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Budget 2024
The Parliament’s Budget Session kicked off with a compelling address from Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday, setting the stage for what promises to be a pivotal Budget 2024. Modi’s speech underscored the budget’s significance as a strategic blueprint for the nation’s development over the next five years, and his remarks were designed to galvanize both Parliament and the public in anticipation of substantial economic and policy shifts.
Budget 2024
Modi’s Vision for Budget 2024
In his address, Prime Minister Modi emphasized that the upcoming Union Budget is not just a fiscal plan but a comprehensive roadmap for India’s growth during what he termed as the “Amrit Kaal” or the “Elixir Period.” He stressed that the budget will be instrumental in guiding India towards its goal of becoming a “Viksit Bharat” (Developed India), focusing on laying a robust foundation for the country’s future.
Modi articulated a vision of transformative progress, asserting that this budget will define the trajectory of India’s development for the next five years. He highlighted the importance of this budget in fulfilling his administration’s promises and addressing the aspirations of the Indian people. “This Budget is crucial for Amrit Kaal. It will decide the direction for the next five years of our term and become a strong foundation for our dream of a developed India,” Modi declared. Budget 2024.
Addressing Parliament’s Conduct
In his speech, Modi also took a firm stance against what he described as the “negative politics” of opposition parties. He accused certain parties of misusing parliamentary sessions to deflect from their failures and criticized efforts to undermine his voice in Parliament during previous sessions. Modi’s comments seemed aimed at setting a tone for a more constructive and less contentious session.
He urged Members of Parliament (MPs) to rise above party lines and focus on national interests. Modi called for a period of productive discourse, suggesting that the public has already rendered its verdict in the recent elections. “I request all MPs to dedicate themselves to the country and utilize this dignified platform for the next 4.5 years,” Modi stated.
Opposition’s Demands and the All-Party Meeting
The opposition parties have not been silent in the lead-up to the Budget session. An all-party meeting held on Sunday revealed their strategic priorities and areas of contention. Opposition leaders pressed the government to address several high-profile issues, including the Uttar Pradesh government’s controversial order regarding the Kanwar Yatra and recent exam paper leaks, including those of the prestigious NEET.
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, who chaired the meeting, emphasized the importance of maintaining Parliament’s sanctity and called for cooperation from all parties to ensure smooth functioning of legislative proceedings. Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju echoed this sentiment, stressing that discussions should adhere to parliamentary rules.
Legislative Agenda for the Session
The Budget session is set to be intense and busy, with 19 sittings scheduled until August 12. The government has lined up several key legislative items, including six bills that are expected to be presented. Notably, one of the major bills is the replacement of the 90-year-old Aircraft Act, reflecting a significant overhaul in aviation regulations. Additionally, the budget for Jammu and Kashmir, which remains under central rule, will be put forth for parliamentary approval.
Political Dynamics and Regional Demands
The political landscape surrounding this Budget session is charged with tension. The ruling BJP has extended invitations to a range of smaller parties, signaling its outreach efforts and political inclusivity. However, opposition parties, including the JD(U), BJD, and YSR Congress Party, have used this opportunity to demand special status for their respective states, reigniting long-standing regional issues.
Jairam Ramesh of the Congress pointed out the evolving political climate, noting that the BJP’s past promises, such as granting special category status to Odisha and Bihar, are resurfacing as points of contention in current discussions.
As the 2024 Budget session unfolds, all eyes will be on how the government and opposition navigate their respective agendas. The outcomes of this session will likely have significant implications for India’s economic policies and political dynamics. With the stakes high, the coming weeks will be crucial in shaping the country’s legislative and developmental future.
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