July 22, 2024: The Monsoon Session of Parliament commenced on a spirited note as Prime Minister Narendra Modi urged MPs from all parties to transcend partisan divides and focus on collective national welfare. In his inaugural address, PM Modi invoked the auspicious occasion of the beginning of Sawan, or the Shravan month, marking a time of devotion to Lord Shiva for Hindus. He underscored the significance of unity and collaboration as essential ingredients for constructive legislative outcomes during this crucial session.
Addressing the assembled members, PM Modi expressed optimism about the session’s potential to yield positive results. He emphasized the forthcoming Union Budget, scheduled for presentation by Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, describing it as pivotal for India’s development trajectory. Referring to it as an “important budget of Amrit Kaal,” PM Modi outlined its role in shaping the country’s future over the next five years, amidst India’s impressive economic growth rate.
Highlighting the mandate given by the electorate, PM Modi called upon MPs to rise above individual and party interests, emphasizing their collective responsibility towards national empowerment. He acknowledged the previous session’s challenges, referencing attempts to suppress the government’s voice, but reiterated Parliament’s fundamental role as a platform for national discourse and progress.
Monsoon Session Begins: PM Modi Calls for Unity Amidst Opposition Challenges
The Monsoon Session, spanning 19 sittings until August 12 under the leadership of the Narendra Modi-led NDA government, is poised to witness robust debates on several contentious issues. Chief among these are the alleged NEET paper leak and controversies surrounding the directives for Kanwar Yatra in Uttar Pradesh and Uttarakhand. These issues have already sparked heated exchanges between the ruling coalition and the opposition, setting the stage for intense deliberations in the days ahead.
Of particular concern is the NEET-UG 2024 examination, marred by allegations of malpractice, prompting demands from opposition quarters for its cancellation and a court-monitored investigation. Concurrently, directives related to Kanwar Yatra have drawn criticism for their perceived discriminatory nature, triggering a wider debate on religious freedoms and state intervention.
In addition to these pressing matters, the government has slated the introduction of several key bills, including the overhaul of the 90-year-old Aircraft Act aimed at fostering a more conducive environment for civil aviation operations. Other legislative priorities encompass disaster management reforms, agricultural promotion, and industrial regulations, reflecting the administration’s multifaceted agenda for economic growth and sectoral development.
Monsoon Session 2024 : Beyond Legislative business , Regional Interests takes the centre stage
Beyond legislative business, regional interests are set to feature prominently, with parties like BJD asserting their role in advocating for Odisha’s special category status. Meanwhile, opposition parties, including the Congress, have signaled their intent to resist any moves perceived as detrimental to public sector banks’ autonomy, amidst anticipated amendments to banking regulations.
As the Monsoon Session unfolds, Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla’s Business Advisory Committee will play a pivotal role in shaping the parliamentary agenda, ensuring comprehensive deliberations on crucial bills and issues. With stakeholders on all sides gearing up for robust exchanges, the session promises to be a defining period for India’s legislative landscape, marked by deliberation, debate, and the pursuit of national interests above all else.
