India's Parliament Commences Budget Session with President Murmu's Address

President Murmu Highlights Economic Strength and Social Progress

The Budget Session of India's Parliament officially commenced on January 28, 2026, with President Droupadi Murmu delivering a ceremonial address to a joint sitting of the Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha. In her speech, President Murmu underscored the significant strengthening of the country's economic foundation over the past 11 years, asserting that India remains the 'fastest-growing major economy in the world' despite global challenges.

The President emphasized the government's success in controlling inflation, which she stated 'is directly benefiting the poor and middle-class families of the country.' She also noted an increase in citizens' income, savings, and purchasing power. A key point of her address was the progress on a free trade agreement with the European Union, which is expected to boost India's manufacturing and service sectors and generate new employment opportunities.

Key Initiatives and Achievements Outlined

President Murmu detailed several governmental achievements and ongoing initiatives:

• Public Healthcare: The government's sustained focus on strengthening India's public healthcare system was highlighted, with the Ayushman Bharat Jan Arogya Yojana providing over 11 crore hospital treatments.
• Women's Empowerment: Over 10 crore women are now part of Self-Help Groups, with the number of 'Lakhpati Didis' exceeding two crore and projected to reach three crore soon.
• Infrastructure Development: Railway expansion, including 150 Vande Bharat trains, was praised for boosting national unity and access, connecting remote regions with major cities.
• Social Justice: The President reiterated the government's commitment to social justice, stating that close to 95 crore people are covered by social security schemes and that 25 crore Indians have risen out of poverty over the last decade.
• Security: Decisive action against Maoist extremism has limited the threat to just eight districts, with approximately 2,000 Maoist-linked individuals surrendering in the past year.

The President also mentioned that the government is moving forward on the 'Reforms Express' path, continually updating old rules and provisions to meet future needs.

Session Schedule and Upcoming Economic Events

The Budget Session is scheduled to span 30 sittings over 65 days, concluding on April 2. A recess is planned from February 13 to March 9 to allow Standing Committees to examine the Demands for Grants of various ministries and departments.

Following the President's address, the Economic Survey 2025-26 is slated to be tabled in both Houses of Parliament on January 29, 2026, at 11:00 AM. This will provide a comprehensive review of India's economic performance and trends.

The highly anticipated Union Budget 2026-27 will be presented by Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman on February 1, 2026. Notably, this marks the first time in several years that the Budget will be presented on a Sunday. Expectations for the Budget include a focus on AI-led innovation, manufacturing expansion, job creation, and the energy transition.

Opposition's Response and Legislative Agenda

During President Murmu's address, some opposition members protested against the VB-G RAM G Act, drawing condemnation from the government. The Lok Sabha secretariat has listed nine pending Bills for the session, including the Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code (Amendment) Bill and the Securities Markets Code.