The Impressive TimesNew Delhi : The second phase of the Budget Session of Parliament is set to commence today, with proceedings scheduled to continue until April 4. This leg of the session will feature 20 sittings, during which crucial financial and legislative matters will be discussed and debated. A significant highlight of today’s session will be Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman tabling the budget for Manipur, a state currently under President’s Rule following the resignation of Chief Minister N. Biren Singh last month.
During this phase, Parliament will deliberate on and vote for the Demands for Grants for the financial year 2025-26, a crucial process that determines the allocation of government funds across various ministries and departments. The subsequent Appropriation Bill, which grants the government authority to withdraw funds from the Consolidated Fund of India, will also be taken up for approval.
Apart from financial matters, several important bills are on the legislative agenda. Among them is the Banking Laws (Amendment) Bill, aimed at reforming the regulatory framework governing the banking sector. Additionally, the Coastal Shipping Bill, 2024, which seeks to promote and regulate domestic shipping operations along India’s coastline, will be discussed. Another significant legislation slated for deliberation is the Immigration and Foreigners Bill, 2025, intended to streamline immigration processes and enhance border security measures. The Railways (Amendment) Bill will also be taken up, focusing on structural and operational changes within the Indian Railways to improve efficiency and service delivery.
The first part of the Budget Session, held from January 31 to February 13, was marked by high productivity and key policy discussions. The session opened with President Droupadi Murmu’s address to the joint sitting of both Houses, outlining the government’s policy priorities. On February 1, Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman presented the Union Budget 2025-26, which focused on economic growth, infrastructure development, and social welfare schemes. Subsequently, Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed both Houses in response to the Motion of Thanks on the President’s address, defending the government’s policies and highlighting its achievements.
The Lok Sabha recorded 112% productivity during the first part of the session, a notable achievement reflecting active participation in debates and discussions. One of the key developments during this phase was the tabling of the Joint Committee report on the Waqf (Amendment) Bill, 2024, which is expected to be taken up for further deliberation in this session.
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