Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi today addressed the Rajya Sabha and extended heartfelt congratulations to Shri Harivansh on his election as Deputy Chairman of the Rajya Sabha for an unprecedented third consecutive term. Highlighting this historic achievement, the Prime Minister remarked that this reflects the House's deep trust in Shri Harivansh and the valuable experience he has brought to the institution. "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," remarked Shri Modi.
The Prime Minister noted the special significance of April 17, coinciding with the birth anniversary of former Prime Minister Chandra Shekhar. Drawing attention to Shri Harivansh's close association with Chandra Shekhar Ji, PM Modi observed that the Deputy Chairman had worked as his companion 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," affirmed Shri Modi.
Recalling Shri Harivansh's distinguished career in journalism, the Prime Minister praised his commitment to high standards and impactful writing. The Prime Minister shared that even during his tenure in Gujarat, he regularly read Shri 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," remarked Shri Modi.
The Prime Minister highlighted Shri Harivansh's pioneering work through his column series titled 'Hamara Sansad Kaisa Ho' (What Should Our Parliament Member Be Like) during his journalism days. Emphasizing the value of this experience, PM Modi suggested that new Members of Parliament from both Houses could learn immensely from Shri 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," stated Shri Modi.
The Prime Minister commended Shri 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, Shri Harivansh has maintained full-time presence in the House, attending sessions even when not presiding. "This reflects his deep commitment to his responsibilities and sets an example for all of us," observed Shri Modi.
The Prime Minister drew attention to Shri Harivansh's remarkable public engagement beyond parliamentary duties, particularly his work with youth. Sharing impressive statistics, He revealed that since assuming office as Deputy Chairman in 2018, Shri Harivansh has conducted over 350 programs 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," emphasized Shri Modi.
Appreciating the Deputy Chairman's focus on building confidence among students, the Prime Minister noted that Shri 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 Shri Harivansh's active participation in literature festivals across Tier-2 and Tier-3 cities, influencing and inspiring diverse sections of society.
The Prime Minister shared an interesting anecdote from Shri Harivansh's first visit to America in 1994. According to PM Modi, when asked what he wanted to see in that developed country, Shri Harivansh 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," remarked Shri Modi.
The Prime Minister highlighted Shri Harivansh's exemplary utilization 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 centers established by the Deputy Chairman, including a center for endangered Indian languages at IIT Patna, a Center for Earthquake Engineering considering the seismic vulnerability of Bihar's regions, and a River Study Center at Aryabhatta Knowledge University in Patna to address erosion problems. "He has demonstrated how MPLADS funds can be utilized in a focused direction for long-term impact," asserted Shri Modi.
The Prime Minister also mentioned other initiatives funded by Shri Harivansh, including a Business Incubation and Innovation Center at Chandragupt Institute of Management and an Artificial Intelligence Center at Magadh University. Appreciating the Deputy Chairman's continued connection with his village roots despite urban relocation, Shri 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 Shri Harivansh during the construction of the new Parliament building, the Prime Minister expressed how valuable his collaboration had been. PM Modi recalled how Shri Harivansh would perfect ideas for naming ceremonies, identifying chambers, art galleries, and various gates within two days of discussion. "Working together during the Parliament's construction was an extremely enjoyable and productive experience," remarked Shri Modi.
Acknowledging Shri Harivansh's efforts in assisting State Legislative Assemblies, Legislative Councils, and their Presiding Officers through training and capacity building, the Prime Minister also praised his active role in the Commonwealth Parliamentary Association in creating a strong impression of India's democratic system globally. Shri Modi concluded by expressing confidence in the crucial role of the House during the second quarter of the 21st century and emphasising the significant responsibility of the Presiding Officers.
