The Centre has sanctioned a dedicated site within the Rashtriya Smriti complex, located in the Rajghat precinct, to establish a memorial honouring former president Pranab Mukherjee.
Pranab Mukherjee's daughter, Sharmistha Mukherjee posted on X about her meeting with Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
"Called on PM Narendra Modi ji to express thanks and gratitude from the core of my heart for his government's decision to create a memorial for Baba. It's more cherished considering that we didn't ask for it. Immensely touched by this unexpected but truly gracious gesture by PM," she said.
"Baba used to say that State honours shouldn't be asked for, it should be offered. I'm so grateful that PM Modi did this to honour Baba's memory. It doesn't affect Baba where he is now&mdash;beyond applause or criticism. But for his daughter, words are not sufficient to express my joy," Mukherjee added.
Earlier in December 2024, reacting to the issue of allocating space for a memorial for former prime minister Dr Manmohan Singh, author and daughter of former president Pranab Mukherjee, Sharmistha Mukherjee, said that the issue must not be politicised.
"There should be no politics on this issue because it has been our tradition that memorials are built for former prime ministers, PV Narasimha Rao was an exception, and seeing the stellar contribution of Dr Manmohan Singh, I completely believe that there should be no controversy on his memorial and he should also be given Bharat Ratna," said Sharmistha.
Former prime minister Manmohan Singh passed away at AIIMS at the age of 92 due to age-related ailments. He was cremated with full state honours at Nigam Bodh Ghat in Delhi's Kashmere Gate in the presence of his family, friends, colleagues, and government dignitaries.&nbsp;
Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

India News: The central government sanctioned a dedicated site within the Rashtriya Smriti complex, located in the Rajghat precinct, to establish a memorial honouring Mukherjee. 

The Centre has sanctioned a dedicated site within the Rashtriya Smriti complex, located in the Rajghat precinct, to establish a memorial honouring former president Pranab Mukherjee. Pranab Mukherjee's daughter, Sharmistha Mukherjee posted on X about her meeting with Prime Minister Narendra Modi. "Called on PM Narendra Modi ji to express thanks and gratitude from the core of my heart for his government's decision to create a memorial for Baba. It's more cherished considering that we didn't ask for it. Immensely touched by this unexpected but truly gracious gesture by PM," she said. "Baba used to say that State honours shouldn't be asked for, it should be offered. I'm so grateful that PM Modi did this to honour Baba's memory. It doesn't affect Baba where he is now—beyond applause or criticism. But for his daughter, words are not sufficient to express my joy," Mukherjee added. Earlier in December 2024, reacting to the issue of allocating space for a memorial for former prime minister Dr Manmohan Singh, author and daughter of former president Pranab Mukherjee, Sharmistha Mukherjee, said that the issue must not be politicised. "There should be no politics on this issue because it has been our tradition that memorials are built for former prime ministers, PV Narasimha Rao was an exception, and seeing the stellar contribution of Dr Manmohan Singh, I completely believe that there should be no controversy on his memorial and he should also be given Bharat Ratna," said Sharmistha. Former prime minister Manmohan Singh passed away at AIIMS at the age of 92 due to age-related ailments. He was cremated with full state honours at Nigam Bodh Ghat in Delhi's Kashmere Gate in the presence of his family, friends, colleagues, and government dignitaries. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Indian govt approves site for former president Pranab Mukherjee's memorial

Former President Pranab Mukherjee, 84, continues to be in a deep coma and on ventilator support, the Army hospital said today.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pranab-mukherjees-respiratory-parameters-show-slight-improvement-hospital-321883">Also Read:&nbsp;Pranab Mukherjee's respiratory parameters show slight improvement: Hospital</a>

"He is haemodynamically stable and under intensive care being treated for lung infection and renal dysfunction," the Army Research and Referral(R&amp;R) hospital said.

The former president was admitted to the hospital in the Delhi Cantonment on August 10. Pranab Mukherjee was operated for removal of a clot in his brain earlier and has been in&nbsp;coma ever since.

Pranab Mukherjee was the President of India from 2012 to 2017.&nbsp;

His daughter Sharmistha Mukherjee who is a Congress leader had earlier said that her father had fallen critically ill just a year after he received the 'Bharat Ratna' -- the country's highest civilian award. 
&nbsp;

Former President Pranab Mukherjee, 84, continues to be in a deep coma and on ventilator support, the Army hospital said today. Also Read: Pranab Mukherjee's respiratory parameters show slight improvement: Hospital "He is haemodynamically stable and under intensive care being treated for lung infection and renal dysfunction," the Army Research and Referral(R&R) hospital said.

Former President Pranab Mukherjee, 84, continues to be in a deep coma and on ventilator support, the Army hospital said today. Also Read: Pranab Mukherjee's respiratory parameters show slight improvement: Hospital "He is haemodynamically stable and under intensive care being treated for lung infection and renal dysfunction," the Army Research and Referral(R&R) hospital said. The former president was admitted to the hospital in the Delhi Cantonment on August 10. Pranab Mukherjee was operated for removal of a clot in his brain earlier and has been in coma ever since. Pranab Mukherjee was the President of India from 2012 to 2017. His daughter Sharmistha Mukherjee who is a Congress leader had earlier said that her father had fallen critically ill just a year after he received the 'Bharat Ratna' -- the country's highest civilian award.

