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18th Lok Sabha First Winter Session: A Chronicle of Chaos and Missed Opportunities

by theparliamentnews.com
written by theparliamentnews.com

The first winter session of the 18th Lok Sabha concluded on December 20, leaving a contentious legacy as one of the least productive and most acrimonious sessions in recent history. Marked by bitter exchanges, unfulfilled legislative goals, and protests from both the government and the Opposition, the session underscored a pressing need for the restoration of parliamentary norms and constructive dialogue.

A Session Marred by Conflict

The discord reached a crescendo on the penultimate day, culminating in a physical scuffle between members of Parliament, followed by bizarre allegations and police complaints. The Opposition’s motion of no confidence against Rajya Sabha Chairman and Vice-President of India, Jagdeep Dhankhar, was rejected by the Deputy Chairman, intensifying the political friction.

Adding fuel to the fire, Home Minister Amit Shah’s reference to Dr. B.R. Ambedkar became a flashpoint. The Opposition accused the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) of misinterpreting Ambedkar’s legacy, weaponizing Shah’s remarks to launch a scathing critique. This acrimony mirrored earlier weeks when the BJP disrupted proceedings by alleging the Congress party’s connections with anti-India elements abroad.

Dismal Productivity and Legislative Stalemate

The session’s productivity painted a grim picture. The Rajya Sabha functioned for only 40% of its scheduled time, clocking just 43 hours and 27 minutes. The Lok Sabha fared marginally better at 54.5% productivity. Both Houses were frequently disrupted over issues such as U.S. billionaire George Soros’s alleged meddling in Indian politics and concerns about the Adani Group.

Out of the 16 legislative bills planned, only one—the Bharatiya Vayuyan Vidheyak, 2024, crucial for the civil aviation sector—was successfully passed by both Houses. The Rajya Sabha also approved the Boilers Bill and the Oilfields (Regulation and Development) Amendment Bill, bringing essential changes to industrial laws concerning large furnaces, boilers, and the petroleum sector.

The Lok Sabha passed several bills, including:

  • Banking Laws (Amendment) Bill: Addressing the need to safeguard the public sector banking system.
  • Railways (Amendment) Bill: Focusing on the safety of passengers and railway employees.
  • Disaster Management (Amendment) Bill: Advocating for greater transparency in fund allocation for states affected by natural disasters.

Two significant constitutional amendments—the Constitution (One Hundred and Twenty-Ninth Amendment) Bill and the Union Territories Laws (Amendment) Bill—were introduced and referred to a Joint Parliamentary Committee. These aim to facilitate simultaneous elections across the country, a critical element in India’s evolving electoral landscape.

India-China Relations Take Center Stage

Amidst the legislative impasse, External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar briefed both Houses on the status of India-China relations. His statements highlighted the government’s diplomatic stance and ongoing efforts to safeguard national interests, a rare moment of focus in an otherwise fractious session.

A Call for Parliamentary Decorum

The winter session starkly demonstrated the erosion of decorum and dialogue in parliamentary proceedings. The heated exchanges and lack of productive debates underscore an urgent need for political leaders to prioritize the nation’s interests over partisan gains. The onus lies on all stakeholders to revive the spirit of constructive discourse and ensure that Parliament functions as a forum for addressing the aspirations of India’s citizens.

As India grapples with pressing economic, social, and geopolitical challenges, the efficiency and integrity of its legislative processes cannot be overstated. The events of this winter session should serve as a clarion call for introspection and reform.

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One Nation, One Election: A Bold Vision or a Constitutional Conundrum?

by theparliamentnews.com
written by theparliamentnews.com

The introduction of the Constitution (129th Amendment) Bill in the Lok Sabha by Law Minister Arjun Ram Meghwal has ignited a fierce debate across the political spectrum. The BJP’s ambitious push for ‘One Nation, One Election’ (ONOE) proposes synchronized federal and state polls, aimed at simplifying governance and reducing electoral fatigue. However, this controversial reform faces mounting opposition, both in terms of numbers and principle, raising questions about its feasibility and impact on India’s democratic framework.

