New Delhi, March 18 Rajya Sabha Chairman C P Radhakrishnan on Wednesday said retirement should not be viewed as an end, but as a beginning of new roles and responsibilities, as he bid farewell to retiring members of the upper house.
In his address, he said that some colleagues would be retiring in the months of April to July this year upon completion of their term, and he wished that they continue to serve the nation and people with the same dedication and commitment that they demonstrated in this house.
A total of 59 members from 20 states will be retiring during this period, including nine women.
Radhakrishnan said that the Constitution provides for the retirement of one-third members of this House every two years, thereby bringing about a periodic change in the composition of this House.
This arrangement ensures continuity in the functioning of the Council of States while also creating space for new members to join the House and enrich its deliberations with their experience and insights, he said.
This process truly reflects the character of this House as a microcosm of our diverse nation, he noted.
"Retirement should not be viewed as an end but as the beginning of new roles and responsibilities. It signifies the passing on of the baton to new members who will carry forward the legacy of this institution with fresh ideas, renewed energy and commitment.
"At the same time, the experience and wisdom gained by the retiring Members during their tenure will continue to guide and inspire the next generation of parliamentarians," he said.
The Chairman said among the members retiring are several distinguished public figures and veteran parliamentarians who have served the nation with dedication for many years in public life.
He said former Prime Minister of India H. D. Deve Gowda is a distinguished leader whose presence has added great stature to the House. With his long experience in parliamentary and public life and his deep commitment to the interests of farmers and rural communities, he has brought valuable perspectives to the debates of this House, he said.
The Chairman also said that the house has also benefited greatly from the leadership and experience of Mallikarjun Kharge, the Leader of the Opposition in the Rajya Sabha.
Making a special mention of Deputy Chairman Harivansh, whose term is also coming to an end on April 9, 2026, he said he has presided over this House with dignity, impartiality, and a deep sense of responsibility.
As Deputy Chairman, he said, he has guided the proceedings of the House with patience, fairness, and wisdom, earning the respect and appreciation of Members across the political spectrum.
"His contribution towards maintaining the decorum and orderly functioning of the House will always be remembered with great regard," Radhakrishnan said.
The Chairman said among the retiring members are also several distinguished personalities who have made notable contributions in governance and public life.
The House has also benefited from the experience of those members who have served the country in executive and administrative capacities.
"All the retiring members have been articulate voices representing diverse regions and communities of our country. Most of them have long experience in legislative affairs and have contributed significantly to the debates of the House.
"They have represented the aspirations of their respective States and communities and the nation as a whole and have raised important issues related thereto in this House," he noted.
The retiring members of this House have, through their public service and dedication, created such enduring contributions that will remain part of the legacy of this institution, the Chairman observed.
Farewell is always a painful moment, marked by a sense of parting, yet made meaningful by the lasting memories and contributions that endure, he said.
Deputy chairman Harivansh expressed gratitude in his farewell address to all his contemporaries and seniors for enlightening and inspiring him throughout his political journey.
Recollecting memories of working with senior MPs during initial days of his parliamentary duties, Singh said that, today, he cherished those memories as they became guiding principles for him.
He said that he would always remember those positive and encouraging words that the Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chairman CP Radhakrishna expressed about him.
Harivansh urged all outgoing members to remain healthy and active in their political life and expressed good wishes for those who would replace the retiring members.