New Delhi, 17 April (H.S.):

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday extended his felicitations to Harivansh Narayan Singh on his election as the deputy chairman of the Rajya Sabha for a third consecutive term, describing it as a clear endorsement of the House’s deep‑seated trust in his experience, balanced conduct, and ability to carry all sections along.

Historic re‑election reaffirmed

Addressing the Upper House, the Prime Minister noted that Harivansh’s re‑election for the third time in a row is, in itself, a testimony to the Rajya Sabha’s confidence in his leadership.

He underscored that this repeated mandate reflects not only the members’ trust in his personal standing but also their appreciation of the maturity and stability he has brought to the functioning of the House over the past years.

Experience and balanced presiding style

PM Modi emphasised that Harivansh’s tenure as deputy chairman has been marked by a deft and composed handling of proceedings, even in tense moments. He observed that the deputy chairman has not only ensured the smooth conduct of debates but has also enriched the sittings with his legislative experience, thereby elevating the overall decorum and gravitas of the Rajya Sabha.

Drawing on the past term, the Prime Minister said Harivansh’s consistent effort to maintain balance and inclusiveness in discussions has been widely recognised by members across party lines. He added that the House’s latest vote of confidence is, in effect, a “seal of approval” on his endeavours to keep all sections engaged and involved in the deliberative process.

Personal qualities and public‑service record

Highlighting Harivansh’s professional journey, Modi lauded his contributions to public life and journalism, noting that his working style reflects a rare combination of clarity, humility, and refined courtesy. He also commended the deputy chairman’s role in training officials of state legislative bodies, calling it a significant contribution to institutional capacity‑building within India’s parliamentary framework.

Remarking on Harivansh’s parliamentary record, the Prime Minister said that after entering the Rajya Sabha, the deputy chairman has devoted most of his time to legislative work and has efficiently presided over the House in the absence of the chairman. This, Modi said, has strengthened the House’s resilience and continuity, especially when the Vice‑President is engaged in his constitutional duties as President of India.

Youth outreach and academic‑development initiatives

The Prime Minister pointed out that since 2018, Harivansh has addressed more than 350 events in colleges and universities across the country, underscoring his sustained dialogue with the youth. He described this engagement as a vital bridge between Parliament and the younger generation, helping to shape informed civic consciousness and responsible leadership values.

PM Modi further praised Harivansh’s role in the establishment of an Artificial Intelligence Centre at Magadh University, which he said exemplifies an innovative use of parliamentary development funds. He also commended the deputy chairman’s efforts in setting up a River Research Centre in the region between the Ganga and Ghaghara rivers, aimed at addressing erosion‑related distress in those areas.

A special date and broader expectations

Observing that Harivansh’s third election to the post coincides with the birth anniversary of former Prime Minister Chandra Shekhar, the Prime Minister noted that the two leaders share a long‑standing association. He described this synchronicity as a “special coincidence” that adds emotional and historical weight to the current occasion.

Looking ahead, PM Modi expressed confidence that the deputy chairman’s new term would be marked by dedication, equilibrium, and dignity, and that the Rajya Sabha would scale fresh heights of effectiveness. He stressed that in the second quarter of the 21st century, the House faces a substantial responsibility in advancing India’s development agenda, requiring all presiding officers and members to shoulder an equally large moral and institutional duty.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar