The Budget Session of the Indian Parliament for 2026-27 commenced today, January 28, with President Droupadi Murmu addressing a joint sitting of both the Lok Sabha and the Rajya Sabha. This marks the formal beginning of a significant parliamentary period focused on the government's financial agenda and broader legislative business.

The President's address sets the stage for the session, outlining the government's priorities and achievements. Political leaders have been arriving in Delhi to participate in the session. The session is expected to be extensive, comprising 30 sittings spread over 65 days, although these sittings will be interrupted by a recess in February. The session will conclude on April 2.

Key Highlights of the Budget Session:

• President's Address: President Murmu's address to the joint session highlighted the government's key initiatives and vision for the upcoming financial year.
• Economic Survey: The Economic Survey, a report on the state of the economy, will be presented on January 29.
• Union Budget Presentation: Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman is scheduled to present the Union Budget on February 1. This marks a historic first, as it is expected to be the first time the annual budget will be presented on a Sunday.
• Two-Phased Session: The Budget Session will be held in two phases: January 28 to February 13, and March 9 to April 2. This structure allows for detailed scrutiny and legislative business related to the Union Budget.
• Capital Expenditure: The State Bank of India (SBI) anticipates that the central government's capital expenditure may exceed ₹12 lakh crore in the financial year 2026-27, representing a year-on-year growth of approximately 10%.
• Legislative Agenda: Several key bills are expected to be discussed, including the Viksit Bharat Shiksha Adhishthan Bill, 2025, and bills related to "One Nation One Election".

Controversies and Discussions:

• Opposition Demands: Opposition parties are expected to raise concerns about the economy, constitutionally guaranteed rights, and the strength of constitutional institutions. They are also likely to seek debates on Foreign Trade Agreements, foreign policy, and the Special Intensive Revision of electoral rolls.
• All-Party Meeting: Prior to the commencement of the session, the government convened an all-party meeting, seeking cooperation for the smooth functioning of Parliament.

Budget Preparations:

• Halwa Ceremony: The traditional Halwa ceremony, marking the final stage of budget preparation, was held on January 27. This ceremony symbolizes the "lock-in" period for officials involved in drafting the budget.
• Digital Accessibility: The government has made efforts to ensure that all Union Budget documents are digitally accessible through the Union Budget Mobile App, available in both English and Hindi.

The Budget Session 2026-27 is poised to be a crucial period for the Indian government, with significant financial and legislative decisions on the horizon. The proceedings of the Lok Sabha debates will be available in Hindi, English, and an original version that includes proceedings in both languages, as well as translations of speeches made in regional languages.