Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday addressed the media ahead of the start of the Winter Session of Parliament, calling the session an important opportunity to give fresh momentum to the country’s development efforts.
PM Modi said the session should not be treated as a formality, adding that he expects it to “infuse new energy” into ongoing national programmes. He highlighted India’s strong democratic participation, citing the high voter turnout in the recent Bihar elections and the increasing involvement of women voters as signs of a healthy democracy.
The Prime Minister said India has shown that democracy and development can go hand in hand, noting the country’s economic growth and rising global confidence. “India has proven that democracy can deliver,” he said.
PM Modi urged all political parties to focus on national interest, policy discussions and constructive debate during the session. He appealed to the Opposition to raise substantive issues and avoid disruptions driven by electoral gains or losses. “The Winter Session must reflect balance, responsibility and dignity,” he said.
He emphasised the importance of informed debate in Parliament and called on members to engage in meaningful discussion that helps citizens understand issues better. He also expressed concern that many first-time and young MPs feel they are not getting adequate opportunities to participate in debates. Parties, he said, should ensure they have a platform to express their views.
Stating that Parliament is meant for policymaking and delivery, not slogans or theatrics, PM Modi said disagreements should be voiced through structured discussions, not disruptions.
The Prime Minister also noted that this session holds additional significance as it marks the beginning of the new Rajya Sabha Chairman’s tenure. He said he was confident that the Chairman’s leadership would strengthen the functioning of the Upper House.
Discussing reforms, PM Modi said GST has improved trust between citizens and the government and described it as a foundation for future economic reforms. He said the Winter Session would take forward several important initiatives.
PM Modi also criticised the recent trend of using Parliament either as a platform for pre-election politics or as a place to vent frustration after election results. He said such behaviour has not been accepted by the public and urged a change in approach.
Concluding his remarks, the Prime Minister said he is confident that the country is moving steadily toward greater progress and that Parliament will play an important role in this journey. “The country is moving toward new heights, and this House will contribute significantly to that progress,” he said.