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THE TIMES OF INDIA | Feb 10, 2026, 20:02:20 IST
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Parliament Budget Session 2026 Live Updates: TMC's Abhishek Banerjee calls Budget 'loud in slogans, soft in solutions'
Opposition parties on Tuesday submitted a notice of no-confidence against Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla, escalating their confrontation with the government over the conduct of parliamentary proceedings. Both Houses of Parliament are set to take up discussions on the Union Budget 2026–27.
The government is keen to push forward the budgetary agenda, while Opposition parties have signalled that they will raise concerns over trade policy, parliamentary conduct and recent suspensions of MPs, setting the stage for sharp exchanges and possible disruptions as the debates get underway.
The Budget was presented in the Lok Sabha on February 1 by Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, marking her ninth consecutive Budget. She said the Budget is driven by “Yuvashakti” and anchored on “three kartavyas,” proposing seven high-speed rail corridors, new dedicated freight corridors, and the operationalisation of 20 national waterways over the next five years. The Centre also announced an increase in the Securities Transaction Tax on futures and options to discourage speculative trading.
While the ruling NDA welcomed the Budget, Opposition parties accused the government of sidelining marginalised communities. The Secular Progressive Alliance, led by the DMK in Tamil Nadu, has called a protest against the Budget on February 12.
As general discussions begin in both Houses, Opposition MPs are likely to demand a debate on the framework of the India-US Bilateral Trade Agreement. Earlier, DMK MP T R Baalu moved an Adjournment Motion notice in the Lok Sabha seeking a discussion on the trade deal, raising concerns over zero tariffs on certain agricultural products imported from the US.
Amid the standoff, floor leaders of the INDIA bloc are scheduled to meet on Monday morning at the residence of Leader of the Opposition in the Rajya Sabha and Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge to decide their strategy for the remainder of the Budget Session.
The meeting follows an earlier Opposition gathering last week attended by Leader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhi. On Thursday, Opposition MPs staged a walkout from the Rajya Sabha while Prime Minister Narendra Modi was replying to the Motion of Thanks to the President’s address, alleging that Leaders of the Opposition were not being allowed to speak.
“Vipaksha ki awaaz nahi dabegi. Tanashahi nahi chalegi. LoP (Leader of Opposition) ko bolne do. (The opposition's voice can't be suppressed. Dictatorship cannot work. Let the LoP speak),” Opposition leaders shouted slogans in the House.
The Opposition has also been protesting against the government’s decision to bar Rahul Gandhi from quoting former Army chief General M M Naravane’s unpublished memoir on the 2020 China standoff in eastern Ladakh. The government has maintained that references from unpublished memoirs or magazine articles based on them are not permissible.
Meanwhile, Union Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal told Parliament that the interests of sensitive sectors such as agriculture and dairy have been safeguarded in trade negotiations.
Earlier, eight Opposition MPs were suspended from the Lok Sabha for the remainder of the Budget Session for violating House rules and “throwing papers on the chair” during protests over the China border reference. The suspended members include Congress MPs Hibi Eden, Amarinder Singh Raja Warring, Manickam Tagore, Gurjeet Singh Aujla, Prashant Yadaorao Padole, Chamala Kiran Kumar Reddy, Dean Kuriakose, and CPI(M) MP S Venkatesan.
In the Rajya Sabha on Monday, BJP MP Satish Chandra Dubey is scheduled to table the Comptroller and Auditor General of India’s report on the operational performance of NLC India Limited under the Ministry of Coal.
The government is keen to push forward the budgetary agenda, while Opposition parties have signalled that they will raise concerns over trade policy, parliamentary conduct and recent suspensions of MPs, setting the stage for sharp exchanges and possible disruptions as the debates get underway.
The Budget was presented in the Lok Sabha on February 1 by Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, marking her ninth consecutive Budget. She said the Budget is driven by “Yuvashakti” and anchored on “three kartavyas,” proposing seven high-speed rail corridors, new dedicated freight corridors, and the operationalisation of 20 national waterways over the next five years. The Centre also announced an increase in the Securities Transaction Tax on futures and options to discourage speculative trading.
While the ruling NDA welcomed the Budget, Opposition parties accused the government of sidelining marginalised communities. The Secular Progressive Alliance, led by the DMK in Tamil Nadu, has called a protest against the Budget on February 12.
As general discussions begin in both Houses, Opposition MPs are likely to demand a debate on the framework of the India-US Bilateral Trade Agreement. Earlier, DMK MP T R Baalu moved an Adjournment Motion notice in the Lok Sabha seeking a discussion on the trade deal, raising concerns over zero tariffs on certain agricultural products imported from the US.
Amid the standoff, floor leaders of the INDIA bloc are scheduled to meet on Monday morning at the residence of Leader of the Opposition in the Rajya Sabha and Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge to decide their strategy for the remainder of the Budget Session.
The meeting follows an earlier Opposition gathering last week attended by Leader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhi. On Thursday, Opposition MPs staged a walkout from the Rajya Sabha while Prime Minister Narendra Modi was replying to the Motion of Thanks to the President’s address, alleging that Leaders of the Opposition were not being allowed to speak.
“Vipaksha ki awaaz nahi dabegi. Tanashahi nahi chalegi. LoP (Leader of Opposition) ko bolne do. (The opposition's voice can't be suppressed. Dictatorship cannot work. Let the LoP speak),” Opposition leaders shouted slogans in the House.
The Opposition has also been protesting against the government’s decision to bar Rahul Gandhi from quoting former Army chief General M M Naravane’s unpublished memoir on the 2020 China standoff in eastern Ladakh. The government has maintained that references from unpublished memoirs or magazine articles based on them are not permissible.
Meanwhile, Union Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal told Parliament that the interests of sensitive sectors such as agriculture and dairy have been safeguarded in trade negotiations.
Earlier, eight Opposition MPs were suspended from the Lok Sabha for the remainder of the Budget Session for violating House rules and “throwing papers on the chair” during protests over the China border reference. The suspended members include Congress MPs Hibi Eden, Amarinder Singh Raja Warring, Manickam Tagore, Gurjeet Singh Aujla, Prashant Yadaorao Padole, Chamala Kiran Kumar Reddy, Dean Kuriakose, and CPI(M) MP S Venkatesan.
In the Rajya Sabha on Monday, BJP MP Satish Chandra Dubey is scheduled to table the Comptroller and Auditor General of India’s report on the operational performance of NLC India Limited under the Ministry of Coal.
20:02 (IST) Feb 10
Lok Sabha adjourned till Wednesday 11 am
16:53 (IST) Feb 10
Gen Naravane memoir row: Priyanka Chaturvedi calls its an attempt to stiffle government criticism
On LoP Rahul Gandhi's statement in Lok Sabha, Shiv Sena (UBT) MP Priyanka Chaturvedi said, "If a book by Pakistan's Army Chief had been read, a ban should have been imposed. The country's former Army Chief is recounting his story in his book, which was published and banned just one day before it hit the market... Talking about the former Army Chief is labelled as an anti-national act, and an FIR is filed, calling it a criminal... it not just about stiffling oppositions voices but a message to senior leader in Armed Forces, bureaucrats and anybody who criticises the government."
15:41 (IST) Feb 10
TMC MP Abhishek Banerjee says Budget 'loud in slogans, soft in solutions'
TMC MP Abhishek Banerjee jibed at Union finance minister saying, "FM seems to practice robinhood in reverse".
He went on to say that the Budget doesn't heal the economy, rather it curates headlines, it is "loud in slogans, and soft on solutions."
He went on to say that the Budget doesn't heal the economy, rather it curates headlines, it is "loud in slogans, and soft on solutions."
15:38 (IST) Feb 10
Akhilesh Yadav attacks Centre over Union Budget, takes 'Kyoto' jibe
SP leader Akhilesh Yadav while speaking on Union Budget in Lok Sabha launched a scathing attack on Centre. He termed the Budget as "directionless", and asserted that by 2047 we will not have a Viksit Bharat, but "our poors will suffer heavily."
15:17 (IST) Feb 10
'Nehru mortgaged Kashmir, surrendered to British': Giriraj Singh attacks LoP Rahul over Kashmir
Union minister Rahul Gandhi hit back at Congress leader Rahul Gandhi saying, "To fulfil his own aspirations, Nehru ji mortgaged Kashmir. He also surrendered to the British. These photos explain everything. Rahul Gandhi should apologise to the nation."
While showing pictures of Nehru, he went of to say that "he gave away POK, went to United Nations and ..."
