During the final session of the 17th Lok Sabha, Prime Minister Narendra Modi commended all Members of Parliament (MPs) for their willingness to undergo a 30 percent reduction in salary amidst the global upheaval caused by the Coronavirus pandemic in 2020, which brought normal life to a halt.
In his address, PM Modi expressed admiration for the collective decision of MPs to forego a portion of their remuneration during the challenging period of the Covid pandemic. He underscored the significance of this gesture, highlighting that MPs also suspended their subsidy for Parliament canteen food, thus setting a positive example for the public. Despite the usual criticism from the media regarding parliamentary perks, PM Modi lauded the MPs' swift action in prioritizing the nation's welfare over personal benefits.
The initiative to slash MPs' salaries by 30 percent was enshrined in a bill passed by Parliament in 2020, aimed at addressing the exigencies arising from the Covid-19 crisis. This measure was not confined to MPs alone; it encompassed all elected representatives, including PM Modi and his Council of Ministers, as well as top dignitaries such as the President, Vice-President, and state governors, who voluntarily embraced the salary cut.
Furthermore, the Cabinet endorsed the temporary suspension of the Members of Parliament Local Area Development Scheme (MPLADS) Fund for two years, spanning 2020-21 and 2021-22, as part of the government's broader efforts to navigate the pandemic-induced challenges.
In addition to acknowledging the MPs' fiscal sacrifice, PM Modi expressed gratitude towards Speaker Om Birla for his adept leadership in presiding over the Lower House with fairness and equanimity. He lauded the Speaker's unwavering composure and impartiality, particularly in managing instances of contention and ensuring the smooth functioning of parliamentary proceedings.
Reflecting on the five-year tenure of the 17th Lok Sabha, PM Modi characterized it as a period marked by reform, performance, and transformation. He emphasized the significant strides made by the country under the collective efforts of parliamentary members, citing the accomplishment of long-awaited reforms that heralded monumental changes across various sectors. As the Lok Sabha convened for its final session preceding the upcoming elections, PM Modi hailed the constructive contributions of all members towards steering the nation towards a trajectory of progress and development.
