New Delhi, Apr 17 (PTI) Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday said the election of Harivansh as Deputy Chairman of the Rajya Sabha for an unprecedented third consecutive term reflects the House’s deep trust in the journalist-turned politician and the valuable experience he has brought to the institution.
Harivansh, a nominated member, was elected unopposed as Deputy Chairman after the house adopted with a voice vote a motion moved by leader of the house, J P Nadda, for electing him to the post.
“Being elected for the third consecutive term is a stamp of approval from the House on his experience, his inclusive approach, and his dignified work style,” Modi said in the Rajya Sabha while facilitating Harivansh on his re-election.
Extending his heartfelt congratulations to Harivansh, Modi also noted the special significance of April 17, coinciding with the birth anniversary of former Prime Minister Chandra Shekhar.
Recalling Harivansh’s close association with Chandra Shekhar, Modi observed that the Deputy Chairman had worked as the former Prime Minister’s close associate throughout his political journey and authored books on his life.
“Beginning your third term on Chandra Shekhar Ji’s birth anniversary makes this occasion particularly meaningful,” Modi said.
Recalling Harivansh’s distinguished career in journalism, the prime minister praised his commitment to high standards and impactful writing.
Modi said that even during his tenure in Gujarat, he regularly read Harivansh’s articles, which reflected deep study and firm conviction.
“His writing had sharp edges, but his speech and conduct always remained gentle and courteous,” he said.
The prime minister highlighted the pioneering work of Harivansh through his column series ‘Hamara Sansad Kaisa Ho’ (What should our Parliament member be like) during his journalism days. Emphasising the value of this experience, PM Modi suggested that new Members of Parliament from both Houses could learn immensely from Harivansh’s insights on parliamentary conduct, dignity, and responsibilities.
“Perhaps he never knew then that he himself would one day occupy this chair, but his writings covered the subject with remarkable depth,” he said.
Modi also commended Harivansh’s exemplary punctuality, disciplined life, and seriousness towards duties as key factors behind his universally accepted personality.
He noted that since becoming a Rajya Sabha member, Harivansh has maintained a full-time presence in the House, attending sessions even when not presiding over the proceedings.
“This reflects his deep commitment to his responsibilities and sets an example for all of us,” Modi said.
He drew attention to the remarkable public engagement of Harivansh beyond his parliamentary duties, particularly his work with youth. He revealed that since assuming office as Deputy Chairman in 2018, Harivansh has conducted over 350 programmes in colleges and universities across the country.
“This represents an extraordinary commitment to connecting with young people, preparing topics, and inspiring them with the vision of Viksit Bharat,” Modi emphasised.
Appreciating the deputy chairman’s focus on building confidence among students, he noted that Harivansh uses historical references to explain why India couldn’t progress at the desired pace earlier and what opportunities now exist for the nation to make a great leap forward.
PM Modi also mentioned his active participation in literature festivals across Tier-2 and Tier-3 cities, influencing and inspiring diverse sections of society.
Sharing an anecdote from Harivansh’s first visit to America in 1994, the prime minister said, on being asked what he wanted to see in that developed country, he had expressed his desire to visit universities to understand what kind of education and culture enabled such progress.
“He spent his entire discretionary time during that trip studying American universities, reflecting his deep commitment to educational excellence for a developed India,” Modi said.
Modi also highlighted Harivansh’s “exemplary” utilisation of the MPLADS (Members of Parliament Local Area Development Scheme) fund as a model for other parliamentarians.
The prime minister detailed various study and research centres established by the deputy chairman, including a centre for endangered Indian languages at IIT Patna, a centre for earthquake engineering considering the seismic vulnerability of Bihar’s regions, and a river study centre at Aryabhatta knowledge university in Patna, to address erosion problems.
“He has demonstrated how MPLADS funds can be utilised in a focused direction for long-term impact,” he asserted.
The prime minister also mentioned other initiatives funded by Harivansh, including a Business Incubation and Innovation Centre at Chandragupt Institute of Management and an Artificial Intelligence Centre at Magadh University.
Appreciating the Deputy Chairman’s continued connection with his village roots despite urban relocation, Modi said, “Harivansh ji remains deeply connected to his village and continuously contributes to the joys and sorrows of his community.” Sharing his personal experience of working with Harivansh during the construction of the new Parliament building, Modi expressed how valuable his collaboration had been.
Modi expressed confidence in the crucial role of the Rajya Sabha during the second quarter of the 21st century and emphasised the significant responsibility of the presiding officers. PTI NKD SKC HVA
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