Debate on President’s Address Starts in Lok Sabha Today, PM Modi’s Reply on Feb 4
Motion of thanks to be moved today; Prime Minister Modi scheduled to reply on February 4
SRINAGAR, Feb 2: The Lok Sabha on Monday begins an extensive debate on the President’s Address, marking an important phase of Parliament’s ongoing Budget session.
Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal will move the motion of thanks for the address delivered to a joint sitting of Parliament on January 28, while BJP MP Tejasvi Surya will second the motion. The House has allocated 18 hours for the discussion, which is expected to see participation from leaders across party lines. Prime Minister Narendra Modi is slated to respond to the debate on February 4.
The Lower House will convene at 11 am with a full legislative agenda for the day.
The debate unfolds during a politically charged Budget session scheduled for 30 sittings over a span of 65 days, concluding on April 2. Parliament will adjourn for a recess on February 13 and reconvene on March 9, during which Standing Committees will scrutinise Demands for Grants of various ministries.
At an all-party meeting held on January 27, opposition parties sought discussions on several contentious issues, including the special intensive revision of electoral rolls, continuation of MGNREGA, and concerns related to the UGC.
Meanwhile, Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman on Sunday presented the Union Budget for 2026–27, marking her ninth successive budget. Highlighting its vision, she said the proposals were centred on youth empowerment and guided by “three kartavyas.”
The budget outlines major infrastructure initiatives, including seven high speed rail corridors, new dedicated freight corridors, and the development of 20 national waterways over the next five years. It also places strong emphasis on sustainable passenger transport aimed at reducing travel time, lowering emissions, and supporting balanced regional development.