Pranab Mukherjee continues to be in deep coma and on ventilator support: Hospital

The former president Pranab Mukherjee remained on ventilator support with his health condition unchanged, doctors treating him said on Friday.

Mukherjee was admitted to the Army's Research and Referral Hospital in Delhi on Monday, where he underwent an operation to remove a clot in the brain. He also revealed the same day that he tested positive for coronavirus.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pranab-mukherjee-alive-haemodynamically-stable-son-daughter-brush-aside-rumours-320111">Pranab Mukherjee 'alive', 'haemodynamically' stable: Son, daughter brush aside rumours</a>

"The condition of Hon'ble Shri Pranab Mukherjee remains unchanged this morning (14 August 2020). He is under intensive care and continues to be on ventilatory support. His vital parameters are presently stable," said the hospital, in a statement, as quoted by news agency PTI.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/may-god-do-whatever-is-best-for-him-pranab-mukherjees-daughter-sharmistha-on-his-critical-condition-319927">May God do whatever is best for him: Pranab Mukherjee's daughter Sharmistha on his critical condition</a>

Earlier on Thursday, the former president's children urged people to stop spreading rumours related to his health, adding that he is "alive" and "haemodynamically" stable.

"My Father Shri Pranab Mukherjee is still alive &amp; haemodynamically stable ! Speculations &amp; fake news being circulated by reputed Journalists on social media clearly reflects that Media in India has become a factory of Fake News," his son Abhijit Mukherjee tweeted.

India is currently struggling to contain the spread of novel coronavirus, which has affected several high-profile people in the country.

Union Home Minister Amit Shah is also hospitalised after he tested positive for COVID-19.

Earlier, megastar Amitabh Bachchan and three of his family members were also infected with the deadly virus, however, all have been treated successfully.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

The former president Pranab Mukherjee remained on ventilator support with his health condition unchanged, doctors treating him said on Friday. Mukherjee was admitted to the Army's Research and Referral Hospital in Delhi on Monday, where he underwent an operation to remove a clot in the brain.

The former president Pranab Mukherjee remained on ventilator support with his health condition unchanged, doctors treating him said on Friday. Mukherjee was admitted to the Army's Research and Referral Hospital in Delhi on Monday, where he underwent an operation to remove a clot in the brain. He also revealed the same day that he tested positive for coronavirus. Also read | Pranab Mukherjee 'alive', 'haemodynamically' stable: Son, daughter brush aside rumours "The condition of Hon'ble Shri Pranab Mukherjee remains unchanged this morning (14 August 2020). He is under intensive care and continues to be on ventilatory support. His vital parameters are presently stable," said the hospital, in a statement, as quoted by news agency PTI. Also read | May God do whatever is best for him: Pranab Mukherjee's daughter Sharmistha on his critical condition Earlier on Thursday, the former president's children urged people to stop spreading rumours related to his health, adding that he is "alive" and "haemodynamically" stable. "My Father Shri Pranab Mukherjee is still alive & haemodynamically stable ! Speculations & fake news being circulated by reputed Journalists on social media clearly reflects that Media in India has become a factory of Fake News," his son Abhijit Mukherjee tweeted. India is currently struggling to contain the spread of novel coronavirus, which has affected several high-profile people in the country. Union Home Minister Amit Shah is also hospitalised after he tested positive for COVID-19. Earlier, megastar Amitabh Bachchan and three of his family members were also infected with the deadly virus, however, all have been treated successfully.

Pranab Mukherjee remains on ventilator support; health unchanged: Hospital

Dismissing "speculation" and "fake news" regarding the health of Pranab Mukherjee, his son Abhijit Mukherjee on Thursday said that the former President is still alive and "haemodynamically" stable.

He alleged that fake news is being circulated by reputed journalists on social media regarding his father`s death. "My Father Shri Pranab Mukherjee is still alive &amp; haemodynamically stable ! Speculations &amp; fake news being circulated by reputed Journalists on social media clearly reflects that Media in India has become a factory of Fake News," Abhijit Mukherjee tweeted.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/may-god-do-whatever-is-best-for-him-pranab-mukherjees-daughter-sharmistha-on-his-critical-condition-319927">May God do whatever is best for him: Pranab Mukherjee's daughter Sharmistha on his critical condition</a>

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My Father Shri Pranab Mukherjee is still alive &amp; haemodynamically stable ! 
Speculations &amp; fake news being circulated by reputed Journalists on social media clearly reflects that Media in India has become a factory of Fake News .
— Abhijit Mukherjee (@ABHIJIT_LS) <a href="https://twitter.com/ABHIJIT_LS/status/1293756212861734912?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 13, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Former President`s daughter Sharmistha Mukherjee also refuted the rumours about his father. "Rumours about my father is false. Request, esp'ly to media, NOT to call me as I need to keep my phone free for any updates from the hospital," Sharmistha tweeted.

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My Father Shri Pranab Mukherjee is still alive &amp; haemodynamically stable ! 
Speculations &amp; fake news being circulated by reputed Journalists on social media clearly reflects that Media in India has become a factory of Fake News .
— Abhijit Mukherjee (@ABHIJIT_LS) <a href="https://twitter.com/ABHIJIT_LS/status/1293756212861734912?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 13, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Meanwhile, Army Research &amp; Referral Hospital also clarified that the condition of former President Pranab Mukherjee remains unchanged this morning. "He is deeply comatose with stable vital parameters and continues to be on ventilatory support," the hospital said in a statement.

