In a nod to parliamentary excellence, the Sansad Ratna Awards 2023 has recently recognized the outstanding contributions of five Members of Parliament (MPs) from the Lok Sabha.
Instituted by the Prime Point Foundation, these awards, initiated in 2010 by former President APJ Abdul Kalam, serve as an annual acknowledgment of MPs who have exhibited exemplary performance during parliamentary sessions.
Let’s delve deeper into the significance of the Sansad Ratna Awards, the reasons behind their conferral, and the distinguished awardees for the year.
What are Sansad Ratna Awards?
The Sansad Ratna Awards are a prestigious set of annual honors that celebrate the commendable performance of Members of Parliament. Instituted by the Prime Point Foundation, these awards were inaugurated by former President APJ Abdul Kalam in 2010.
The primary objective is to recognize and appreciate MPs who have demonstrated excellence in their parliamentary duties, contributing significantly to the legislative process.
Why are Sansad Ratna Awards Given?
These awards serve a crucial purpose in promoting transparency and accountability in parliamentary proceedings. By acknowledging MPs for their exceptional efforts in initiating debates, presenting private member bills, and raising pertinent questions during sessions, the Sansad Ratna Awards inspire a culture of excellence among parliamentarians. The recognition also encourages healthy competition among MPs, fostering a sense of responsibility towards their constituents and the nation.
Sansad Ratna Awardees 2023:
This year’s awardees represent a diverse spectrum of political affiliations, showcasing bipartisan acknowledgment for parliamentary excellence. Let’s take a closer look at the distinguished recipients:
- Sukanta Majumdar (BJP): Acknowledged for his outstanding performance and active participation in Lok Sabha proceedings.
- Shrikant Eknath Shinde (Shiv Sena): Recognized for his commendable contributions, reflecting a commitment to parliamentary duties.
- Sudheer Gupta (BJP): Celebrated for his notable efforts in shaping discussions and debates within the Lok Sabha.
- Amol Ramsing Kolhe (NCP): Appreciated for his significant role in representing the concerns of his constituents at the national level.
- Kuldeep Rai Sharma (Congress): Recognized for his valuable contributions, adding depth to parliamentary discussions and deliberations.
Sansad Maha Ratna Awards:
In addition to the annual Sansad Ratna Awards, the Sansad Maha Ratna Awards are presented once every five years to MPs who have consistently excelled throughout the term of the Lok Sabha. The awardees for the 17th Lok Sabha include:
- NK Premachandran (RSP, Kerala)
- Adhir Ranjan Chowdhury (Indian National Congress, West Bengal)
- Bidyut Baran Mahato (BJP, Jharkhand)
- Heena Vijayakumar Gavit (BJP, Maharashtra)
Sansad Utkrisht Mana Ratna Award:
A special category within the awards, the Sansad Utkrisht Mana Ratna Award, was bestowed upon MPs who exhibited exceptional performance both in the 16th and 17th Lok Sabhas. The distinguished recipients are:
- Supriya Sule (NCP, Maharashtra)
- Shrirang Appa Barne (Shiv Sena, Maharashtra)
- Bhartruhari Mahtab (BJD, Odisha)
Recognition of Parliamentary Committees:
In addition to individual recognitions, the Sansad Ratna Awards also acknowledge the significant contributions of parliamentary committees. This year, three standing committees were celebrated for their consistent efforts in the 17th Lok Sabha:
- Agriculture Committee, chaired by PC Gaddi Gowdar (BJP, Karnataka)
- Finance Committee, chaired by Jayant Sinha (BJP, Jharkhand)
- Transport and Tourism Committee, chaired by Vijayasai Reddy (YSR Congress, Andhra Pradesh) and formerly by TG Venkatesh (BJP, Andhra Pradesh)
Positive Takeaway
The Sansad Ratna Awards serve as a beacon of recognition for parliamentarians who go above and beyond in their roles. By celebrating their efforts, these awards contribute to the overall enhancement of parliamentary discourse and effectiveness.
The acknowledgment of parliamentary committees further underscores the collaborative nature of legislative processes. As these awards continue to inspire excellence, they play a pivotal role in shaping a responsible and committed parliamentary landscape in India.
