New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi said on Saturday that the past five years of BJP-led government were about “reform, perform and transform” in the country and it is rare that transformation due to these measures can also be experienced in the same period.
Addressed the final session of the 17th Lok Sabha, marking a significant moment in India’s democratic journey, the Prime minister lauded the efforts of all members, highlighting their role in crucial decision-making and shaping the nation’s direction.
Prime Minister Modi said, “It will give constitutional powers to the future generations of the country to take pride in its heritage.”
Referring to upcoming elections, the Prime Minister said, “Elections are not far away. Some people might be nervous).” He said elections are a natural and essential dimension of democracy. “I am confident that the elections will be in accordance with the glory of our democracy,” he said.
“The next 25 years are very important for our country. Political activities have their place but the aspirations, expectations, dreams and resolve of the country is that these 25 years are something in which the country will achieve the desired results,” Modi said.
Emphasizing the challenges faced during the pandemic, PM Modi acknowledged the House’s resilience in ensuring uninterrupted national progress. He particularly commended the members for relinquishing their Saansad Nidhi funds and accepting salary cuts to aid pandemic relief efforts.
The Prime Minister further lauded the Speaker’s role in facilitating the construction of the New Parliament Building, which now houses the historic Sengol, symbolizing the reclamation of India’s heritage and marking the moment of independence. He underscored the positive global recognition earned through India’s G20 Presidency and the P20 summit, showcasing the nation’s democratic credentials.
PM Modi highlighted several transformative initiatives undertaken by the 17th Lok Sabha, including the abrogation of Article 370, which he believes brought full justice to the Constitution and ensured social justice is reaching the people of Jammu and Kashmir. He also commended the stringent anti-terrorism laws enacted, bolstering the fight against this menace.
The Prime Minister acknowledged the landmark achievements of the 17th Lok Sabha, including the adoption of new legal codes, abolishing Triple Talaq, and passing the Nari Shakti Vandan Adhiniyam, paving the way for increased female representation in Parliament. He emphasized the crucial role of the youth and lauded initiatives like the strong anti-paper leak law and the National Research Foundation Act.
Recognising the evolving needs of the 21st century, PM Modi praised the passage of the Digital Personal Data Protection Act, safeguarding data privacy and generating global interest. He stressed the importance of developing capabilities in marine, space, and cyber security, highlighting the space reforms as forward-looking with long-term implications.
Underscoring the government’s commitment to “Minimum Government, Maximum Governance,” the Prime Minister highlighted the removal of thousands of compliances and over 60 obsolete laws, easing the lives of citizens and improving the ease of doing business. He also commended the Jan Vishwas Act and the Mediation Act, simplifying processes and empowering citizens.
Expressing his condolences for members who succumbed to the pandemic, PM Modi acknowledged the disruptions it caused to parliamentary proceedings. He reiterated the enduring nature of India’s democracy and its commitment to serving humanity, urging members to carry forward this tradition.
Concluding his address, the Prime Minister thanked all members for their contributions and expressed confidence in the upcoming elections to uphold the glory of Indian democracy. He also highlighted the resolution passed regarding the Ram Temple consecration ceremony, emphasizing its significance in preserving India’s heritage and promoting national pride.
