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India

India to Highlight Global South Priorities at G7 Summit, Says Modi

by theparliamentnews.com 13 June 2026

written by theparliamentnews.com

Prime Minister Narendra Modi departed on Saturday, June 13, 2026, for a six-day visit to France and the Slovak Republic. The visit, which will continue until June 18, is expected to focus on strengthening bilateral ties, promoting innovation partnerships, and advancing India’s engagement with Europe and the G7 nations.

Before his departure, Prime Minister Modi said he would undertake the visit at the invitation of French President Emmanuel Macron and Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico.

“France occupies a special place in India’s strategic vision,” Mr. Modi said, highlighting the growing cooperation between the two countries. He noted that President Macron visited India earlier this year, during which both nations elevated their ties to a Special Global Strategic Partnership.

During his stay in France, Prime Minister Modi is scheduled to hold discussions with President Macron to review progress made since February and identify new areas of cooperation. A major highlight of the visit will be the inauguration of the ‘Bharat Innovates’ initiative in Nice on June 14.

According to the Prime Minister, the event is being organised as part of the India-France Year of Innovation and is aimed at connecting Indian start-ups with international investors and business leaders. The initiative is expected to strengthen collaboration in technology, innovation, entrepreneurship, and investment.

Following his engagements in France, Mr. Modi will travel to the Slovak Republic on June 14 and 15 for a state visit. The visit is significant as it will be the first by an Indian Prime Minister to independent Slovakia.

Prime Minister Modi said he looks forward to discussions with Slovak President Peter Pellegrini and Prime Minister Robert Fico in Bratislava. The talks are expected to focus on expanding bilateral cooperation in trade, investment, technology, and strategic partnerships.

The Prime Minister is also expected to interact with Slovak business leaders during the visit. He said the trip would help strengthen India’s partnership with the European Union, describing Slovakia as an important and valued member of the bloc.

After completing his engagements in Slovakia, Mr. Modi will return to France to participate in the G7 Summit in Evian on June 16 and 17. India has once again been invited to attend the summit as an outreach partner.

“India’s presence at the G7 reflects the trust our partners place in us and our growing global profile,” Mr. Modi said. He noted that this would be the eighth consecutive G7 Summit to which India has been invited.

The Prime Minister said India would use the platform not only to present its own perspectives but also to represent the interests and aspirations of developing countries.

“At the G7, India will not only speak for itself, but it will also give voice to the aspirations of the Global South,” he stated.

Reports indicate that Mr. Modi may also hold bilateral meetings with several world leaders attending the summit, including a possible interaction with U.S. President Donald Trump on the sidelines of the gathering.

The final leg of the visit will include participation in VivaTech 2026, one of Europe’s leading technology and innovation events. Prime Minister Modi is expected to attend the event alongside President Macron on June 18 before concluding his visit.

The Prime Minister expressed confidence that the visits would further strengthen India’s engagement with Europe and reinforce partnerships across multiple sectors.

“I am confident that my visits to France and the Slovak Republic will reinforce India’s deepening engagement with both Europe and the G7, and showcase our steadfast commitment to expanding the horizon of our partnerships with the continent and beyond,” he said.

The visit comes at a time when India is seeking deeper cooperation with European partners in areas including technology, innovation, trade, defence, and global governance, while continuing to strengthen its role on the international stage.

13 June 2026 0 comment

Blog Featured India

India-Oman Trade Pact Takes Effect, Expanding Duty-Free Market Access

by theparliamentnews.com 1 June 2026

written by theparliamentnews.com

The Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) between India and Oman officially came into effect today, opening a new chapter in bilateral economic relations and providing expanded market access for Indian exporters.

Announcing the implementation of the agreement, Union Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal said the pact would help create new opportunities for students, artisans, women, farmers, fishermen, and micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) by expanding exports, attracting investment, and supporting job creation.

The agreement was signed in December last year during Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to Muscat.

Strategic Importance Amid Regional Tensions

The trade pact comes into force at a time when geopolitical tensions in West Asia continue to disrupt regional trade routes.

The ongoing conflict involving Iran has affected shipping movements through the Strait of Hormuz, a critical route that handles around 20% of global daily oil consumption and approximately 25% of global seaborne oil trade.

Unlike several Gulf states whose shipping routes depend heavily on the Strait of Hormuz, Oman occupies a strategically advantageous position. Much of its coastline lies outside the strait, directly facing the Arabian Sea and the Gulf of Oman, allowing key ports to remain operational even during regional disruptions.

According to trade experts, major Omani ports such as Salalah and Duqm can continue functioning as important trade and energy gateways during periods of instability in the Gulf region.

Recent trade data highlights this advantage. While India’s imports from major Gulf economies fell sharply between April 2025 and April 2026, Oman emerged as an exception.

India’s imports from Oman increased by more than 246%, rising from approximately $430 million to nearly $1.5 billion, largely driven by purchases of crude oil and urea. During the same period, India’s exports to Oman declined by only 10.3%, outperforming trends seen elsewhere in the region.

Benefits for Indian Exporters

Under the agreement, Oman will provide zero-duty access on 98.08% of its tariff lines, covering 99.38% of India’s exports to the country.

This marks a significant expansion from the pre-CEPA framework, under which only about 15.3% of Indian exports enjoyed duty-free treatment.

The agreement offers full tariff elimination across several labour-intensive sectors, including:

Gems and jewellery
Textiles and apparel
Leather and footwear
Sports goods
Plastics
Furniture
Agricultural products
Engineering goods
Pharmaceuticals
Medical devices
Automobiles

India’s exports to Oman were valued at approximately $3.64 billion in FY2026. Major export items included refined petroleum products, naphtha, calcined alumina, iron and steel products, machinery, and rice.

Although many Indian products already entered Oman at relatively low tariff rates, some sectors faced duties as high as 100%. The removal of these tariffs is expected to improve the competitiveness of Indian goods in the Omani market.

However, analysts note that export growth may be moderated by Oman’s relatively small domestic market, with a population of around 5.5 million and a GDP of approximately $110 billion.

Benefits for Oman

In return, India has agreed to eliminate or reduce tariffs on around 78% of its tariff lines.

Oman’s primary gains are concentrated in sectors where it already has a strong presence in the Indian market, particularly energy, fertilisers, and industrial raw materials.

India imported goods worth approximately $7.2 billion from Oman during FY2026. Key imports included:

Crude oil
Liquefied natural gas (LNG)
Fertilisers
Methanol
Ammonia

These imports play an important role in supporting India’s energy security, agricultural sector, and industrial production.

Strengthening Economic Ties

The implementation of the CEPA is expected to deepen economic cooperation between the two countries while improving supply-chain resilience during periods of geopolitical uncertainty.

For India, the agreement not only expands export opportunities but also strengthens access to a strategically located partner capable of supporting trade and energy flows during disruptions in the Gulf region.

As global trade routes face increasing uncertainty, the India-Oman CEPA is expected to enhance bilateral trade, improve market access, and support long-term economic cooperation between the two nations.

1 June 2026 0 comment

Blog Featured India

RBI Projects 6.9% GDP Growth for India in FY27 Despite Global Risks

by theparliamentnews.com 29 May 2026

written by theparliamentnews.com

The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has projected that the Indian economy will remain resilient in the financial year 2026-27 despite growing geopolitical tensions and economic uncertainties stemming from the ongoing conflict in West Asia.

In its Annual Report 2025-26 released on Friday, the central bank said India’s growth prospects continue to be supported by strong macroeconomic fundamentals, robust domestic demand, relatively low dependence on exports as a primary growth driver, and a stable policy environment.

According to the RBI, the global economic outlook has weakened due to the re-emergence of geopolitical risks as a major challenge to growth. The conflict in West Asia, which intensified in late February 2026, has affected forecasts for global growth, trade, and inflation.

Citing international projections, the RBI noted that the global economy is expected to expand by 3.1% in 2026, lower than the 3.3% forecast issued earlier in January. Global merchandise and services trade growth is also expected to slow to 2.8%.

The central bank warned that any further escalation, prolonged duration, or wider geographical spread of the conflict could pose significant downside risks to the global economy.

Growth Outlook Remains Positive

Despite external challenges, the RBI maintained a positive outlook for India’s economy.

The central bank projected India’s real Gross Domestic Product (GDP) growth at 6.9% in FY27, while cautioning that risks remain tilted to the downside if geopolitical tensions worsen.

According to the report, healthy corporate balance sheets, a well-capitalised banking sector, and the government’s continued focus on capital expenditure are expected to support investment activity and economic growth.

The RBI also said labour market conditions are likely to improve further with the implementation of the country’s four labour codes, alongside strengthening domestic demand and productivity gains.

Inflation Risks Persist

While inflation is expected to remain broadly aligned with the RBI’s target range, the central bank identified several upside risks.

The report projected Consumer Price Index (CPI) inflation at 4.6% in FY27, with risks tilted upward due to geopolitical developments and commodity market volatility.

The RBI said rising global fuel and commodity prices, potential increases in input and wage costs, and exchange rate fluctuations could place additional pressure on inflation.

At the same time, adequate foodgrain stocks, healthy reservoir levels, and favourable agricultural conditions are expected to help contain food price pressures.

Agriculture Dependent on Monsoon Performance

The outlook for the agriculture sector remains closely tied to the progress of the south-west monsoon.

The RBI noted that potential El Niño conditions could adversely affect agricultural output. However, the expected emergence of a positive Indian Ocean Dipole (IOD) later in the monsoon season may help offset some of those risks.

Trade and External Sector

The central bank acknowledged that ongoing geopolitical tensions and global policy uncertainty could weigh on India’s merchandise exports.

However, it said ongoing trade agreements with key partners and efforts to strengthen domestic manufacturing in strategic sectors are expected to improve export competitiveness and reduce import dependence.

India’s services exports, particularly in software and business services, along with strong remittance inflows from non-Gulf countries, are expected to continue supporting the country’s current account position.

The RBI also noted that foreign portfolio investment (FPI) flows will remain dependent on global investor sentiment. Nonetheless, progress in bilateral and regional trade agreements could attract additional capital inflows during FY27.

Banking System Remains Strong

According to the report, the Indian banking system remains resilient due to prudent regulation, stable credit growth, and strong capital buffers.

The RBI cautioned that geopolitical tensions, supply chain disruptions, and elevated sovereign bond yields could affect corporate earnings and investment portfolios in the near term.

However, the central bank emphasized that the financial system remains well-positioned to absorb external shocks due to strong balance sheets and sound fundamentals.

Need for Continuous Monitoring

Reflecting on FY26, the RBI said the Indian economy demonstrated resilience despite multiple global headwinds, supported by strong private consumption, sustained investment, and macroeconomic stability.

Looking ahead, the central bank expects growth momentum to continue, although developments in West Asia and weather-related disruptions could create short-term challenges.

The report concluded that continuous monitoring of global and domestic developments will be essential to ensure appropriate policy responses in an increasingly uncertain international environment.

29 May 2026 0 comment

Blog Education & Tech Featured India

BAMS Student Arrested in NEET-UG 2026 Paper Leak Case

by theparliamentnews.com 12 May 2026

written by theparliamentnews.com

A student pursuing Bachelor of Ayurvedic Medicine and Surgery (BAMS) has been arrested in Maharashtra’s Nashik in connection with the alleged leak of the NEET-UG 2026 question paper, according to sources familiar with the investigation.

The accused, identified as Shubham Khairnar, was arrested by the Nashik Crime Branch. Investigators allege that he purchased the leaked “guess paper” through the messaging platform Telegram by paying around ₹10 lakh and later shared it with a buyer based in Haryana.

The development comes as the Central Bureau of Investigation continues its probe into the nationwide controversy surrounding the alleged paper leak. According to reports, four CBI teams have arrived in Nashik to take custody of the accused and further investigate the source and circulation network linked to the leaked examination material.

The arrest has also led investigators to reconsider earlier assumptions regarding the origin of the leak. Initial reports had suggested that the question paper may have been leaked from a printing press in Nashik. However, police sources now indicate that the examination paper was not printed there, raising new questions about how the material was accessed and distributed.

The NEET-UG examination is one of India’s largest and most competitive entrance tests for undergraduate medical admissions. Allegations of leaks and irregularities have triggered concerns among students and parents regarding examination security and fairness.

Investigators are currently examining digital evidence, communication records, and financial transactions connected to the accused. Authorities are also attempting to identify additional individuals who may have been involved in the circulation of the leaked material across states.

The case has intensified scrutiny on the use of encrypted and messaging platforms in examination fraud networks. Officials are expected to continue questioning suspects and analysing online channels used to allegedly distribute the paper.

The CBI has not yet released an official statement detailing the wider scope of the investigation or the number of people under scrutiny. Further arrests are possible as the probe expands.

12 May 2026 0 comment

Blog Featured India

Nand Kishore Bhatt Addresses NCC Cadets at Mumbai Event

by theparliamentnews.com 4 May 2026

written by theparliamentnews.com

Mumbai: Mr. Nand Kishore Bhatt, a Senior Corporate Security Professional, addressed over 200 National Cadet Corps (NCC) cadets of R. M. Bhatt College during the ‘Cadet to Commander’ programme, organised by the World Environment Council in collaboration with Guru Dakshina Alumina. The initiative focused on leadership development, discipline, and character building among youth.

The programme carried a deeper significance as it reflected the inspiring journey of Mr. Bhatt himself a professional whose foundation was laid through NCC training. From the parade ground to the corporate boardroom, he credited NCC for shaping his personality, discipline, physical fitness, leadership mindset, and the confidence that helped him succeed in professional life.

Speaking to the cadets, Mr. Bhatt shared how NCC was not merely an extracurricular activity, but a life-changing institution that built resilience, teamwork, time management, and a strong sense of national responsibility. He emphasised that the values learned during cadet life continued to guide him throughout his career journey.

NCC: A Launchpad for Life

During his address, Mr. Bhatt underlined that NCC creates future-ready youth by instilling:

Discipline and mental toughness
Physical fitness and endurance
Leadership and decision-making skills
Confidence to face professional challenges
Patriotism and commitment to nation-building

He encouraged cadets to treat every drill, camp, and activity as an opportunity to prepare themselves for bigger responsibilities in life.

Giving Back to the Institution That Built Him

Mr. Bhatt said that standing before NCC cadets today was an emotional and proud moment, as it gave him the chance to give back to the very institution that played a defining role in his own growth. He described NCC as one of India’s finest platforms for shaping youth into responsible citizens and future leaders.

He motivated cadets to dream big, remain grounded in values, and use the discipline of NCC to excel in fields such as corporate leadership, defence services, entrepreneurship, public administration, and social service.

Inspiring Interaction with Cadets

The session saw enthusiastic participation from cadets, many of whom engaged with questions on career planning, fitness, leadership, and balancing ambition with discipline. Mr. Bhatt’s practical insights and relatable experiences made the interaction highly impactful.

Organisers Appreciated

The World Environment Council and Guru Dakshina Alumina were appreciated for organising the programme, which successfully connected experience with aspiration and reinforced NCC’s role in building the next generation of disciplined, capable, and nation-first youth.

4 May 2026 0 comment

Blog Featured India

GST 2.0 Simplifies Rates but Deepens Inverted Duty Issues

by theparliamentnews.com 2 May 2026

written by theparliamentnews.com

The rollout of GST 2.0 has simplified India’s indirect tax regime by rationalising rates, but it has also led to unintended consequences for several industries. Officials and industry representatives indicate that the reforms have deepened the issue of inverted duty structures, particularly in sectors where input costs remain taxed at higher rates than final products.

The Goods and Services Tax (GST) overhaul, approved by the GST Council in September 2025, removed the 12% tax slab and shifted many goods into the lower 5% bracket. The move aimed to simplify compliance and stimulate consumption. However, it has created a mismatch in tax rates across supply chains.

An inverted duty structure occurs when the tax on inputs exceeds the tax on finished goods. This has become more pronounced after GST 2.0, with many input services such as logistics, advertising, and packaging continuing to attract tax rates of around 18%, while final products are taxed at 5%.

Sectors such as textiles, food processing, and electric vehicles are among the most affected. In the food processing industry, for instance, finished goods were moved to the 5% bracket, while inputs like packaging materials and services remain taxed at higher rates. This has widened the gap between input and output taxes.

A similar pattern is visible in the textile sector, where finished goods are taxed at 5%, but key raw materials and services continue at 18%. Industry representatives say this results in the accumulation of input tax credit, as businesses pay more tax upfront than they can recover through sales.

The issue extends to other industries as well. In the case of vaccines, final products are taxed at lower rates, while specialised inputs and chemicals fall under higher tax brackets. Packaged food products and consumer goods, including stationery items, also reflect this mismatch.

Industry officials explain that the impact is particularly significant for small and medium enterprises. Manufacturers often pay higher GST on inputs such as steel, rubber, or packaging materials, while selling finished products at lower tax rates. The excess tax paid must be claimed as refunds.

However, delays in processing these refunds have led to liquidity challenges. Businesses report that funds remain locked for extended periods, affecting working capital and day-to-day operations. This is especially burdensome for smaller firms with limited financial buffers.

According to officials, the GST 2.0 reforms prioritised demand stimulation by reducing tax rates on final goods. While this approach may support consumption, it did not fully account for tax design principles aimed at avoiding inversion.

Earlier rate rationalisation efforts had attempted to align input and output tax rates more closely. In contrast, the recent changes focused more on reducing prices for consumers, leading to structural imbalances in certain sectors.

The developments highlight the need for further adjustments in the GST framework to address inversion-related challenges. Industry stakeholders have called for corrective measures, including rate alignment and faster refund mechanisms, to ease financial pressure on businesses.

2 May 2026 0 comment

Blog Featured India

Over 92% Voting in Phase Two of Bengal Assembly Polls

by theparliamentnews.com 29 April 2026

written by theparliamentnews.com

West Bengal recorded a voter turnout of 92.47% in the second and final phase of Assembly elections held on April 29, 2026, marking one of the highest participation rates in the State’s electoral history. Combined with the first phase, the overall turnout stood at nearly 93%, the highest recorded in any Assembly election in the State since Independence, according to the Chief Electoral Officer.

Polling in the second phase covered 142 Assembly constituencies across seven districts in south Bengal. Among these, rural districts reported the highest participation, with Purba Bardhaman recording 93.39%, followed by Hooghly (91.41%), South 24 Parganas (91.45%), North 24 Parganas (91.39%), and Nadia (91.35%). Urban centres saw relatively lower turnout, with Kolkata South recording 87.25% and Kolkata North at 88.91%, while Howrah reported 90.93%.

The high turnout follows a similarly strong participation in the first phase held on April 23, where 93.19% of voters cast their ballots across 152 seats. Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar described the turnout as the highest since Independence, highlighting the scale of voter engagement.

The election, however, was not without tensions. Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee alleged interference by central forces, accusing them of acting under instructions from the Bharatiya Janata Party. She questioned the conduct of polling and raised concerns about fairness.

Tensions were particularly visible in Bhabanipur, where BJP leader Suvendu Adhikari faced protests from Trinamool Congress supporters. Similar confrontations were reported in other constituencies, including Kolkata Port and Noapara, where clashes between rival party supporters led to disruptions.

Allegations also emerged regarding irregularities in some polling booths. In the Falta constituency, claims were made that voting buttons on electronic voting machines were obstructed, while reports of clashes involving Central Armed Police Forces (CAPF) surfaced in multiple areas. The Trinamool Congress accused central forces of excesses, including instances of alleged assault on voters.

The Election Commission had deployed 2,321 companies of central forces to ensure security during the polling process. Senior officials from the Central Reserve Police Force and Border Security Force were present in sensitive areas to oversee law and order.

