The Budget Session of the Indian Parliament commenced on Wednesday with President Droupadi Murmu addressing a joint sitting of the Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha in New Delhi.
The session, one of the most significant legislative events of the year, marks the formal start of preparations for the Union Budget 2026-27 and will continue until April 2, 2026, with a recess scheduled from February 13 to March 9.
In her address, President Murmu highlighted key achievements of the government and set a development-oriented tone for the session. She emphasized India’s progress over recent years and reiterated the importance of economic growth, social welfare schemes and national infrastructure development as the country advances toward its long-term goals. Her speech outlined priorities that are expected to shape discussions in both Houses during the coming weeks.
The Budget Session will focus on the presentation and deliberation of the Union Budget for 2026-27, which is scheduled to be presented by Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman on February 1, 2026 — a Sunday, an unusual choice that has drawn attention from across the political spectrum. Prior to the Budget, the Economic Survey 2025-26 will be tabled on January 29.
During the session, Parliament is expected to engage in detailed discussions on taxation, public expenditure, welfare schemes, job creation, fiscal consolidation and key policy reforms. Debate on the Motion of Thanks to the President’s address will begin soon, allowing members from various political parties to voice their perspectives.
Ahead of the session, there were attempts by opposition parties to secure debates on critical issues including employment guarantee schemes, voter list revisions and other policy matters. However, several demands were reportedly turned down by the government, setting the stage for spirited exchanges between the ruling coalition and opposition benches inside Parliament.
The first phase of the session, ending on February 13, will concentrate on financial business and the Budget agenda. After the recess, the session will resume on March 9 to complete the remaining legislative work.