Parliamentary Proceedings For 17th March, 2025
Key Highlights Of The Proceedings
The proceedings of Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha began at 11:00 AM.
In the Lok Sabha, Shri Gajendra Singh Shekhawat (Union Minister, Minister of Culture; BJP, Jodhpur, Rajasthan) answered Shri Manish Tewari (INC, Chandigarh, Chandigarh) about the historical artefacts of the belongings of freedom fighters Shaheed Bhagat Singh and Shaheed Batukeshwar Dutt.
Shri Gajendra Singh Shekhawat (Union Minister, Minister of Culture; BJP, Jodhpur, Rajasthan) announced six sites, including Mudumal Megalithic Menhirs and Bundela palace-fortresses, in India’s UNESCO list. He responded to Shri Sambit Patra (BJP, Puri, Odisha) on Puri’s Jagannath Rath Yatra.
Shri Kalyan Banerjee (AITC, Sreerampur, West Bengal) criticized a 9% sectoral allocation drop (2023-26), citing network neglect, inflation, and privatization fears. He warned of declining service quality, job insecurity, and reduced daily trains, accusing the Modi Government of rhetoric over action.
Shri Tangella Uday Srinivas (JSP, Kakinada, Andhra Pradesh) praised the BJP Government’s railway milestones and resource allocation for projects near Amaravati. He urged the development of a coastal corridor to boost tourism and industry.
In Rajya Sabha, discussion over the Manipur Appropriation Bill, 2025 commenced with Shri Shaktisinh Gohil (INC, Gujarat) criticising the Government’s handling of the Manipur crisis and unspent MGNREGA funds. Shri Maharaja Sanajoba Leishemba (BJP, Manipur) welcomed the increased Manipur budget, infrastructure development, and relief measures for Manipur.
In the events outside the Parliament, Shri Tiruchi Siva (DMK, Tamil Nadu) opposed delimitation based on population, arguing that southern states, which have successfully controlled their population, risk losing parliamentary representation. .
In a similar event outside the Parliament, Shri Dinesh Sharma (BJP, Uttar Pradesh) dismissed protests against the Waqf (Amendment) Bill 2024 as baseless, claiming they lack public and Muslim support. He asserted that PM Shri Narendra Modi Ji’s reforms would benefit poor and backward-class Muslims.
The Lok Sabha & Rajya Sabha were adjourned at 7:21 PM and 11:01 PM respectively, till 11:00 AM on Tuesday, March 18th, 2025.
Details Of Proceedings In The Lok Sabha
The proceedings of the Lok Sabha commenced at 11 AM.
Shri Om Birla Ji (Speaker, Lok Sabha; BJP, Kota, Rajasthan) commenced the proceedings of the house with Question Hour.
Shri Arma Ram (CPI(M), Sikar, Rajasthan) inquired regarding loan write-offs for large corporations over the past ten years to which Smt Nirmala Sitharaman (Union Minister, Ministry of Finance; BJP, Karnataka) clarified that banks write off non-performing assets (NPAs) after full provisioning as per Reserve Bank of India (RBI) guidelines. This action, however, does not absolve the borrower of their liability. Recovery efforts persist through various channels, including civil courts, Debts Recovery Tribunals, SARFAESI, and IBC. Due to legal constraints, the RBI does not maintain company-specific write-off data. However, data on NPAs written off for “Large Industries and Services” is recorded. As of December 31, 2024, there were 29 companies with NPAs exceeding ₹1,000 crore each, with a total outstanding amount of ₹61,027 crore. Banks attempt recovery through calls, emails, legal actions, and insolvency proceedings based on default amounts.
Shri KC Venugopal (Alapuzzha, INC, Kerala) stated that the tender process for offshore mining had begun without a proper environmental study being conducted. He criticized the Government’s lack of concern for not consulting with the fisherfolk communities, who had been protesting for months against these projects in the areas. He questioned the reasoning behind the Government’s decision to shift the responsibility of conducting the environmental impact study onto the companies that would be awarded the tenders for the mining projects. Shri Kirtivardhan Singh (Union Minister, Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change; BJP, Gonda, Uttar Pradesh) replied that fisherfolk had been consulted, and discussions had also taken place with State Departments at various stages. He added that environmental concerns would be addressed according to the provisions of the Offshore Mining Act, 2002, when such issues arose. He mentioned that offshore mining blocks had been carefully chosen to ensure that fishing areas remained unaffected.
Shri Gajendra Singh Shekhawat (Union Minister, Minister of Culture; BJP, Jodhpur, Rajasthan) announced that six sites, including the Mudumal Megalithic Menhirs in Telangana and the palace-fortresses of the Bundelas in Madhya Pradesh and Uttar Pradesh, had been added to India’s tentative list by UNESCO’s World Heritage Centre. He made this statement while responding to a suggestion from Shri Sambit Patra (BJP, Puri, Orissa), who had urged the Government to take steps to include Puri’s Jagannath Rath Yatra in UNESCO’s list of Intangible Cultural Heritage.
Papers were laid on the table following which the discussion and voting started on Demands for Grants under the control of the Ministry of Railways for 2025-26.
Smt. Varsha Gaikwad (INC, Mumbai-North Central, Maharashtra) stated in the Lok Sabha today that claims describing the rail budget as a “record-breaking” measure were incorrect, asserting instead that it was, in fact, a “failed budget”.
Shri Lalji Verma (SP, Ambedkar Nagar, Uttar Pradesh) claimed that Smt. Nirmala Sitharaman (Union Minister, Ministry of Finance; BJP, Karnataka) had not increased the budget for facilities in trains. The MP from Uttar Pradesh’s Ambedkar Nagar stated that facilities at stations needed improvement, along with the punctuality of trains.
Smt. Shambhavi (LJSP(RV), Samastipur(SC), Bihar) discussed the progress of Indian Railways in Bihar, comparing it to Lalu Yadav’s tenure and highlighting 100% electrification. She credited the Modi Government for implementing the Kavach safety system across 14,000 km without specific demands. She requested a superfast train between Delhi and Samastipur, better connectivity to nearby stations, and renaming Samastipur station as Jananayak Karpuri Thakur Station.
Shri Kalyan Banerjee (AITC, Sreerampur, West Bengal) criticized the over 9% drop in sectoral allocation from 2023-24 to 2025-26, stating it failed to address network expansion, inflation, and rising costs. He warned that reduced funding would impact service quality, safety, and passenger welfare citing declining facilities and job insecurity due to alleged privatization and lack of recruitment. He pointed out stagnant passenger traffic, a drop in daily trains from 17,000 in 2010-11 to 13,198 in 2025-26, and a decline in Railway Protection Force (RPF) personnel, accusing the Modi Government of rhetoric over action.
Shri Vijay Kumar Dubey (BJP, Kushi Nagar, Uttar Pradesh) highlighted Indian Railway’s achievements from 2014 to 2024, noting electrification had doubled. He praised the NDA Government’s commitment to railway development and thanked Shri Ashwini Vaishnaw (Union Minister, Ministry of Railways; BJP, Odisha) for infrastructure improvements. He acknowledged efforts in Parauna and Chittani, congestion relief, and a smart station in Kushi Nagar. He urged further rail expansion to enhance tourism, especially within the Buddhist circuit.
Shri Asaduddin Owaisi (AIMIM, Hyderabad, Telangana) questioned the Railway Ministry on filling critical safety vacancies, citing a 2023 RTI that revealed 1.5 lakh unfilled positions. He also sought details on the actual versus sanctioned strength of RPF personnel. Highlighting deficiencies in Kavach installation, he noted that only 3,334 km out of 69,181 km had the system in place. Criticizing the NDA Government’s focus on new trains while neglecting safety and infrastructure, he called it a distraction rather than a transformation, asserting that citizens were bearing the consequences.
Shri Raj kumar Roat (BAP, Banswara (ST), Rajasthan) complained about the lack of railway connectivity to his constituency. He then demanded a free railway service pass and compensation for people whose land was being acquired. Additionally, he called for an investigation into rest houses, particularly in Udaipur. He also demanded the renaming of Dungarpur station after Bhil Raja Dungar Ji. Furthermore, he requested that trains stopping too long in Ahmedabad be rerouted via Udaipur, especially those traveling to and from Bombay. He made a similar request for trains that remained at Udaipur and nearby stations for extended periods. Lastly, he demanded the introduction of another train from Asambar to Jaipur.
Shri Gyaneshwar Patil (BJP, Khandwa, Madhya Pradesh) took the stand and informed the house about the BJP's success in the Railways department, expressing gratitude to the ministers involved. He provided details on the current railway developments in Madhya Pradesh, elaborated on the progress of electrification, and discussed the high-speed rail network development in India. Additionally, he highlighted the advancements in the Bhopal-Khandwa and Khandwa-Bhusawal rail lines.
Shri Vinod Kumar Bind (BJP, Bhadohi, Uttar Pradesh) highlighted the Government’s advancements in the railway sector and recited a heartfelt poem. He emphasized the crucial role of transportation in India’s economic development and urged the Government to construct an underpass in Pratapur, Rampur, Harduah, Bellapatti, and other areas.
The proceedings of the Lok Sabha were adjourned at 11:01 PM until 11:00 AM on Tuesday, 18th March 2025.
Details Of The Proceedings In The Rajya Sabha
The proceedings of the Rajya Sabha commenced at 11 AM.
Shri Jagdeep Dhankar Ji (Chairman, Rajya Sabha) was welcomed by Shri JP Nadda Ji (Union Minister, Ministry of Health and Family Welfare; BJP, Gujarat) and Shri Mallikarjun Kharge (Leader of Opposition; INC, Karnataka) after a break because of health issues.
Shri Harivansh (Deputy Chairman, Rajya Sabha; JD(U), Bihar) informed that several members requested discussions on Election Commission lapses, delimitation concerns, atrocities against SC/ST/OBCs, and the telecom-Starlink deal, but stated that many notices under Rule 267 did not meet the Chair's directives and were declined.
Matters raised with permission were taken up, followed by which the Question Hour commenced in the Rajya Sabha.
Smt. Priyanka Chaturvedi (SS-UBT, Maharashtra) inquired about the measures the Government is taking to ensure airlines and airports provide wheelchair and other assistance services to senior citizens and priority passengers, especially in light of recent incidents of negligence. Shri Kinjarapu Rammohan Naidu (Union Minister, Minister of Civil Aviation; TDP, Errankulum, Andhra Pradesh) replied that the Government, under Civil Aviation Requirements (2014), mandates airlines to provide wheelchair support if requested 48 hours in advance. Following a Delhi Airport incident, the DGCA is investigating, reviewing CCTV footage, and has issued a show-cause notice to the airline.
Further, Shri Ashokrao Shankarrao Chavan (BJP, Maharashtra) asked whether the Government is promoting the UDAN scheme to decongest metropolitan airports and enhance connectivity to smaller districts. Shri Kinjarapu Rammohan Naidu replied that the Government is expanding the UDAN scheme to improve regional air connectivity, aiming to connect 4 crore people and 120 new destinations in the next 10 years. Airlines receive viability gap funding, and the scheme has been extended for another decade to reduce airport congestion. In continuation, Shri Ashokrao, Shankarrao Chavan (BJP, Maharashtra) asked what actions the Government is taking to address rising airfare concerns and ensure fair pricing. Shri Kinjarapu Rammohan Naidu replied that the Government is aware of concerns regarding rising airfares and is monitoring the situation closely. While market forces largely determine ticket prices, the Government is considering measures to ensure fair pricing and protect passengers from exorbitant rates.
Shri Sandeep Kumar Pathak (AAP, Punjab) asked whether the Government is fulfilling its Smart City agenda by displacing slum dwellers or if it has a concrete rehabilitation plan in place. Shri Manohar Lal Khattar (Union Minister, Ministry of Housing & Urban Affairs; BJP, Karnal, Haryana) replied that Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana (PMAY) offers rehabilitation through four verticals, including in-situ slum redevelopment and financial support for housing. The Housing for All mission aims to complete all projects by December 31, 2025, with private-sector participation encouraged under the PPP model.
Further, Shri Sandeep Kumar Pathak (AAP, Punjab) asked how many houses were demolished during the previous and current Government's tenure and how many affected families have been rehabilitated. Shri Manohar Lal Khattar replied that the Government does not maintain state-wise data on house demolitions or family rehabilitation, as land matters fall under state jurisdiction (Entry 18, State List). Under the Smart City Mission, 5.52 lakh houses have been approved, with 4.99 lakh under construction and 4.36 lakh completed. The Government plans to build 3 crore houses by December 2025, including 1 crore in urban and 2 crore in rural areas under PMAY.
Question Hour ended and discussion on the Working of the Ministry of Railways commences:
Shri Sanjay Seth (BJP, Uttar Pradesh) highlighted the transformative progress of Indian Railways post-2014, emphasizing modernization efforts like Vande Bharat trains and improved infrastructure, including the construction of toilets at railway stations. He mentioned hydrogen-powered train trials and the railway's vast land bank, appreciating the Railway Minister's vision for turning encroached lands into a model railway system. He concluded by expressing pride in the 4th largest railway network and its role in connecting the nation.
Dr. M. Thambidurai (AIADMK, Tamil Nadu) urged the Railway Minister to expedite pending projects in Tamil Nadu, including new and doubled railway lines. He raised concerns over declining train facilities, poor maintenance, and safety issues, demanding police presence in compartments for women's security. He also stressed the need to connect Dharmapuri to Marappur by rail.
Shri Ramji Gautam (BSP, Uttar Pradesh) emphasized that Indian Railways, serving 2-2.5 crore passengers daily, must focus on cleanliness, safety, and punctuality, highlighting ongoing issues like train delays. While praising Vande Bharat, he urged the ministry to introduce affordable alternatives and increase general bogies for the poor. He requested better rail connectivity for Lakhimpur Kheri, citing its economic potential through tourism to Dudhwa National Park.
Shri Ashwini Vaishnav (Union Minister, Ministry of Railways, BJP; Odisha) thanked the house for the extensive discussion and commended Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi Ji and Smt. Nirmala Sitharaman for their commitment to railway development and noted that railway finances have recovered post-COVID, with major expenses funded by internal revenue. He highlighted key achievements including 1.6 billion tons of cargo, modernizing 41,000 safer LHB coaches, and reducing train accidents significantly. He mentioned that the Kavach safety system is being implemented on 10,000 locomotives and 15,000 km of tracks. He emphasized employment growth, with over 5 lakh jobs created in 10 years, and ongoing recruitment.
Discussion on Working of Railway Ministry ends, discussion on the Manipur Appropriation Bill, 2025 commences:
Shri Pankaj Choudhary (Union Minister of State, Ministry of Finance; BJP, Maharajganjh, Bihar) introduces the Manipur Appropriation Bill, 2025.
Shri Shaktisinh Gohil (INC, Gujarat) speaking on the Appropriation Bills and Manipur Vote on Account, criticized the Government's overestimated revenue projections, warning of economic concerns. He expressed deep concern over the violence in Manipur, especially against women and children, calling for urgent action beyond political interests. Gohil questioned the underutilization of MGNREGA funds, highlighting that over 50% remains unspent, hindering development. He demanded a new audit under clause 115 to ensure transparency and accountability. Concluding with humor, he urged the Government to focus on real change for Manipur's people.
Shri Ajeet Madhavarao Gopchade (BJP, Maharashtra) praised the Government's efforts in developing Manipur, highlighting increased budgets, from ₹2,122 crore before 2014 to ₹10,440 crore in 2025-26. He credited Prime Minister Modi for initiatives like the National Sports University, broad-gauge railway connectivity, and infrastructure projects under schemes like Unnati 2024 and Bharatmala. He emphasized women’s empowerment through the PM Ujjwala Yojana and Jan Dhan accounts, and agricultural support via PM Kisan Yojana. Urging against a negative portrayal of Manipur, he celebrated its cultural richness and the Government’s commitment to its progress.
Smt. Sushmita Dev (AITC, West Bengal) criticized the "double engine" governance model, claiming it discriminates against non-BJP states by withholding crucial funds. She highlighted pending MGNREGA payments of ₹7,000 crores in West Bengal and accused the Government of undermining federalism through excessive cesses. Regarding Manipur, she condemned the Government's inadequate response to the ongoing crisis, citing economic losses from internet shutdowns and highway blockades. She urged the Finance Minister to provide a special relief package and restore peace and social unity in Manipur.
Shri Maharaja Sanajoba Leishemba (BJP, Manipur) welcomed the Manipur Budget 2025-26 of ₹35,103.90 crore, emphasizing its focus on relief, rehabilitation, and infrastructure. He acknowledged the improved law and order and praised the Centre’s support, including ₹400 crore for relief camps and ₹500 crore for revenue loss. However, he urged continued assistance to aid 60,000 displaced people and stressed the strategic importance of Manipur for national security and economic growth.
Dr. Sikander Kumar (BJP, Himachal Pradesh) praised the Modi Government's economic achievements, highlighting India’s rise to the 5th largest economy and increased financial support to Manipur. He emphasized infrastructure growth, including railway projects, educational institutions, and the UNNATI 2024 industrial scheme. Citing welfare programs like Ayushman Bharat and PM Awas Yojana, he urged support for the Manipur Appropriation Bill 2025 to drive further development and employment.
The proceedings of the Rajya Sabha were adjourned at 07:21 PM until 11:00 AM on Tuesday, 18th March 2025.
Key Events Outside The Parliament
Shri Imran Pratapgarhi (INC, Maharashtra) during protests against the Waqf (Amendment) Bill 2024 at Jantar Mantar strongly opposed the bill, accusing the Government of authoritarianism and favouring industrialists while disregarding the recommendations of the Joint Parliamentary Committee.
Shri George Kurian (Union Minister of State, Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry & Dairying; BJP, Madhya Pradesh) welcomed the Kerala High Court's decision to quash the state Government's inquiry commission on the Munambam Waqf land dispute. He reaffirmed the BJP's stance that passing the Waqf Amendment Bill is the only solution and urged all MPs to support it.
Shri Karti Chidambaram (INC, Sivaganga, Tamil Nadu) acknowledged the protests by AIMPLB MPs against the Waqf (Amendment) Bill, stating that their concerns were valid. He highlighted the broader opposition discontent and stressed the need to address these issues once the bill is tabled.
Dr. Dinesh Sharma (BJP, Uttar Pradesh) amid protests against the Waqf (Amendment) Bill 2024 dismissed the criticisms as baseless, asserting that they lack both public and Muslim support. He maintained that Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi Ji’s reforms would benefit pasmanda, poor, and backward-class Muslims.
Shri Tiruchi Siva (DMK, Tamil Nadu) opposed delimitation based on population, arguing that southern states, which have successfully controlled their population, risk losing parliamentary representation. He stressed that their voices are already diminished and announced a meeting on March 22 in Chennai, where affected states will strategize against the move.
Shri Derek O'Brien (TMC, West Bengal) accused the Modi Government of deliberately depriving opposition-ruled states of railway funds while favouring BJP-ruled states. He stated that railway expenditure had declined over the last decade, highlighting that Kerala's budget shrank in percentage terms, Tamil Nadu saw a ten-year decline, and Bengal’s share dropped from 15% to 5%, labelling it a purely political move.