This Post Is Recently Updated on Oct 27, 2023 @ 7:34 am by TBB Desk
With the onset of the Parliament session on 18th September, a notable shift was witnessed as the House proceedings transitioned to the newly inaugurated Parliament building, as announced by the government. The grand inauguration by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on 28th May painted a vision of this new edifice as a hub of empowerment, fostering aspirations and nurturing them into tangible achievements.
For nearly a century, the old Parliament building has been a steadfast sentinel, documenting India’s democratic journey. However, the time has come to transition from a structure reminiscent of the colonial past to an architectural marvel that genuinely represents the essence of a sovereign nation.
In a ceremony preceding the session, Vice President and Rajya Sabha Chairman Jagdeep Dhankhar hoisted the national flag at the new Parliament building on the previous Sunday.
The new complex, with a budget of Rs 971 crore, symbolizes India’s forward march and aims to embody the dreams of its 1.35 billion inhabitants, as elaborated on the official website of the Central Vista Redevelopment Project.
Key Differences in the New Parliament Building
Increased Seating Capacity:
The new Parliament building marks a significant increase in capacity and modern amenities. It is meticulously designed to accommodate 888 Members of Parliament in the Lok Sabha, tripling the capacity of the old Lok Sabha. Additionally, the new Rajya Sabha chamber will house 384 members, providing a more spacious and comfortable environment for parliamentary discussions. This expansion sets the stage for more efficient proceedings and superior facilities for parliamentarians.
Elimination of Central Hall:
Unlike its predecessor, the new Parliament building does away with the central hall. In its stead, the Lok Sabha within the new edifice is cleverly designed to host joint sessions, eliminating the need for additional seating during such meetings.
Incorporation of Modern Technology:
In a symbolic gesture marking the 75th anniversary of India’s Independence, every seat designated for Members of Parliament in the new building will be equipped with a multimedia display.
Media-centric Amenities:
The new Parliament building caters to the media with specialized facilities. A total of 530 seats are designated for media personnel, and both houses will have galleries that relay parliamentary proceedings to the public.
Focus on Eco-friendliness:
Sustainability is at the forefront of the new Parliament building’s agenda. Utilizing eco-friendly construction materials and mechanisms to cut down electricity consumption by 30 percent, the structure showcases a commitment to environmental responsibility.