Earlier on Wednesday, the Army Hospital, where the former President has been admitted stated that his health condition continued to remain critical after undergoing emergency surgery for a brain clot and was on a ventilator currently.

It said that he is hemodynamically stable.

On August 10, Mukherjee underwent life-saving emergency surgery for brain clot on August 10 has not shown any improvement and his health status had worsened.

Taking to Twitter, the 84-year-old said on Monday that he had also tested positive for the novel coronavirus."On a visit to the hospital for a separate procedure, I have tested positive for COVID-19 today. I request the people who came in contact with me in the last week, to please self isolate and get tested for COVID-19," Mukherjee tweeted.

Dismissing "speculation" and "fake news" regarding the health of Pranab Mukherjee, his son Abhijit Mukherjee on Thursday said that the former President is still alive and "haemodynamically" stable.

Dismissing "speculation" and "fake news" regarding the health of Pranab Mukherjee, his son Abhijit Mukherjee on Thursday said that the former President is still alive and "haemodynamically" stable. He alleged that fake news is being circulated by reputed journalists on social media regarding his father`s death. "My Father Shri Pranab Mukherjee is still alive & haemodynamically stable ! Speculations & fake news being circulated by reputed Journalists on social media clearly reflects that Media in India has become a factory of Fake News," Abhijit Mukherjee tweeted. Also read | May God do whatever is best for him: Pranab Mukherjee's daughter Sharmistha on his critical condition My Father Shri Pranab Mukherjee is still alive & haemodynamically stable ! Speculations & fake news being circulated by reputed Journalists on social media clearly reflects that Media in India has become a factory of Fake News . — Abhijit Mukherjee (@ABHIJIT_LS) August 13, 2020 × Former President`s daughter Sharmistha Mukherjee also refuted the rumours about his father. "Rumours about my father is false. Request, esp'ly to media, NOT to call me as I need to keep my phone free for any updates from the hospital," Sharmistha tweeted. My Father Shri Pranab Mukherjee is still alive & haemodynamically stable ! Speculations & fake news being circulated by reputed Journalists on social media clearly reflects that Media in India has become a factory of Fake News . — Abhijit Mukherjee (@ABHIJIT_LS) August 13, 2020 × Meanwhile, Army Research & Referral Hospital also clarified that the condition of former President Pranab Mukherjee remains unchanged this morning. "He is deeply comatose with stable vital parameters and continues to be on ventilatory support," the hospital said in a statement. Earlier on Wednesday, the Army Hospital, where the former President has been admitted stated that his health condition continued to remain critical after undergoing emergency surgery for a brain clot and was on a ventilator currently. It said that he is hemodynamically stable. On August 10, Mukherjee underwent life-saving emergency surgery for brain clot on August 10 has not shown any improvement and his health status had worsened. Taking to Twitter, the 84-year-old said on Monday that he had also tested positive for the novel coronavirus."On a visit to the hospital for a separate procedure, I have tested positive for COVID-19 today. I request the people who came in contact with me in the last week, to please self isolate and get tested for COVID-19," Mukherjee tweeted.

Pranab Mukherjee 'alive', 'haemodynamically' stable: Son, daughter brush aside rumours

The daughter of former President Pranab Mukherjee, who is in a critical condition after undergoing brain surgery, prayed for her father saying may God do whatever is best for him.

Sharmistha Mukherjee, who is a Congress leader, said her father has fallen critically ill just a year after he received the 'Bharat Ratna' -- the country's highest civilian award.

"Last year August 8 was one of the happiest day for me as my dad received Bharat Ratna. Exactly a year later on August 10 he fell critically ill.

"May God do whatever is best for him and give me strength to accept both joys and sorrows of life with equanimity. I sincerely thank all for their concerns,"she said on Twitter.

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Last year 8August was 1 of d happiest day 4 me as my dad received Bharat Ratna.Exactly a year later on 10Aug he fell critically ill. May God do whatever is best 4 him &amp; give me strength 2 accept both joys &amp; sorrows of life with equanimity. I sincerely thank all 4 their concerns🙏
— Sharmistha Mukherjee (@Sharmistha_GK) <a href="https://twitter.com/Sharmistha_GK/status/1293409462758199296?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 12, 2020</a></blockquote>
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The condition of former President Pranab Mukherjee worsened on Tuesday, doctors attending on him said.

The Army's Research and Referral (R&amp;R) Hospital said he remains on ventilator support and he has not shown signs of improvement, after he underwent a brain surgery on Monday.

The 84-year-old former President was admitted to the military hospital around noon on Monday, and had also tested positive for COVID-19 prior to the surgery.

"Shri Pranab Mukherjee's health condition continues to remain critical at Army Hospital (R&amp;R) Delhi Cantonment. The former president, who underwent lifesaving emergency surgery for brain clot on 10 August 2020, has not shown any improvement and his health status has worsened. He remains on ventilatory support," the hospital said in its bulletin on Tuesday.

Mukherjee was President of India between 2012 and 2017.

The daughter of former President Pranab Mukherjee, who is in a critical condition after undergoing brain surgery, prayed for her father saying may God do whatever is best for him.

