New Delhi : It was a proud day for Odisha today that after 20 years, an Odia MP Presided over the Rajya Sabha proceedings. Biju Janata Dal MP Dr. Sasmit Patra debuted as a Vice Chairman of Rajya Sabha in the House today. During the discussion on Epidemic Diseases (Amendment) Ordinance, 2020 Bill, the MP from Odisha presided and conducted the proceedings in the Rajya Sabha Chamber. On his taking the Chair, MPs cutting across Party lines felicitated and congratulated Dr. Patra for debuting as the Vice-Chairman. After the Session closed for the day, several Rajya Sabha MPs extended their best wishes and remarked that despite being one of the youngest MPs in the House, his conducting the House in a polite manner and with patience was liked by all.
Dr. Sasmit Patra dedicated this significant occassion to his leader and Hon’ble CM Shri. Naveen Patnaik and 4.5 crore people of Odisha, without whom this journey to the Rajya Sabha would not have been possible in the first place. Its indeed a proud moment for Odisha and its people to see an Odia preside over the House of Elders or Upper House in Parliament.