‘Prarambh’ Beginning of Continuous Learning for MPs: Harivansh
Rajya Sabha Deputy Chairman urges newly elected members to embrace technology, parliamentary traditions and continuous self-improvement
- Harivansh addressed the valedictory session of the two-day ‘Prarambh’ orientation programme.
- Says MPs’ learning begins with orientation and must continue throughout their tenure.
- Highlights digitisation, cyber security and paperless functioning of Parliament.
- Calls parliamentary committees “Mini Parliaments” and stresses their effective use.
GG News Bureau
New Delhi, 26th July: Rajya Sabha Deputy Chairman Harivansh on Sunday said the two-day orientation programme ‘Prarambh’ marked only the beginning of a continuous learning process for newly elected and nominated members, urging them to strengthen their understanding of parliamentary procedures, embrace technology and uphold the traditions of the House.
Delivering the valedictory address at the conclusion of the orientation workshop, Harivansh said the programme was carefully designed to familiarise members with the Rules of Procedure, parliamentary conventions, legislative processes and the functioning of the Rajya Sabha Secretariat so they could effectively discharge their responsibilities.
Congratulating the participants for their active involvement, he expressed confidence that the workshop had equipped them with a better understanding of parliamentary functioning through presentations by senior members and Secretariat officials supported by practical examples.
Highlighting the role of the Rajya Sabha Secretariat, Harivansh said its officials possess immense institutional memory and are always ready to assist members with courtesy and professionalism. He also urged members to cooperate with Parliament’s security arrangements, describing the Parliament complex as a modern temple of democracy that must be safeguarded.
The Deputy Chairman stressed the importance of understanding the Budget, Question Hour and legislative procedures. Referring to the sessions conducted by senior parliamentarians and experts, he said effective use of parliamentary devices and committee mechanisms strengthens legislative oversight and government accountability.
Describing Department-related Parliamentary Committees as “Mini Parliaments,” Harivansh said they provide members an opportunity to examine government policies, departmental budgets, annual reports and legislation in detail while interacting with officials, experts and stakeholders.
Emphasising Parliament’s technological transformation, he said large-scale digitisation has made the House increasingly paperless and efficient, with all members being provided digital devices. He urged members to protect these devices and their login credentials from cyber threats, saying Parliament can lead the country through the technological revolution only when legislators themselves are digitally proficient.
Harivansh said members’ learning does not end with the orientation programme and encouraged them to continuously study parliamentary procedures, read landmark debates, observe global parliamentary practices and learn from distinguished parliamentarians.
Expressing confidence in the newly elected members, he said they would enhance the dignity of the Rajya Sabha and serve as effective public representatives during their tenure.
