Proud moment for Odisha: Odia MP presides in Rajya Sabha after 20 years

Bhubaneswar: In what could be termed as a big day for Odisha, a young MP from the state presided over the Rajya Sabha proceedings after 20 long years today.

Biju Janata Dal (BJD) MP Dr Sasmit Patra debuted as a Vice-Chairman of the Upper House of the Parliament for a discussion on Epidemic Diseases (Amendment) Ordinance, 2020 Bill. The Odia MP conducted the proceedings.

On his taking the chair, MPs cutting across party lines felicitated and congratulated the Parliamentarian for debuting as the Vice-Chairman. After the session closed for the day, several Rajya Sabha members extended their best wishes remarking that despite being one of the youngest MPs in the RS, his conducting the House with patience and politeness was liked by all.

Dr Sasmit Patra dedicated this significant occasion to Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik and 4.5 crore people of Odisha saying that without them, his journey to Rajya Sabha would not have been possible in the first place.