The daughter of former President Pranab Mukherjee, who is in a critical condition after undergoing brain surgery, prayed for her father saying may God do whatever is best for him. Sharmistha Mukherjee, who is a Congress leader, said her father has fallen critically ill just a year after he received the 'Bharat Ratna' -- the country's highest civilian award. "Last year August 8 was one of the happiest day for me as my dad received Bharat Ratna. Exactly a year later on August 10 he fell critically ill. "May God do whatever is best for him and give me strength to accept both joys and sorrows of life with equanimity. I sincerely thank all for their concerns,"she said on Twitter. Last year 8August was 1 of d happiest day 4 me as my dad received Bharat Ratna.Exactly a year later on 10Aug he fell critically ill. May God do whatever is best 4 him & give me strength 2 accept both joys & sorrows of life with equanimity. I sincerely thank all 4 their concerns🙏 — Sharmistha Mukherjee (@Sharmistha_GK) August 12, 2020 × The condition of former President Pranab Mukherjee worsened on Tuesday, doctors attending on him said. The Army's Research and Referral (R&R) Hospital said he remains on ventilator support and he has not shown signs of improvement, after he underwent a brain surgery on Monday. The 84-year-old former President was admitted to the military hospital around noon on Monday, and had also tested positive for COVID-19 prior to the surgery. "Shri Pranab Mukherjee's health condition continues to remain critical at Army Hospital (R&R) Delhi Cantonment. The former president, who underwent lifesaving emergency surgery for brain clot on 10 August 2020, has not shown any improvement and his health status has worsened. He remains on ventilatory support," the hospital said in its bulletin on Tuesday. Mukherjee was President of India between 2012 and 2017.

May God do whatever is best for him: Pranab Mukherjee's daughter Sharmistha on his critical condition

Former President Pranab Mukherjee's health continues to remain critical, the Army Hospital in Delhi said on Tuesday. He tested positive for coronavirus when he went to the hospital yesterday for another procedure.

Former President Pranab Mukherjee's health continues to remain critical, the Army Hospital in Delhi said on Tuesday. He tested positive for coronavirus when he went to the hospital yesterday for another procedure. Later, he underwent a brain surgery for the removal of a clot. "The former President who underwent lifesaving emergency surgery for brain clot on 10 August 2020 has not shown any improvement and his health status has worsened. He remains on ventilatory support," the army hospital said in a statement this evening. The former President yesterday tweeted before the surgery, asking all who came in contact with him to self-isolate and get a coronavirus test. "On a visit to the hospital for a separate procedure, I have tested positive for COVID19 today. I request the people who came in contact with me in the last week, to please self-isolate and get tested for COVID-19," his tweet read.

Pranab Mukherjee continues to remain critical, says Army's R&R hospital

Former president of India Pranab Mukherjee, who earlier revealed he is infected with novel coronavirus, is on ventilator support at an Indian Army hospital, sources said.

"Pranab Mukherjee is on ventilator support at Army's R&amp;R hospital: Sources," tweeted news agency PTI.&nbsp;

Various reports claimed that the 84-year-old is on ventilator support following a successfuly brain surgery to remove a clot.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/former-president-pranab-mukherjee-tests-positive-for-covid-19-319434">Former president Pranab Mukherjee tests positive for COVID-19</a>

Earlier today, the former president announced on Twitter that he is tested positive for COVID-19.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/karnataka-cm-yediyurappa-recovers-from-covid-19-discharged-from-hospital-319497">Karnataka CM Yediyurappa recovers from COVID-19, discharged from hospital</a>

He also asked people who met him to self-isolate and get themselves tested.&nbsp;

"I request the people who came in contact with me in the last week, to please self isolate and get tested for COVID-19," Mukherjee tweeted.&nbsp;

The coronavirus situation in India is getting serious by the day, with signs of peak nowhere near.

Many high-profile personalities and senior ministers have tested positive with the deadly virus, including Union Home Minister Amit Shah and megastar Amitabh Bachchan.

Also, Karnataka Chief Minister BS Yediyurappa was discharged from a hospital after he successfully recovered from COVID-19.

On Monday, India reported 62,064 new cases in the last 24 hours, continuing the daily trend of recording over 60,000 cases for the last few days.&nbsp;

The death toll of the country stands at 44,386 with 22,15,075 cases.&nbsp;

Former president of India Pranab Mukherjee, who earlier revealed he is infected with novel coronavirus, is on ventilator support at an Indian Army hospital, sources said.

Former president of India Pranab Mukherjee, who earlier revealed he is infected with novel coronavirus, is on ventilator support at an Indian Army hospital, sources said. "Pranab Mukherjee is on ventilator support at Army's R&R hospital: Sources," tweeted news agency PTI. Various reports claimed that the 84-year-old is on ventilator support following a successfuly brain surgery to remove a clot. Also read | Former president Pranab Mukherjee tests positive for COVID-19 Earlier today, the former president announced on Twitter that he is tested positive for COVID-19. Also read | Karnataka CM Yediyurappa recovers from COVID-19, discharged from hospital He also asked people who met him to self-isolate and get themselves tested. "I request the people who came in contact with me in the last week, to please self isolate and get tested for COVID-19," Mukherjee tweeted. The coronavirus situation in India is getting serious by the day, with signs of peak nowhere near. Many high-profile personalities and senior ministers have tested positive with the deadly virus, including Union Home Minister Amit Shah and megastar Amitabh Bachchan. Also, Karnataka Chief Minister BS Yediyurappa was discharged from a hospital after he successfully recovered from COVID-19. On Monday, India reported 62,064 new cases in the last 24 hours, continuing the daily trend of recording over 60,000 cases for the last few days. The death toll of the country stands at 44,386 with 22,15,075 cases.

