Vice-President Jagdeep Dhankhar on Friday here acknowledged the historical significance of the Government’s third term, unprecedented in last six decades.

Emphasising the rarity of such an accomplishment, he stated “It is for the first time since 1962 that a Prime Minister has got a third term”.

Addressing the participants of the Rajya Sabha Internship Programme at Vice President’s enclave, Dhankhar urged the interns to harness the power of social media to express their

views and remain vigilant against pernicious tendencies in democracy.

Emphasizing the role of constructive debate, dialogue and discussion in the Parliament for positive growth,Dhankhar urged the interns to mobilize public opinion if they see any deviation from these principles.

He further exhorted that Bharat is not a sleeping giant, instead we are a country on move that is rising every day and every moment. Emphasizing the significance of consulting the Indian Constitution for clarity, the Vice President advised the interns to text of Indian Constitution whenever in doubt about.

Describing the internship programme as a “Parliamentary Startup” that would provide a new direction and urge to engage with the country’s democratic processes, Dhankhar highlighted how citizens can indirectly participate and raise public issues through petitions, without being a member of Parliament.

Dr Sudesh Dhankhar, Deputy Chairman, Rajya Sabha  Harivansh, Secretary General, Rajya Sabha P.C. Mody, Secretary to Vice President, Sunil Kumar Gupta, Secretary Rajya Sabha, Rajit Punhani and other senior officials were present.