Minister of State for Home G. Kishan Reddy introduced the Government of National Capital Territory of Delhi (Amendment) Bill in the Rajya Sabha amid commotion.
The Lower House passed the Finance Bill that will give effect to the financial proposals of the Central Government for the financial year 2021-22.
The first part of the Budget Session of Parliament, which commenced with the address of President Ram Nath Kovind on January 29, concluded on February 29. The second part of the Budget Session began March 7.
Here are the latest updates:
Nirmala Sitharaman says the banking institution will be statutory in nature and will be answerable to the Parliament along with there being a sepration in the owers of State and the private players. She concludes by requesting the house to pass the bill.
The bill is now being put to a voice vote.
The National Bank for Financing Infrastructure and Development has been passed by Lok Sabha. The Lower house has been adjourned and will begin proceedings tomorrow at 11 a.m.
Nirmala Sitharaman is speaking in the lower house. She says data on why some banks and developmental instituions did not perorm as expected has been provided to the House at regualr time intervals over the years. "The new bill has come out of all the learnings that we have gathered from such data. Infrastructural investments are huge and thus risky. The Buill will help to avert thhis adversity," she says.
"Asset-liability mismatch has also made it necessary for introduction of the bill. Corporate bond market is not mature and thus cannot bankroll infrastructure projects. Thus faced with these problems, the bills is the need of the hour," she says.
She says only using taxp payer money to fund infrastructure projects would take 100 years for completion of suh undertakings. Thus, the bill meets financial as well as social imperatives, she reiterates.Foreign investments would be roped in due to the govt structure which we will provide. Equal representation of govt. and private players in the banking institution wil help keeping it transparent and acccountable."
She elaborates on the equity and grants being provided the Indian government for the project. The institution will also play the role of dispute resolution in Infrastructure projects financing, she emphasises. The institution will not be listed as it is a long-term funding instituions and thus it would not be report on its workings quaterly, she says.
Govt's ownership will fall from 100% to 26% but not less than that, she assures.
Rahul Kaswan of BJP is speaking right now. He speaks in favour of the bill. He brings up examples of international infrastructure project models and says the bill would ensure the same model being implemented in India. Construction of Railway infrastructure will be boasted by the bill, which is now langusihing, he states.
Social aspects of DFI is huge as railway connectivity will lead to upward social mobilisation the common Indian citizenry, he claims.
He concludes.
Hanuman Beniwal is speaking now. He speaks on Nirav Modi and Vijay Mallya and says they have not been meted out with adequate punishment and the poor have not been properly compensated.
Ravi Kisan is speaking right now. He lauds the positive thinking of Narendra Modi and says the Opposition lacks it. He backs the bill and says it will lead to economic development.
He thanks Nirmala Sitharaman for introducing the bill. He mentions older DFIs like NABARD, IDB and says the government is hell bent on doing away with old thinking and move towards Atmanirbhar Bharat. The cheap loans that would be made available will benefit the common man and aid inter -country infrastructure projects, he says.
He concludes.
Dr. Amar Singh of Congress is speaking now. He says in foreign countries, creation of bond markets and cheap loans have been implemented to boast infrastructure projects. In India this hass not happened and the older DFIs are severely flawed, he says.
NPAs in Indian economy is increaing. Why does creation of earlier DFIs so flawed," he asks. He says that with the world and Indian economy ion the down slide, it would be tough to get investment.
Sunita Duggal of BJP is speaking now. She speaks in favour of the bill. She claims the demerits of the old DFIs have been negated when formulating this bill and it will help in revolutionising Indian infrastructure which inturn will boast employment. Govt. intervention is necessary to provide with long term investment from India or abroad to aid the all round development of Indian infrastructure, she claims.
Institutions created will be empowered to invest in infrastructure projects in India and abroad, she says. The bill ensures indepence of the board which would lead to transparency in the banking institution, she reiterates. She says that similar laws have been enacted in countries like U.K. and U.S.A. and it has greatly benefited these countries.
Lok Sabha extends proceedings till the time it takes to pass The National Bank for Financing Infrastructure and Development Bill.
