The Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi, welcomed the Vice President, Shri CP Radhakrishnan, as he presided over the Rajya Sabha for the first time today.  The Prime Minister described the day as a moment of pride for all Hon’ble Members of the Rajya Sabha. Extending a warm welcome to the Chairman, Shri Modi said, “On behalf of the House and on my own behalf, I extend my heartfelt congratulations to you, offer my greetings, and convey my best wishes. I also assure you that all the Hon’ble Members of this Upper House will always uphold the dignity of this esteemed institution and will remain ever mindful of maintaining your dignity as well. This is my firm assurance to you.”

Shri Modi expressed confidence that, as the Winter Session is set to deliberate on key national matters,  the Chairman’s leadership will further enrich the functioning of the Rajya Sabha.

The Prime Minister noted that Chairman Radhakrishnan, hailing from a farmer’s family, has devoted his entire life to social service. “Social service has been his constant identity. Politics was only one aspect, the spirit of service remained at the core of his life’s work,” Shri Modi said. The Prime Minister added that his longstanding commitment to public welfare serves as an inspiration for all who value service to society.

Reflecting on the Chairman’s extensive public career, the Prime Minister highlighted his achievements in transforming the Coir Board into a historically high-performing institution. He also acknowledged his dedicated service as Governor and Lieutenant Governor in Jharkhand, Maharashtra, Telangana, and Puducherry. The Prime Minister especially praised his deep engagement with tribal communities in Jharkhand, often travelling to remote villages and staying overnight in small settlements to understand people’s needs. “Your spirit of service only grew even while holding the office of Governor,” he remarked.

Sharing his personal observations from years of association, the Prime Minister said that Shri Radhakrishnan sets himself apart by rising above the constraints of protocol. “In public life, there is a special strength in living beyond protocol, and we have always seen that strength in you”, Shri Modi underscored. The Prime Minister mentioned that although Chairman Radhakrishnan was born in “Dollar City,” a place with its own strong identity, he chose to focus on the welfare of those in Dollar City who belonged to oppressed, marginalised, or underserved communities.

The Prime Minister shared that as a child, Shri CP Radhakrishnan had a near-death experience when he almost drowned in the pond at the Avinashi temple. He noted that the Chairman and his family often describe his survival as an act of divine grace. Referring to another life-threatening incident, the Prime Minister recounted the devastating bomb blast in Coimbatore that occurred shortly before Shri Lal Krishna Advani’s scheduled yatra. The blast claimed the lives of nearly 60 to 70 people, and the Chairman had narrowly escaped harm.

“These incidents, which he interprets as signs of divine intervention, strengthened his resolve to devote himself more fully to the service of society,” Shri Modi said. He added that transforming such life experiences into greater positivity and commitment reflects the Chairman’s remarkable character. 

The Prime Minister shared that Chairman Radhakrishnan, during his first visit to Kashi, was deeply inspired by Maa Ganga’s blessings and took a personal vow to give up non-vegetarian food. This decision reflects his spiritual sensitivity and the inner inspiration he felt, rather than any judgment on dietary choices. “Your leadership qualities have been evident since your student life. Today, you are here to guide us all in the direction of national leadership. This is a matter of pride for all of us”, Shri Modi added.

Shri Modi recalled the Chairman’s courageous stance during the Emergency, when he confronted challenges to democracy despite limited resources, demonstrating an unwavering spirit and commitment. “Your struggle for democracy included implementing various public awareness programs. The way you inspired people has remained, and will continue to remain, a source of inspiration for all democracy enthusiasts”, Shri Modi added.

Noting his organizational acumen, the Prime Minister praised Chairman Radhakrishnan for enhancing every responsibility entrusted to him, embracing new ideas, fostering unity, and providing opportunities for younger leaders. “The people of Coimbatore elected you as their Member of Parliament, and even in the House, you consistently highlighted the development needs of your constituency, giving them due prominence before both the public and the Parliament”, Shri Modi noted.

The Prime Minister expressed confidence that Chairman Radhakrishnan’s vast experience as a parliamentarian, as Chairman of the Rajya Sabha, and now as Vice President, will serve as a guiding inspiration for the House and the nation. 

***

MJPS/VJ