While showing pictures of Nehru, he went of to say that "he gave away POK, went to United Nations and ..."
15:05 (IST) Feb 10
Parliament pictures war: Union minister Giriraj Singh hits back at Rahul Gandhi
14:52 (IST) Feb 10
Rahul Gandhi didn't sign no-confidence motion against LS Speaker
According to Congress sources cited by ANI, the Leader of opposition in Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhi did not sign the notice of no-confidence motion against Speaker Om Birla, as it is not proper for the LoP to sign a petition for the removal of the Speaker in a parliamentary democracy.
13:23 (IST) Feb 10
At 1.14 pm today, we submitted notice for no-confidence motion against the Lok Sabha Speaker under Rule 94C of rules and procedures, says Congress MP Gaurav Gogoi.
13:23 (IST) Feb 10
Congress submits no-confidence motion notice against Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla; 118 MPs back move
12:15 (IST) Feb 10
'The Congress party does not want to start speaking. They create a ruckus every day by coming into the well': Kiren Rijiju
12:09 (IST) Feb 10
Budget Session: Lok Sabha adjourned till 2 pm amid Opposition ruckus and sloganeering
11:27 (IST) Feb 10
Kiren Rijiju backs BJP women MPs' complaint, accuses Congress of breaching House norms
Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju on Tuesday backed the complaint filed by BJP women MPs with Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla, alleging that Congress MPs crossed parliamentary limits.
Speaking to the reporters, Rijiju said, "The BJP MPs, especially the women MPs, have lodged a strong complaint to the Lok Sabha speaker against the behaviour of the Congress MPs. The Congress MPs crossed over to the Treasury side. They crossed the bench where the Prime Minister sits, and they went beyond towards the Treasury side, and they almost laid the siege of the entire area."
Rijiju said that BJP women MPs were "very agitated" by the conduct after Congress MPs crossed over to the Treasury side.
"We had to control our BJP NDA MPs. BJP women MPs were very agitated at this behaviour of the Congress MPs. We stopped our MPs from physical confrontation. Then these MPs went to the Speaker's Chamber and threatened the Speaker. The BJP women MPs have lodged a complaint. Let us see how the Speaker takes action and the steps he takes forward," he said.
Earlier in the day, Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) women MPs backed Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla, while slamming the Opposition MPs for the alleged "unfortunate incident" of throwing papers at the Chair and entering the Well of the House during the discussion on the Motion of Thanks on the President's address.
The BJP MPs wrote to Speaker Birla alleging that Opposition women MPs "surrounded the Prime Minister's seat" and later aggressively approached the Speaker's chamber on February 4.
They urged the Speaker to take "the strongest possible action" against the MPs involved in the alleged incident.
This came as a response to women MPs from Congress's letter to Om Birla alleging that the ruling party forced him to make "false, baseless, and defamatory" claims against them.
On Thursday, Speaker Om Birla had said he had urged Prime Minister Narendra Modi not to come to the House to prevent any unpleasant incident, as he had received information that some Congress MPs could come to the PM's seat in the House and "resort to an unprecedented incident". (
11:25 (IST) Feb 10
Naravane book row: Rahul Gandhi flags contradiction between Penguin and former Army chief after FIR
11:24 (IST) Feb 10
Rahul Gandhi questions FIR on Naravane’s unpublished book, says ‘I believe Naravane ji over Penguin’
Leader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhi on Tuesday questioned the circumstances under which Delhi Police filed an FIR to probe the alleged circulation of former Army chief M M Naravane’s unpublished book, suggesting there were contradictions between the publisher’s claims and the general’s own statements.
Referring to a social media post by Naravane, Gandhi said, “Here is a tweet from Mr Naravane which says - ‘Just follow the link to my book’.” He added, “The point I am making is - either Mr Naravane is lying or it is Penguin which is lying. I don't think the former Army chief will lie.”
Gandhi said the publisher had denied that the book was published, even as it appeared to be available online. “Penguin says the book has not been published. But the book is available on Amazon. Gen. Naravane has tweeted, ‘Please buy my book in 2023.’ I believe Naravane ji over Penguin. Do you believe Penguin over Naravane ji?” he said.
The Congress leader further alleged that the contents of the book may be politically sensitive. “I believe Naravane ji has made certain statements in his book which are inconvenient for the Government of India and the Prime Minister of India. Obviously, you have to decide if Penguin or the former Army chief is telling the truth...”
Referring to a social media post by Naravane, Gandhi said, “Here is a tweet from Mr Naravane which says - ‘Just follow the link to my book’.” He added, “The point I am making is - either Mr Naravane is lying or it is Penguin which is lying. I don't think the former Army chief will lie.”
Gandhi said the publisher had denied that the book was published, even as it appeared to be available online. “Penguin says the book has not been published. But the book is available on Amazon. Gen. Naravane has tweeted, ‘Please buy my book in 2023.’ I believe Naravane ji over Penguin. Do you believe Penguin over Naravane ji?” he said.
The Congress leader further alleged that the contents of the book may be politically sensitive. “I believe Naravane ji has made certain statements in his book which are inconvenient for the Government of India and the Prime Minister of India. Obviously, you have to decide if Penguin or the former Army chief is telling the truth...”
11:05 (IST) Feb 10
Parliament logjam continues: Rahul invokes Naravane book row again; LS adjourned till 12pm
11:02 (IST) Feb 10
Meeting of INDIA bloc floor leaders in the office of the Leader of Opposition, Rajya Sabha, & Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge in the Parliament House complex held today. Lok Sabha LoP Rahul Gandhi also present in the meeting.
10:25 (IST) Feb 10
Parliament that Nehru built is now a pale shadow of its former self: Cong
The Congress on Tuesday recalled how in 1954 then prime minister Jawaharlal Nehru had sought that more time be given to the opposition benches during the debate on a resolution moved for the removal of the then Speaker, and said the Parliament that Nehru built by sitting, speaking,listening, and accommodating is now a pale shadow of its former self.
The Congress' assertion comes at a time when the opposition is considering giving a notice for moving a resolution to remove Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla from office for disallowing Rahul Gandhi and other opposition leaders from speaking in the House on the Motion of Thanks to the President's address, as well as for the suspension of eight MPs.
Congress general secretary in-charge communications Jairam Ramesh said, "On the afternoon of December 18, 1954, the Lok Sabha took up a Resolution moved by the Opposition for the removal of the Speaker (GV Mavalankar). This is how the debate began: 'Mr. Deputy Speaker: The House will now take up the Resolution. Shri Jawaharlal Nehru: Sir, may I make a submission to the House? You were pleased to allot two hours for this discussion. Mr. Deputy Speaker: Yes, from 3.30 PM to 5.30 PM.
"Jawaharlal Nehru: Normally you do adopt some kind of proportion, but I should like to submit that in this particular case, more time should be allowed to the Opposition than to the Government Benches. We do not wish to take too much time and I hope hon. Members on this side will not take too much time of the House in their speeches. Naturally we will have to say something which we will do. But I would submit for your consideration that the Opposition should have more time'," Ramesh recalled in a post on X.
He pointed out that in the First Lok Sabha, the Indian National Congress had 364 out of a total of 489 seats.
"And this was the approach of the-then Prime Minister when there was not even a recognised Leader of the Opposition. The Parliament that Nehru built up day-after-day by sitting, speaking, listening, and accommodating is now a pale shadow of its former self," Ramesh said.
He also shared screenshots of the transcription of the debate of that time.
Ramesh's remarks come at a time when sources have said a notice for resolution in this matter would be given in the Lok Sabha soon, and signatures of MPs are being procured.
The Congress' assertion comes at a time when the opposition is considering giving a notice for moving a resolution to remove Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla from office for disallowing Rahul Gandhi and other opposition leaders from speaking in the House on the Motion of Thanks to the President's address, as well as for the suspension of eight MPs.
Congress general secretary in-charge communications Jairam Ramesh said, "On the afternoon of December 18, 1954, the Lok Sabha took up a Resolution moved by the Opposition for the removal of the Speaker (GV Mavalankar). This is how the debate began: 'Mr. Deputy Speaker: The House will now take up the Resolution. Shri Jawaharlal Nehru: Sir, may I make a submission to the House? You were pleased to allot two hours for this discussion. Mr. Deputy Speaker: Yes, from 3.30 PM to 5.30 PM.
"Jawaharlal Nehru: Normally you do adopt some kind of proportion, but I should like to submit that in this particular case, more time should be allowed to the Opposition than to the Government Benches. We do not wish to take too much time and I hope hon. Members on this side will not take too much time of the House in their speeches. Naturally we will have to say something which we will do. But I would submit for your consideration that the Opposition should have more time'," Ramesh recalled in a post on X.
