- The Motion of Thanks is a parliamentary motion moved in Lok Sabha to express gratitude to the President for the President’s Address at the beginning of the first session of a new year or after a general election.
- It enables Parliament to discuss the policies and programmes outlined in the Address.
- Formally moved only in Lok Sabha.
- Rajya Sabha discusses the Address but does not vote on a Motion of Thanks.
Constitutional Basis
- Article 87 of the Constitution provides for the President’s Address to Parliament.
- The Motion of Thanks is based on parliamentary convention and rules of procedure, not expressly mentioned in the Constitution.
Procedure
- A member of the ruling party moves the motion.
- Another member seconds it.
- A detailed debate follows on government policies, achievements, and future plans.
- The Prime Minister replies to the debate.
- The motion is then put to vote.
Amendments
- Members may move amendments to:
- Express regret
- Criticise policies
- Point out omissions in the President’s Address
- Amendments are voted upon before the main motion.
Outcome
- Passage of the motion signifies approval of the government’s agenda.
- Defeat of the motion is treated as a loss of confidence in the government and is a serious political setback.
Significance
- First major parliamentary debate of the year.
- Provides a platform to review government performance.
- Allows the opposition to scrutinise and criticise the government.
- Acts as an indirect test of majority support.
Difference from No-Confidence Motion
- Motion of Thanks is a regular annual exercise.
- No-Confidence Motion is moved specifically to test the government’s majority.
- Defeat of the Motion of Thanks has similar political implications but is rare.
