Two satellite channels for telecasting live the proceedings of both the houses of Parliament were launched on Tuesday.
The presiding officers of the houses - Lok Sabha Speaker Somnath Chatterjee and Rajya Sabha Deputy Chairman Bhairon Singh Shekhawat - launched the channels at a function in the Central Hall of Parliament.
Prime Minister Manmohan Singh, Information and Broadcasting Minister S Jaipal Reddy, leader of the Opposition Lal Kishenchand Advani and United Progressive Alliance chairperson Sonia Gandhi were among those who attended the function.
Chatterjee said the live telecast of Parliament proceedings will make parliamentarians more responsible and debates more purposeful. This will also help people get a first-hand knowledge of the working of the highest institution of democracy, he said.
Shekhawat said the live telecast will make members more alert. It will also enable people to see how their problems are being dealt with in a democratic manner.
The prime minister said by watching the vibrancy of Indian democracy at work, the faith of the people in parliamentary democracy will be strengthened further .
He said live telecasts will improve the quality of debates in Parliament and help promote an informed public opinion.