He pointed out that in the First Lok Sabha, the Indian National Congress had 364 out of a total of 489 seats.
"And this was the approach of the-then Prime Minister when there was not even a recognised Leader of the Opposition. The Parliament that Nehru built up day-after-day by sitting, speaking, listening, and accommodating is now a pale shadow of its former self," Ramesh said.
He also shared screenshots of the transcription of the debate of that time.
Ramesh's remarks come at a time when sources have said a notice for resolution in this matter would be given in the Lok Sabha soon, and signatures of MPs are being procured.
09:42 (IST) Feb 10
INDIA Bloc to participate in Union Budget discussion in both Houses
INDIA bloc parties will participate in the discussion on the Union Budget to be held in both the Lok Sabha and the Rajya Sabha on Monday.
The decision was taken during a meeting of INDIA bloc floor leaders held at the office of Leader of Opposition in the Rajya Sabha and Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge in the Parliament House complex. Leader of Opposition in Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhi was also present at the meeting.
The Opposition alliance is expected to raise key Budget-related issues during discussions in both Houses of Parliament.
The Budget Session has seen disruptions in recent days, with Opposition parties pressing for debates on various matters.
Meanwhile, before arriving in Parliament, responding to questions about whether parliamentary proceedings would proceed, Mallikarjun Kharge said, "Who says the House will not function today?"
Both Houses of Parliament are scheduled to begin discussion on the Union Budget 2026-27 at 11 AM on Monday.
While the Houses are scheduled for general discussion on the Budget, the Opposition MPs are likely to demand a discussion on the framework of the Bilateral Trade Agreement (BTA) between Indian and the United States.
Earlier today, DMK MP TR Baalu moved an Adjournment Motion notice in the Lok Sabha, seeking a discussion on the framework of the trade deal. Submitting the notice, the DMK MP raised concerns about zero tariffs on certain agricultural products imported into India from the US.
Meanwhile, in the Rajya Sabha, BJP MP Satish Chandra Dubey will lay on the table a copy of the Report of the Comptroller and Auditor General of India on Operational Performance of NLC India Limited - Union Government - Ministry of Coal.
On Friday, the Lok Sabha proceedings were disrupted by strong protests from Opposition MPs upon the commencement of the general discussion on the Union Budget 2026-27, leading to an adjournment until 11 AM on Monday (February 9).
Opposition MPs also protested the India-US trade agreement at the Makar Dwar of the Parliament, holding a banner calling it a "trap deal." Congress leader Priyanka Gandhi Vadra also joined as the MPs raised slogans, "Jo uchit samjho vahi karo"(Do whatever you think is right) and "tanashahi nahi chalegi" (dictatorship will not be accepted), criticising the Central government.
The slogan came after Lok Sabha Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi took a swipe at Prime Minister Narendra Modi's speech in the Rajya Sabha, and said, "Jo uchit samjho wahi karo."
Earlier, eight opposition members were suspended from the Lok Sabha for the remainder of the budget session for violating rules and "throwing papers on the chair" following an uproar in the House over Congress leader Rahul Gandhi's insistence on mentioning a specific reference to the 2020 border tensions with China in eastern Ladakh.
The government has said that Rahul Gandhi cannot quote from an unpublished memoir or a magazine article based on it.
The suspended MPs include Congress members Hibi Eden, Amarinder Singh Raja Warring, Manickam Tagore, Gurjeet Singh Aujla, Prashant Yadaorao Padole, Chamala Kiran Kumar Reddy and Dean Kuriakose, along with CPI (M) MP S Venkatesan.
The decision was taken during a meeting of INDIA bloc floor leaders held at the office of Leader of Opposition in the Rajya Sabha and Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge in the Parliament House complex. Leader of Opposition in Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhi was also present at the meeting.
The Opposition alliance is expected to raise key Budget-related issues during discussions in both Houses of Parliament.
The Budget Session has seen disruptions in recent days, with Opposition parties pressing for debates on various matters.
Meanwhile, before arriving in Parliament, responding to questions about whether parliamentary proceedings would proceed, Mallikarjun Kharge said, "Who says the House will not function today?"
Both Houses of Parliament are scheduled to begin discussion on the Union Budget 2026-27 at 11 AM on Monday.
While the Houses are scheduled for general discussion on the Budget, the Opposition MPs are likely to demand a discussion on the framework of the Bilateral Trade Agreement (BTA) between Indian and the United States.
Earlier today, DMK MP TR Baalu moved an Adjournment Motion notice in the Lok Sabha, seeking a discussion on the framework of the trade deal. Submitting the notice, the DMK MP raised concerns about zero tariffs on certain agricultural products imported into India from the US.
Meanwhile, in the Rajya Sabha, BJP MP Satish Chandra Dubey will lay on the table a copy of the Report of the Comptroller and Auditor General of India on Operational Performance of NLC India Limited - Union Government - Ministry of Coal.
On Friday, the Lok Sabha proceedings were disrupted by strong protests from Opposition MPs upon the commencement of the general discussion on the Union Budget 2026-27, leading to an adjournment until 11 AM on Monday (February 9).
Opposition MPs also protested the India-US trade agreement at the Makar Dwar of the Parliament, holding a banner calling it a "trap deal." Congress leader Priyanka Gandhi Vadra also joined as the MPs raised slogans, "Jo uchit samjho vahi karo"(Do whatever you think is right) and "tanashahi nahi chalegi" (dictatorship will not be accepted), criticising the Central government.
The slogan came after Lok Sabha Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi took a swipe at Prime Minister Narendra Modi's speech in the Rajya Sabha, and said, "Jo uchit samjho wahi karo."
Earlier, eight opposition members were suspended from the Lok Sabha for the remainder of the budget session for violating rules and "throwing papers on the chair" following an uproar in the House over Congress leader Rahul Gandhi's insistence on mentioning a specific reference to the 2020 border tensions with China in eastern Ladakh.
The government has said that Rahul Gandhi cannot quote from an unpublished memoir or a magazine article based on it.
The suspended MPs include Congress members Hibi Eden, Amarinder Singh Raja Warring, Manickam Tagore, Gurjeet Singh Aujla, Prashant Yadaorao Padole, Chamala Kiran Kumar Reddy and Dean Kuriakose, along with CPI (M) MP S Venkatesan.
09:22 (IST) Feb 10
Parliament Budget Session: Rajya Sabha to continue discussion on Union Budget 2026-27
Both Houses of Parliament are scheduled to hold the general discussion on the Union Budget 2026-27 on Tuesday.
The Upper House of Parliament will resume discussion of the Budget, while the Lower House is likely to begin the debate after a stalemate between the opposition and the ruling parties.
According to the List of the Business, in Lok Sabha, MPs Azad Kirti Jha and Robert Bruce C will present the Reports of the Standing Committee on Chemicals and Fertilisers. Jitin Prasada will make a statement regarding the status of implementation of recommendations contained in the 188th Report of the Standing Committee on Commerce on 'Comprehensive Strategy to Map Major Products and Countries to Maximise Exports and Minimise Imports'.
In the Upper House, Rwngwra Narzary and Naresh Bansal will lay on the table the Reports of the Department-related Parliamentary Standing Committee on Chemicals and Fertilisers (2025-26).
MoS Petroleum and Natural Gas, Suresh Gopi, will make a statement regarding Status of implementation of the Observations and Recommendations contained in the Fifth Report (Eighteenth Lok Sabha) of the Department-related Parliamentary Standing Committee on Petroleum and Natural Gas on Action Taken by the Government on the Observations and Recommendations contained in its Twenty-third Report (Seventeenth Lok Sabha) on 'Review of Policy on Import of Crude Oil' pertaining to the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas.
Earlier on Monday, the Rajya Sabha took up a debate on the Union Budget. Initiating the debate, former Finance Minister and Congress leader P Chidambaram slammed the government, saying it is "parsimonious, forgetful of the past year" and will vanish from the memory of the people.
Chidambaram highlighted a number of challenges listed in the Economic Survey. "I'll take up only four challenges: Capital Investment. For some years now, for almost 12 years, capital investment gross fixed capital formation is stuck at 30 per cent of GDP. Net FDI in 2024-25 has collapsed to less than 0.09 per cent. FPIs, foreign portfolio investors, are pulling out. Private investment, although companies are cash-rich, is stuck at 22 per cent of GDP. In this situation where neither the public sector nor the private sector nor the foreign investor is investing in India, this government has cut capital expenditure," he said.
