In a solemn start to the 262nd Session (Winter Session) of Rajya Sabha, Vice-President of India and Chairman, Jagdeep Dhankhar, extended heartfelt condolences on the demise of distinguished former Members of Rajya Sabha. The Chairman paid homage to the legacy of Prof. M. S. Swaminathan, Dr. M. S. Gill, Shri Lalitbhai Mehta, Shrimati Basanti Sarma, and Shri D. B. Chandre Gowda.
Prof. M. S. Swaminathan, hailed as the ‘Father of the Green Revolution,’ was lauded for his groundbreaking contributions to agricultural renaissance in India during the 1960s. Vice-President Jagdeep Dhankhar highlighted Prof. Swaminathan’s pivotal role in mainstreaming gender considerations in agriculture, ultimately transforming India from a food-importing to a self-sufficient nation.
Dr. M. S. Gill, remembered as an “outstanding administrator,” received accolades for introducing Electronic Voting Machines during his tenure as the Chief Election Commissioner. Vice-President Jagdeep Dhankhar acknowledged Dr. Gill’s multifaceted legacy as an administrator, prolific writer, and distinguished Parliamentarian.
Shri Lalitbhai Mehta celebrated for his roles as an eminent educationist, dedicated social worker, and proficient Parliamentarian, was remembered for his significant contributions to education and public service. The Vice-President emphasized Shri Mehta’s lasting impact on various societal spheres.
Vice-President Jagdeep Dhankhar paid tribute to Shrimati Basanti Sarma, acknowledging her as a tireless crusader for the development of the North Eastern region in India. He highlighted her unwavering commitment to women’s upliftment and children’s rights, underscoring her profound influence on social advocacy.
As the Rajya Sabha convened, these tributes served as a poignant reminder of the remarkable contributions made by these former Members, each leaving an indelible mark on the realms of agriculture, electoral processes, education, and social welfare.