A Numbers Game: Does BJP Have the Support?

The bill, introduced with a division vote in the Lok Sabha, saw 269 MPs in favor and 198 opposing it. While the simple majority sufficed to table the bill, critics quickly highlighted the gap needed to ensure its passage. For a Constitutional amendment, a two-thirds majority of members present and voting is mandatory. With 461 MPs participating in the vote, 307 votes were required to move the proposal forward.

The BJP-led NDA, which holds 293 seats, falls short of the mark even with full attendance. To achieve the required majority, the government must court non-aligned parties or smaller allies. Currently, the YSR Congress and the Akali Dal have pledged support, but even their combined backing leaves the BJP nine votes short. Should the Lok Sabha be at full strength, the gap widens, with the BJP requiring 64 additional votes to fulfill its vision.

Opposition’s United Front: “A Path to Dictatorship”

The opposition has united in fierce resistance to the ONOE proposal, branding it an “authoritarian imposition” that undermines India’s federal structure. Congress MP Manickam Tagore and Shashi Tharoor have flagged the ruling party’s inability to secure broad support, warning that the bill lacks the backing necessary for a Constitutional amendment.

Regional leaders like Mamata Banerjee (Trinamool Congress) and TR Baalu (DMK) criticized the proposal as anti-federal, emphasizing the potential financial burden and logistical challenges of implementing simultaneous elections. The Dravidian and Leftist blocs, along with smaller parties like the Communist Party of India (Marxist) and the Indian Union Muslim League, echoed these sentiments.

The rhetoric escalated when Samajwadi Party MP Dharmendra Yadav cautioned against what he termed as a slide towards dictatorship, suggesting the bill is an attempt to centralize power at the expense of state autonomy.

BJP’s Defense: Reform, Not Regression

Amidst the backlash, Law Minister Arjun Ram Meghwal defended the bill, framing it as a long-overdue reform. He argued that synchronized elections would streamline governance, reduce election-related expenses, and enhance the efficiency of the electoral process. Addressing concerns about tampering with the Constitution, Meghwal stated that the bill aligns with its basic structure and is focused solely on electoral reforms.

The BJP’s allies, including the Telugu Desam Party (TDP) and the Eknath Shinde-led Shiv Sena faction, stood firmly behind the proposal. The TDP’s Lavu Sri Krishna Devarayalu highlighted Andhra Pradesh’s positive experience with simultaneous polls, expressing hope for nationwide implementation.

What Is ‘One Nation, One Election’?

At its core, ONOE proposes conducting Lok Sabha and state Assembly elections together, breaking away from the current staggered cycle. As of now, only four states—Andhra Pradesh, Arunachal Pradesh, Sikkim, and Odisha—vote concurrently with Lok Sabha elections. Most states operate on independent cycles, creating a near-continuous electoral calendar.

For ONOE to work, significant amendments to key articles of the Constitution are essential, including:

  • Article 83 (Term of Parliament)
  • Article 85 (Dissolution of Lok Sabha)
  • Article 172 (Duration of State Legislatures)
  • Article 174 (Dissolution of State Legislatures)
  • Article 356 (President’s Rule).

Legal experts warn that failure to secure these amendments could expose ONOE to judicial scrutiny, potentially violating India’s federal structure.

Financial and Logistical Hurdles

Opposition leaders like TR Baalu raised concerns over the financial burden of simultaneous elections. The Election Commission of India would need to invest heavily in new electronic voting machines (EVMs), estimated at ₹10,000 crore every 15 years. Critics argue that this expense, coupled with logistical challenges, outweighs the benefits.

What Lies Ahead?

With the bill likely heading to a joint parliamentary committee, where the BJP will enjoy a majority, discussions on ONOE will intensify in the coming months. The BJP’s efforts to consolidate support among smaller parties will also be crucial. However, the proposal faces significant headwinds, not only in Parliament but also across India’s political landscape, where federalism remains a cornerstone of governance.

A Vision for the Future or a Step Too Far?

The ‘One Nation, One Election’ debate underscores a larger ideological tussle between centralized efficiency and decentralized democracy. While proponents argue it is a pragmatic reform, critics caution against the erosion of federal principles. As the bill navigates through the corridors of power, its fate will hinge not only on numbers but also on the broader consensus of India’s diverse political and social fabric.

Whether ONOE emerges as a transformative milestone or a contentious misstep remains to be seen. For now, the battle lines are drawn, and the debate rages on.

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Revolutionizing Democracy: ‘One Nation, One Election’ Bills to Be Tabled in Lok Sabha

by theparliamentnews.com
written by theparliamentnews.com

In a move that could redefine India’s democratic landscape, the government is set to introduce two pivotal bills in the Lok Sabha on Monday, December 16. The proposed legislations—The Constitution (129th Amendment) Bill and The Union Territories Laws (Amendment) Bill—are key steps toward implementing the ambitious “One Nation, One Election” policy. These bills mark a major leap toward synchronizing the Lok Sabha and state legislative assembly elections.

What Are the Bills About?

The cornerstone of this initiative is The Constitution (129th Amendment) Bill, which aims to amend constitutional provisions to facilitate simultaneous elections for the Lok Sabha and state assemblies. This would eliminate the need for staggered polls and streamline the electoral process across the nation. Complementing this is The Union Territories Laws (Amendment) Bill, designed to align laws concerning Union territories with legislative assemblies to the overarching framework proposed by the constitutional amendment.

A Cabinet-Approved Vision

The Union Cabinet, led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, gave its nod to these draft legislations on Thursday. This approval reinforces the BJP’s commitment to its long-standing “One Nation, One Election” vision, which aims to enhance administrative efficiency and reduce election-related costs.

Notably, the high-level committee chaired by former President Ram Nath Kovind had earlier suggested that simultaneous elections could also encompass local bodies such as municipalities and panchayats. However, the Cabinet has decided not to include these elections in the current framework, choosing instead to focus on aligning national and state-level elections.

A Step Toward Electoral Uniformity

If enacted, these bills would mark a watershed moment in India’s democratic journey, as the concept of simultaneous polls seeks to harmonize the electoral calendar. The proposed model has the potential to reduce the frequency of elections, thereby allowing governments to focus more on governance.

This landmark legislation reflects the government’s commitment to exploring transformative reforms that could redefine how the world’s largest democracy conducts its elections.

Stay tuned as these monumental bills are tabled in Parliament, paving the way for a robust debate on the future of India’s electoral system.

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Parliament Winter Session : Key Bills Await Passage Amid Opposition Protests

by theparliamentnews.com
written by theparliamentnews.com

As the third week of the Winter Session of Parliament progresses, the legislative focus sharpens on three pivotal bills—the Railways (Amendment) Bill, 2024, the Disaster Management (Amendment) Bill, 2024, and the Banking Laws (Amendment) Bill, 2024. Despite persistent disruptions, these bills are poised for passage, marking significant legislative milestones.

However, the session has been anything but smooth. Both Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha witnessed repeated adjournments today, halting substantive discussions and intensifying the already charged political atmosphere.

Key Bills on the Table

  1. Railways (Amendment) Bill, 2024
    This bill proposes critical updates to streamline operations, enhance passenger safety, and modernize infrastructure. With India’s railways serving as a lifeline for millions, the amendments aim to bolster efficiency and economic growth.
  2. Disaster Management (Amendment) Bill, 2024
    Amid growing concerns over climate-induced disasters, this bill seeks to strengthen institutional frameworks and ensure timely response mechanisms. It underscores the government’s commitment to enhancing disaster resilience nationwide.
  3. Banking Laws (Amendment) Bill, 2024
    Focused on reforming outdated banking regulations, this bill aims to enhance financial stability and foster innovation in the banking sector. It could also pave the way for increased private sector participation.