He said there has been a cut in expenditure in agriculture and rural development, and the Jal Jeevan Mission.
Participating in the debate, Congress leader Randeep Singh Surjewala said the Union Budget has duped villages, farmers and marginalised sections of society. He claimed the government has "sacrificed the interests of farmers under the India-US trade deal".
Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman presented her ninth consecutive Union Budget on February 1.
The Upper House of Parliament will resume discussion of the Budget, while the Lower House is likely to begin the debate after a stalemate between the opposition and the ruling parties.
According to the List of the Business, in Lok Sabha, MPs Azad Kirti Jha and Robert Bruce C will present the Reports of the Standing Committee on Chemicals and Fertilisers. Jitin Prasada will make a statement regarding the status of implementation of recommendations contained in the 188th Report of the Standing Committee on Commerce on 'Comprehensive Strategy to Map Major Products and Countries to Maximise Exports and Minimise Imports'.
In the Upper House, Rwngwra Narzary and Naresh Bansal will lay on the table the Reports of the Department-related Parliamentary Standing Committee on Chemicals and Fertilisers (2025-26).
MoS Petroleum and Natural Gas, Suresh Gopi, will make a statement regarding Status of implementation of the Observations and Recommendations contained in the Fifth Report (Eighteenth Lok Sabha) of the Department-related Parliamentary Standing Committee on Petroleum and Natural Gas on Action Taken by the Government on the Observations and Recommendations contained in its Twenty-third Report (Seventeenth Lok Sabha) on 'Review of Policy on Import of Crude Oil' pertaining to the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas.
Earlier on Monday, the Rajya Sabha took up a debate on the Union Budget. Initiating the debate, former Finance Minister and Congress leader P Chidambaram slammed the government, saying it is "parsimonious, forgetful of the past year" and will vanish from the memory of the people.
Chidambaram highlighted a number of challenges listed in the Economic Survey. "I'll take up only four challenges: Capital Investment. For some years now, for almost 12 years, capital investment gross fixed capital formation is stuck at 30 per cent of GDP. Net FDI in 2024-25 has collapsed to less than 0.09 per cent. FPIs, foreign portfolio investors, are pulling out. Private investment, although companies are cash-rich, is stuck at 22 per cent of GDP. In this situation where neither the public sector nor the private sector nor the foreign investor is investing in India, this government has cut capital expenditure," he said.
He said there has been a cut in expenditure in agriculture and rural development, and the Jal Jeevan Mission.
Participating in the debate, Congress leader Randeep Singh Surjewala said the Union Budget has duped villages, farmers and marginalised sections of society. He claimed the government has "sacrificed the interests of farmers under the India-US trade deal".
Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman presented her ninth consecutive Union Budget on February 1.
09:21 (IST) Feb 10
Congress MP Manish Tewari gives Adjournment Motion Notice in Lok Sabha to discuss the India-US Joint Statement on the Interim Trade Agreement.
"I move that this House do suspend Question Hour, Zero Hour and all other listed business of the day to take up the serious concerns emanating from the USA-India Joint Statement on the Interim Trade Agreement and the recent Executive Order of the White House."
09:05 (IST) Feb 10
BJP’s women MPs have written a letter to Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla urging him to take strongest possible action under the rules, against the opposition MPs who have committed 'heinous acts' within the precincts of the House and 'brought disrepute to our democratic institutions' on February 4.
08:26 (IST) Feb 10
"We wish to express our profound gratitude and admiration for the exemplary manner in which you upheld and protected the dignity, decorum, and sanctity of the Lok Sabha during the discussion on the Motion of Thanks on the Honourable President's Address on February 4, 2026. On that day, the entire House, and indeed the entire nation, witnessed one of the most unfortunate and regrettable incidents inside the Lok Sabha chamber. We saw members of the opposition party not only entering the well of the House but also climbing onto the Speaker's table, tearing up papers, and throwing them towards the Speaker. Furthermore, sadly, some Honourable women members, behaving aggressively and carrying banners and placards, crossed over to the other side. They not only surrounded the Prime Minister's seat but also entered the Treasury benches where senior ministers sit...Therefore, we urge you to take the strictest possible action, under the rules, against those opposition MPs who have committed such heinous acts within the House premises and brought disrepute to our democratic institutions..." reads the letter
17:01 (IST) Feb 09
Randeep Singh Surjewala attacks Centre on India-US trade deal
Congress RS MP Randeep SIngh Surjewala while speaking on Union Budget in Upper House in parliament, launched a scathing attack on Centre said the Budget is "anti-poor, anti-farmer, aagainst country and rural India."
He also blasted Union government over the India-US trade deal. Congress MP said, the governement has sacrificed the country's sovereignty by saying that India will rethink non-tariff barriers on import, adding, “are you going to do away with the subsidy provided to the farmers of the country under pressure from the US.”
He also blasted Union government over the India-US trade deal. Congress MP said, the governement has sacrificed the country's sovereignty by saying that India will rethink non-tariff barriers on import, adding, “are you going to do away with the subsidy provided to the farmers of the country under pressure from the US.”
16:18 (IST) Feb 09
Akhilesh Yadav urges govt to hold discussion on India-US trade deal in parliament
Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav said, country has struck a major deal (India-US trade deal) and there should be a discussion on it in parliament.
"Functioning of Parliament is even more crucial when a major deal has been struck with the US; international markets have opened up for India after a long time, and the government should speak up instead of avoiding issues."
"Functioning of Parliament is even more crucial when a major deal has been struck with the US; international markets have opened up for India after a long time, and the government should speak up instead of avoiding issues."
15:55 (IST) Feb 09
Rahul Gandhi says ‘deal with Speaker’, will be allowed to speak tomorrow in LS
Lok Sabha LoP and Congress MP Rahul Gandhi said he has reached an agreement with the Speaker and that he’ll be allowed to raise the issues that he has been trying to mention based on an alleged memoir of former Army Chief Gen Naravane, following which a discussion will take place in the House.
"The agreement is that we'll be allowed to say these points and then the discussion should happen. So we are quite keen that the discussion happens. We want the discussion to happen, but now let us see what the government says. My personal view is that the government is scared to have a debate. The Prime Minister didn't come into the House because he was scared of what we were going to say. He was scared of being handed General Naravane's book as a first step. My guess is that the government is worried about having a debate on the budget because the issue of the US deal, the way it was done, what has happened, the impact on our farmers is going to be discussed, and the government doesn't want to do that..."
"The agreement is that we'll be allowed to say these points and then the discussion should happen. So we are quite keen that the discussion happens. We want the discussion to happen, but now let us see what the government says. My personal view is that the government is scared to have a debate. The Prime Minister didn't come into the House because he was scared of what we were going to say. He was scared of being handed General Naravane's book as a first step. My guess is that the government is worried about having a debate on the budget because the issue of the US deal, the way it was done, what has happened, the impact on our farmers is going to be discussed, and the government doesn't want to do that..."
15:47 (IST) Feb 09
No-confidence motion against Speaker: Shashi Throor says ‘no discussion with me’
Congress MP Shashii Throor said there has been no discussion with him on the issue of bringing a no-confidence motion against Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla. He added, some people are discussing let’s see what happens.
"There is no discussion with me on all this; all I can say is some people have been discussing this, we will see," says Congress MP Shashi Tharoor on the move for a no-confidence motion against Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla.
"There is no discussion with me on all this; all I can say is some people have been discussing this, we will see," says Congress MP Shashi Tharoor on the move for a no-confidence motion against Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla.
15:42 (IST) Feb 09
'Rajnath made false claim': Rahul says Naravane book published
Congress MP Rahul Gandhi on Monday speaking outside parliament attacked defence minister Rajnath SIngh claiming, RM “falsely claimed ex-Army Chief Naravane’s book is not published when in fact it is published and we have a copy of it.”
He also alleged that the government does not want to discuss the issues mentioned in alleged memoir of Gen Naravane, and hence there is the lockjam in parliament.
Lok Sabha LoP Rahul Gandhi says, “The issue began a few days ago when the Naravane book came up. The government did not want me to discuss it and therefore stalled the House. I was repeatedly not allowed to speak. First, they said I could not quote a book. When I said I was quoting a magazine, they said I could not quote a magazine either. Then they did not want me to speak on the issue at all.
He added, "The defence minister also falsely claimed that the book had not been published. In fact, the book has been published and we have a copy of it... The fact is very clear, the Prime Minister was afraid to come to the House, not because of the members, but because of what I was saying. He is still afraid because he cannot face the truth. There is no question of our members attacking the Prime Minister.”
