New Delhi [India], January 29 (ANI): The Vice-President of India and Chairman of the Rajya Sabha, C.P. Radhakrishnan, on Thursday called upon Members of Parliament to uphold parliamentary decorum, discipline and constructive debate as the 270th Session of the Rajya Sabha, the Budget Session of Parliament, commenced.

Addressing the House, the Chairman greeted the Members and noted that India continues to be the fastest-growing major economy in the world and is poised to become the third-largest economy soon. He said India's growing influence and stature in the global economy make the role of Parliamentarians crucial in shaping the nation's economic direction.

Referring to the President's Address to both Houses of Parliament, Radhakrishnan said it has set the definitive tone for national priorities and that the Rajya Sabha would contribute through its core legislative and deliberative responsibilities.

He informed the House that over 30 sittings, Members would thoroughly examine the Union Budget 2026-27 and the government's legislative proposals. He added that Department-related Parliamentary Standing Committees would scrutinise the Demands for Grants of various Ministries and Departments during the recess, and urged Members to make impactful contributions both in the House and in Committees.

The Chairman said that, alongside deliberations on budgetary proposals, several important Bills would account for a significant share of the House's business. He underlined that the scale of legislative work places a solemn responsibility on Members to utilise every minute of the scheduled business to realise the aspirations of the people they represent.

Urging Members to ensure robust parliamentary oversight, Shri Radhakrishnan appealed for the maintenance of the highest standards of decorum and order to enable meaningful transaction of business. He said democracy flourishes through diversity of views and spirited debate, and stressed that respectful exchange of opinions and constructive discussions should be the norm of parliamentary discourse.

Calling for a Session defined by decorum, discipline and dignified conduct, the Chairman invoked the ideals of Mahatma Gandhi and quoted him as saying, 'Democracy - disciplined and enlightened, is the finest thing in the world.'

Shri Radhakrishnan expressed confidence that with the cooperation of leaders of parliamentary parties and Members, the Budget Session would be productive and serve as a solid stepping-stone towards a prosperous, self-reliant and Viksit Bharat. (ANI)