Parliament's Budget Session to Commence on January 31 with President's Address

The Budget Session of Parliament is set to begin on January 31 and will run until April 4, 2025. President Droupadi Murmu will inaugurate the session with her address to a joint sitting of both Houses. On February 1, Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman will present the Union Budget.

To accommodate detailed discussions and deliberations, the session will be split into two phases. An inter-session break is scheduled from February 14 to March 10, allowing standing committees to evaluate budgetary demands.

Debate on the President’s Address

During the session, Prime Minister Narendra Modi is expected to contribute to the debate on the motion of thanks to the President’s address. This debate will likely highlight the government’s priorities and set the stage for key policy discussions.

Waqf (Amendment) Bill Report Submission

The Joint Parliamentary Committee on the Waqf (Amendment) Bill is anticipated to present its findings during this session. The committee’s tenure was previously extended in the winter session, emphasizing the importance of its recommendations.

Focus on ‘One Nation, One Election’

The ongoing discussions about implementing the ‘One Nation, One Election’ proposal will continue. The Joint Parliamentary Committee assigned to this topic was initially instructed to deliver its report in the Lok Sabha during the session's final week. However, a demand has emerged for extending the committee’s term, as it convened its inaugural meeting only recently.

Tensions from the Winter Session

The Budget Session follows a winter session marked by significant tension. Members from the ruling BJP and opposition parties filed police complaints against one another over alleged misconduct during protests within Parliament premises. These events underscore the charged political atmosphere leading into the upcoming session.

Key Highlights of the Budget Session 2025

• Inauguration: President Droupadi Murmu’s joint address on January 31.

• Union Budget: Presentation by Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman on February 1.

• Session Break: February 14 to March 10 for standing committee deliberations.

• Legislation Focus: Submission of reports on the Waqf (Amendment) Bill and discussions on ‘One Nation, One Election.’

Conclusion

The Budget Session 2025 promises to be a critical period for India’s legislative and policy-making agenda. With key highlights such as the Union Budget presentation, debates on the motion of thanks to the President’s address, and significant discussions around the ‘One Nation, One Election’ proposal, the session holds great importance for shaping the nation’s future. The submission of the Waqf (Amendment) Bill report further underscores the government’s focus on addressing pressing legislative issues. Despite the lingering tensions from the winter session, this session presents an opportunity for constructive debates and meaningful resolutions to drive the country’s progress. As the Parliament reconvenes, all eyes will be on the outcomes and decisions that will impact India’s economic and political landscape in the coming year.