He also alleged that the government does not want to discuss the issues mentioned in alleged memoir of Gen Naravane, and hence there is the lockjam in parliament.
Lok Sabha LoP Rahul Gandhi says, “The issue began a few days ago when the Naravane book came up. The government did not want me to discuss it and therefore stalled the House. I was repeatedly not allowed to speak. First, they said I could not quote a book. When I said I was quoting a magazine, they said I could not quote a magazine either. Then they did not want me to speak on the issue at all.
He added, "The defence minister also falsely claimed that the book had not been published. In fact, the book has been published and we have a copy of it... The fact is very clear, the Prime Minister was afraid to come to the House, not because of the members, but because of what I was saying. He is still afraid because he cannot face the truth. There is no question of our members attacking the Prime Minister.”
15:34 (IST) Feb 09
Rahul Gandhi says 'no question of threathing PM', he was scared to come to house over 'what I was saying'
Congress MP and Leader of Opposition in Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhi on Monday dismissed allegations that there was any threat to PM Modi coming to house on last Wednesday to give reply on Motion of Thanks on Presidents address, after Congress women MPs portest in the well and close to PM's chair in House.
"No question of MPs threatening PM Modi; fact is PM was scared to come to the House because of what I was saying: Rahul GandhiGovt worried about having a debate on Budget; we are keen on discussion."
"No question of MPs threatening PM Modi; fact is PM was scared to come to the House because of what I was saying: Rahul GandhiGovt worried about having a debate on Budget; we are keen on discussion."
15:17 (IST) Feb 09
FM Sitharaman intervenes in Rajya Sabha, slams DMK
Union finance minister Sitharaman intervened in discussion on Budget in Upper House of parliament criticising DMK MP P Wilson over the Tamil Nadu claiming, during his speech, that there was nothing in Budget for the Southern state.
FM said giving a pointed rebuttal said, "I can count four things right here on finger," hitting out at MP she added, "the rare earth corridor is it not going to pass through TN? One girls hostel in every district is it not going to benefit TN? The fisheries export scheme is it not going to benefit TN?"
FM said giving a pointed rebuttal said, "I can count four things right here on finger," hitting out at MP she added, "the rare earth corridor is it not going to pass through TN? One girls hostel in every district is it not going to benefit TN? The fisheries export scheme is it not going to benefit TN?"
14:49 (IST) Feb 09
'First FM do present six budgets without census': TMC MP Sushmita Dev jibes Sitharaman
TMC Rajya Sabha MP Sushmita Dev launched a blistering attack on Union finance minsiter Niramala Sitharaman during the discussion on Union Budget.
While speaking Dev said, "FM Sitharaman has presented nine consecutive Budgets, equalling the number of Budgets presented by P Chidambaram, and it historic. But this is history because she is the first finance minister to present six Budgets without the Census".
Adding, "So the power doesn't know whom they are working for, because they don't have any data to knwo it."
While speaking Dev said, "FM Sitharaman has presented nine consecutive Budgets, equalling the number of Budgets presented by P Chidambaram, and it historic. But this is history because she is the first finance minister to present six Budgets without the Census".
Adding, "So the power doesn't know whom they are working for, because they don't have any data to knwo it."
14:16 (IST) Feb 09
The Speaker personally committed to us that I would be allowed to speak here and raise some points before the Budget discussion. Now you are going back on your word, so I would like to know whether I am allowed to speak on those points or not: Rahul Gandhi
12:56 (IST) Feb 09
Women Parliamentarians of the Congress Party write a letter to Lok Sabha Om Birla regarding "baseless allegations against women Members of Parliament and the denial of the Opposition's Parliamentary Rights"
12:50 (IST) Feb 09
Congress women MPs write to Speaker Om Birla, allege denial of Opposition rights
NEW DELHI: Women Members of Parliament from the Congress have written to Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla, accusing him of making “false, baseless, and defamatory allegations” against Opposition women MPs and alleging a systematic denial of parliamentary rights to the Opposition during the ongoing Budget Session.
In a letter led by Karur MP S Jothimani, the MPs said they were writing “with deep anguish and a strong sense of constitutional responsibility,” claiming that the Speaker, as “the constitutional custodian of this august House,” had been “forced by the ruling party” to level allegations against women MPs, particularly from the Congress.
The letter refers to proceedings during the debate on the Motion of Thanks to the President’s Address, stating that “established parliamentary convention mandates that both the ruling party and the opposition are allowed to speak, after which the Prime Minister replies.” It adds that “for the past four consecutive days, the Leader of the Opposition, Mr Rahul Gandhi, has been deliberately denied this opportunity in the Lok Sabha,” calling the situation “unprecedented and indefensible.”
The Congress MPs also flagged the suspension of eight INDIA alliance members, while alleging that a BJP MP was allowed to speak “in a vulgar and obscene manner about former Prime Ministers.” They said that when they met the Speaker and sought action, he acknowledged “that a grave mistake had occurred” and asked them to return later. However, during a subsequent meeting, they allege he said he was “awaiting the government’s response regarding the issue,” which, according to the letter, “raises serious questions regarding your authority as Speaker of the House.”
The letter further claims that the Prime Minister was scheduled to speak in the Lok Sabha at 5 pm in violation of convention, but did not appear after Opposition MPs protested. It alleges that the next day, “clearly pressurized by the ruling party to defend the non-appearance of the Prime Minister,” the Speaker issued a statement making “grave allegations against the women MPs of the Congress Party.”
Defending their conduct, the MPs wrote, “Sir, our protests have been unrelentingly peaceful, firm, and entirely within democratic norms.” They said questioning their integrity amounted to “a grievous attack on every woman who earns her place in public life with dignity and courage.”
The letter accuses the government of targeting them for demanding accountability from Prime Minister Narendra Modi, stating, “His absence from the House was not due to any threat from us; it was an act of fear. He did not have the courage to face the Opposition.”
Reiterating their political stance, the MPs wrote, “We are Members of Parliament from the Indian National Congress, a party that stands for love, peace, constitutional values, and human dignity.” They added, “We are brave women elected representatives who will not be silenced by intimidation.”
Appealing directly to the Speaker, the letter states, “However, it is amply clear that you are under sustained pressure from the ruling party. We urge you once again to act as the impartial custodian of the Lok Sabha.” It concludes with a pointed appeal to legacy, saying, “Let history remember you as one who stood for what was right in the most trying circumstances and upheld constitutional propriety for the good of the nation.”
In a letter led by Karur MP S Jothimani, the MPs said they were writing “with deep anguish and a strong sense of constitutional responsibility,” claiming that the Speaker, as “the constitutional custodian of this august House,” had been “forced by the ruling party” to level allegations against women MPs, particularly from the Congress.
The letter refers to proceedings during the debate on the Motion of Thanks to the President’s Address, stating that “established parliamentary convention mandates that both the ruling party and the opposition are allowed to speak, after which the Prime Minister replies.” It adds that “for the past four consecutive days, the Leader of the Opposition, Mr Rahul Gandhi, has been deliberately denied this opportunity in the Lok Sabha,” calling the situation “unprecedented and indefensible.”
The Congress MPs also flagged the suspension of eight INDIA alliance members, while alleging that a BJP MP was allowed to speak “in a vulgar and obscene manner about former Prime Ministers.” They said that when they met the Speaker and sought action, he acknowledged “that a grave mistake had occurred” and asked them to return later. However, during a subsequent meeting, they allege he said he was “awaiting the government’s response regarding the issue,” which, according to the letter, “raises serious questions regarding your authority as Speaker of the House.”
The letter further claims that the Prime Minister was scheduled to speak in the Lok Sabha at 5 pm in violation of convention, but did not appear after Opposition MPs protested. It alleges that the next day, “clearly pressurized by the ruling party to defend the non-appearance of the Prime Minister,” the Speaker issued a statement making “grave allegations against the women MPs of the Congress Party.”
Defending their conduct, the MPs wrote, “Sir, our protests have been unrelentingly peaceful, firm, and entirely within democratic norms.” They said questioning their integrity amounted to “a grievous attack on every woman who earns her place in public life with dignity and courage.”
The letter accuses the government of targeting them for demanding accountability from Prime Minister Narendra Modi, stating, “His absence from the House was not due to any threat from us; it was an act of fear. He did not have the courage to face the Opposition.”
