While addressing the Rajya Sabha, PM Modi said, “Two things about the Rajya Sabha stand out –its permanent nature. I can say that it is eternal. It is also representative of India’s diversity. This House gives importance to India’s federal structure.” He added that the Rajya Sabha gave an opportunity to those away from electoral politics to contribute to the nation and its development.

I am happy to be participating in a special discussion to mark a special occasion, the 250th of the Rajya Sabha.

The makers of our Constitution envisioned a bicameral legislative framework and this vision has enriched our democracy: PM @narendramodi

— PMO India (@PMOIndia) November 18, 2019

Two things about the Rajya Sabha stand out:

It’s permanent nature. I can say that it is eternal.

It is also representative of India’s diversity. This House gives importance to India’s federal structure: PM @narendramodi

— PMO India (@PMOIndia) November 18, 2019

The Rajya Sabha gives an opportunity to those away from electoral politics to contribute to the nation and its development: PM @narendramodi

— PMO India (@PMOIndia) November 18, 2019

Who can forget that it was through the Rajya Sabha that a stalwart like Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar could contribute even more to national progress: PM @narendramodi

— PMO India (@PMOIndia) November 18, 2019

Whenever it has been about national good, the Rajya Sabha has risen to the occasion and made a strong contribution.

It was believed that the Bill on Triple Talaq would not pass here but it did.

Even GST became a reality after it was passed in the Rajya Sabha: PM @narendramodi

— PMO India (@PMOIndia) November 18, 2019

Our Constitution inspires us to work for a Welfare State. It also motivates us to work for the welfare of states. The Rajya Sabha, as the Council of States enables us to further the spirit of cooperative federalism: PM @narendramodi

— PMO India (@PMOIndia) November 18, 2019

We can never forget the role of the Rajya Sabha when Bills pertaining to Articles 370 and 35(A) were passed.

This House has worked to further unity: PM @narendramodi

— PMO India (@PMOIndia) November 18, 2019

In 2003, Atal Ji had said that the Rajya Sabha may be the second house but no one should think of it as a secondary house.

Today, I echo the sentiments of Atal Ji and add that the Rajya Sabha must be a vibrant supportive house for national progress: PM @narendramodi

— PMO India (@PMOIndia) November 18, 2019

The Rajya Sabha is about checks and balance. This is absolutely essential for our democracy. Debates have to be many and effective.

But, there is also a difference between:

Checking and clogging.

Balance and blocking: PM @narendramodi

— PMO India (@PMOIndia) November 18, 2019

Today I want to appreciate two parties:@NCPspeaks @bjd_odisha

These parties have wonderfully adhered to Parliamentary norms. They have never ventured into the well. Yet, they have made their points very effectively.

Much can be learnt from these practices: PM @narendramodi

— PMO India (@PMOIndia) November 18, 2019