Parliament's Budget Session to begin today

New Delhi: The Budget Session of Parliament is set to commence today, Wednesday, with President Droupadi Murmu addressing a joint sitting of both Houses. The session sets the stage for the presentation of the Union Budget for the fiscal year 2026-27, a crucial legislative event that outlines the government's financial roadmap. According to Union Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju, the session will span a total of 30 sittings and conclude on April 2.

Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman is expected to table the Union Budget on February 1. Notably, this date falls on a Sunday, a rare occurrence in parliamentary history that will necessitate special arrangements for the House to function. Preceding the Budget, the Economic Survey, a comprehensive review of the national economy, is anticipated to be laid before Parliament on January 29.

The session will operate in two distinct phases to allow for detailed legislative scrutiny. The first phase runs from today until February 13, followed by a recess during which department-related standing committees will examine demands for grants. Parliament will reconvene for the second phase on March 9. This schedule allows for intensive deliberations on taxation, public expenditure, and policy reforms as the government focuses on fiscal consolidation and addressing challenges in infrastructure and employment.

(Inputs from IANS)