Reiterating their political stance, the MPs wrote, “We are Members of Parliament from the Indian National Congress, a party that stands for love, peace, constitutional values, and human dignity.” They added, “We are brave women elected representatives who will not be silenced by intimidation.”
Appealing directly to the Speaker, the letter states, “However, it is amply clear that you are under sustained pressure from the ruling party. We urge you once again to act as the impartial custodian of the Lok Sabha.” It concludes with a pointed appeal to legacy, saying, “Let history remember you as one who stood for what was right in the most trying circumstances and upheld constitutional propriety for the good of the nation.”
12:21 (IST) Feb 09
Wait for action: Congress amid reports that Opposition may move no confidence motion against Speaker
The Congress on Monday claimed that there "is no space for opposition" in the Lok Sabha and responded to reports that the opposition may move a motion of no confidence against Speaker Om Birla, saying "wait for action".
Congress MP K C Venugopal alleged that Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi and other opposition leader are not being allowed to air their views in the Lower House, while the government side can state whatever they want and even make "derogatory remarks" against the opposition member.
Asked about reports that Opposition may move motion of no confidence against speaker Birla, Venugopal said, "You see what is happening in Parliament. You can see in this session, the Leader of Opposition, Rahul Gandhi, is not being allowed to speak anything in this House."
"The government side can speak anything. They can attack anybody, speak derogatory things, even against those who are not alive. The Speaker is making allegations against Congress women MPs. There is no space for opposition in this house at all," Venugopal told reporters in Parliament House complex.
"Whether it is the LoP or other opposition leaders, they are not being allowed to speak. This type of attitude toward the opposition has not been there at any time," he said.
On whether the opposition will seek to move such a motion, Venugopal said "after action you will get to know", and added that the entire opposition is united.
"Cannot comment on reports, wait for action," he said.
Venugopal's remarks come after a meeting of opposition floor leaders in Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge's chamber in Parliament House complex this morning to decide on a joint strategy for the next few days.
In an unprecedented development, the Lok Sabha passed the Motion of Thanks on Thursday last without the prime minister's customary reply that was scheduled a day earlier in the face of relentless sloganeering by opposition members.
An anguished Lok Sabha Speaker last Thursday said he had "concrete information" that many Congress members might move towards Prime Minister Narendra Modi's seat and carry out "some unexpected act" as a result of which he had requested him not to come to the House to reply to the discussion on the Motion of Thanks on the President's address.
As the Lower House reassembled at after three adjournments on Thursday, Birla said if this incident had taken place, then this would have left the democratic traditions of the country in "shreds".
12:08 (IST) Feb 09
Lok Sabha adjourned till 2 pm
11:23 (IST) Feb 09
Opposition to move no-confidence motion against Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla: ANI Sources
According to ANI Sources, the opposition will move it in the second part of the budget session, as it needs 20 days' notice. The grounds identified for the move include: Lok Sabha LoP not allowed to speak; women MPs named by the Chair; certain Treasury Bench MPs always given Privilege in the House; and the Way 8 opposition MPs were suspended for the whole session.
11:11 (IST) Feb 09
On the statement of RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat on Veer Savarkar, BJP MP Kangana Ranaut says, "Every Indian has the same feeling as expressed by Mohan Bhagwat. He (Veer Savarkar) is far above the Bharat Ratna award, but if he receives the award, it will be a matter of pride for every citizen of the country."
11:07 (IST) Feb 09
Minutes into Budget Session, Lok Sabha adjourned till 12 pm amid opposition sloganeering
11:04 (IST) Feb 09
INDIA bloc floor leaders huddle ahead of Parliament session
Meeting of INDIA bloc floor leaders in the office of the Leader of Opposition, Rajya Sabha, & Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge in Parliament House complex held today.
Leader of opposition in the LS, Rahul Gandhi also present in the meeting.
Leader of opposition in the LS, Rahul Gandhi also present in the meeting.
11:02 (IST) Feb 09
House is stalled solely due to Rahul Gandhi's stubbornness: Union minister Kiren Rijiju
Union parliamentary affairs minister Kiren Rijiju said, "The debate on Motion of Thanks on the President’s Address could not be held in the Lok Sabha. I think the Leader of the Congress party in the Lok Sabha does not want the House to run. The Speaker is also hurt by the Congress MPs' behaviour. We want to run the House, but if Congress doesn't allow the House to function and the Budget is passed by a voice vote, this will affect Opposition MPs the most, as they won't have a chance to speak on it. We have already submitted a list of all NDA MPs who will speak in the debate on the Budget. If the MPs don't get a chance to speak, the Congress party will be responsible. The House is stalled solely due to Rahul Gandhi's stubbornness. In the House, one must speak according to the rules. If he speaks outside the rules, there is a system in place to address it. These rules and systems were framed long ago, even during the time of his grandparents..."
09:57 (IST) Feb 09
Parliament Budget Session: Both Houses to begin discussion on Union Budget 2026-27
Both Houses of Parliament are scheduled to begin discussion on the Union Budget 2026-27 on Monday, which was presented by Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman on February 1.
FM Sitharaman presented the Union Budget 2026-27 in Lok Sabha, for the ninth consecutive time. Asserting that the Budget is driven by "Yuvashakti" and based on "three kartavyas," she proposed seven high-speed rail corridors, new dedicated freight corridors, and the operationalisation of 20 national waterways over the next five years.
The Centre also announced an increase in the Securities Transaction Tax (STT) on futures and options (F&O) to discourage speculative trading.
While the NDA has welcomed the Budget, the Opposition alleged an exclusion of the marginalised communities. The Secular Progressive Alliance, led by the DMK in Tamil Nadu, has called a protest against the Budget on February 12.
While the Houses are scheduled for general discussion on the Budget, the Opposition MPs are likely to demand a discussion on the framework of the Bilateral Trade Agreement (BTA) between Indian and the United States.
Earlier, DMK MP TR Baalu moved an Adjournment Motion notice in the Lok Sabha, seeking a discussion on the framework of the trade deal. Submitting the notice, the DMK MP raised concerns about zero tariffs on certain agricultural products imported into India from the US.
Meanwhile, the INDIA bloc floor leaders are scheduled to meet ahead of today's Parliament sitting at the residence of Leader of the Opposition (LoP) Rajya Sabha and Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge. In the meeting, they will discuss and decide on the future course of action for the ongoing Budget Session.
In the Rajya Sabha, BJP MP Satish Chandra Dubey will lay on the table a copy of the Report of the Comptroller and Auditor General of India on Operational Performance of NLC India Limited - Union Government - Ministry of Coal.
FM Sitharaman presented the Union Budget 2026-27 in Lok Sabha, for the ninth consecutive time. Asserting that the Budget is driven by "Yuvashakti" and based on "three kartavyas," she proposed seven high-speed rail corridors, new dedicated freight corridors, and the operationalisation of 20 national waterways over the next five years.
The Centre also announced an increase in the Securities Transaction Tax (STT) on futures and options (F&O) to discourage speculative trading.
While the NDA has welcomed the Budget, the Opposition alleged an exclusion of the marginalised communities. The Secular Progressive Alliance, led by the DMK in Tamil Nadu, has called a protest against the Budget on February 12.
While the Houses are scheduled for general discussion on the Budget, the Opposition MPs are likely to demand a discussion on the framework of the Bilateral Trade Agreement (BTA) between Indian and the United States.
Earlier, DMK MP TR Baalu moved an Adjournment Motion notice in the Lok Sabha, seeking a discussion on the framework of the trade deal. Submitting the notice, the DMK MP raised concerns about zero tariffs on certain agricultural products imported into India from the US.
Meanwhile, the INDIA bloc floor leaders are scheduled to meet ahead of today's Parliament sitting at the residence of Leader of the Opposition (LoP) Rajya Sabha and Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge. In the meeting, they will discuss and decide on the future course of action for the ongoing Budget Session.
In the Rajya Sabha, BJP MP Satish Chandra Dubey will lay on the table a copy of the Report of the Comptroller and Auditor General of India on Operational Performance of NLC India Limited - Union Government - Ministry of Coal.
09:57 (IST) Feb 09
Parliament Budget Session: Union Budget a 25-year vision document: Khattar
Hailing the Budget 2026-27 as a 25-year "vision document," Union minister Manohar Lal Khattar Sunday said the exemption of customs duty on rare minerals is expected to boost Chhattisgarh's mining and industrial sectors, strengthen investment prospects and economic activity in the state.
Addressing a press conference here on the Budget 2026-27, Khattar said the document has been framed around three key duties aimed at strengthening the nation economically and socially.