Protests Continue to Disrupt Proceedings

The first two weeks of the Winter Session were marked by opposition protests, led by Congress leader Rahul Gandhi, on issues ranging from the Manipur unrest to Sambhal violence. The protests have significantly disrupted parliamentary proceedings, drawing accusations from the BJP, which claims the opposition is attempting to “derail” the economy and “disrupt” democracy.

Global Context Shapes Discussions

Amid domestic turbulence, international matters have also surfaced in the session. Last week, Foreign Minister S. Jaishankar addressed the Israel-Palestine conflict, condemning terrorism and hostage-taking while emphasizing the need for restraint to avoid civilian casualties.

Session Outlook: Challenges Ahead

With the Winter Session set to conclude on December 20, the passage of these three bills is critical. However, the persistent adjournments highlight the widening political divide in Parliament.

  1. Opposition Stance: The opposition remains steadfast in demanding accountability on key issues, ensuring that debates extend beyond legislative matters.
  2. Government Focus: The ruling party aims to push through its legislative agenda despite the protests, emphasizing the importance of these bills for national development.

The Winter Session underscores the vibrant yet tumultuous nature of Indian democracy. As Parliament grapples with protests and legislative priorities, the focus remains on navigating this challenging period to achieve meaningful outcomes for the nation.

With key bills awaiting passage, the coming days will be critical in shaping India’s policy framework and setting the tone for its governance trajectory.

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Sparks Fly in Parliament Amid Heated Debates and Protests

by theparliamentnews.com
written by theparliamentnews.com

As the Winter Session of Parliament continues in full swing, the political landscape of India has turned turbulent, with sharp exchanges and vocal opposition protests dominating the proceedings. The session, which began on November 25 and is scheduled to conclude on December 20, has seen an array of contentious debates, walkouts, and accusations, reflecting the charged atmosphere in both Houses.

Lok Sabha Adjourned Amid Uproar

The Lok Sabha witnessed an abrupt adjournment for the day as opposition protests gained momentum. The raucous session underscored deep divisions between the ruling BJP and opposition parties, with the BJP accusing Congress leader Rahul Gandhi of attempting to “derail the economy” and “disrupt democracy.”

The allegation, a stark escalation in political rhetoric, comes amid the BJP’s claim that the opposition is orchestrating a calculated effort to destabilize the government. Gandhi and the Congress have yet to respond substantively, but the drama suggests this issue may linger as a dominant theme in the weeks ahead.

Rajya Sabha Grapples with Cash-for-Influence Row

In the Rajya Sabha, proceedings were disrupted by a brewing controversy over an alleged cash-for-influence scandal, leading to a heated exchange between members. Opposition leaders demanded clarity and accountability, while the treasury benches dismissed the allegations as baseless.

Adding to the complexity, External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar addressed the House, offering a nuanced statement on the Israel-Palestine conflict. He reiterated India’s condemnation of terrorism and hostage-taking while emphasizing the importance of proportionality in military responses to minimize civilian casualties. His remarks came against the backdrop of global concern over escalating violence in the region.

Key Highlights of the Winter Session So Far

  1. Prolonged Opposition Protests: The opposition parties have staged multiple demonstrations, accusing the government of mishandling key national issues, from economic policy to allegations of corruption.
  2. BJP’s Counterattack: The ruling party has launched its own offensive, accusing the opposition of engaging in disruptive politics rather than constructive debate.
  3. Foreign Policy Clarity: Minister Jaishankar’s remarks on the Israel-Palestine conflict reflect India’s balanced stance, reaffirming its commitment to peace while condemning terrorism unequivocally.

What Lies Ahead?

