The second leg of the inauguration ceremony began at 12 noon, with Prime Minister Narendra Modi received by Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla and Rajya Sabha Deputy Chairman Harivansh went to the Lok Sabha and addressed Chief Ministers, Rajya Sabha Members and many dignitaries.

The inauguration ceremony began with National Anthem.

Speaking inside the New Parliament for the first time, Rajya Sabha Deputy Chairman Harivansh said, "It is a matter of immense happiness that a new modern Parliament was constructed in less than 2.5 years under the leadership of PM Modi."

Prime Minister Narendra Modi launched Rs 75 coin to mark the inauguration of the new Parliament building in New Delhi.

Speaking at the inauguration of the new Parliament building, PM modi said, "Some dates are etched in history. May 28, 2023 is one such day".

"This is not just a Sansad Bhawan, but is a reflection of the aspirations and dreams of 140 crore people," says PM Modi.

"Democracy is not just a system for us. It is a tradition, culture and part of our thoughts," said PM.

He also said that the new Parliament building will herald India's as well as the world's development.

"In the coming years, we will see an increase in the number of seats and MPs in the Parliament". Modi was referring to the delimitation exercise post 2026, during which the number of seats in the Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha are likely to increase," he said.

PM Modi also mentioned how construction of the new Parliament gave employment to over 60,000 labourers and a digital gallery has been created to honour their hard work.

Source: IndianExpress