RS Chairman Dhankhar Pays Tribute to Former Members of Rajya Sabha in House

GG News Bureau
New Delhi, 4th Dec. Vice-President of India and Chairman Rajya Sabha Jagdeep Dhankhar, extended his condolences on the demise of former Members of Rajya Sabha in the House today.

At the start of the 262nd Session (Winter Session) of Rajya Sabha, the Chairman paid tribute to Prof. M. S. Swaminathan, Dr. M. S. Gill, Shri Lalitbhai Mehta, Shrimati Basanti Sarma, and Shri D. B. Chandre Gowda.

Praising Prof. Swaminathan, the ‘Father of the Green Revolution’ for laying a firm foundation for agricultural renaissance in India in the 1960s, the Vice-President noted his contributions towards mainstreaming gender considerations in agriculture and rural development.

“His contributions helped India to rise from a drought-stricken, food importing country to being declared self-sufficient in food production,” he said.

Acknowledging Dr. M.S. Gill as an “outstanding administrator”, the Vice-President recalled that it was during Dr. Gill’s tenure as the Chief Election Commissioner that Electronic Voting Machines were successfully introduced in Indian elections.

“With the passing of Dr. M. S. Gill, the nation mourns the loss of a capable administrator, a prolific writer, and an illustrious Parliamentarian,” he stated.

Paying tribute to Shri Lalitbhai Mehta, the Vice-President highlighted his role as a distinguished educationist, devoted social worker, and proficient Parliamentarian. He acknowledged Shri Mehta’s impact on the fields of education and public service.

Remembering Shrimati Basanti Sarma, the Vice-President praised her as a crusader for the development of the North Eastern region in India, recognizing her unwavering advocacy for women’s upliftment and children’s rights.

The Vice-President also lauded the legacy of Shri D. B. Chandre Gowda, describing him as an adept administrator and distinguished Parliamentarian.