With almost a month remaining in this stormy Winter Session, the road ahead promises to be contentious. The opposition’s strategy to corner the government on various fronts, combined with the BJP’s robust counterarguments, ensures that debates will be intense.

As both Houses grapple with protests, policy discussions, and international issues, this session is poised to set the tone for the upcoming election year. Amid the chaos, the public hopes that Parliament will also focus on addressing key legislative agendas that impact everyday lives.

Conclusion: Democracy in Action

While the ongoing drama in Parliament might seem tumultuous, it reflects the vibrant—and often noisy—essence of Indian democracy. As leaders lock horns over pressing national and global issues, this session highlights the challenges and responsibilities of governance.

Stay tuned as the Winter Session 2024 continues to unfold with new twists, fiery exchanges, and critical decisions shaping the future of the nation.

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Chaos in Parliament: Week Two Begins With Adjournments Over Key Issues

by theparliamentnews.com
written by theparliamentnews.com

The second week of the Parliament Winter Session began with little progress as both Houses of Parliament witnessed adjournments amidst fervent protests by Opposition members. Demands for discussions on issues ranging from allegations against the Adani Group to the ongoing situation in Manipur dominated proceedings, leaving the day largely unproductive.

A Week of Disruptions Continues

The Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha convened on December 2, 2024, only to be adjourned without addressing substantial business. This marked the continuation of a week marred by disruptions. The Opposition, united under the INDIA bloc, remains steadfast in its insistence on prioritizing these pressing issues for discussion.

Focus on Adani Allegations

In the Lok Sabha, Congress MP Manickam Tagore submitted an adjournment motion notice calling for an urgent investigation into allegations made by the U.S. Justice Department against Gautam Adani. The allegations, centered on bribery and corruption, have triggered a political firestorm in India. Tagore emphasized the need to address these claims in the “public interest,” urging immediate parliamentary debate.

Manipur and Law-and-Order Issues Dominate Rajya Sabha

Meanwhile, in the Rajya Sabha, several leaders raised adjournment and suspension notices to discuss critical issues:

  • Manipur Violence: DMK MP Tiruchi Siva sought attention on the ongoing violence in Manipur, emphasizing the need for parliamentary intervention in the crisis.
  • Delhi’s Law-and-Order Concerns: AAP MP Sanjay Singh filed a notice under Rule 267 to address the deteriorating law-and-order situation in the national capital.
  • Arrest of ISKCON Monks in Bangladesh: AAP MP Raghav Chadha highlighted the arrest of ISKCON monks, calling for a dedicated discussion on the implications of these events.

Opposition Strategies: Seeking the Speaker’s Intervention

In a significant move, floor leaders of the INDIA alliance convened a meeting at the Congress Parliamentary Party office under the leadership of Rahul Gandhi, Leader of Opposition in the Lok Sabha. After deliberations, the leaders decided to approach the Speaker to seek his intervention in ensuring the smooth functioning of Parliament.

The INDIA bloc’s united front underscores its commitment to holding the government accountable on issues that it deems critical for the nation.

Persistent Deadlock

Despite multiple attempts to bring order to proceedings, the Parliament’s Winter Session continues to face a deadlock. The lack of productive debate over essential matters has drawn criticism from various quarters, with analysts noting the need for collaborative efforts to ensure parliamentary efficiency.

A Long Road Ahead

As the Winter Session progresses, it remains to be seen whether a breakthrough can be achieved. The growing list of unresolved issues, combined with intensifying Opposition demands, sets the stage for potentially contentious debates in the days to come.

With public interest and national concerns hanging in the balance, all eyes are on how both Houses navigate the current impasse. Will the government and Opposition find common ground, or will the session continue to be overshadowed by disruptions? The answers will shape the trajectory of this critical parliamentary season.