Syed Imtiaz Jallel of AIMIM is speaking right now. He speaks against the bill. He says the country's financial system is biased towards the poor and urges the financial wrong-doers be bought to justice.
E.T. Mohammad Bashir is speaking right now. He goes into details about history of privatisation and liberalisation. He claims private institutes are getting reference and states that proper safeguards should be put in place to protect interests of national institutions.
Sivkumar Udasi of the BJP is speaking now. He speaks in favour of The National Bank for Financing Infrastructure and Development Bill. He says the bill will help comply with U.N. regulations. Accelerate urbanisation and increase metropolitan cities by 2030 will mean that the bill will help in boasting various infrastructures in these cities.
This bill is important to reach the goal of $5 trillion Indian economy, he states. Corporate bods have increased in India since 2011 and the bill will be able to capitalise on the flourishing bond markets, he says. He claims that a effective plan to enhance infrastructure in the country aided by Narendra Modi will benefit many generations of Indians. He concludes.
Supriya Sule of NCP is speaking now. She talks in favour of the bill but says not as innovative as BJP is claiming it is. She criticises sovereign guarantee. She says with the govt.'s ownership diluting, it will not be able to decide which personnel is ideal for the job.Checks and balances on board and Head of the bank is important, she claims.
She says the intent behind the bill but questions the lack of transparency and accountability that it might bring about in the economic sector. She concludes.
Bheemrao Baswanthrao Patil is speaking right now. He raises his doubts on the effectivity of DFIs to create a green economic eco-system and cites various examples from the past to elucidate on his point.
Sangeeta Azad of BSP is speaking now. She says she will highlight on the cons of DFIs. She goes on to elaborate on DFI institutions and says the basic fundamental structure of a DFI is flawed annd leads to financial scams. She makes her point on why she opposes the bill touching on bonds and pension funds and how they are adversely affected by the same and says the bill should be sent to a select committe.
Chandra Sekhar Sahu of BJD is speaking now. He talks about the existing DFIs in India. He criticises privatisation of various national naks and says they are needed to safeguard the financial interests of the common people.
He says the bank proposed by the bill should be more under control of the central govt. then of the market forces. DFIs should be accountable to the stake holders and the govt., such provisions of accountability missing from the bill, he states.
"DFIs is vital for all around national development and proper attention should be paid to the same and i support the bill," he says and concludes
Dulal Chandra Goswami of JD(U) is speaking right now. He lauds the bill and says it will help boast India's diverse sectors and encourage robust financial growth. He passes on his best wishes for the COVID-19 stricken J.P. Nadda and concludes.
Pocha Bramhanada Reddy is speaking right now. He speaks in favour of the bill. He claims the bill will boost infrastructure in the country. He lauds the Jagan Mohan Reddy government for creating good infrastructure in Andhra Pradesh. He mentions various State infrastructure projects. He concludes.
Gajanan S. Kirtikar is speaking now. He says the bank proposed by the bill may have adverse effect on other govt. banks which the govt. should be mindful of. He cites other similar bans like NABARD and says it helps farmers a lot by providing them with access to short-term loans. NABARD should not be privatised, he stresses.
He expresses his disapproval at privatisation of Industrial Development Bank. He concludes.
Jayant Sinha of BJP is speaking right now. He says the Union budget was revolutionary. Among all the measures, the current bill being discussed is the most important and will positively influence India's financial institutions, he says.
He says in all sectors of the economy, we need world class infrastructure. He lauds modi for construction of pipeline infrastructre and says that is the way ahead towards a brighter future.
Indian companies will also hugely benefit with the improvement in country's infrastructure. So will the common people of the country who will get employed, have more disposable income and int turn set in moion a virtuous investment cycle. Also a zero carbon infrastructure is needed to stop the global warming," he adds.
He says the bank will create an effective eco-system for financial growth. He goes into the various nitty gritties of the bill stating how it would help lowering lending rates. He says the bank head will be removed for poor performance and each employee would have to work hard to justify their position in the bank. He reiterates that this bill would revolutionised construction of infrastructure in the country.