He said that the budget should be viewed not merely as an annual financial statement but as a "vision document" that will guide the country's development over the next 25 years.
It presents a clear vision for a developed India by 2047, he said.
Khattar, who handles the portfolios of power, housing and urban affairs, said the budget has accepted the recommendations of the 16th Finance Commission, which will provide direction for development over the next five years.
Explaining the three focus areas, he said that the first relates to India's economic position in the global context and the goal of becoming the third-largest economy in the world, surpassing Germany.
The second focus is on infrastructure development, industrial expansion and employment generation within the country, and the third emphasises inclusive growth by supporting deserving sections of society, including the poor, women and the underprivileged, the Union minister said.
Khattar said, "The exemption of customs duty on minerals, especially rare ones, is expected to boost Chhattisgarh's mining and industrial sectors."
He further pointed out that since 2014, national highway development has been prioritised in the state, with over 3,400 km of roads constructed.
Under the Bharatmala Pariyojana, more than 571 km of national highway corridors have been approved to improve connectivity in the state, he said.
Moreover, air connectivity has been strengthened in Chhattisgarh under the UDAN scheme, with the launch of flights from Jagdalpur, Bilaspur and Ambikapur, and Raipur's Swami Vivekananda Airport has been included under the Krishi Udan scheme to facilitate faster transportation of agricultural produce.
Chhattisgarh has received a historic allocation of Rs 7,470 crore for railway development in the Union budget, which will significantly enhance rail connectivity and capacity in the state, he said.
Expressing confidence in the budget's objectives, Khattar said India would witness unprecedented progress in power, infrastructure and urban development sectors, calling the budget a strong step towards inclusive growth.
He pointed out that India's foreign trade agreements (FTAs) have been increasing with countries around the world.
Khattar said PM Narendra Modi has resolved the trade agreement with the US, which had been stalled for six months, "very smoothly, silently and diplomatically".
Everyone in the country is happy about it. People around the world are also surprised, he said.
"Earlier, people would comment about India, saying things like 'their ship has sunk' or 'their bus has broken down'. They used all sorts of expressions. Today, many countries around the world want to get on India's bus (want to be partners in India's growth story). This has also given a great boost to our economy," he added.
Addressing a press conference here on the Budget 2026-27, Khattar said the document has been framed around three key duties aimed at strengthening the nation economically and socially.
He said that the budget should be viewed not merely as an annual financial statement but as a "vision document" that will guide the country's development over the next 25 years.
It presents a clear vision for a developed India by 2047, he said.
Khattar, who handles the portfolios of power, housing and urban affairs, said the budget has accepted the recommendations of the 16th Finance Commission, which will provide direction for development over the next five years.
Explaining the three focus areas, he said that the first relates to India's economic position in the global context and the goal of becoming the third-largest economy in the world, surpassing Germany.
The second focus is on infrastructure development, industrial expansion and employment generation within the country, and the third emphasises inclusive growth by supporting deserving sections of society, including the poor, women and the underprivileged, the Union minister said.
Khattar said, "The exemption of customs duty on minerals, especially rare ones, is expected to boost Chhattisgarh's mining and industrial sectors."
He further pointed out that since 2014, national highway development has been prioritised in the state, with over 3,400 km of roads constructed.
Under the Bharatmala Pariyojana, more than 571 km of national highway corridors have been approved to improve connectivity in the state, he said.
Moreover, air connectivity has been strengthened in Chhattisgarh under the UDAN scheme, with the launch of flights from Jagdalpur, Bilaspur and Ambikapur, and Raipur's Swami Vivekananda Airport has been included under the Krishi Udan scheme to facilitate faster transportation of agricultural produce.
Chhattisgarh has received a historic allocation of Rs 7,470 crore for railway development in the Union budget, which will significantly enhance rail connectivity and capacity in the state, he said.
Expressing confidence in the budget's objectives, Khattar said India would witness unprecedented progress in power, infrastructure and urban development sectors, calling the budget a strong step towards inclusive growth.
He pointed out that India's foreign trade agreements (FTAs) have been increasing with countries around the world.
Khattar said PM Narendra Modi has resolved the trade agreement with the US, which had been stalled for six months, "very smoothly, silently and diplomatically".
Everyone in the country is happy about it. People around the world are also surprised, he said.
"Earlier, people would comment about India, saying things like 'their ship has sunk' or 'their bus has broken down'. They used all sorts of expressions. Today, many countries around the world want to get on India's bus (want to be partners in India's growth story). This has also given a great boost to our economy," he added.
09:56 (IST) Feb 09
Parliament Budget Session: DMK MP TR Baalu seeks discussion on India-US trade deal framework in Lok Sabha
DMK MP TR Baalu moved an Adjournment Motion notice in the Lok Sabha on Monday, seeking a discussion on the framework of the Bilateral Trade Agreement (BTA) between India and the United States.
Submitting the notice, the DMK MP raised concerns about zero tariffs on certain agricultural products imported into India from the US.
"The reported draft Tariff and Trade agreement unilaterally announced by the USA is bound to open the floodgates of imports of Agricultural products into India. This will be disastrous for our farmers and farm sector," he wrote.
This comes as the framework for the trade deal states that India will eliminate or reduce tariffs on all US industrial goods and a wide range of US food and agricultural products, including dried distillers' grains (DDGs), red sorghum for animal feed, tree nuts, fresh and processed fruit, soybean oil, wine and spirits, and additional products.
However, the Centre has maintained that the interests of agriculture and other sensitive sectors have been safeguarded while drafting the framework for the deal.
Addressing the concern over the import of apples from the US, Union Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal clarified that the Centre has not "opened up" the market for US apples under the interim trade pact, but instead has given them a "quota" that is less than current apple imports, while fully protecting domestic apple growers.
Goyal stated that India has not opened its market to agricultural products that remain in surplus in the country. However, he said apples were not produced in surplus, noting that India produces 20-21 lakh tonnes of apples while demand is over 25-26 lakh tonnes.
"We are not surplus in apples. The demand for apples is more than 25-26 lakh tons. We produce about 20-21 lakh tons. As we speak, we import 5.5 lakh tons of apples every year. And a large quantity of that comes from the United States of America. We have not opened up apples. We have given them a quota on apples, which we will procure from there. That is less than the Current imports of apples from the USA," Goyal said in an interview with ANI.
The Union Minister assured that apple farmers in India will receive protection from import regulations that prevent cheap apples from flooding the market.
Meanwhile, the Parliament is scheduled to kickstart the discussion on Union Budget 2026-27, which was presented by Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman on February 1.
Submitting the notice, the DMK MP raised concerns about zero tariffs on certain agricultural products imported into India from the US.
"The reported draft Tariff and Trade agreement unilaterally announced by the USA is bound to open the floodgates of imports of Agricultural products into India. This will be disastrous for our farmers and farm sector," he wrote.
This comes as the framework for the trade deal states that India will eliminate or reduce tariffs on all US industrial goods and a wide range of US food and agricultural products, including dried distillers' grains (DDGs), red sorghum for animal feed, tree nuts, fresh and processed fruit, soybean oil, wine and spirits, and additional products.
However, the Centre has maintained that the interests of agriculture and other sensitive sectors have been safeguarded while drafting the framework for the deal.
Addressing the concern over the import of apples from the US, Union Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal clarified that the Centre has not "opened up" the market for US apples under the interim trade pact, but instead has given them a "quota" that is less than current apple imports, while fully protecting domestic apple growers.
Goyal stated that India has not opened its market to agricultural products that remain in surplus in the country. However, he said apples were not produced in surplus, noting that India produces 20-21 lakh tonnes of apples while demand is over 25-26 lakh tonnes.
"We are not surplus in apples. The demand for apples is more than 25-26 lakh tons. We produce about 20-21 lakh tons. As we speak, we import 5.5 lakh tons of apples every year. And a large quantity of that comes from the United States of America. We have not opened up apples. We have given them a quota on apples, which we will procure from there. That is less than the Current imports of apples from the USA," Goyal said in an interview with ANI.
The Union Minister assured that apple farmers in India will receive protection from import regulations that prevent cheap apples from flooding the market.
Meanwhile, the Parliament is scheduled to kickstart the discussion on Union Budget 2026-27, which was presented by Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman on February 1.
09:55 (IST) Feb 09
INDIA bloc leaders to meet at Kharge's residence amid ongoing budget session
The India bloc floor leaders are scheduled to meet on Monday at 10 AM at the residence of Leader of Opposition (LoP) Rajya Sabha and Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge.
