Rajya Sabha Bids Farewell To 59 Members From 20 States, Including 9 Women

The Rajya Sabha today bid farewell to 59 members from 20 states, including 9 women members. Speaking during the farewell, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said that their contribution to parliamentary democracy will always be remembered. He said that in politics, there is never a full stop, as their experience and contribution to the nation will always remain relevant and valuable. He said the retiring members have made immense contributions to the House.

PM Modi said this is an occasion that every two years immerses the Members in emotional moments in this House. He said when such an occasion comes, the respect is expressed towards the colleagues who are moving forward for a special purpose. Mentioning Deputy chairman Harivansh who is also retiring Mr Modi said he had the opportunity to discharge his responsibilities in this House for a long time. The Prime Minister said Mr Harivansh has always tried to win the confidence of everyone while conducting the proceedings of the House.

Notable senior leaders including Deputy Chairman Harivansh Narayan Singh, Mallikarjun Kharge, Deve Gowda, and Sharad Pawar are among those retiring from their current terms.

Highlighting the best contributions of the outgoing members, the Prime Minister suggested that the new generation of MPs should look to veterans like Shri Deve Gowda, Shri Kharge, and Shri Sharad Pawar as role models.

Reflecting on the changing traditions of the House, PM Modi remarked that while the 24×7 media environment has made everyone more conscious, the legacy of humor and wit remains an essential part of parliamentary life. He highlighted that the departure of a group every two years allows for a continuous exchange of knowledge, ensuring that the House’s rich legacy is preserved by the incoming members. Shri Modi observed that this institutional continuity is a significant advantage that strengthens the democratic process. “The legacy here is a continuous process that enriches our parliamentary system,” remarked the Prime Minister.

Highlighting the unique institutional value of the Rajya Sabha, PM Modi pointed out that the parliamentary system gains immense strength from the concept of a “second opinion.” He noted that the transition of decisions between the two Houses adds a critical new dimension to the legislative process, ensuring more refined outcomes for the country. This democratic heritage, according to him, fosters a sense of openness and thoroughness in national decision-making. “This second opinion is a massive contribution to our democracy that we must cherish,” said Shri Modi.

The Prime Minister pointed out that the retiring cohort holds the rare distinction of having served in both the old and the new Parliament buildings during their tenure. He remarked that being part of the historic transition to the new House would serve as a fresh and significant memory in their public service careers. Shri Modi described the House as a “Great Open University” that provides members with a unique education in the complexities of national life. “The six years spent here are invaluable for shaping one’s contribution to the nation and for self-growth,” emphasized the Prime Minister.

Concluding the address, Shri Modi expressed confidence that the members’ vision and capacity have expanded manifold through their years of parliamentary experience. He noted that their invaluable contributions to nation-building would continue to be felt whether they serve within the formal system or through independent social work. PM Modi once again glorified the long and dedicated service of the retiring representatives, thanking them for their commitment. “I once again salute and glorify the contributions of all the retiring members,” emphasized Shri Modi.

Kharge, Leader of the Opposition in the Upper House of Parliament, delivered his farewell speech today and noted how his time in the House has enriched him.

The Congress president then spoke about former Prime Minister HD Deve Gowda and NCP founder Sharad Pawar, whose current terms in the Rajya Sabha are about to end. Pawar, however, is set to return to the House.

Kharge said Deve Gowda was the Prime Minister and served in several other capacities. “I have known him for 54 years and have worked with him. But I don’t know what happened. He dated us, loved us, but married Prime Minister Narendra Modi,” he said, drawing a round of laughter from across the House. The Prime Minister, who was present in the Rajya Sabha, was seen laughing too.(UPDATED ON 18TH MARCH 2026)