Jasbir Singh Gill is speaking right now. He says India has witnessed a lot of bank frauds. He stresses on need to have security checks and vigilance operators to bring down financial crimes. He demans the appointment of advisory councils in govt. banks to identify and ephasise on projects of national imprtance.
The amended Finance Bill passed by the House by voice vote. The National Bank for Financing Infrastructure and Development Bill, 2021 is up now for consideration and passing in he Lower House.
Rajya Sabha adjourned till 10 a.m. tomorrow
"After discussing with all party leaders there is consensus that we will meet at 10 am tomorrow. We will discuss the Finance Bill first and then NCT Bill," says Parliamentary Affairs Ministry. Rajya Sabha adjourned till 10 a.m. tomorrow
On this issue of proposed tax on income on the PF contribution beyond ₹2.5 lakh, the Minister said it covers a majority people who normally invest money here, they get tax concession, so that is fully justified. there was just 1% people in EPF who were going up to ₹5 crore contribution also. The Minister adds that the limit is being increased to ₹5 lakh in those cases where there is no contribution by the employer in that fund.
The Finance Minister has introduced the Notice of Amendments to the Finance Bills, which are being taken up by the House.
Rajya Sabha adjourned till 6.10 p.m.
On the issue of reduction of time limit in the reopening of income tax cases, the Minister says the government has not increased the threshold for scrutiny/survey. "We have brought down from 6 to three years. In cases where it can be opened within 10 years, we have brought in a condition saying only where up to ₹50,000 undisclosed income is in question and only in such cases, will it be opened and can be opened for up to 10 years. For that the opening can happen only with the approval of Principal Commissioner," says Nirmala Sitharaman.
"Only for ₹50, 000 an above this can be done with the two conditions. For foreign assets' case reopening, there was a time period of 16 years, which has been reduced to three years. For foreign undisclosed assets, the Black Money Act would be applicable and for action under this law, there is no time limit, so there is no need to increase the time period from three to 16 years, as demanded by some members," she says.
On the arguments that tax on online transactions is extra burden, she says equalisation levy is a tax which has been introduced to give a level-playing field to Indian businesses which pay tax in India and foreign e-commerce companies which do business in India but do not pay any income tax here
"If they pay income tax year (foreign e-commerce companies) here, then the equalisation levy is not applicable to them, so there is no extra burden on them. I intend to clarify that this equalisation levy is not applicable on consideration of goods owned by Indian residents," she says.
On this issue of proposed tax on PF contribution beyond ₹2.5 lakh, the Minister said it covers a majority people who normally invest money here, they get tax concession, so that is fully justified. "There was just 1% people in EPF who were going up to ₹5 crore contribution alsom" she says. The Minister adds that the limit is being increased to ₹5 lakh in those cases where there is no contribution by the employer in that fund
Rajya Sabha adjourned again till 5.50 p.m.
Rajya Sabha adjourned again.
Nirmala Sitharaman says: "On the petrol and diesel, agriculture infrastructural development cess, questions have been raised. This cess was brought in....the customs duty was brought down, the cess was imposed. It was imposed far lesser than the quantum of reduction in Customs Duty. The principle being that eventually that particular importer of that particular product, on whom basic Customs duty was on, will end up paying that much only or lesser but never more."
"As regards a provision for tax on sale above ₹50 lakh, the tax is only at the rate of 0.1%, says the Minister. It applies to only big taxpayers whose turnover is more than ₹10 crore in the year before it was imposed last year in the Finance Act of 2020," she says.
"It is intended to widen the tax net. You can always adjust the tax, it is not an additional taxOn Covid vaccinations, even today in government hospitals vaccination is for free, there is no burden on poor people," says the Minsiter
On demands to bring petrol and diesel under GST regime, the Minister, quoting a member, says the highest tax on petrol and diesel is in Maharashtra.
"The point is the States also tax fuel, not just the Centre. When the Centre taxes, it's part of the devolvable amount, not a cess. So, if I collect ₹100 out of taxing petrol, diesel, of the ₹100, 41% goes to the States. If there is a concern as to why they should not under GST, the issue may be taken up in the Council and I will be glad to discuss it, let the States come and discuss if the call has to be taken there," he says.