In the meeting, they will discuss and decide on the future course of action for the ongoing Budget Session of Parliament.
On Thursday, the opposition MPs met at the office of the Leader of the Opposition in the Rajya Sabha, Mallikarjun Kharge, to discuss their floor strategy for parliamentary proceedings.
LoP Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhi was also present in the meeting.
On Thursday, the entire Opposition staged a walkout from the Rajya Sabha while Prime Minister Narendra Modi was responding to the Motion of Thanks to the President's address.
The Opposition claimed that the Leaders of Opposition (LoP) in both the Rajya Sabha and the Lok Sabha were not being allowed to speak, prompting them to stage a walkout.
"Vipaksha ki awaaz nahi dabegi. Tanashahi nahi chalegi. LoP (Leader of Opposition) ko bolne do. (The opposition's voice can't be suppressed. Dictatorship cannot work. Let the LoP speak)," the Opposition leaders raised slogans in the upper house of the Parliament.
The Opposition has been protesting against the Centre for allegedly not allowing Rahul Gandhi to quote former Army Chief General MM Naravane's unpublished memoir on the 2020 China standoff in Lok Sabha. The INDIA bloc has also been vocal, calling for a discussion on the India-US trade deal.
Meanwhile, Union Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal addressed Parliament, stating that the interests of sensitive economic sectors, including agriculture and dairy, have been safeguarded.
Earlier, eight opposition members were suspended from the Lok Sabha for the remainder of the budget session for violating rules and "throwing papers on the chair" following an uproar in the House over Congress leader Rahul Gandhi's insistence on mentioning a specific reference to the 2020 border tensions with China in eastern Ladakh.
The government has said that Rahul Gandhi cannot quote from an unpublished memoir or a magazine article based on it.
The suspended MPs include Congress members Hibi Eden, Amarinder Singh Raja Warring, Manickam Tagore, Gurjeet Singh Aujla, Prashant Yadaorao Padole, Chamala Kiran Kumar Reddy and Dean Kuriakose, along with CPI (M) MP S Venkatesan.
In the meeting, they will discuss and decide on the future course of action for the ongoing Budget Session of Parliament.
On Thursday, the opposition MPs met at the office of the Leader of the Opposition in the Rajya Sabha, Mallikarjun Kharge, to discuss their floor strategy for parliamentary proceedings.
LoP Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhi was also present in the meeting.
On Thursday, the entire Opposition staged a walkout from the Rajya Sabha while Prime Minister Narendra Modi was responding to the Motion of Thanks to the President's address.
The Opposition claimed that the Leaders of Opposition (LoP) in both the Rajya Sabha and the Lok Sabha were not being allowed to speak, prompting them to stage a walkout.
"Vipaksha ki awaaz nahi dabegi. Tanashahi nahi chalegi. LoP (Leader of Opposition) ko bolne do. (The opposition's voice can't be suppressed. Dictatorship cannot work. Let the LoP speak)," the Opposition leaders raised slogans in the upper house of the Parliament.
The Opposition has been protesting against the Centre for allegedly not allowing Rahul Gandhi to quote former Army Chief General MM Naravane's unpublished memoir on the 2020 China standoff in Lok Sabha. The INDIA bloc has also been vocal, calling for a discussion on the India-US trade deal.
Meanwhile, Union Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal addressed Parliament, stating that the interests of sensitive economic sectors, including agriculture and dairy, have been safeguarded.
Earlier, eight opposition members were suspended from the Lok Sabha for the remainder of the budget session for violating rules and "throwing papers on the chair" following an uproar in the House over Congress leader Rahul Gandhi's insistence on mentioning a specific reference to the 2020 border tensions with China in eastern Ladakh.
The government has said that Rahul Gandhi cannot quote from an unpublished memoir or a magazine article based on it.
The suspended MPs include Congress members Hibi Eden, Amarinder Singh Raja Warring, Manickam Tagore, Gurjeet Singh Aujla, Prashant Yadaorao Padole, Chamala Kiran Kumar Reddy and Dean Kuriakose, along with CPI (M) MP S Venkatesan.
09:54 (IST) Feb 09
Everyone shared views on smooth house proceedings: Om Prakash Rajbhar ahead of UP Assembly Budget Session
Uttar Pradesh Minister Om Prakash Rajbhar on Sunday said all parties shared their views on smooth house proceedings ahead of the UP Assembly Budget Session, starting on Monday.
After attending the all-party meeting in Lucknow, he urged opposition parties cooperate for effective governance. Speaking to ANI, he divulged that discussion time was fixed daily from 5 pm to 8 pm, separate from house time.
Rajbhar emphasised that while all parties provided input on running the house smoothly, the opposition's role is to maintain its own voice; he remarked that if the opposition "sings in tune with the government," it fails to effectively represent the people's concerns.
"Everyone has given their opinion on how the house should run smoothly. If the opposition sings in tune with the government, it cannot reach the people... The time limit of the house is separate; apart from that, discussion time from 5 pm to 8 pm daily has been fixed", he said.
The Budget Session of the Uttar Pradesh Legislative Assembly will begin tomorrow. A dedicated discussion window from 5 pm to 8 pm daily has been established to ensure all members have time to voice their opinions beyond the standard house time limit.
The Budget Session is scheduled to run from February 9 to February 20, with the state budget for the 2026-27 financial year to be presented on February 11.
The session is expected to witness discussions on key issues, including the presentation of the state budget.
Speaker Satish Mahana expressed a broader goal to have the House sit for at least 30 days this year, encouraging the opposition to engage in debate rather than disruption.
Opposition parties on Tuesday submitted a notice of no-confidence against Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla, escalating their confrontation with the government over the conduct of parliamentary proceedings.
Both Houses of Parliament are scheduled to take up general discussions on the Union Budget 2026-27, presented by Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman on February 1. Sitharaman presented the Budget for the ninth consecutive time in the Lok Sabha, saying it is driven by “Yuvashakti” and based on “three kartavyas.” The Budget proposes seven high-speed rail corridors, new dedicated freight corridors, and the operationalisation of 20 national waterways over the next five years.
The Centre also announced an increase in the Securities Transaction Tax on futures and options to discourage speculative trading.
While the ruling NDA has welcomed the Budget, Opposition parties have accused the government of excluding marginalised communities. The Secular Progressive Alliance, led by the DMK in Tamil Nadu, has called for a protest against the Budget on February 12.
As discussions on the Budget begin, Opposition MPs are expected to push for a debate on the framework of the Bilateral Trade Agreement between India and the United States. Earlier, DMK MP T R Baalu moved an Adjournment Motion notice in the Lok Sabha, seeking a discussion on the trade deal and raising concerns over zero tariffs on certain agricultural products imported from the US.
Amid the standoff, floor leaders of the INDIA bloc are scheduled to meet ahead of Monday’s Parliament sitting at the residence of Leader of the Opposition in the Rajya Sabha and Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge to decide their strategy for the remainder of the Budget Session.
In the Rajya Sabha, BJP MP Satish Chandra Dubey is set to table the Comptroller and Auditor General of India’s report on the operational performance of NLC India Limited under the Ministry of Coal.
Both Houses of Parliament are scheduled to take up general discussions on the Union Budget 2026-27, presented by Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman on February 1. Sitharaman presented the Budget for the ninth consecutive time in the Lok Sabha, saying it is driven by “Yuvashakti” and based on “three kartavyas.” The Budget proposes seven high-speed rail corridors, new dedicated freight corridors, and the operationalisation of 20 national waterways over the next five years.
The Centre also announced an increase in the Securities Transaction Tax on futures and options to discourage speculative trading.
While the ruling NDA has welcomed the Budget, Opposition parties have accused the government of excluding marginalised communities. The Secular Progressive Alliance, led by the DMK in Tamil Nadu, has called for a protest against the Budget on February 12.
As discussions on the Budget begin, Opposition MPs are expected to push for a debate on the framework of the Bilateral Trade Agreement between India and the United States. Earlier, DMK MP T R Baalu moved an Adjournment Motion notice in the Lok Sabha, seeking a discussion on the trade deal and raising concerns over zero tariffs on certain agricultural products imported from the US.
Amid the standoff, floor leaders of the INDIA bloc are scheduled to meet ahead of Monday’s Parliament sitting at the residence of Leader of the Opposition in the Rajya Sabha and Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge to decide their strategy for the remainder of the Budget Session.
In the Rajya Sabha, BJP MP Satish Chandra Dubey is set to table the Comptroller and Auditor General of India’s report on the operational performance of NLC India Limited under the Ministry of Coal.
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