Former President Pranab Mukherjee, infected with COVID-19 on ventilator support: Sources

Former President <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/not-worried-over-slow-gdp-growth-pranab-mukherjee-267778">Pranab Mukherjee</a> pitched a plan for raising the number of Lok Sabha seats from 543 to 1000 while delivering the second <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/remembering-atal-bihari-vajpayee-on-his-first-death-anniversary-243317">Atal Bihari Vajpayee</a> Memorial Lecture organised by the India Foundation in Delhi.

Last time the strength of Lok Sabha was re-examined in 1977 which was based on the 1971 census that put the total population at 55 crores. And currently, the population has increased to 1.37 billion, approximately double the number mentioned in the 1971 census.

There is a need to remove the hold in the delimitation exercise. “It should be ideally increased to 1,000,” Mukherjee added.

Delimitation provides equal representation to equal segments of a population. It aims to a fair division of geographical areas so that only one party doesn't have all the advantages over the elections.

The process has been undergone modification four times ( 1952, 1963, 1973 and 2002) under the Acts of 1952. No delimitation took place after the 1981 and 1991 Censuses.

During Indira Gandhi’s Emergency rule in 1976, the constitution was suspended delimitation until 2001. The upper limit on the number of seats in Lok Sabha and Assemblies was supposed to be lifted after the 2001 Census but another amendment postponed this until 2026. It was justified on the ground that a uniform growth rate of the population would be achieved by 2026.

“This has resulted in the fact that the number of voters per Lok Sabha constituency as per the 2011 census, has risen to more than 16 lakh,” Mukherjee said. He noted that there has been a need on increasing the number of seats in Parliament and state assemblies till 2026.

He even favoured Vajpayee as a consensus-builder who worked to bring everyone along and noted that people may have given strong majorities to different parties since 1952 but over 50 per cent of them have never voted for one party.

"A numerical majority in elections gives you the right to make a stable government. The lack of a popular majority forbids you from a majoritarian government. That is the message and essence of our parliamentary democracy," Mukherjee said.

&nbsp;

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"A numerical majority in elections gives you the right to make a stable Government.The lack of popular majority forbids you from a majoritarian Government.That is the message &amp; essence of our Parliamentary Democracy." 
Delivered the 2nd <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AtalBihariVajpayee?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AtalBihariVajpayee</a> Memorial Lecture today. <a href="https://t.co/qUfqZmyecx">pic.twitter.com/qUfqZmyecx</a>
— Pranab Mukherjee (@CitiznMukherjee) <a href="https://twitter.com/CitiznMukherjee/status/1206585951838883840?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 16, 2019</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

Former President Pranab Mukherjee pitched a plan for raising the number of Lok Sabha seats from 543 to 1000 while delivering the second Atal Bihari Vajpayee Memorial Lecture organised by the India Foundation in Delhi.

Former President Pranab Mukherjee pitched a plan for raising the number of Lok Sabha seats from 543 to 1000 while delivering the second Atal Bihari Vajpayee Memorial Lecture organised by the India Foundation in Delhi. Last time the strength of Lok Sabha was re-examined in 1977 which was based on the 1971 census that put the total population at 55 crores. And currently, the population has increased to 1.37 billion, approximately double the number mentioned in the 1971 census. There is a need to remove the hold in the delimitation exercise. “It should be ideally increased to 1,000,” Mukherjee added. Delimitation provides equal representation to equal segments of a population. It aims to a fair division of geographical areas so that only one party doesn't have all the advantages over the elections. The process has been undergone modification four times ( 1952, 1963, 1973 and 2002) under the Acts of 1952. No delimitation took place after the 1981 and 1991 Censuses. During Indira Gandhi’s Emergency rule in 1976, the constitution was suspended delimitation until 2001. The upper limit on the number of seats in Lok Sabha and Assemblies was supposed to be lifted after the 2001 Census but another amendment postponed this until 2026. It was justified on the ground that a uniform growth rate of the population would be achieved by 2026. “This has resulted in the fact that the number of voters per Lok Sabha constituency as per the 2011 census, has risen to more than 16 lakh,” Mukherjee said. He noted that there has been a need on increasing the number of seats in Parliament and state assemblies till 2026. He even favoured Vajpayee as a consensus-builder who worked to bring everyone along and noted that people may have given strong majorities to different parties since 1952 but over 50 per cent of them have never voted for one party. "A numerical majority in elections gives you the right to make a stable government. The lack of a popular majority forbids you from a majoritarian government. That is the message and essence of our parliamentary democracy," Mukherjee said. "A numerical majority in elections gives you the right to make a stable Government.The lack of popular majority forbids you from a majoritarian Government.That is the message & essence of our Parliamentary Democracy." Delivered the 2nd #AtalBihariVajpayee Memorial Lecture today. pic.twitter.com/qUfqZmyecx — Pranab Mukherjee (@CitiznMukherjee) December 16, 2019 ×

Lok Sabha should have 1000 seats: Pranab Mukherjee

Former President <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-uae-have-transformed-and-matured-into-strategic-partnership-pranab-mukherjee-248953">Pranab Mukherjee</a> on Wednesday said that he is not worried over the slow growth of the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions/economy-debate-narendra-modis-nda-versus-manmohan-singhs-upa-267271">Gross Domestic Product</a> (GDP) as 'certain things' that happened had its impact.

