RS Chairman inaugurates Prarambh orientation for new members

Rajya Sabha Chairman CP Radhakrishnan on Saturday inaugurated the two-day Orientation Programme ‘Prarambh’ for newly elected and nominated Members of the Upper House following the 2026 biennial elections.

The event was attended by Deputy Chairman Harivansh, Members of Parliament, Secretary-General PC Mody and senior secretariat officials. Sixty-seven members entered the House for the first time.

In his inaugural address, Radhakrishnan congratulated the new members and highlighted their presence on a weekend as a sign of commitment to parliamentary duties. He described the Rajya Sabha as the cornerstone of India’s federal democracy, uniting diverse regional voices under the Constitution, the vision of “Nation First” (Rashtra Pratham), and the goal of a Viksit Bharat by 2047.

He stressed that every policy framed, question asked, law enacted or discussion held has the power to improve countless lives and transform generations.

“Debates, discussions or even disruptions must always lead to a decision,” he said, urging protection of Question Hour and Zero Hour and cautious use of Rule 267 only in rare cases with House consensus.

Drawing from his own experience, he recalled how committee work led to the Technology Upgradation Fund Scheme for the textile industry. He advised continuous learning of rules, procedures, budgets and ethics, and called on members to embrace AI and digital tools such as Vani Setu for real-time interpretation.

Deputy Chairman Harivansh earlier welcomed the members, noting their entry during Amrit Kaal and their role in holding the Government accountable while building a developed India by 2047.

Radhakrishnan wished the participants a fruitful programme and an enriching legislative journey in service of the nation.