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During the light-hearted interaction with PM Modi, it was observed that the session remained brief largely because the Opposition was engaged in continuous protests.
Congress leader Priyanka Gandhi with PM Modi, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh and Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi and other members of the Union Cabinet held a warm and cordial conversation with Congress leader Priyanka Gandhi Vadra on Wayanad, sources told CNN-News18, as the Winter Session of the Parliament concluded on Friday
In an interaction comprising PM Modi, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla, Priyanka Gandhi, Cabinet Ministers K Ram Mohan Naidu and Chirag Paswan, among others, MPs conveyed to the Prime Minister that the session had been productive, sources said.
The MPs told the Prime Minister that the Winter Session could have been extended, as passing legislation late at night is not considered ideal. The Winter Session of the Parliament commenced on December 1.
Prime Minister Modi and Priyanka Gandhi had a cordial conversation on Wayanad. At one point, Priyanka Gandhi mentioned that she as consuming a particular herb sourced from Wayanad, which she said had helped her cope with allergies, as per sources.
On a lighter note, it was observed that the session remained brief largely because the Opposition was engaged in continuous protests like the VB G-Ram-G Bill, and the Prime Minister humorously remarked that he did not wish to strain their voices, according to sources.
PM Modi also lauded the contributions of members such as NK Premachandran, noting that they consistently come thoroughly prepared for discussions. He also spoke about his recent foreign visits, with special reference to the Ethiopian capital, noting that contrary to common perceptions of it being poorly maintained, he was pleasantly surprised to see how well developed and managed the city was.
He also remarked that the Ethiopian capital could compete with some of the best cities in the world, including modernised cities in Jordan and even Dubai.
Parliament Winter Session Concludes
Earlier today, both Houses of the Parliament session were adjourned sine die as the Winter Session came to a close. The Parliament passed the Sustainable Harnessing and Advancement of Nuclear Energy for Transforming India (SHANTI) Bill and the VB-G RAM G Bill, the latter of which seeks to replace the 20-year-old MGNREGA, causing uproar in the House.
The Rajya Sabha passed the Viksit Bharat Guarantee for Rozgar and Ajeevika Mission (Gramin) (VB-G RAM-G) Bill by a voice vote, hours after it was cleared by the Lok Sabha, amid strong opposition protests over the removal of Mahatma Gandhi’s name from the existing MGNREGA scheme and concerns about the additional financial burden on states.
The House also took up two debates – on 150 years of Vande Mataram and election reforms – which witnessed a politically charged atmosphere. A Bill to set up a higher education regulator was referred to a joint committee of the two Houses.
Birla remarked that the House saw productivity of 111 per cent during the session and noted that this spirit of collaboration enabled meaningful discussions on key legislative matters. In the Upper House, Vice-President CP Radhakrishnan thanked the members for electing him as vice-president and chairman of the Rajya Sabha and said the session was productive.
The Rajya Sabha passed eight bills, including the Water (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Amendment Act, 2024, with 212 members contributing. A record 59 Private Members’ Bills were introduced, underscoring vibrant democratic engagement.
The next sitting is likely during the Budget Session in early 2026.
December 19, 2025, 12:25 IST
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