"I am not very much worried over the slow <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/wall-street-week-ahead-tariff-deadline-keeps-focus-on-trade-as-2019-draws-to-close-266795">GDP growth</a> because certain things happened, which had its impact," said Mukherjee at a felicitation programme at the Indian Statistical Institute in Kolkata on Wednesday.

The former finance minister in the UPA government further stated that "the sanctity of data as fact has to be kept intact, it cannot be manipulated or designed in any particular way. That will be disastrous."

"Sometimes I read in newspapers that data is questioned, I feel sad. I used to take pride in the authenticity of the Economic Survey, which was brought out every year before the presentation of the budget," he added.

Former President Pranab Mukherjee on Wednesday said that he is not worried over the slow growth of the Gross Domestic Product (GDP) as 'certain things' that happened had its impact.

Former President Pranab Mukherjee on Wednesday said that he is not worried over the slow growth of the Gross Domestic Product (GDP) as 'certain things' that happened had its impact. "I am not very much worried over the slow GDP growth because certain things happened, which had its impact," said Mukherjee at a felicitation programme at the Indian Statistical Institute in Kolkata on Wednesday. The former finance minister in the UPA government further stated that "the sanctity of data as fact has to be kept intact, it cannot be manipulated or designed in any particular way. That will be disastrous." "Sometimes I read in newspapers that data is questioned, I feel sad. I used to take pride in the authenticity of the Economic Survey, which was brought out every year before the presentation of the budget," he added.

Not worried over slow GDP growth: Pranab Mukherjee

Former President Pranab Mukherjee said here on Thursday that Gross Happiness is no less important than Gross Domestic Product (GDP), and its basic foundation is education.

"The world today is not merely talking about Gross Domestic Product, the world wants more. A new concept has come that GDP is important but side by side Gross Happiness is also important and its basic foundation is education," said Mukherjee.

He was speaking at the launch of Delhi Deputy Chief Minister and Education Minister Manish Sisodia's book titled 'Shiksha'&nbsp;here on Teachers'&nbsp;Day on Thursday.

Mukherjee greeted teachers on the occasion and said students should be encouraged to ask questions.

He also thanked Sisodia for his book saying, "I thank you for writing a book not for research scholars but for ordinary teachers and practitioners in the field of education. A book like this is important during a time like this and it will be beneficial for teachers, officials and educators."&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

Former President Pranab Mukherjee said here on Thursday that Gross Happiness is no less important than Gross Domestic Product (GDP), and its basic foundation is education.

Former President Pranab Mukherjee said here on Thursday that Gross Happiness is no less important than Gross Domestic Product (GDP), and its basic foundation is education. "The world today is not merely talking about Gross Domestic Product, the world wants more. A new concept has come that GDP is important but side by side Gross Happiness is also important and its basic foundation is education," said Mukherjee. He was speaking at the launch of Delhi Deputy Chief Minister and Education Minister Manish Sisodia's book titled 'Shiksha' here on Teachers' Day on Thursday. Mukherjee greeted teachers on the occasion and said students should be encouraged to ask questions. He also thanked Sisodia for his book saying, "I thank you for writing a book not for research scholars but for ordinary teachers and practitioners in the field of education. A book like this is important during a time like this and it will be beneficial for teachers, officials and educators."

Gross Happiness is also important along with GDP: Pranab Mukherjee

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday said that he felt honoured to have witnessed former president <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/former-president-pranab-mukherjee-awarded-bharat-ratna-241554">Pranab Mukherjee receiving India's highest civilian award</a>, Bharat Ratna at a grand ceremony held in Rashtrapati Bhavan yesterday.

Taking to Twitter, the Prime Minister thanked Mukherjee for his contribution towards making India more developed.

"Dear Pranab Mukherjee, It was an honour to witness you receiving the Bharat Ratna, a fitting recognition of everything that you have done for the nation. Thank you for leaving no stone unturned towards making India more developed," Modi tweeted.

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Dear <a href="https://twitter.com/CitiznMukherjee?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@CitiznMukherjee</a>, 
 
It was an honour to witness you receiving the Bharat Ratna, a fitting recognition of everything that you have done for the nation. 
 
Thank you for leaving no stone unturned towards making India more developed. <a href="https://t.co/R6YNVDtjPF">pic.twitter.com/R6YNVDtjPF</a>
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1159661789493071872?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 9, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Yesterday, Mukherjee, who is popularly known as `Pranab Da`, expressed his gratitude to Rashtrapati Bhawan and people of the nation for bestowing the Bharat Ratna on him.

"My heartfelt gratitude to Rashtrapatiji and the people of our nation for bestowing the Bharat Ratna on me. This honour is more for the people of our country from whom I have received much more than I have been able to give," Mukherjee tweeted.

He said in another tweet, "The Bharat Ratna for me is also indeed an acknowledgement of the millions who strive every day to make Bharat - the diverse, plural, compassionate and inclusive idea that it is."

Many dignitaries in the central government, including Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Union Home Minister Amit Shah and Vice-President M Venkaiah Naidu, attended the grand event where Pranab Mukherjee received the Bharat Ratna from his successor, President Ram Nath Kovind.

However, the ones who skipped the event were UPA chairperson Sonia Gandhi and Congress leader Rahul Gandhi. Former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh was also not seen at the event.

