Key Legislative Bills for 2025 Budget Session

The Budget Session of Parliament in 2025 is set to commence on January 31. This session will introduce several bills. Among these are the Finance Bill, the Foreigners & Immigration Bill, and the Protection of Interest in Aircraft Objects Bill. The session will begin with an address by President Draupadi Murmu, followed by the Economic Survey for 2024-25. Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman will present her eighth consecutive Union Budget.

Key Bills to be Introduced

Several important bills are expected to be introduced during this session. The Finance Bill 2025 will outline the government’s revenue and expenditure plans. The Foreigners & Immigration Bill aims to regulate immigration policies. The Protection of Interest in Aircraft Objects Bill will address aircraft ownership and financing issues. Other notable bills include the Banking Laws (Amendment) Bill and the Tribhuvan Sahkari University Bill.

Bills for Consideration and Passage

Several bills from previous sessions are also slated for consideration. These include the Banking Laws (Amendment) Bill 2024 and the Railways (Amendment) Bill 2024. The Disaster Management (Amendment) Bill 2024 and the Oilfields (Regulation and Development) Amendment Bill 2024 will also be reviewed. Additionally, various Waqf bills are on the agenda, including the Waqf (Amendment) Bill 2024.

Opposition Concerns

The session may begin with tensions. Opposition parties are demanding discussions regarding the Maha Kumbh festival’s alleged mismanagement. A stampede at the event resulted in the deaths of 30 pilgrims. The opposition accuses the government of politicising the event and disregarding parliamentary procedures. They claim the government is pushing its agenda through its parliamentary majority.

All Party Meeting

An all-party meeting was held before the session. Defence Minister Rajnath Singh chaired this meeting. Opposition leaders expressed concerns over the government’s handling of parliamentary committees. They brought into light a perceived bias in parliamentary proceedings. Gaurav Gogoi, Deputy Leader of the Congress, noted these issues during a press briefing.

Government’s Stance

The government has acknowledged the opposition’s concerns. Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju stated that the Business Advisory Committee will determine discussion topics. He expressed hope for a smooth and productive session. Cooperation from all parties is deemed essential for effective parliamentary functioning.

Summary of Key Points

The Budget Session of 2025 is crucial for introducing and discussing important legislation. Key bills include the Finance Bill and the Foreigners & Immigration Bill. The opposition’s concerns about government practices may impact the session’s dynamics. The government’s commitment to a cooperative approach will be tested.

Questions for UPSC:

1. Critically examine the role of the Finance Bill in shaping India’s economic policies.
2. Discuss the implications of the Foreigners & Immigration Bill on India’s demographic landscape.
3. Explain the significance of parliamentary procedures in a democratic setup. How do these procedures impact legislative effectiveness?
4. Comment on the effects of political opposition in parliamentary sessions. How does it influence governance and policy-making?

Answer Hints:

1. Critically examine the role of the Finance Bill in shaping India’s economic policies.

1. The Finance Bill outlines the government’s revenue and expenditure plans, impacting fiscal policy.
2. It includes tax proposals that can stimulate or restrain economic growth.
3. By influencing public spending, it affects sectors like infrastructure, healthcare, and education.
4. It is a key tool for implementing the government’s economic vision and priorities.
5. The Bill also reflects the government’s response to economic challenges, such as inflation or recession.

2. Discuss the implications of the Foreigners & Immigration Bill on India’s demographic landscape.

1. The Bill aims to regulate immigration, potentially affecting labor markets and population diversity.
2. It may influence the influx of skilled and unskilled workers, impacting economic growth.
3. Changes in immigration policies can alter social dynamics and cultural integration.
4. The Bill could also address issues of illegal immigration, affecting law enforcement and social services.
5. Overall, it shapes the demographic composition and influences national identity debates.

3. Explain the significance of parliamentary procedures in a democratic setup. How do these procedures impact legislative effectiveness?

1. Parliamentary procedures ensure order, fairness, and transparency in legislative processes.
2. They allow for debate, scrutiny, and amendments, enhancing the quality of legislation.
3. Effective procedures facilitate public participation and accountability of elected representatives.
4. They prevent arbitrary decision-making, protecting minority rights within the legislature.
5. Inadequate adherence to procedures can lead to conflicts and undermine the democratic process.

4. Comment on the effects of political opposition in parliamentary sessions. How does it influence governance and policy-making?

1. Political opposition serves as a check on government actions, promoting accountability.
2. It encourages diverse viewpoints, leading to more comprehensive policy discussions.
3. Opposition can mobilize public opinion, influencing government priorities and decisions.
4. In confrontational scenarios, opposition can stall legislative processes, impacting governance.
5. Constructive opposition encourages collaboration and can lead to bipartisan support for critical issues.