Parliamentary Proceedings For 18th 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 Bhausaheb Rajaram Wakchaure (SHSUBT, Shirdi (SC), Maharashtra) inquired about the allocation of grants under the Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana along with the number of beneficiary farmers. Shri Shivraj Singh Chouhan (Union Minister, Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare; BJP, Vidisha, Madhya Pradesh) stated that ₹ 32,475 crore in premiums had been collected from farmers, and in return, 19.6 crore farmers had received ₹ 1,72,318 crore worth of claims and highlighted that this amount was five times the premium collected.
Smt. Priyanka Gandhi Vadra (INC, Wayanad, Kerala) raised questions about the Vidarbha package, which included three districts of Kerala: Wayanad, Palakkad, and Kasargod. She requested information about the Scheme’s achievements in these districts, with special emphasis on Wayanad. Shri Shivraj Singh Chouhan (Union Minister, Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare; BJP, Vidisha, Madhya Pradesh) explained that in cases of natural disasters, the Central Government allocates funds alongside the state, with 75% coming from the Centre. He reported that for severe disasters, a central team inspects affected areas, with the NDRF evaluating needs and the Centre allocating additional funds. He stated that Kerala had received ₹ 138 crore under NDRF.
Dr. Purandeswari (BJP, Rajahmundry, Andhra Pradesh) inquired about how the agristack would be leveraged to provide direct benefits to farmers, ensuring access to credit, subsidies, and crop advisories. Shri Shivraj Singh Chouhan (Union Minister, Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare; BJP, Vidisha, Madhya Pradesh) explained that a digital identity had been created for farmers to access services, reducing loan processing time from days to approximately 30 minutes. He highlighted that the Kisan ID had significantly improved efficiency in previously slow and manual processes. For farmers in remote areas, he suggested that Krishi Sakhi could assist in creating digital IDs.
Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi Ji (BJP, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh) described the Mahakumbh as a source of unity, where people from different states converged, reinforcing nationalism and realizing the concept of “Ek Bharat, Shresth Bharat” as diverse individuals prayed to the Ganga. He likened the Mahakumbh to transformative events in Indian history, such as the Bhakti Andolan, Swami Vivekananda’s Chicago speech, the Revolt of 1857, the Dandi March, and the Dilli Chalo movement. He conveyed his experience of gifting Sangam water to Mauritius, where he witnessed profound devotion, illustrating the global celebration of Indian traditions.
Shri Ashwini Vaishnaw (Union Minister, Ministry of Railways; BJP, Odisha) mentioned the railway charges 0.73 per km while the cost of transporting a passenger per km is 1.38 and that railway fares have remained constant since 2020, being lower than those of neighboring countries. He also mentioned the railway connection between Jammu and Srinagar, the near completion of the freight corridor with 350 trains operating on it, the completion of 97 Gati Shakti cargo terminals.
In the Rajya Sabha, Smt. Sonia Gandhi (INC, Rajasthan) accused the Government of undermining MNREGA, calling it deeply concerning. She noted the stagnant ₹ 86,000 crore budget, an inflation-adjusted decline of ₹ 4,000 crore, and pending dues consuming 20% of funds. Highlighting issues like Aadhaar-based payments and mobile monitoring, she demanded higher wages (₹ 400/day), timely payments, removal of ABPS and NMMS, and an increase in workdays from 100 to 150.
Shri Praful Patel (NCP, Maharashtra) highlighted the need for wider access to specialized cancer treatment. Shri J.P. Nadda Ji (Union Minister, Ministry of Health and Family Welfare; BJP, Gujarat) replied that the Government has an exhaustive cancer screening arrangement available. He mentioned that under the Ayushman Arogya Mandir scheme, screening for oral, breast, and cervical cancer is available at its 1,75,000 centres. He further highlighted that currently there are 372 district day care centres providing chemotherapy and as announced, each district will have its day care centre soon.
Smt. Nirmala Sitharaman (Union Minister, Ministry of Finance; BJP, Karnataka) outlined four crucial financial bills, including supplementary demands for grants totaling ₹ 51,463 crore (net cash outgo) and Manipur’s 2025-26 budget. She contrasted BJP’s handling of Manipur with Congress’s historical record, highlighting that previous Congress Governments allowed 628 days of economic blockades (2002-2017), causing ₹2,828 crore in losses. For Manipur, the Government allocated ₹ 1,861 crore in supplementary demands, created a ₹ 500 crore contingency fund, and deployed 286 CAPF companies to restore order—demonstrating the Central Government’s commitment to both security and development in the state. She also cited improved economic indicators and reduced multidimensional poverty.
The Rajya Sabha approved Appropriation Bills and Manipur Budget 2025-26.
Shri Bhagwat Karad (BJP, Maharashtra) discussed the health budget with ₹ 99,858 crore allocated. He highlighted India’s hospital bed shortage (1.3 per 1,000 people vs. the ideal 3) and the challenge of ensuring doctors in remote areas. He praised Government health schemes like Ayushman Bharat and criticized West Bengal, Telangana, Odisha, and Delhi for not implementing them. He emphasized vaccination efforts, with 2.53 crore children and 68 lakh pregnant women immunized.
The Lok Sabha & Rajya Sabha were adjourned at 1:59 PM and 6:00 PM respectively, until 11:00 AM on Wednesday, March 19th, 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 with Question Hour.
Shri Bhausaheb Rajaram Wakchaure (SHSUBT, Shirdi (SC), Maharashtra) inquired about the allocation of grants under the Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana along with the number of beneficiary farmers, and the amount distributed to them. He also sought information regarding improvements made under the Scheme to address the concerns of farmers affected by natural disasters.
Shri Shivraj Singh Chouhan (Union Minister, Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare; BJP, Vidisha, Madhya Pradesh) stated that ₹ 32,475 crore in premiums had been collected from farmers, and in return, 19.59 crore farmers had received ₹ 1,72,318 crore worth of claims and highlighted that this amount was five times the premium collected. He further explained that the previous insurance scheme had been defective.
Smt. Priyanka Gandhi Vadra (INC, Wayanad, Kerala) raised questions about the Vidarbha package, which included three districts of Kerala: Wayanad, Palakkad, and Kasargod. She requested information about the Scheme’s achievements in these districts, with special emphasis on Wayanad. Shri Shivraj Singh Chouhan (Union Minister, Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare; BJP, Vidisha, Madhya Pradesh) explained that in cases of natural disasters, the central government allocates funds alongside the state, with 75% coming from the Centre. He reported that for severe disasters, a central team inspects affected areas, with the NDRF evaluating needs and the Centre allocating additional funds. He stated that Kerala had received ₹ 138 crore under NDRF.
Dr. D. Purandeswari (BJP, Rajahmundry, Andhra Pradesh) inquired about how the agristack would be leveraged to provide direct benefits to farmers, ensuring access to credit, subsidies, and crop advisories. She also asked how the Government would ensure that farmers in areas with low internet access could utilize these services.
Shri Shivraj Singh Chouhan (Union Minister, Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare; BJP, Vidisha, Madhya Pradesh) responded that the Government previously lacked reliable data, and the digital farmer mission represented a revolution for farmers. He praised Andhra Pradesh for excelling in registration efforts. He explained that a digital identity had been created for farmers to access services, reducing loan processing time from days to approximately 30 minutes. He highlighted that the Kisan ID had significantly improved efficiency in previously slow and manual processes. For farmers in remote areas, he suggested that Krishi Sakhi could assist in creating digital IDs.
Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi Ji (BJP, Varanasi) reflected on the Mahakumbh in Prayagraj, expressing gratitude to the nation and its people for its success. He emphasized that the event symbolized national awakening, dispelling doubts about India's capabilities and strengthening its resolve, much like the Pran Pratistha of Ram Mandir. Comparing it to transformative moments in Indian history, he highlighted its role in uniting people across states, reinforcing the spirit of “Ek Bharat, Shresth Bharat.” He likened the Mahakumbh to transformative events in Indian history, such as the Bhakti Andolan, Swami Vivekananda’s Chicago speech, the Revolt of 1857, the Dandi March, and the Dilli Chalo movement. Sharing his experience of gifting Sangam water to Mauritius, he illustrated the global reverence for Indian heritage. Inspired by the event, he proposed a “Nadi Utsav” to educate future generations on water conservation and river protection.
Shri Ashwini Vaishnaw (Union Minister, Railways; BJP, Odisha) stated that railway expenses were largely covered, with major costs including ₹1,16,000 crore for salaries and ₹66,000 crore for pensions. He noted that while fares remain unchanged since 2020, India is now among the top three freight-loading nations, with 50,000 km of renewed tracks and 41,000 LHB coaches produced in the last decade. He highlighted that India’s locomotive production surpasses the US and Europe combined, with 100% electrification expected by year-end. The railway has employed 5 lakh people, plans to recruit 1 lakh more, and has reduced accidents by 90%. He confirmed air-conditioned loco pilot running rooms, 7.7-hour duty shifts, and additional special trains to ease overcrowding. He stated that key projects include the Jammu-Srinagar railway link, near-completion of the freight corridor, 97 Gati Shakti cargo terminals, and 460 km of tunnels.
The discussion on the Demands for Grants Nos. 62 and 63 under the control of the Ministry of Jal Shakti commenced. Amid continuous disruptions by the Opposition members, discussion and voting on grants under the Ministry of Jal Shakti commenced. Shri Jagdambika Pal (BJP, Domariyaganj, Uttar Pradesh) took part in the debate and his speech was unfinished. Shri Kiran Rijiju (Union Minister, Ministry of Parliamentary Affairs; BJP, Arunachal West, Arunachal Pradesh) expressed his disapproval of the Opposition’s continuous disruptions.
The proceedings of the Lok Sabha were adjourned at 1:59 PM until 11:00 AM on Wednesday, March 19th, 2025.
Details Of Proceedings In The Rajya Sabha
The proceedings of the Rajya Sabha commenced at 11 AM.
Shri Jagdeep Dhankhar Ji (Chairman, Rajya Sabha) proceeded to ask members to speak about the matters raised with permission in advance.
Smt. Sonia Gandhi (INC, Rajasthan) accused the Government of undermining MNREGA, calling it deeply concerning. She noted the stagnant ₹ 86,000 crore budget, an inflation-adjusted decline of ₹ 4,000 crore, and pending dues consuming 20% of funds. Highlighting issues like Aadhaar-based payments and mobile monitoring, she demanded higher wages (₹ 400/day), timely payments, removal of ABPS and NMMS, and an increase in workdays from 100 to 150 for dignified employment.
Dr. Sasmit Patra (BJD, Odisha) questioned whether the current approach upheld cooperative federalism, asserting that fairness was a right, not a favor. He argued that Odisha’s Special Category Status should be rightful recognition, not an indulgence, given its economic contributions and constant battle with natural disasters. Highlighting the state’s fiscal strain due to repeated rebuilding efforts, he contended that no other state gave so much yet received so little in return. Urging a national test of fairness and justice, he firmly demanded Special Category Status for Odisha.
Following this, the Question Hour commenced in the Rajya Sabha.
Shri Praful Patel (NCP, Maharashtra) emphasized the need for specialized cancer treatment in remote areas, urging public-private collaboration to expand access. He proposed sub-centers in 300 backward districts for follow-up care and targeted therapies. In response, Shri J.P. Nadda Ji (Union Minister, Ministry of Health and Family Welfare; BJP, Gujarat) stated that the Government has extensive cancer screening, with 1.75 lakh Ayushman Arogya Mandir centers offering screenings for oral, breast, and cervical cancer. He noted that 372 district day care centers currently provide chemotherapy, and as per the Union Budget 2025-26, each district will have one, with 200 to open this year.
Shri JP Nadda Ji (Union Minister, Ministry of Health and Family Welfare; BJP, Gujarat) outlined the implementation of the Janani Shishu Suraksha Karyakram (JSSK), stating that pregnant women must undergo four mandatory antenatal checkups, with three additional checkups for high-risk cases. He noted financial support of ₹1,400 in rural areas and ₹1,000 in urban areas, along with incentives for ASHA workers. Highlighting the push for institutional deliveries, he said births in healthcare facilities are now free, including transportation, diagnostics, medications, and post-delivery meals. He also emphasized a comprehensive vaccination program covering 12 essential vaccines from birth to 18 years, ensuring maternal and child healthcare.
Smt Sangeeta Yadav (BJP, Uttar Pradesh) asked about the measures taken by the Government to tackle the increasing problem of digital fraud. Shri Pankaj Chaudhary (Union Minister of State, Ministry of Finance; BJP, Maharajganj, Uttar Pradesh) replied that Indian Cybercrime Coordination Centre (I4C) has been established, Citizen Financial Cybercrime Report Management System has been started and integrated with NPCI, “1930” helpline has been started. He stated that together these measures have helped reduce digital fraud from ₹ 56215 crore in 2014-15 to ₹ 4224 crore in 2023-24.
Shri Jagdeep Dhankhar Ji (Chairman, Rajya Sabha) commenced the Reply to discussion on Manipur Budget, 2025-26.
Smt. Nirmala Sitharaman (Union Minister, Ministry of Finance; BJP, Karnataka) responded to discussions on four bills, including the supplementary demand for grants (2024-25) and the Manipur budget (2025-26), but expressed disappointment that the debate focused on politics rather than finances. She categorized the supplementary demands into technical, token, and cash, detailing allocations such as ₹11,600 crore for the Oil Industry Development Fund (OIDF), ₹2,500 crore for fertilizers, and ₹2,186 crore for PM-KISAN. Addressing Manipur, she stated that ₹1,861 crore was allocated for supplementary grants, ₹913 crore for capital expenditure, and ₹500 crore for the state’s first contingency fund. She pointed out 628 days of economic blockades under Congress rule, highlighting a ₹2,828 crore loss, while emphasizing the government’s security efforts, relief measures, and rehabilitation programs, including ₹400 crore for relief camps and 7,000 houses under PMAY-Grameen. She stated that the Union Budget Expenditure (2025-26) stood at ₹50.65 lakh crore, with ₹11.21 lakh crore for capital expenditure and ₹15.48 lakh crore for infrastructure. She concluded by stating that 25 crore people had been lifted out of multidimensional poverty, citing NITI Aayog data.