Despite isolated incidents, polling remained largely peaceful across the seven districts. Authorities confirmed that voting was conducted successfully in the majority of constituencies.

In a post-poll measure, the Election Commission has decided to retain 700 companies of central forces in the State for approximately two months to prevent any potential violence. This follows concerns based on post-election incidents reported in previous polls.

With the completion of voting, the electoral fate of 2,926 candidates across 294 constituencies has been sealed in electronic voting machines. The total electorate for the election stood at 6.81 crore voters. Vote counting is scheduled for May 4, 2026.

29 April 2026 0 comment

Blog Featured India Politics

Raghav Chadha Among Seven AAP MPs to Join BJP

by theparliamentnews.com 25 April 2026

written by theparliamentnews.com

In a significant political development, Raghav Chadha and six other Rajya Sabha members from the Aam Aadmi Party resigned from the party and joined the Bharatiya Janata Party on April 24, 2026.

Addressing a press conference in New Delhi, Chadha stated that more than two-thirds of AAP’s Rajya Sabha members had decided to merge with the BJP, invoking provisions under the Constitution that allow such a move without disqualification under the anti-defection law. He said that the required documents had been submitted to the Rajya Sabha Chairman.

Chadha cited ideological differences as the primary reason for his exit, stating that the party had “deviated from its principles, values and core morals.” He added that his decision followed years of internal disagreement, describing himself as being “in the wrong party.”

Along with Chadha, Sandeep Pathak and Ashok Mittal also confirmed their resignation from AAP. Other members associated with the move include Harbhajan Singh, Rajinder Gupta, Vikram Sahney, and Swati Maliwal.

The shift has reduced AAP’s strength in the Rajya Sabha from 10 members to three. The party currently also has three members in the Lok Sabha.

Reacting to the development, AAP leaders criticised the move. Sanjay Singh said that the people of Punjab would remember the names of the MPs who left the party, alleging that the BJP had been obstructing the work of the state government led by Bhagwant Mann.

Earlier this month, the party had replaced Chadha with Ashok Mittal as its deputy leader in the Rajya Sabha. AAP had accused Chadha of not participating in certain opposition activities, including signing a notice related to the removal of the Chief Election Commissioner. Chadha had responded by questioning whether raising public issues was being treated as a fault.

Under India’s anti-defection law, legislators can avoid disqualification if at least two-thirds of members agree to merge with another party. Chadha maintained that this threshold had been met in the current case.

The BJP welcomed the development, with party spokespersons stating that it reflected internal issues within AAP. Statements from BJP leaders described AAP as being in disarray, while criticising its governance record.

The political shift comes at a time of heightened electoral activity and may have implications for party dynamics in Parliament, particularly in the Rajya Sabha where numbers play a key role in legislative proceedings.

25 April 2026 0 comment

Blog Featured India

Rahul Gandhi Urges Immediate Implementation of Women’s Reservation Bill

by theparliamentnews.com 20 April 2026

written by theparliamentnews.com

Leader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha, Rahul Gandhi, on Monday urged the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) to implement the Women’s Reservation Bill introduced in 2023, stating that the entire Opposition would support it if brought forward in Parliament.

Addressing an Assembly election campaign rally near Naguneri in Tamil Nadu, Gandhi said that if the government was committed to women’s representation, it should table the earlier version of the Bill for immediate implementation rather than delaying it.

He noted that the 2023 Bill proposed reserving one-third of seats in Parliament and State Assemblies for women. According to him, the Opposition had supported this provision but had opposed recent legislative efforts due to concerns over potential changes in the electoral structure.

Gandhi alleged that the recent approach to the legislation was linked to delimitation efforts that could alter the distribution of parliamentary seats among states. He expressed concerns that such changes might reduce representation for southern states, northeastern regions, and smaller states, thereby affecting the federal balance.

Referring to the constitutional framework, he stated that India is defined as a “Union of States,” emphasising the importance of maintaining diversity in language, culture, and political representation. He added that any move perceived as weakening this structure would face opposition in Parliament.