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Parliament Winter Session: Day 2 Marked by Adjournments and Anticipation

by theparliamentnews.com
written by theparliamentnews.com

The Winter Session of the Indian Parliament continued into its second day, brimming with anticipation for key discussions on pressing national issues. However, both the Lok Sabha and the Rajya Sabha witnessed disruptions, leading to an early adjournment for the day.

This session, which began on November 25, holds significance as it coincides with the 75th Constitution Day. While November 26 was reserved for commemorating this landmark occasion, parliamentary proceedings have yet to gain substantial momentum.

Key Highlights from Day 2

Despite the adjournment, the day was slated to focus on discussions about the Waqf Bill, the Wayanad landslide, and the Sambhal violence. These critical topics reflect the diverse challenges currently faced by the nation, encompassing legislative reforms, natural disaster management, and law and order concerns.

On the opening day of the session, Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed his hopes for constructive and meaningful debates. In a sharp critique of the opposition, he remarked, “Those who have been repeatedly rejected by the people disrespect Parliament and democracy.” His call for healthy discussions set the tone for what was expected to be a dynamic session, though the disruptions that followed have so far slowed progress.

The Constitution Day Connection

November 26, celebrated as Constitution Day, marked the 75th anniversary of the adoption of the Indian Constitution. The day serves as a reminder of India’s democratic framework and the responsibilities it places on lawmakers to act in the best interest of the people.

Prime Minister Modi, during his address, highlighted the enduring relevance of the Constitution, urging members to channel their energies toward addressing the concerns of citizens. The adjournments, however, underscored the challenges of maintaining decorum and productivity in the nation’s highest legislative bodies.

What Lies Ahead?

As the Winter Session progresses, all eyes remain on Parliament to address key legislative proposals and national issues. The Waqf Bill, aimed at reforming the administration of Waqf properties, is expected to ignite spirited debates. Similarly, the Wayanad landslide and Sambhal violence will likely bring regional and humanitarian concerns to the forefront.

The disruptions on Day 2 serve as a reminder of the need for consensus and cooperation among lawmakers to fulfill their democratic mandate. Citizens hope for a return to constructive deliberations, in line with the spirit of the Constitution, as the session unfolds.

This Winter Session is not just an opportunity for legislative action but also a test of the Parliament’s ability to navigate contentious issues while upholding the sanctity of democratic discourse. As proceedings resume, the focus will undoubtedly shift toward delivering on the promises of accountability, governance, and progress.

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Gyanesh Kumar as Election Commissioner, Appointed by PM Modi-Led Committee

by theparliamentnews.com
written by theparliamentnews.com

Lok Sabha elections, the high-level committee led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi has appointed former bureaucrat Gyanesh Kumar as one of the new Election Commissioners. The announcement was made by Adhir Ranjan Chowdhury, the leader of the Congress in the Lok Sabha, during a media briefing on March 14.

The selection of Gyanesh Kumar, along with Sukhbir Singh Sandhu, fills the vacancies created in the Election Commission following the retirement of Anup Chandra Pandey in February and the unexpected resignation of Arun Goel shortly before the scheduled Lok Sabha polls in 2024.

Gyanesh Kumar, a seasoned bureaucrat, brings a wealth of experience to his new role. A 1988-batch IAS officer from the Kerala cadre, Kumar, aged 60, boasts an impressive track record in various administrative positions. Notably, he served as secretary in the Ministry of Cooperation, which falls under the purview of Union Home Minister Amit Shah, until his retirement on January 31, 2024. Prior to this, Kumar held the position of secretary in the Ministry of Parliamentary Affairs.

During his illustrious career, Kumar has overseen several significant postings, including a crucial stint as Joint Secretary in the Kashmir Division of the Home Ministry under the leadership of Amit Shah. Notably, he played a pivotal role during the abrogation of Article 370 in August 2019. Additionally, in 2020, Kumar led a dedicated desk in the Home Ministry responsible for matters related to the Supreme Court verdict on the Ayodhya case, including the formation of the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust.