"So we have applied our mind and looked at the final consumer goods which are being manufactured in India there are MSMEs which are manufacturing them, therefore on those items we have imposed a Custom Duty. The decision has been taken very carefully, it (customs duty) is not supposed to be on raw material, the duty is on finished goods," says Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman.
"On the issue GST invoices, penalties for those companies which have fake GST invoice allegations and whose properties have been attached, Ms. Sitharaman says on this, issues related to GST when they are being posed to the Finance Minister, I work on them...but, GST matters are GST Council related. Many of the States' Finance Ministers are members of the Council and it's a collective decision to take decisions and without the council's clearance no step is taken," she claims.
"So, it's not that the Finance Minister directs attachment of property, everything related to GST is decided by the Council. It has been noticed that it is difficult to recover penalties levied on the persons involved in fake GST invoices, it is just becoming impossible. the proposed provision would ensure collection of penalty and help discourage the practice. It will be applicable to big fraud cases involving ₹2 crore or more. The Finance Minister of Andhra Pradesh is a member of the GST council, says the Minister to a query from a member how to raise the issue of harassment to people like accountants and managers," says Ms. Sitharaman.
"To incentivise states who have enforced population control measures, 15th Finance Commission has provided a weightage of 12.5% for demographic performance. As per this criterion, States with lower fertility will get greater share. Andhra Pradesh has an intersay share of 6.635% in the demographic performance criteria compared to overall intersay share 4.047%. In the 14th Finance Commission period, overall share was 4.305%" she states.
Deputy Chairman Harivansh calls on MoS Home G. Kishan Reddy to introduce the Government of National Capital. Territory of Delhi (Amendment) Bill, 2021. Opposition MPs start shouting. Leader of Opposition Mallikarjun Kharge says this Bill will reduce powers of elected government. MoS Reddy moving the motion to introduce the Bill amid commotion.
House adjourned.
Voting on appropriations Bill begins. Rajya Sabha votes to return the Jammu and Kashmir appropriations Bills. Appropriations Bills returned.
Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman thanks the 25 members who have spoken. "Many have spoken on the Budget instead of the Finance Bill. I welcome it as it is very important. One thing I want to say that there is no change in the rate of income tax. There are some changes in the IT Act that is largely to do with ease of doing business. Many commentators have talked about compliance burden. There are some great changes in Customs," she says.
"Until the end of August from April, we will look at rationalize the Customs structure. There are in the Finance Bill few new proposals which have been added. One is Tax exemption for the National Bank for financing infrastructure and development, because it is an important step we are taking," she adds.
She says: "We had announced an infrastructure pipeline and that pipeline has already identified 7000 greenfield and brownfield projects. We need to have them constructed in coordination with the State governments and also with some private partnership. Scheduled commercial banks should not be getting into long term infrastructure funding, because that's not core business for a bank. Banks should be lending short term and earn money out of it and the kind of risks that the infrastructure investment requires cannot be faced by the scheduled commercial banks"
"Therefore, there is a need felt to have a development finance institution for that we need to give some tax exemptions," she claims.
To a query on why Customs Duty on items like nut-bolts and other household items, the Minister says many of these items are being produced by MSMEs through the country and India's MSMEs have the capability to produce. "Punjab is quite famous for such works. As opposed to that, imports at throwaway rates were coming but they were of very poor quality...in terms of safety standards, particularly for toys were pathetic. Even Ministers before me in commerce, had taken all kinds of steps to stop poor-safety-standard toys coming from you know where," she says.
Sumedhanand Saraswati, BJP MP from Rajasthan is speaking now. He talks about corruption during Congress rule. "Modi ji stopped corruption," he claims. He praises the government for providing vaccines. He mentions about setting up a Uranium Research centre in his constituency. He said farmers should point out shortcomings of the farm laws and speak with the govt.
Pinaki Misra of Biju Janata Dal speaking now. He says: "This bill is being passed under trying times. Only the fourth time that the economy has contracted by 7.7%."