The House approved Appropriation Bills and Manipur Budget 2025-26.
Discussion on the working of the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare.
Shri Tiruchi Siva (DMK, Tamil Nadu) argued that population control was the Union government’s responsibility and criticized its focus on delimitation instead of a uniform family planning policy. He noted southern states had controlled population growth, unlike northern states. He strongly opposed NEET for medical admissions, stating it disrupted Tamil Nadu’s proven education system, ignored regional differences, and favored private coaching.
Shri Bhagwat Karad (BJP, Maharashtra) discussed the health budget, noting a marginal increase to 1.97% from 1.9% with ₹ 99,858 crore allocated. He highlighted India’s hospital bed shortage (1.3 per 1,000 people vs. the ideal 3) and the challenge of ensuring doctors in remote areas. He praised government health schemes like Ayushman Bharat and criticized West Bengal, Telangana, Odisha, and Delhi for not implementing them. He emphasized vaccination efforts, with 2.53 crore children and 68 lakh pregnant women immunized. He commended generic medicine policies, reducing costs by 50%-80%, and India’s COVID-19 response, with 200 crore vaccine doses administered and exported. He also highlighted new viral research institutions and efforts to strengthen medical education.
Shri Sandeep Kumar Pathak (AAP, Punjab) emphasized healthcare planning, citing COVID-19 and BRD Medical College’s past issues as examples of the need for mass stabilization campaigns and proper execution. He stressed adequate staffing, facilities, and a structured framework to ensure accessible, affordable, and quality healthcare for all.
Smt Jebi Mather Hisham (INC, Kerala) stated that 27,000 ASHA workers and Anganwadi workers in Kerala were on strike, earning ₹ 7,000 and ₹ 12,500 per month respectively, but struggling for payments and social security. She demanded their recognition as Government employees and criticized the Centre-State blame game over funds.
Smt Ramilaben Becharbhai Bara (BJP, Gujarat) stated that healthcare security had been ensured for all citizens under the Modi government. She highlighted efforts in maternal care, noting that Mission Indradhanush benefitted 12 crore children. She praised initiatives for sickle cell anemia testing in tribal populations and the Jan Aushadhi Kendra for providing affordable medicines.
The proceedings of the Rajya Sabha were adjourned at 6:00 PM until 11:00 AM on Wednesday, 19th March 2025.
Key Events Outside The Parliament
Smt Priyanka Gandhi Vadra (INC, Wayanad, Kerala) said that while the Prime Minister spoke optimistically, the Opposition should have also been given a chance to express their sentiments. She stated that they hold Maha Kumbh in high regard and should have been allowed at least two minutes to present their views.
Shri Ashokrao Chavan (BJP, Maharashtra) called the Nagpur violence a sad incident and emphasized that communal riots over such issues are unacceptable, especially in a progressive state like Maharashtra. He stated that the police have controlled the situation, detained many people, and the truth will emerge after the investigation.
Shri Naresh Mhaske (SS, Thane, Maharashtra) condemned the Nagpur violence, calling it a preplanned riot where a group attacked houses of a particular community and police with axes. He stated that locals reported outsiders checking surnames before attacking.
Shri Rahul Gandhi (INC, Rae Bareli, Uttar Pradesh) supported the PM’s statement on Kumbh as part of India's history and culture but criticized him for not honoring those who lost their lives. He stated that youth attending Maha Kumbh also expected employment. He further remarked that the opposition's voice was being silenced, calling it the "new India."
Shri Giriraj Singh (Union Minister, Ministry of Textiles; BJP, Begusarai, Bihar) criticized Rahul Gandhi’s remarks on the PM’s address, stating that he lacked knowledge of parliamentary rules. He argued that questions aren’t allowed when the Prime Minister or a minister informs the House. He accused him of speaking only for media attention, calling it his usual approach.
Shri Sambit Patra (BJP, Puri, Odisha) criticized Rahul Gandhi, Priyanka Gandhi, and the INDI alliance for opposing India’s achievements like Maha Kumbh, G20, and cricket victories. He stated that while the Prime Minister’s address was well received, the Opposition dislikes anything that elevates India globally. He also defended the Speaker’s reminder to Rahul Gandhi about parliamentary rules.