An alumnus of the prestigious Indian Institute of Technology, Kanpur, where he obtained a BTech in Civil Engineering, Kumar furthered his academic pursuits with a postgraduate degree in Economics from Harvard University, USA. He also holds a certification in Chartered Financial Analyst from the Institute of Chartered Financial Analysts of India (ICFAI).

Born on January 27, 1964, in Uttar Pradesh, Kumar hails from a distinguished family background. His father was a doctor, while his grandfather was a freedom fighter who later served as a principal in Agra, Uttar Pradesh.

With his extensive administrative experience and academic credentials, Gyanesh Kumar is poised to play a pivotal role in ensuring the smooth conduct of the upcoming Lok Sabha elections, upholding the integrity and transparency of India’s electoral process.

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Sitharaman’s Visionary Budget Charts a Course for ‘Viksit’ India by 2047

by theparliamentnews.com
written by theparliamentnews.com

In her sixth consecutive budget presentation, Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman outlined the government’s focus on transformative measures for India’s economy. The budget, being the last before the upcoming Lok Sabha polls, emphasized welfare initiatives for the poor, women, youth, and farmers. Here are the key takeaways from Nirmala Sitharaman’s Budget 2024:

  1. The government is concentrated on comprehensive GDP – governance, development, and performance.
  2. Notable achievements include uplifting 250 million people from poverty over the past decade.
  3. A crop insurance scheme aims to benefit 40 million farmers.
  4. Inflation moderation and economic growth acceleration were highlighted.
  5. Tax reforms have broadened the tax base and increased collections.
  6. The Finance Minister envisions unprecedented economic growth in India over the next five years.
  7. The goal is to make India ‘Viksit’ (developed) by 2047.
  8. The government plans to strengthen deep tech for defense purposes with a new scheme.
  9. Support for deserving sections of the middle class to build their own houses will be provided.
  10. Plans include constructing 20 million affordable houses in the next five years, adding to the existing 30 million.
  11. Self-help groups’ success empowered 1 crore women to become “Lakhpati didis.”
  12. Fiscal deficit for FY24 is expected to be lower than the target at 5.8% of GDP; targeted at 5.1% in FY25, with a reduction to 4.5% by FY26.
  13. No changes in both direct and indirect taxation.
  14. Tax benefits for startups and investments by sovereign wealth and pension funds extended to March 2025.
  15. Significant investments are planned for the tourism sector, with a focus on improving tourist infrastructure in the Union Territory of Lakshadweep.
  16. Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman’s Budget 2024 aims to address immediate challenges while setting the stage for sustainable and inclusive growth in the coming years.
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Gearing Up for Budget 2024: Parliament Session Begins on January 31st

by theparliamentnews.com
written by theparliamentnews.com

New Delhi, January 11, 2024: The highly estimated Budget Session of the Indian Parliament is set to commence on January 31st, 2024. A dynamic month of legislative discussions and economic revelations, culminating in the presentation of the Interim Budget on February 1st by Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman.

The session promises to be a lively one, extending until February 9th, 2024. It will commence with a grand address by President Droupadi Murmu to a joint sitting of both the Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha, setting the stage for vibrant debates and crucial policy decisions.

Interim Budget under the Spotlight: All eyes will be on Finance Minister Sitharaman as she unveils the Interim Budget for the financial year 2024-25. This budget holds immense significance, as it comes amidst rising inflation and global economic uncertainties. Experts anticipate measures aimed at tackling price hikes, boosting growth, and providing relief to key sectors.

Beyond the Budget: The Budget Session is not just about numbers and allocations. It’s a platform for Parliamentarians to raise critical issues of public concern, scrutinize government policies, and hold the executive accountable. Expect lively discussions on a range of topics, from social welfare schemes to national security, agriculture to infrastructure development.

This session promises to be a political rollercoaster, packed with debates, announcements, and reactions.  

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