New Delhi: Just prior to the start of the Budget Session for 2025-26, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi remarked on Friday that this marks the first Parliament session since 2014 in which he has observed "no foreign interference."
Speaking to reporters before entering the Parliament, PM Modi stated, "You may have noticed that since 2014, this is the first Parliament session that has experienced no 'videshi chingari' (foreign interference) in our domestic matters, with no external forces attempting to stir unrest. I have observed this trend before each budget session, and there are many in our country who strive to exacerbate these tensions. This is the first session free from foreign intervention."
Highlighting the government's commitment to "all-round development" during its third term, the Prime Minister emphasized that the three pillars of Innovation, Inclusion, and Investment have played a crucial role in the nation's economic advancement.
PM Modi remarked, "In our third term, under Mission MODE, we are steering the country towards comprehensive development, encompassing geographical, social, and economic dimensions. We are advancing towards Mission MODE, where Innovation, Inclusion, and Investment are fundamental to our economic progress."
He further stated, "Reform, perform, and transform. To accelerate development, we must prioritize reform, and both central and state governments need to deliver results, with transformation evident through public engagement."
The Prime Minister noted that this session will address several historic bills aimed at fortifying the nation.
In this session, numerous significant bills will be deliberated in the House, and after thorough discussions, they will be enacted into laws aimed at fortifying the nation. A particular focus will be on reinstating the dignity of women's empowerment, ensuring that every woman enjoys a life of respect and equal rights, free from discrimination based on caste or creed. Important decisions will be made in this regard during the session, he stated.
Prime Minister Modi emphasized that the youth of today will reap the greatest rewards from Viksit Bharat by the time they reach the age of 50. He remarked, "We are a youthful nation, and those aged 20 to 25 will be the primary beneficiaries of Viksit Bharat when they turn 50... They will play a crucial role in shaping policies... Our commitment to realizing the vision of Viksit Bharat will be a significant legacy for our younger generation."
He further described this budget session as a "remarkable opportunity" for Members of Parliament to aid in the advancement of Viksit Bharat.
"During this budget session, all MPs will play a role in enhancing Viksit Bharat, particularly the younger MPs, as this represents a unique opportunity for them. They will witness the evolution of Viksit Bharat... I trust that we will meet the hopes and expectations of the populace," he expressed. PM Modi also paid homage to Goddess Laxmi, stating, "In anticipation of the Budget Session, I pay my respects to Maa Lakshmi, the goddess of wealth and prosperity..."
The budget session of Parliament will begin today with President Droupadi Murmu addressing a joint session of both Houses. Following this, Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman will present the Economic Survey in advance of the Union Budget presentation scheduled for Saturday. The Economic Survey will be introduced in the Lok Sabha at 12 noon and in the Rajya Sabha at 2 PM.
The Economic Survey, developed by the Economic Division of the Department of Economic Affairs within the Ministry of Finance and overseen by the chief economic adviser, provides an analysis of the economy and various indicators for the fiscal year 2024-25 (April-March), along with projections for the upcoming fiscal period.
During the session, several significant bills are expected to be addressed. Among these are the Banking Laws (Amendment) Bill, 2024, which aims to enhance banking regulations and oversight, and the Railways (Amendment) Bill, 2024, designed to improve the operational efficiency of Indian Railways.
Additionally, the Disaster Management (Amendment) Bill, 2024, is proposed to strengthen disaster response mechanisms nationwide.
The session is also likely to include the Waqf (Amendment) Bill, 2024, and the Mussalman Wakf (Repeal) Bill, 2024, both intended to reform the management of religious endowments.
The government's legislative agenda encompasses the Banking Laws (Amendment) Bill, 2024, the Railways (Amendment) Bill, 2024, the Disaster Management (Amendment) Bill, 2024, the Oilfields (Regulation and Development) Amendment Bill, 2024, the Boilers Bill, 2024, the Waqf (Amendment) Bill, 2024, the Coastal Shipping Bill, 2024, the Merchant Shipping Bill, 2024, and the Finance Bill, 2025.
The first segment of the Budget session will run until February 13, with both Houses reconvening on March 10 after a recess, and the session is set to conclude on April 4.