"There is a need to tell the House what happens going forward. There is heavy reliance on disinvestment. Past track has been rather poor. The tax revenue is supposed to increase 16 % in 2021-22. Don't understand how that is going to happen. You have to be bold about direct taxes," he adds.
"If only 1.5 crore pay taxes out of 135 crores, you have to be bold. There are, at least, 5000 paan walas who are crorepati. That's because of high tax rates and complicated procedures. There is still a very large cash economy. Tens of thousands of crore that are being transferred through hawala. I want to make it clear that I don't speak on behalf of the party. But I want to ask to tax the big contract farmer who move around SUVs. The Prime Minister can do it," says Mr. Misra.
"On FDI, I have to caution the government. Retrospective taxation is an anathema in this country. Ministry officials should hold discussion with investors," he states.
MoS Anurag Thakur replying to the discussion. Why did Puducherry's government fall, or why your governments in other states fell, is because you weren't capable, he says. Delhi government reduced drinking age from 25 to 21 to increase revenue and has an advertisement budget of ₹500 crore. ₹512 crore has been allocated for tourism in J&K, which is more than many other States. There is a 7% increase in the Budget for J&K this year compared to last year, he says.
"We will be giving homes to 6,000 Kashmiri pandits. The andolanjeevis standing up for farmers have been unmasked," he says.
"When China was threatening us, some Opposition leader went to have Chinese soup with the ambassador. They could not buy any bullet proof years, we bought 2 lakh bullet proof jackets and Rafale jets," he adds.
Mr. Thakur says the Opposition cites international reports and data when convenient but does not mention them when they forecast GDP growth. "We have been accused of being a Hindu party. We talk of sabka saath, sabka vishwas . We have worked for progress for all. Corporate tax rate is the lowest in India to boost manufacturing and employment generation. Some people are reducing drinking age, we are working to bring schemes to increase employment like the production-linked incentives," he adds.
Shwait Malik (BJP) says PM's promise of minimum government, maximum governance has come true. Prime Minister Narendra Modi should get the award for best corona warrior in the world, he says. He talks about high prices of cooking gas, fast rate of privatisation and how it will reduce reservation for SCs, STs and OBC as public sector would become private sector.
Hanuman Beniwal of RLP is speaking now and urges the government to withdraw the farm laws. He mentions increasing prices of petrol and diesel and asks the government to reduce it
Anil Firojiya, BJP MP from Ujjain is now speaking. He says Nirmala Sitharaman is managing the economy just like a grandmother or mother or an elder sister would do when a family faces a crisis. This budget is taking the economy foward not like a Rajdhani but like a Bullet Train.
Danish Ali of BSP is speaking now. He raises the issue of farmers and says PM Kisan Samman Nidhi for over 1 lakh farmers in Hapur and Amroha but has come down substantially.
Narain Dass Gupta (Aam Aadmi Party) says he fails to understand how India will achieve the target of $5 trillion economy by 2024 as all GDP, employment have been falling.
The Centre is giving step motherly treatment to Delhi, he alleges.
The government is selling PSUs to meet deficit as they failed to generate revenue and employment. The PSUs are making profits and doing well. He asks the Finance Minister to reduce petrol prices by reducing duties.
Rahul Shewale of Shiv Sena is now speaking. He raises the issue of taxing the senior citizens and asks for a special policy for them. He also raises discrepancy in different pension and provident fund schemes.
He also raises issue of petroleum products in Maharashtra.
Syed Nasir Hussain (Congress) says the elected government in Puducherry was destabilised a month before elections.
Allocation for Puducherry is not even half of what the 14th Finance Commission recommended. The government should give data of what they have done in Jammu and Kashmir in the past two years, he adds.
Two years after abrogation of Article 370, the government has no plan to increase allocations for J&K.
If Bhagat Singh was alive today, he would have been standing at Singhu border against you, he says.
Navneet Rana, independent MP from Maharashtra spoke about the Bill helping long-term infrastructure. “I congratulate Finance Minister for looking at infrastructure despite the disruptions because of the coronavirus pandemic. She raised the issue of MPLAD Funds and said though she is not happy with the situation, she is fine if it is spent on health. She further said that Maharashtra charged the highest VAT on petroleum products.
