Rajya Sabha held a farewell ceremony on March 18, 2026, for 59 members retiring between April and July after completing their terms, with tributes from PM Narendra Modi, LoP Mallikarjun Kharge, and others.
Key Highlights
PM Modi stated “in politics there is no full stop,” praising retiring MPs like H.D. Deve Gowda, Sharad Pawar, Ramdas Athawale, and Deputy Chairman Harivansh Narayan Singh for their service across old and new Parliament buildings. Kharge emphasized that public service continues beyond retirement.
Context and Composition
The MPs hail from 20 states following biennial elections on March 16 filling 37 seats (26 unopposed). Nine women among retirees; session highlighted bipartisan respect and Parliament as an “open university” for learning.
Broader Significance
Event underscores continuity in public life, urging outgoing members to mentor newcomers and stay engaged nationally amid ongoing Budget Session 2026.
