Motion of Thanks

News: Recently, Prime Minister replied to the Motion of Thanks on the President’s Address in the Rajya Sabha (February 2026).

About Motion of Thanks

• It is a parliamentary motion moved after the President’s Address to express gratitude to the President.
• It is a special address which reflects the policy statement of the government.
• It provides an opportunity for Members of Parliament to debate government policies.
• The discussion concludes with the Prime Minister’s reply, after which the motion is put to vote.
• Drafted by: It is drafted by the Council of Ministers.
• Constitutional Basis
  • Article 87 of the Constitution: The President addresses both Houses of Parliament:
    • At the beginning of the first session after a general election.
    • At the beginning of the first session of every year
• Procedure: The Motion is moved in both Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha.
• Amendments to the motion: Amendments are allowed, including criticism of government policies and mention of issues omitted in the Address.
• Voting on motion: After discussion, amendments to Motion are voted upon.
  • The Motion of Thanks must be passed in the Lok Sabha.
  • Otherwise, it amounts to the defeat of the government.
  • It is one of the ways through which the Lok Sabha can also express a lack of confidence in the government.

Highlights of the President’s Address (2026)

• Reiterated Viksit Bharat @2047 as the core national vision for the coming decades.
• Emphasised inclusive growth focusing on the poor, middle class, farmers, women and villages.
• Highlighted youth-led development, with education, skilling and employment as key drivers.
• Underlined strong economic fundamentals marked by high growth and low inflation.
• Stressed infrastructure-led development with emphasis on timely project execution (PRAGATI).
• Asserted India’s role as a leading voice of the Global South and a trusted global partner.