PM Modi installs historic ‘Sengol’ in new parliament building| WATCH

The ceremony commenced with a traditional ‘pooja’, featuring Vedic rituals that lasted for an hour. Prime Minister Narendra Modi, along with Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla, participated in the ceremony.

Following the pooja, PM Modi received the revered ‘Sengol’ and proceeded to install it in the new Parliament building. The inauguration itself will be conducted in two phases.

As reported by ANI, the morning phase of the ceremony is set to conclude around 9:30 am, followed by the anticipated start of the second leg at noon. The second leg will commence with the rendition of the national anthem in the Lok Sabha chamber, graced by the presence of esteemed dignitaries, including Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

By 11:30 am, all the invitees, comprising Members of Parliament, Lok Sabha Speaker, Rajya Sabha Chairman, and other distinguished guests, are expected to be seated in the Lok Sabha chamber within the new Parliament building, creating an atmosphere of significance and anticipation.

The existing Parliament building, which was finalized in 1927, is nearing its centenary mark. However, due to evolving needs and requirements, the building has faced space constraints. Moreover, both the Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha have struggled with inadequate seating arrangements for Members of Parliament, impacting their work efficiency.

These limitations have necessitated the construction of a new Parliament building to address these challenges and provide modern, convenient facilities to enhance the functioning of the Members.

The newly constructed Parliament building will accommodate a larger number of members, with seating capacity for 888 individuals in the Lok Sabha. In contrast, the existing Parliament building currently allows for the seating of 543 Members in the Lok Sabha and 250 in the Rajya Sabha.

(With inputs from ANI)

Updated: 28 May 2023, 08:08 AM IST