Rajya Sabha MPs, Praises Contributions in Emotional Address
New Delhi, March 18 (TheTrendingPeople): Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday bid farewell to Members of Parliament retiring from the Rajya Sabha, acknowledging their contribution to legislative work and national development.
A total of 37 MPs from 10 states are set to retire between April and July, marking the end of their current tenure in the Upper House. The farewell proceedings began with members collectively honouring colleagues who will soon step down.
Addressing the House, the Prime Minister reflected on the shared journey of parliamentarians, noting the emotional nature of such moments.
He said that while debates in the House often involve disagreements, farewell occasions bring a sense of mutual respect among members. He added that some retiring MPs may return in the future, while others will continue serving the public in different capacities.
What PM Modi’s Address
PM Modi highlighted the contribution of senior leaders, including H. D. Deve Gowda, Mallikarjun Kharge, and Sharad Pawar, praising their decades-long experience in parliamentary life.
He emphasised that younger members should learn from such leaders, particularly their dedication, discipline, and commitment to public service.
The Prime Minister also appreciated the role of Deputy Chairman Harivansh Narayan Singh in ensuring smooth functioning of the House.
In a lighter moment, he referred to Union Minister Ramdas Athawale, describing him as a jovial presence whose humour would continue to resonate beyond the House.
Continuity of Parliamentary Tradition
PM Modi underlined the significance of the Rajya Sabha’s rotational system, where one-third of members retire every two years.
He said this system ensures continuity, allowing experienced members to guide newcomers while preserving institutional knowledge. According to him, the six-year tenure provides MPs with a valuable opportunity to contribute to policymaking and grow through experience.
Political Context and Recent Elections
The farewell comes shortly after the biennial Rajya Sabha elections held on March 16, where the ruling National Democratic Alliance (NDA) strengthened its position in the Upper House.
The alliance secured all five seats in Bihar and three out of four seats in Odisha, while polling was conducted for 11 of the 37 vacancies. The remaining candidates were elected unopposed earlier.
These results are expected to influence legislative dynamics in the coming sessions of Parliament.
Why It Matters
The retirement of 37 MPs marks a significant transition in the Rajya Sabha, bringing both continuity and change to India’s legislative framework.
The induction of new members, combined with the experience of continuing MPs, will shape the direction of debates and policymaking in the Upper House.
As the retiring MPs prepare to conclude their tenure, PM Modi’s address highlighted the enduring value of parliamentary service and the importance of collective contribution to national life.
The transition reflects the evolving nature of India’s लोकतांत्रिक institutions, where experience and fresh perspectives continue to coexist.
Our Final Thoughts
The farewell to Rajya Sabha members is more than a ceremonial event — it reflects the continuity of India’s democratic processes. As experienced lawmakers step down, their institutional knowledge and contributions remain part of the system, while new members bring fresh ideas and perspectives. PM Modi’s remarks underline the importance of respect, learning, and collaboration in parliamentary functioning. With evolving political equations in the Upper House, the coming months will be crucial in determining how effectively this blend of experience and renewal shapes national policymaking.