Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi inaugurated 184 newly constructed Type-VII Multi-Storey Flats for Members of Parliament at Baba Kharak Singh Marg, New Delhi today. Addressing the gathering on the occasion, the Prime Minister said that recently he had inaugurated the Common Central Secretariat, known as Kartavya Bhavan, at Kartavya Path and today, he had the opportunity to inaugurate a newly constructed residential complex for Members of Parliament. He highlighted the four towers of the complex—Krishna, Godavari, Kosi, and Hooghly—named after four great rivers of India, remarking that these rivers, which give life to millions, will now inspire a new stream of joy in the lives of public representatives. He added that the tradition of naming rivers binds the nation in a thread of unity. Shri Modi stated that the new complex will enhance the ease of living for MPs in Delhi. He noted that the availability of government housing for MPs in Delhi will now increase. The Prime Minister extended congratulations to all Members of Parliament and also commended the engineers and shramjeevis involved in the construction of the flats, appreciating their dedication and hard work in completing the project.

Prime Minister shared that he had the opportunity to visit a sample flat from the newly constructed residential complex for Members of Parliament. He noted that he has also had occasions to observe the condition of older MP residences. Shri Modi remarked that the old accommodations often suffered from neglect and deterioration, highlighting the frequent difficulties faced by MPs due to the poor condition of their previous residences. He stated that the new housing will free MPs from such challenges upon entering their new homes. The Prime Minister emphasized that when MPs are free from personal housing issues, they will be able to devote their time and energy more effectively to resolving public concerns.

Acknowledging the challenges faced by first-time elected MPs in securing housing in Delhi, Shri Modi stated that the newly constructed buildings will help eliminate these difficulties. He informed that over 180 MPs will reside together in these multi-storey buildings and underscored the significant economic dimension of the new housing initiative. Recalling the inauguration of Kartavya Bhavan, the Prime Minister noted that several ministries were operating from rented buildings, incurring nearly ?1,500 crore in annual rent, describing it as a direct waste of public funds. Similarly, he highlighted that the lack of adequate MP housing also led to increased government expenditure. Shri Modi pointed out that despite the shortage of MP residences, not a single new housing unit was constructed for Lok Sabha MPs between 2004 and 2014. He stated that post-2014, our government undertook this task as a mission and including the newly inaugurated flats, approximately 350 MP residences have been constructed since 2014. The Prime Minister remarked that with the completion of these residences, public money is now being saved.

“21st-century India is as eager for development as it is sensitive to its responsibilities”, exclaimed the Prime Minister, remarking that while the nation builds Kartavya Path and Kartavya Bhavan, it simultaneously fulfills its duty of delivering piped water to millions of citizens. He added that as the country completes new housing for its MPs, it also facilitates homeownership for 4 crore poor families through the PM Awas Yojana. Shri Modi emphasized that while the nation constructs a new Parliament building, it is also establishing hundreds of new medical colleges. He affirmed that the benefits of these initiatives are reaching every section of society.

Expressing satisfaction that the newly constructed MP residences have incorporated key elements of sustainable development, Shri Modi stated that this initiative aligns with the nation’s pro-environment and future-safe approach. The Prime Minister highlighted the inclusion of solar-enabled infrastructure in the housing complex. He further noted that India is consistently advancing its vision of sustainable development, as reflected in its achievements and new records in solar energy.

Prime Minister made several appeals to Members of Parliament during the inauguration of the new residential complex. He noted that MPs from various states and regions of the country will now reside together, and their presence should symbolize the spirit of ‘Ek Bharat, Shreshtha Bharat’. Shri Modi encouraged collective celebrations of regional festivals within the complex to enhance its cultural vibrancy. He suggested inviting constituents to participate in these events, fostering greater public engagement. The Prime Minister urged MPs to teach and learn words from each other’s regional languages, promoting linguistic harmony. He emphasized that sustainability and cleanliness should be defining features of the complex, and this commitment must be shared by all. He added that not just the residences, but the entire premises should be maintained in a clean and hygienic manner.

Prime Minister concluded by expressing hope that all Members of Parliament will work together as a team and the collective efforts will serve as a role model for the nation. He also urged the ministry and housing committee to organise Swacchata competitions between various residential complexes of MPs. With this resolve, he once again extended his congratulations to all MPs.

Lok Sabha Speaker Shri Om Birla, Union Ministers and Members of Parliament were present among other dignitaries at the event.