New Delhi: The farewell ceremony of the outgoing President Ram Nath Kovind began at the Parliament on Saturday. Vice-President Venkaiah Naidu, Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla arrived at the venue as both Rajya Sabha and Lok Sabha MPs jointly host the farewell for Kovind, whose tenure as the constitutional head ends today.
As per reports, Speaker Om Birla will be presenting a citation on behalf of the parliamentarians to outgoing President Kovind. A memento and a signature book signed by all the MPs will also be presented to him.
Addressing the event, the outgoing president, as quoted by news agency ANI said, "Five years ago, I took oath as President of India here in Central Hall. All MPs have a special place in my heart."
"Parliament is a temple of democracy and the MPs should always follow Gandhian philosophy while exercising rights of debate and dissent in Parliament," Kovind said.
Extending his greetings to the newly elected president Droupadi Murmu, he said, "I heartily congratulate Droupadi Murmu for being elected as next president. The country will benefit from her guidance."
Thanking the Prime Minister, the outgoing president further added, "I thank PM Modi's council of ministers, VP Venkaiah Naidu, LS Speaker Om Birla for support during my tenure."