It is learned that Rahul was invited for the function by Rashtrapati Bhavan. However, the reason as to why he skipped the ceremony is yet to be known.

Congress leaders Anand Sharma, Ahmed Patel, Bhupender Singh Hooda, Janardan Dwivedi, RPN Singh, Sushmita Dev, and Shashi Tharoor attended the ceremony at Rashtrapati Bhavan.&nbsp;

 
&nbsp;

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday said that he felt honoured to have witnessed former president Pranab Mukherjee receiving India's highest civilian award, Bharat Ratna at a grand ceremony held in Rashtrapati Bhavan yesterday.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday said that he felt honoured to have witnessed former president Pranab Mukherjee receiving India's highest civilian award, Bharat Ratna at a grand ceremony held in Rashtrapati Bhavan yesterday. Taking to Twitter, the Prime Minister thanked Mukherjee for his contribution towards making India more developed. "Dear Pranab Mukherjee, It was an honour to witness you receiving the Bharat Ratna, a fitting recognition of everything that you have done for the nation. Thank you for leaving no stone unturned towards making India more developed," Modi tweeted. Dear @CitiznMukherjee, It was an honour to witness you receiving the Bharat Ratna, a fitting recognition of everything that you have done for the nation. Thank you for leaving no stone unturned towards making India more developed. pic.twitter.com/R6YNVDtjPF — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) August 9, 2019 × Yesterday, Mukherjee, who is popularly known as `Pranab Da`, expressed his gratitude to Rashtrapati Bhawan and people of the nation for bestowing the Bharat Ratna on him. "My heartfelt gratitude to Rashtrapatiji and the people of our nation for bestowing the Bharat Ratna on me. This honour is more for the people of our country from whom I have received much more than I have been able to give," Mukherjee tweeted. He said in another tweet, "The Bharat Ratna for me is also indeed an acknowledgement of the millions who strive every day to make Bharat - the diverse, plural, compassionate and inclusive idea that it is." Many dignitaries in the central government, including Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Union Home Minister Amit Shah and Vice-President M Venkaiah Naidu, attended the grand event where Pranab Mukherjee received the Bharat Ratna from his successor, President Ram Nath Kovind. However, the ones who skipped the event were UPA chairperson Sonia Gandhi and Congress leader Rahul Gandhi. Former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh was also not seen at the event. It is learned that Rahul was invited for the function by Rashtrapati Bhavan. However, the reason as to why he skipped the ceremony is yet to be known. Congress leaders Anand Sharma, Ahmed Patel, Bhupender Singh Hooda, Janardan Dwivedi, RPN Singh, Sushmita Dev, and Shashi Tharoor attended the ceremony at Rashtrapati Bhavan.

It was an honour to witness you receive Bharat Ratna: PM Modi to Pranab Mukherjee

Prime Minister-elect Narendra Modi on Tuesday met former president Pranab Mukherjee after a landslide victory in the Lok Sabha elections.

Modi termed the meeting as an enriching experience.

''Meeting Pranab Da is always an enriching experience. His knowledge and insights are unparalleled. He is a statesman who has made an indelible contribution to our nation. Sought his blessings during our meeting today,'' Modi tweeted.

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Meeting Pranab Da is always an enriching experience. His knowledge and insights are unparalleled. He is a statesman who has made an indelible contribution to our nation. 
 
Sought his blessings during our meeting today. <a href="https://t.co/dxFj6NPNd5">pic.twitter.com/dxFj6NPNd5</a>
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1133263427500105728?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 28, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Modi's Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP)&nbsp;secured a clear majority with 303 seats, which is 22 more than its 2014 tally. Along with its allies, the NDA stands at 352 in the 17th Lok Sabha.

Earlier on Saturday, Modi was elected as leader of the NDA in a ceremony at Parliament's Central Hall. Later, he met President Ram Nath Kovind and staked claim to form government at the centre.

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/pm-modi-meets-former-president-pranab-mukherjee-222225/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Narendra Modi will take oath as the Prime Minister for a second term on May 30.

Prime Minister-elect Narendra Modi on Tuesday met former president Pranab Mukherjee after a landslide victory in the Lok Sabha elections. Modi termed the meeting as an enriching experience.

Prime Minister-elect Narendra Modi on Tuesday met former president Pranab Mukherjee after a landslide victory in the Lok Sabha elections. Modi termed the meeting as an enriching experience. ''Meeting Pranab Da is always an enriching experience. His knowledge and insights are unparalleled. He is a statesman who has made an indelible contribution to our nation. Sought his blessings during our meeting today,'' Modi tweeted. Meeting Pranab Da is always an enriching experience. His knowledge and insights are unparalleled. He is a statesman who has made an indelible contribution to our nation. Sought his blessings during our meeting today. pic.twitter.com/dxFj6NPNd5 — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) May 28, 2019 × Modi's Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) secured a clear majority with 303 seats, which is 22 more than its 2014 tally. Along with its allies, the NDA stands at 352 in the 17th Lok Sabha. Earlier on Saturday, Modi was elected as leader of the NDA in a ceremony at Parliament's Central Hall. Later, he met President Ram Nath Kovind and staked claim to form government at the centre. Narendra Modi will take oath as the Prime Minister for a second term on May 30.

