New Delhi, July 18:  Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday sought the cooperation of all political parties for the smooth functioning of both the houses of Parliament during the Monsoon Session that began today. In his address, the Prime Minister appealed to all political parties to utilise Parliament time effectively and ensure that it turns out to be a productive one.

The Monsoon session that began today will continue till August 10 and will have 18 sittings. PM Modi further informed that important issues are scheduled to be discussed during the session and cooperation is needed to let the monsoon session function.

Ahead of the Monsoon Session, the Prime Minister chaired an all-party meeting in the national capital on Tuesday. Some of the issues that are expected to be discussed in the session are mob lynching, atrocities on Dalits and women, and rising unemployment.

The government has claimed that the opposition has assured them of their cooperation to ensure smooth functioning of both Houses of Parliament,. Meanwhile, the opposition parties have voiced their concerns during the interaction with the government.

Parliamentary Affairs minister Ananth Kumar had informed that the Prime Minister has sought the cooperation of all political parties for the smooth functioning of Parliament and a productive session. "People of India want Parliament to function. The entire country expects and hopes Parliament will function and debate over issues of national interest," Kumar added.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Jul 18, 2018 11:08 AM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).