The Congress leader also criticised the ideological stance of the BJP and the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh, alleging that their vision of governance promotes uniformity over diversity. He contrasted this with what he described as the constitutional vision of pluralism.

During his speech, Gandhi referred to Tamil Nadu’s cultural and historical identity, describing it as one of the world’s oldest civilisations with a distinct linguistic and cultural heritage. He stated that regional identities should be preserved and respected within the national framework.

He also commented on political alliances in the state, criticising the All India Anna Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam for its association with the BJP. According to him, the alliance reflects a shift from the party’s earlier political stance.

Gandhi further highlighted his nationwide outreach through the Bharat Jodo Yatra, describing it as an effort to promote unity and counter social divisions. He stated that the initiative aimed to reinforce values of peace, harmony, and inclusivity.

At the beginning of his address, Gandhi expressed condolences to the families affected by a recent firecracker unit accident in Virudhunagar district.

The remarks come amid ongoing political campaigning in Tamil Nadu, where issues of representation, federal structure, and social justice continue to be central to electoral discourse.

20 April 2026 0 comment

Blog Featured India Parliament

Cabinet Clears Draft Bill to Implement Women’s Reservation by 2029

by theparliamentnews.com 9 April 2026

written by theparliamentnews.com

The Union Cabinet has approved a draft amendment Bill aimed at operationalising the Women’s Reservation Act in time for the 2029 Lok Sabha elections.

The decision was taken at a Cabinet meeting chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The proposed amendment seeks to revise the implementation framework of the Nari Shakti Vandan Adhiniyam, formally known as the Constitution (106th Amendment) Act, which was passed in 2023.

Expansion of Lok Sabha Strength

A key provision in the proposal is the expansion of the Lok Sabha from its current strength of 543 seats to 816 seats. This increase will follow a fresh delimitation exercise aimed at redrawing constituency boundaries.

One-Third Reservation for Women

Out of the expanded House, approximately one-third of the seats 273 in total are proposed to be reserved for women. The reservation will also apply within Scheduled Caste (SC) and Scheduled Tribe (ST) categories, ensuring representation across different social groups.

Delimitation Based on 2011 Census

In a departure from earlier provisions, the government plans to conduct delimitation based on the 2011 Census data, instead of waiting for updated population figures from a future Census.

This move is intended to expedite the implementation of women’s reservation, which under the existing framework was linked to the completion of a new Census and subsequent delimitation exercise.

Next Steps in Parliament

The amendment Bill is expected to be introduced and taken up for discussion during the extended sittings of the Budget Session scheduled from April 16 to April 18.

The proposed changes mark a significant step toward operationalising women’s reservation in Parliament, with implementation targeted ahead of the next general elections in 2029.

9 April 2026 0 comment

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India

India to Highlight Global South Priorities at G7 Summit, Says Modi

India-Oman Trade Pact Takes Effect, Expanding Duty-Free Market Access

Strategic Importance Amid Regional Tensions

Benefits for Indian Exporters

Benefits for Oman

Strengthening Economic Ties

RBI Projects 6.9% GDP Growth for India in FY27 Despite Global Risks

Growth Outlook Remains Positive

Inflation Risks Persist

Agriculture Dependent on Monsoon Performance

Trade and External Sector

Banking System Remains Strong

Need for Continuous Monitoring

BAMS Student Arrested in NEET-UG 2026 Paper Leak Case

Nand Kishore Bhatt Addresses NCC Cadets at Mumbai Event

NCC: A Launchpad for Life

Giving Back to the Institution That Built Him

Inspiring Interaction with Cadets

Organisers Appreciated

GST 2.0 Simplifies Rates but Deepens Inverted Duty Issues

Over 92% Voting in Phase Two of Bengal Assembly Polls

Raghav Chadha Among Seven AAP MPs to Join BJP

Rahul Gandhi Urges Immediate Implementation of Women’s Reservation Bill

Cabinet Clears Draft Bill to Implement Women’s Reservation by 2029

Expansion of Lok Sabha Strength

One-Third Reservation for Women

Delimitation Based on 2011 Census

Next Steps in Parliament

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