PM Modi calls for calm, fact-based debate as Monsoon Session of Parliament begins

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday appealed for a productive Monsoon Session of Parliament, saying debates should be guided by "facts and reason" and that every viewpoint should be respected.

Addressing reporters before the start of the session, Modi said the country had achieved several milestones over the past month in areas ranging from space and manufacturing to clean energy, and Parliament should match that momentum through constructive discussions.

"I hope that parliamentary debates will be enriched through reason and evidence. Every voice should get an opportunity, and every viewpoint should be respected," he said.

The prime minister said smooth functioning of Parliament was the "need of the hour" and expressed confidence that experienced members across party lines would contribute meaningfully to national progress.

"I firmly believe that where there are facts and reason, there is no room for disruption. If arguments and facts are strong, one can make one's voice heard even in a calm and composed manner," he said.

Drawing a parallel with the rainy season, Modi said just as a proactive monsoon benefits the country, a proactive Monsoon Session could become "highly productive" and contribute to the welfare of the nation.

The prime minister also highlighted recent advances in the space sector by a startup, commissioning of a refinery in Rajasthan, inauguration of the country's third semiconductor plant and the rollout of a green hydrogen-powered train.

Referring to the recent success of space startup Skyroot, Modi said the average age of its team was just 28 years and described the achievement as evidence that "the capabilities and aspirations of India's youth are as limitless as space itself."

He said such accomplishments had been made possible because the country was moving ahead on the “reform express”.

The prime minister also referred to global geopolitical uncertainties, saying continuing conflicts, particularly in West Asia, had created challenges for energy-importing countries such as India by disrupting supplies of petroleum products, LPG, fertilisers and chemicals.

“Despite these challenges, India maintained a growth rate of 7.7%, making it the fastest-growing major economy in the world,” Modi said. “This demonstrates India’s capabilities and reflects the country’s determination and enthusiasm to scale new heights.”

Modi's appeal came a day after Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla urged all political parties to cooperate in ensuring a smooth and orderly session so that issues concerning the people could be discussed comprehensively and productively.

Chairing a meeting of the Business Advisory Committee (BAC) on Sunday, Birla stressed constructive deliberations, meaningful participation and adherence to parliamentary traditions.

Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju said time had been allocated for important government bills and appealed to the opposition not to disrupt proceedings.

The opposition, however, maintained that it was ready for constructive participation but accused the government of avoiding discussions on key public issues.

Congress leader Gaurav Gogoi said the opposition expected the government to answer questions on matters of public importance, alleging that it was "buying time" instead of clarifying its position.