New Delhi, 18 March (H.S.): Prime Minister Narendra Modi has said that “there is no full stop in politics” and that public service continues beyond the walls of Parliament, as he bade an emotional farewell to 59 Rajya Sabha members retiring between April and July during the 18‑March valedictory session in the Upper House. The Prime Minister described Parliament not merely as a law‑making chamber but as an “open university” where every member learns, grows and contributes to democratic discourse.

Addressing the farewell function in the Rajya Sabha, PM Modi recalled that the House is a forum where members from across the political spectrum offer their perspectives on diverse issues, and stressed that every participant adds distinct value to the deliberative process. He acknowledged that within a six‑year term lawmakers experience both “bitter and sweet” moments, but at the time of retirement common sentiments of respect and goodwill rise above partisan divides.

The Prime Minister noted that some of those leaving the House may return in future terms, while others will carry their experience into broader social and public‑life roles. “To those who are going, I wish to say that there is no full stop in politics. The future awaits you, and your experience will always be useful to the nation,” he said, underlining that politics and public service are continuous voyages rather than finite careers.

In his address, the PM specially highlighted the contributions of veteran leaders such as H. D. Deve Gowda, Mallikarjun Kharge and Sharad Pawar, saying that their long parliamentary tenure has enriched the legislative process and strengthened democratic institutions. He urged the younger generation of MPs to draw lessons from their discipline, commitment and deep understanding of parliamentary procedure.

PM Modi also praised Deputy Chairman Harivansh, describing him as a gentle and skilful presiding officer who steered the Rajya Sabha in a smooth and dignified manner. He added that Harivansh remains active outside the House as well, engaging with youth and helping them stay informed about the country’s political and social realities.

Saluting the distinctive style of Ramdas Athawale, the Prime Minister observed that, in an era of 24x7 media coverage, humour and wit in the House have become comparatively rare, yet Athawale has consistently eased the atmosphere and brought people together with his characteristic wit.

Re‑emphasising the value of the “second‑opinion” nature of the two‑House system, the PM called it one of democracy’s great strengths. He explained that decisions taken in one chamber are scrutinised in the other, which makes the decision‑making process richer, more inclusive and better balanced. This institutional counter‑check sustains democratic equilibrium, he said.

The Prime Minister pointed out that every two years a substantial group of Rajya Sabha members completes its tenure, but the institution endures through the steady infusion of new faces and the continuity of experience‑based mentoring. The outgoing members, he said, will be remembered for their contributions as the House keeps evolving, with the sitting members expected to guide the new entrants and further strengthen the institution.

Reflecting on the dual‑era experience of many outgoing MPs, PM Modi noted that several of them have worked in both the old and the new Parliament buildings, which will remain a special and memorable achievement in their public lives. Their association with the construction and functioning of the new Parliament complex will, he said, stay with them as a meaningful chapter in the narrative of India’s republican journey.

In his closing remarks, the Prime Minister observed that the six years spent in Parliament play a crucial role in shaping any member’s life, not only as a platform for policy‑making but also as a crucible for personal growth and the broadening of national outlook. He wished the retiring members well, thanked them for their service and reiterated that their experience will continue to be an asset for nation‑building, regardless of the roles they take on in the years ahead.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar