BJP MPs have filed a Notice for Breach of Parliamentary Privilege, Ethics, and Propriety against Congress leader Sonia Gandhi for her alleged derogatory and slanderous remarks against the President. The move comes amid increasing tensions in Parliament as the BJP accuses Gandhi of violating ethical standards. Meanwhile, Priyanka Gandhi Vadra praised Rahul Gandhi's speech, stating that a leader's words should present a clear vision for the country. Entertainment Priyanka Gandhi Vadra Praises Rahul Gandhi's Parliamentary Speech Amid ongoing tensions in Parliament, Congress leader Priyanka Gandhi Vadra lauds her brother Rahul Gandhi's speech in Lok Sabha. She states that a leader's speech should lay out a clear vision for the country, and that she was impressed by his words. The speech comes amidst the ongoing Budget Session, which saw proceedings in the Rajya Sabha adjourned for the day.
In a move that has sparked international criticism, the Nicaraguan parliament has approved a constitutional reform that grants full powers to President Ortega and his wife, Rosario Murillo. This makes them the first-ever co-presidents of the Central American country, with control over state institutions and no term limits. The controversial measure was passed by the parliament, which is dominated by Ortega's party, and is retroactive, extending the couple's mandates until 2028.
Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman announced plans for a new Income Tax Bill to be introduced in Parliament next week. There is high anticipation, especially from the "middle class", for some form of relief in terms of tax slabs, standard deductions, and Section 87A. This comes in light of the changes implemented last year in the new tax regime, which saw a hike in standard deduction and a major revision in tax slabs for different income brackets. The move is significant as the government plans to simplify and modernize the tax system, thereby creating a fairer and more efficient tax regime to boost investor confidence and economic competitiveness.
Despite protests from the Samajwadi Party, Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman presented the Union Budget 2025 in the Lok Sabha. The party's leader Akhilesh Yadav voiced his criticism of the BJP government's handling of the recent stampede at the Maha Kumbh religious gathering in Uttar Pradesh. He called for the state government to hand over management to the Army and accused the government of hiding the true number of casualties. Meanwhile, President Droupadi Murmu addressed the Parliament on Friday and Ms Sitharaman presented the Economic Survey for 2024/25.
The much-awaited Union Budget for India's financial year 2025-26 will be presented by Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman today in Parliament. This comes a day after the unveiling of the Economic Survey, which highlighted the government's focus on driving economic growth and promoting equity. The budget speech will also address the potential impact of AI and automation on job displacement, calling for re-skilling and upskilling initiatives to prepare the workforce.
Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman will present the eighth budget of her career and the second one under the NDA 3.0 government on February 1, 2025. The Budget session of Parliament, which began on January 31, will be held in two parts and the Union Budget 2025 will be telecasted live on various platforms, including TV, mobile apps, and online portals. Zee Business, Sansad TV, Doordarshan, and YouTube will provide live coverage of the Budget, while Zee Business will also offer real-time analysis and updates on their blog. Budget documents, including the Finance Minister's speech, can be downloaded in PDF format from the official Union Budget website. Don't miss out on this crucial financial event, stay updated and informed with Zee Business.
In her annual address to Parliament, President Droupadi Murmu focused on the middle class, recognizing their contributions and aspirations to the nation's economic progress. This comes after her previous speeches that saw a dip in mentions of the middle class. Murmu listed various steps taken by the government to support the middle class, including the Eighth Pay Commission and discounts on home loans. Surprisingly, there was no mention of the Emergency, despite the upcoming 50th anniversary of its imposition.
The Budget Session of Parliament started off with a controversy as Congress leader Sonia Gandhi made remarks about President Droupadi Murmu's address. The BJP demanded an apology, stating that the President was a tribal woman who should not be underestimated. However, Congress has defended Gandhi's statement, stating that she meant no disrespect and was only expressing empathy for the President's health. This incident has fueled tensions between the two political parties, further highlighting their ideological differences.
President Droupadi Murmu commended India's achievements in international sports competitions, such as the Olympics, Paralympics, and World Chess Championship, in her address to Parliament. She highlighted the government's efforts in developing a top-notch sports ecosystem through initiatives like Khelo India and TOPS, as well as the establishment of the National Sports University. President Murmu also emphasized the importance of inclusivity in sports, with a special centre for Divyang athletes and India's growing dominance in chess. Additionally, she highlighted the Fit India Movement as a key initiative to empower the country's youth.
President Murmu, in her joint address to Parliament, highlighted the government's initiatives for the tribal community, including the 'Dharti Aaba Janjatiya Gram Utkarsh Abhiyan'. She also reiterated the government's commitment to the middle class and reflected on the nation's constitutional journey, commemorating the recent 75-year milestones.