New Delhi, Dec 01 : Parliament’s Winter Session begins on December 1, 2025, with a 19-day schedule spread across 15 sittings. The political atmosphere is already strained, with the Opposition sharpening its stance on the ongoing SIR exercise, which it has made a central talking point in recent weeks.
Congress MP Manickam Tagore has moved an Adjournment Motion Notice in the Lok Sabha demanding an immediate halt to the SIR exercise across all 12 states and Union Territories where it is underway. Opposition leaders have indicated that forcing a debate on this issue will be their key strategy as the Houses convene.
Government to introduce major economic and security-linked bills
The session will see the introduction of at least 13 bills. Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman is set to move the Central Excise Amendment Bill, 2025, and the Health Security National Security Cess Bill, 2025 two proposals that will determine the future of taxation on GST-cess-linked sin goods such as tobacco and pan masala.
The government’s plan is to shift these levies into a revised excise structure to maintain overall tax rates while securing a more predictable revenue stream for national security and public health expenditure. The National Security Cess proposal also includes a levy on machinery and production processes used for listed goods.
Wide legislative slate: Highways, higher education, insurance, corporate laws
The agenda includes amendments to the National Highways Act, corporate and insurance laws, and the Higher Education Commission of India Bill, 2025. The Atomic Energy Bill is expected to draw particular scrutiny as it may allow private sector participation in nuclear power generation for the first time.
Supplementary Demands for Grants on schedule
The first batch of Supplementary Demands for Grants for 2025–26 will also be tabled, likely prompting intense discussion over mid-year spending requirements.
Opposition plans aggressive floor strategy
Opposition parties plan to press for a structured debate on the SIR exercise at the outset. They also intend to raise issues such as national security following the recent Delhi car explosion, labour reforms, the role of Governors, and outstanding payments to states. Leaders have warned that disruptions are likely if the government refuses discussions.
Govt to mark 150 years of Vande Mataram
Amid legislative business, the government has proposed commemorating 150 years of Vande Mataram. The smoothness of the session, however, will depend on how early parliamentary exchanges unfold.