Parliamentary Proceedings For 1st April, 2025
Key Highlights Of The Proceedings
The proceedings of the Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha began at 11:00 AM.
In the Lok Sabha, Shri Parshottambhai Rupala (BJP, Rajkot, Gujarat) raised concerns about climate change impacting agriculture and asked about budget provisions. In response, Shri Shivraj Singh Chouhan (Union Minister, Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare; BJP, Vidisha, Madhya Pradesh) highlighted ₹1,37,000 crore allocated for climate change, climate-resistant seeds, and research, and assured protection for small farmers.
Shri Rajeev Ranjan Singh (Union Minister, Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry, and Dairying; JD(U), Munger, Bihar) emphasized steps like the Blue Revolution and Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana to uplift the fisheries sector, noting improvements in infrastructure, safety, financial aid, and growth in fish production, exports, and GDP contribution, demonstrating the government's support for fishermen and the blue economy.
Shri Sarbananda Sonowal (Union Minister, Ministry of Ports, Shipping, and Waterways; BJP, Dibrugarh, Assam) highlighted that the Coastal Shipping Bill, 2024 brings significant reforms to unlock India’s maritime potential, making the sector more competitive, integrated, and business-friendly. He noted its potential to create jobs, improve maritime security, and promote cooperative federalism, urging support for the bill to drive India’s maritime growth.
In the Rajya Sabha, Smt. Rajni Ashok Rao Patil (INC, Maharashtra) raised concerns about the weakening Rupee's impact on inflation and trade balance. In response, Smt. Nirmala Sitharaman (Union Minister, Ministry of Finance; BJP, Karnataka) highlighted India’s Foreign Exchange Reserves of $568.8 billion, sufficient to cover 11 months of imports, assuring a strong financial position.
Dr. Ashok Kumar Mittal (AAP, Punjab) asked about the timeline for non-functional AIIMS, underutilization of funds, and clinical trials. Shri JP Nadda Ji (Union Minister, Minister of Health and Family Welfare; BJP, Gujarat) explained that new AIIMS take time to establish. He noted 22 AIIMS were set up in 10 years, but fund utilization lies with states, which have struggled. He assured efforts are underway to expedite clinical trials.
Shri P. Chidambaram (INC, Tamil Nadu) questioned the reduction of CAPEX in 2024-25 despite its multiplier effect. Smt. Nirmala Sitharaman (Union Minister, Ministry of Finance; BJP, Karnataka) clarified that CAPEX has not been cut, increasing from ₹11.11 lakh crore last year to ₹11.21 lakh crore in the current budget. She emphasized that there has been no reduction in CAPEX.
Shri Kinjarappu Ram Mohan Naidu (Union Minister, Ministry of Civil Aviation; TDP, Srikakula, Andhra Pradesh) while replying on debate on passing of Protection of Interests in Aircraft Objects Bill, 2025 praised the growth of India’s aviation sector, credited the UDAN scheme for improving access for the lower middle class and migrant workers, and called for support to enforce international obligations under the Cape Town Convention.
The Protection of Interests in Aircraft Objects Bill, 2025 was passed in the Rajya Sabha as amended and sent to Lok Sabha.
Shri Murlidhar Mohol (Minister of State, Ministry of Cooperation; BJP, Pune, Maharashtra) praised India’s global recognition in cooperatives, citing the ICA Conference 2024 and the UN’s declaration of 2025 as the International Year of Cooperatives. He defended the Tribhuvan Sahakari University Bill for empowering marginalized communities, and clarified the university's autonomy under UGC guidelines.
After the discussion, The “Tribhuvan” Sahkari University Bill, 2025 was passed by the Rajya Sabha.
The Lok Sabha and the Rajya Sabha were adjourned at 06:00 PM and 08:18 PM, respectively, until 11:00 AM on Wednesday, 2nd April, 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 the Question Hour.
Shri Bajrang Manohar Sonwane (NCP(SCP), Beed, Maharashtra) raised concerns about not holding elections to local self government in Maharashtra for the last 3 years. In response Prof. SP Singh Baghel (Minister of State, Ministry of Panchayati Raj; BJP, Agra (SC), Uttar Pradesh) replied that it is the State’s responsibility to conduct these elections as per constitutional provisions, with the Central Government playing an advisory role. He further added that the elections in Maharashtra have not been held due to a Supreme Court ruling in 2021.
Shri Parshottambhai Rupala (BJP, Rajkot, Gujarat) expressed concerns about climate change affecting agriculture, especially mango farmers in Saurashtra, and asked about budget provisions to address this. In reply, Shri Shivraj Singh Chouhan (Union Minister, Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare; BJP, Vidisha, Madhya Pradesh) highlighted that ₹ 1,37,000 crore has been allocated for climate change, new climate-resistant seeds, and ongoing research. He assured protection for small farmers from market competition.
Shri Baijayant Panda (BJP, Kendrapara, Odisha) praised the Central Government for the ₹ 420 crore allocation for the Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana and inquired about increasing marketing for the fisheries sector in domestic and international markets. He also asked about the Government’s plans to boost dairy exports amid the trade war. In response, Shri Rajiv Ranjan Singh (Union Minister, Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry, and Dairying; JD(U), Munger, Bihar) noted that fisheries exports have doubled to ₹ 60,000 crore in 10 years and introduced an E-marketing portal to enhance farmers’ bargaining power. He also highlighted India’s position as the largest milk producer and assured efforts to make the country FMD-free by 2030.
Shri Gajendra Singh Patel (BJP, Khargone(ST), Madhya Pradesh) inquired about the progress of the Pradhan Mantri Abhyudaya Yojana, which aims at the upliftment of SC and ST students in Madhya Pradesh. In response, Shri Ramdas Athawale (Minister of State, Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment; RPI (ATWL), Maharashtra) stated that 1,689 Adarsh Villages have been identified in Madhya Pradesh with an allocation of ₹ 274 crore under the scheme, and that there are 86 hostels in the state for students.
Following continuous disruptions by opposition members, the proceedings of the Lok Sabha were adjourned till 2:00 PM.
Shri Om Birla Ji (Speaker, Lok Sabha; BJP, Kota, Rajasthan) commenced the proceedings of the house by calling attention of the Minister of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry, and Dairying to the hardships faced by the fishermen community.
Shri KC Venugopal (INC, Alappuzha, Kerala) expressed the struggles of fishermen, emphasising their critical role in feeding the nation while facing neglect, poverty, and environmental threats. He criticised the Government’s failure to address their issues, including the lack of data on their conditions, the monopolisation of marine resources, and the harmful impacts of offshore mining and coastal erosion. Further, he also pointed out the reduction in diesel subsidies for fishermen, pushing them into debt, and called for urgent action to protect their livelihoods, including better housing policies and environmental protections.
Shri Shashi Tharoor (INC, Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala) expressed gratitude for the discussion and raised longstanding concerns he had highlighted for 15 years without a satisfactory response. He sought five clarifications from the minister: the Government’s responsibility for coastal erosion, inadequate fishing infrastructure despite high dependence in his constituency, lack of alternative energy sources for fishing communities while mining expansion continued, the absence of environmental impact assessments for developmental projects, and the need for concrete action on coastal community challenges. He urged the minister to provide clear and definitive answers.
Shri Rajeev Ranjan Singh (Union Minister, Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry, and Dairying; JD(U), Munger, Bihar) rejected claims of Government neglect towards India’s 30 million fishermen, stating that under the Government significant steps were taken to uplift the sector, making India the second-largest fish producer globally. He highlighted initiatives like the Blue Revolution, the Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana, and improved infrastructure in Kerala, alongside safety measures and financial aid for fishermen. He also mentioned the growth in fish production, seafood exports, and the fisheries sector’s contribution to the GDP, emphasising that the Government had made substantial progress in supporting fishermen and strengthening the blue economy.
Discussion on The Coastal Shipping Bill, 2024.
Shri Sarbananda Sonowal (Union Minister, Ministry of Ports, Shipping, and Waterways; BJP, Dibrugarh, Assam) highlighted that the bill includes significant reforms to unlock India's potential in the maritime sector, offering a boost to transport and connectivity. He explained that the existing law was outdated and did not focus on growth, making the new bill essential. He emphasised that the bill would make the sector more competitive, integrated, and business-friendly, with provisions for penalties and improved ease of doing business. Additionally, he noted the bill’s potential to create jobs and enhance maritime security while promoting cooperative federalism across states and union territories. He urged all members to support the bill, reflecting the vision of “Sabka Sath Sabka Vikas”, to drive India’s maritime growth.
Shri Naresh Chandra Uttam Patel (SP, Fatehpur, Uttar Pradesh) emphasized that states should be involved in decision-making. He cautioned against the rise of Adani Ports and called for action on drug trafficking via ports. He criticized the bill for lacking environmental security, transparency, and infrastructure development in waterways and ports. Highlighting the poor condition of lakes in Fatehpur and the neglect of fishermen by the double-engine government, he urged prioritization of domestic companies and border security. While acknowledging the bill’s importance for the maritime sector, he stressed the need for key changes.
Smt. Supriya Sule (NCPSP, Baramati, Maharashtra) highlighted Maharashtra’s historical maritime trade and emphasized the need for protecting fishermen while making regulations, citing issues faced by Tamil Nadu fishermen. She raised concerns about streamlining licenses, uniform service tax definitions, environmental safeguards, and decentralization of power. She also urged against tax terrorism, called for easy access to credit, and stressed the importance of a zero-pollution business model.
Shri Krishna Devarayalu Lavu (TDP, Narasaraopeta, Andhra Pradesh) supported the Coastal Shipping Bill, 2024, stating that high logistics costs in India were hindering MSMEs and the manufacturing sector, and that the bill would help address this issue. He noted that the bill would boost FDI in the sector and suggested that 50% of Indian cargo should be transported by Indian Flag Vessels, with a minimum quota for Indian seafarers.
The proceedings of the Lok Sabha were adjourned at 06:00 PM until 11:00 AM, Wednesday, 2nd April, 2025.
Details Of Proceedings In The Rajya Sabha
The proceedings of the Rajya Sabha commenced at 11 AM.
The papers and reports were laid on the table of the house. Shri Jagdeep Dhankhar Ji (Chairman, Rajya Sabha) informed the House that 12 notices under Rule 267 were received, subsequently all of which were declined, citing lack of merit as the reason for their rejection.
Shri Jagdeep Dhankhar Ji (Chairman, Rajya Sabha) asked the members to proceed with matters raised with permission in advance following which the Question Hour commenced.
Smt. Rajni Ashok Rao Patil (INC, Maharashtra) asked about the impact of the weakening Rupee on inflation and trade balance, and the Government’s mitigation measures. Smt. Nirmala Sitharaman (Union Minister, Ministry of Finance; BJP, Karnataka) responded that India's total Foreign Exchange Reserves (FER) stand at $568.8 billion, ranking 4th globally. She assured that despite recent fluctuations, the reserves are sufficient to cover 11 months of imports.
Dr. Ashok Kumar Mittal (AAP, Punjab) inquired about the timeline for operationalizing non-functional AIIMS and the underutilization of allocated funds, as well as the rate of clinical trials. Shri JP Nadda Ji (Union Minister, Minister of Health and Family Welfare; BJP, Gujarat) responded that AIIMS Delhi took 22 years to be fully established, and similarly, new AIIMS institutions will take time to develop. He highlighted that 22 new AIIMS have been set up in the last 10 years, but their establishment is a gradual process. On fund utilization, he clarified that while the Central Government allocates funds, their implementation lies with the states. Regarding clinical trials, he assured that efforts are being made to conduct them as swiftly as possible.
Shri P. Chidambaram (INC, Tamil Nadu) asked why CAPEX has been cut in 2024-25 if it has a multiplier effect. Smt. Nirmala Sitharaman (Union Minister, Ministry of Finance; BJP, Karnataka) responded that CAPEX has not been reduced, clarifying that in the previous year, it stood at ₹ 11.11 lakh crore, while in the recent budget, it increased to ₹ 11.21 lakh crore.
Following constant disruptions the House was adjourned till 2 PM.
Shri Harivansh Narayan Singh Ji (Deputy Chairman, Rajya Sabha) commenced the discussion on The Protection of Interests in Aircraft Object Bill, 2025.
Shri Sanjay Kumar Jha (JD(U), Bihar) highlighted the significance of the Protection of Interests in Aircraft Objects Bill, 2025, stressing that around 90% of airlines lease aircraft, primarily from countries like Ireland, Hong Kong, Dubai, and Singapore. He noted the high cost of purchasing aircraft, ranging from ₹ 700 crore to ₹ 1,100 crore, and the trend of airline bankruptcies leading to consolidation. He also mentioned the benefits of tax holidays for leasing in Gujarat and advocated for international terminals in Bihar cities, like Darbhanga, to enhance regional connectivity.
Shri Sandosh Kumar P (CPI, Kerala) stressed the need for India to implement the international aviation convention to protect stakeholders. He raised concerns about liabilities from figures like Vijay Mallya and questioned the effectiveness of the Civil Aviation Ministry due to its limited budget. He warned against private airlines exploiting passengers, such as charging for washrooms, and called for Parliament to address these issues. He also requested point-of-care status for Kannur International Airport.
Shri Kinjarappu Ram Mohan Naidu (Union Minister, Ministry of Civil Aviation; TDP, Srikakula, Andhra Pradesh) in response to the discussion in the house, highlighted the significant growth of India's civil aviation sector, attributing it to the Government's vision. He shared statistics showing an increase in domestic passengers, aircraft, daily journeys, and airports, making India the third-largest domestic aviation market. He also praised the UDAN scheme for improving air access for the lower middle class and migrant workers. While acknowledging challenges like irregular flights in areas such as Kunnur, he called for better connectivity. He also discussed the need for public incentives to fund airport development and requested support for a bill to enforce India’s obligations under the Cape Town Convention and Protocol.
After the discussion, the Protection of Interests in Aircraft Objects Bill, 2025 was passed by the House as amended.
Shri Murlidhar Mohol (Minister of State, Ministry of Cooperation; BJP, Pune, Maharashtra) moved the motion for Discussion on “Tribhuvan” Sahakari University Bill, 2025.
Shri Digvijay Singh (INC, Madhya Pradesh) highlighted the success of the Amul cooperative, where 80% of milk sale revenue goes to farmers. He criticized the corporatization of cooperatives and suggested that elections should be held in cooperative societies every five years. He also raised concerns about the status of PACS in Madhya Pradesh, noting that 80% are facing losses and 13 out of 38 cooperative banks have assets below ₹ 2,000. He further pointed out that some cooperatives have not held elections for over 30 years.
Shri Shubhasis Khuntia (BJD, Odisha) criticized the Bill for centralizing control over cooperatives, bypassing states despite education being in the Concurrent List. He argued it undermines cooperative federalism and ignores regional diversity. Highlighting Odisha’s Mission Shakti, he questioned why a skill development university wasn’t established there. He also raised concerns over resource exploitation, advocating for tribal-led cooperative mining. While recognizing the university’s significance, he called for academic and financial autonomy, decentralized governance, and state participation.
Shri M. Thambidurai (AIADMK, Tamil Nadu) supported the Bill, praising its focus on research. He criticized the lack of cooperation between the Centre and Tamil Nadu's DMK Government and the deadlock over Vice-Chancellor appointments in Tamil Nadu universities. He blamed the 2010 UPA-era regulations, particularly the UGC nominee requirement, and argued that the Governor was simply enforcing existing rules. He linked these federal-state conflicts in education to its placement under the Concurrent List during Indira Gandhi’s tenure.
Smt. Indu Bala Goswami (BJP, Himachal Pradesh) praised the Prime Minister for creating the Ministry of Cooperation and credited Shri Amit Shah Ji for his leadership. She highlighted the NDA Government’s tenfold budget increase for cooperatives, contrasting it with the closure of 100 sugar mills under UPA rule. She noted ₹ 5000 crore allocated for modernizing dairy cooperatives and FPOs and emphasized diversification in PACS, dairy, and fisheries. She lauded increased women's participation in cooperatives, over 60%, and initiatives like Nandini Sahakar Yojana and mandatory women directors, citing a rise in skill training beneficiaries from 10,000 in 2020-21 to 78,000 in 2022-23.
Shri Murlidhar Mohol (Minister of State, Ministry of Cooperation; BJP, Pune, Maharashtra) praised India’s global recognition in cooperatives, citing the ICA Conference 2024 and the UN’s declaration of 2025 as the International Year of Cooperatives. He criticized the UPA’s ₹ 122 crore allocation, contrasting it with the NDA’s ₹ 1190 crore budget and the creation of a Cooperation Ministry. He highlighted the formation of three national cooperative societies and the addition of 34,000 cooperatives. He emphasized the PACS grain storage plan, defended the Tribhuvan Sahakari University Bill for empowering marginalized communities, and clarified the university's autonomy under UGC guidelines. He also noted the expansion of PACS with ₹ 2516 crore funding, the announcement of a national cooperative policy, and support for Urban Cooperative Banks (UCBs).
After the discussion, The “Tribhuvan” Sahkari University Bill, 2025 was passed by the Rajya Sabha.
The proceedings of the Rajya Sabha were adjourned at 8:18 PM to reconvene at 11:00 AM, Wednesday, 2nd April, 2025.
Key Events Outside The Parliament
Shri Giriraj Singh (Union Minister, Ministry of Textiles, BJP, Begusarai, Bihar) stated that the government will table the Waqf Amendment Bill like any other bill. He urged Congress to recognize that no bill in Parliament is introduced against the Constitution.
Shri Ram Gopal Yadav (SP, Uttar Pradesh) criticized the Waqf Amendment Bill, alleging it was rushed through the JPC to disrupt communal harmony. He claimed the opposition received a 1000-page report just a day before, leaving no time for proper review.
Shri Damodar Agarwal (BJP, Bhilwara, Rajasthan) backed Shri Yogi Adityanath’ stance, stating that streets are not meant for worship. He affirmed that the Muslim community has full rights to worship but should do so in mosques and Eidgahs.
Shri Suresh Gopi (Union Minister of State, Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas, Ministry of Tourism; BJP, Thrissur, Kerala) asserted that the opposition only engages in protests, while the government remains committed to implementing measures that serve the nation's and citizens' best interests.
Shri Asaduddin Owaisi (AIMIM, Hyderabad, Telangana) criticized UP CM Shri Yogi Adityanath's justification for the ban on Namaz on roads, highlighting that other events like flower showers, Kanwar Yatra, and RSS parades were allowed. He emphasized India’s pluralism and diversity, condemning RSS ideology.
Shri Kalyan Banerjee (TMC, Sreerampur, West Bengal) criticized the transfer of Justice DK Sharma to Calcutta HC, calling it a move to make the court a "dumping ground" for questionable judges. He highlighted protests from Bar Associations and letters to the CJI and Law Minister, opposing Sharma's transfer.
Smt. Karunanidhi Kanimozhi (DMK, Thoothukkudi, Tamil Nadu) stated that the Tamil Nadu Assembly had passed a resolution opposing the Waqf Amendment Bill, and as a result, the DMK was against it. She added that the party would participate in any discussions to oppose the bill.
Shri Janardan Singh Sigriwal (BJP, Maharajganj, Bihar) urged the immediate passage of the Waqf Amendment Bill, emphasizing that Waqf properties should be used for infrastructure like playgrounds, schools, and hospitals, with rules implemented promptly for public benefit.