Meeting Pranab Da is always an enriching experience: Narendra Modi

A day after lauding the Election Commission of India (ECI)&nbsp;&nbsp;for ''perfect conduct of elections'', former president Pranab Mukherjee on Tuesday said&nbsp;the onus of ensuring institutional integrity of the poll body lies with EC and it must put all speculation to rest.&nbsp;

Mukherjee's statement comes amid reports of &nbsp;EVM tampering.

There can be no room for <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-general-elections-2019/former-president-pranab-mukherjee-hails-election-commission-says-polls-were-conducted-perfectly-220355">speculations that challenges</a> the very basis of our democracy, the former president said and added that people mandate is sacrosanct and has to be above any iota of reasonable doubt.&nbsp;

A firm believer in our institutions, it is my considered opinion that it's the ''workmen'' who decide how the institutional ''tools'' perform, he added.

Mukherjee expressed concern over alleged EVM tampering and said ''I am concerned over reports of alleged tampering of voters' verdict.''&nbsp;

Safety and security of EVMs is Election Commission's responsibility, he added.&nbsp;

Election Commission is also under fire from opposition parties for being biased.

Mukherjee on Monday lauded the role of the poll panel saying the 2019 Lok Sabha polls were conducted "perfectly".

"You cannot criticise them, it was perfect conduct of elections," he said during a book launch. 
&nbsp;

A day after lauding the Election Commission of India (ECI) for ''perfect conduct of elections'', former president Pranab Mukherjee on Tuesday said the onus of ensuring institutional integrity of the poll body lies with EC and it must put all speculation to rest.

A day after lauding the Election Commission of India (ECI) for ''perfect conduct of elections'', former president Pranab Mukherjee on Tuesday said the onus of ensuring institutional integrity of the poll body lies with EC and it must put all speculation to rest. Mukherjee's statement comes amid reports of EVM tampering. There can be no room for speculations that challenges the very basis of our democracy, the former president said and added that people mandate is sacrosanct and has to be above any iota of reasonable doubt. A firm believer in our institutions, it is my considered opinion that it's the ''workmen'' who decide how the institutional ''tools'' perform, he added. Mukherjee expressed concern over alleged EVM tampering and said ''I am concerned over reports of alleged tampering of voters' verdict.'' Safety and security of EVMs is Election Commission's responsibility, he added. Election Commission is also under fire from opposition parties for being biased. Mukherjee on Monday lauded the role of the poll panel saying the 2019 Lok Sabha polls were conducted "perfectly". "You cannot criticise them, it was perfect conduct of elections," he said during a book launch.

Now, Pranab Mukherjee expresses concern over alleged EVM tampering

Former President Dr Pranab Mukherjee on Saturday said ''in my public life I've received much more from the people and from this country than I've given to it''.

Mukherjee was reacting after being <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/ex-president-pranab-mukherjee-nanaji-deshmukh-bhupen-hazarika-awarded-bharat-ratna-192802">conferred Bharat Ratna</a>.

''It is with a deep sense of humility and gratitude to the people of India that I accept this great honour #BharatRatna bestowed upon me. &nbsp;I have always said and I repeat, that I have got more from the people of our great country than I have given to them. #CitizenMukherjee,'' tweeted former president.

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Former President Dr Pranab Mukherjee: But at the same time, with all humility, I accept this honour. I have conveyed my appreciation by talking to the President of the Republic. <a href="https://t.co/UXiJe3z40x">https://t.co/UXiJe3z40x</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1089099259490828288?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 26, 2019</a></blockquote>
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''I would like to express my deep gratitude to the people of this country,'' he was quoted as saying by news agency ANI.&nbsp;

According to ANI, Mukherjee said ''I conveyed my appreciation by talking to the President of the Republic''.

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Sharmistha Mukherjee: My father (Dr Pranab Mukherjee) started his journey from a very remote village of Bengal. There was no development, roads, electricity. He had to travel for 10 kms every day to go to school. From there to achievement of <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/BharatRatna?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#BharatRatna</a>, it's a very long journey <a href="https://t.co/IK8HwE3OCY">pic.twitter.com/IK8HwE3OCY</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1089109635473260544?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 26, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Former President Dr Pranab Mukherjee on Saturday said ''in my public life I've received much more from the people and from this country than I've given to it''. Mukherjee was reacting after being conferred Bharat Ratna.

Former President Dr Pranab Mukherjee on Saturday said ''in my public life I've received much more from the people and from this country than I've given to it''. Mukherjee was reacting after being conferred Bharat Ratna. ''It is with a deep sense of humility and gratitude to the people of India that I accept this great honour #BharatRatna bestowed upon me. I have always said and I repeat, that I have got more from the people of our great country than I have given to them. #CitizenMukherjee,'' tweeted former president. Former President Dr Pranab Mukherjee: But at the same time, with all humility, I accept this honour. I have conveyed my appreciation by talking to the President of the Republic. https://t.co/UXiJe3z40x — ANI (@ANI) January 26, 2019 × ''I would like to express my deep gratitude to the people of this country,'' he was quoted as saying by news agency ANI. According to ANI, Mukherjee said ''I conveyed my appreciation by talking to the President of the Republic''. Sharmistha Mukherjee: My father (Dr Pranab Mukherjee) started his journey from a very remote village of Bengal. There was no development, roads, electricity. He had to travel for 10 kms every day to go to school. From there to achievement of #BharatRatna, it's a very long journey pic.twitter.com/IK8HwE3OCY — ANI (@ANI) January 26, 2019 ×

Received much more from country than given to it: Pranab on Bharat Ratna