Parliament Budget Session 2026: Both Houses Commence Union Budget Discussions
The Budget Session of Parliament for the year 2026 is now in full swing, with both the Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha initiating detailed discussions on the Union Budget 2026-27. The proceedings began at 11 am on Monday, February 9, 2026, following the presentation of the budget by Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman on February 1.
Prime Minister Modi's Address in Rajya Sabha
Prime Minister Narendra Modi delivered a significant address in the Rajya Sabha on Thursday, prior to the budget discussions. In his speech, he launched a strong critique of the opposition while highlighting the achievements of the NDA government. Modi praised India's recent trade agreements with the United States and the European Union, emphasizing their role in boosting economic growth and strengthening the defence sector.
Expressing confidence in his administration, Modi noted that the government had successfully provided electricity to 18,000 villages. He also referenced Operation Sindoor, commending the defence forces and asserting that his government had allocated substantial resources to equip the jawans properly. In a pointed remark, Modi stated, "That is why they want to dig the grave of Modi," targeting the opposition's criticisms.
Opposition Protests and Walkout
In the lead-up to the budget discussions, opposition MPs staged a protest outside Parliament. They displayed a poster featuring cartoon-like depictions of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and former US President Donald Trump, accompanied by the text 'Trap Deal'. This protest continued during Modi's Rajya Sabha address, with opposition members staging a walkout and gathering outside the Makar Dwar.
The opposition alleged disrespect towards former Prime Ministers Jawaharlal Nehru and Indira Gandhi, adding a layer of political tension to the session. These demonstrations underscore the contentious atmosphere as Parliament delves into the budget debates.
India's Global Standing and Trade Deals
During his address, Prime Minister Modi highlighted India's evolving role on the global stage, describing the nation as "the voice of the global south." He emphasized that the world views India as a stable partner following its trade deals with the US and EU. Modi detailed that India has secured trade agreements with nine major countries and a comprehensive deal with the 27-nation European Union, which he referred to as the "mother of all deals."
Key Points of the Budget Session
- The Union Budget 2026-27, presented by Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, is the central focus of the discussions.
- Both Houses of Parliament are engaged in debates that will scrutinize the budget's provisions and implications.
- The session is marked by political exchanges, with the government touting its achievements and the opposition raising concerns.
- Issues such as economic growth, defence, and international trade are at the forefront of the parliamentary discourse.
As the Budget Session progresses, all eyes are on how the discussions will shape India's fiscal policies and political landscape in the coming year. The live updates from Parliament continue to capture the dynamic interactions between the ruling party and the opposition.