Ashok Bajpayi of the BJP said, "There was negative growth due to the COVID-19 pandemic and the government took steps for the welfare of the people."
Syed Nasir Hussain of the Congress said the elected government in Puducherry was destabilised a month before elections. "Allocation for Puducherry is not even half of what the 14th Finance Commission recommended."
Ram Mohan Naidu of the TDP spoke about the Visakhapatnam Steel Plant and said, “We are totally opposed to it. The plant was a result of 7-8 years of agitation by the Telugu people and 32 people sacrificed their lives.”
He gave data to the effect that it is not a sick unit and it is earning profits. “The steel unit has given back ₹43,000 crore in taxes and dividends. The plant need captive steel mines. Provide a level playing field and give them lower interest loans. Around 80 % of iron ore is going to China.” He praised Atal Bihari Vajpayee's help to the Steel Plant.
Subhash Chandra Baheria, BJP MP from Rajasthan said honest tax payers are not harassed and thanks to the government for not increasing the taxes.
K. Ravindra Kumar of the TDP said the present government came to power with the assurance of special status for Andhra Pradesh, but they have unfortunately forgotten it.
Syed Imtiaz Jaleel, the AIMIM MP from Madhya Pradesh, raised the issue of MPLAD Funds and said the fund is used to develop their Constituencies. He said the BJP MPs can't say this openly and that's why they requested us in Central Hall to raise this on the floor of the House. He asked why the Minorities Budget being slashed.
He asked, “Why the BJP has not cleared ₹28,000 crore in GST just because the Shiv Sena is not in your good books.” He said MPLAD funds are being spent on the Prime Minister's dream project of a new Parliament. “Do we need this at this time? Or a special aircraft for the Prime Minister.” He raised the issue of Freedom House report and said country is going towards dictatorship.
Sudheer Gupta, BJP MP from Madhya Pradesh lauded the government for converting adversity into an opportunity. He said the government follows the principle of ‘antodyay’. He mentioned about the quality of affordable education under this government and about the New Education Policy. He also mentioned about the 15,000 new model schools, a Central university at Leh, Atal Tinkering Lab that is facilitating innovations and new medical colleges. He said that ‘Beti Bachao Beti Padhao’ Budget has been hiked and the Budget has increased allocation without any new taxes. He mentioned about the plans to set up 10,000 new Farmers' Producer Organisation.
He said PM Kisan Samman Nidhi, Crop Insurance, Mudra loans, health, education has been focus and said, “Instead of figures, come to rural areas in my Constituency.”
Manoj Kumar Jha of the RJD said, “If Bihar progresses, the country will progress.” He asked the Finance Minister to look at Bihar as not just as a voting State and labour-providing State. He said the digital divide shouldn't increase during the pandemic asked the government to think of allocations for education and health.
Virendra Singh Mast of the BJP said that this government takes care of rural, poor and farmers. “Nirmala ji has taken care of people like a mother would take care of her children. Today, I remember Dr. Ram Manohar Lohia and can say that Atma Nirbhar Abhiyan will realise Dr. Lohia's and Deen Dayal Upadhyaya's dream.” He said that he is a farmer and that he knows the reality. “I can say that there is a question mark on their agitation. Farming is different in various parts of the country. It's different from Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, Haryana and Maharashtra. What kind of agitation is that they are not willing to talk? What about the farmers who agree with the laws? I request the farmers that they should talk to resolve their issues. The corona has taught us to live with the nature.”
He said that the government has decided to buy cow-dung from all the farmers. “Once Rahul Gandhi went to U.P. and asked about what about toilets for cattle. He talks about the Congress’ opposition to Adani and Ambani and says they don't emerge in one day.”
Ram Gopal Yadav of the Samajwadi Party said, "Something should have been for small industries during the pandemic. Where will you get resources in five years? We will have nothing left but agriculture. Pakistan, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh and China are all higher than us in the International Happiness Index. We are 139 out of 149. The truth is that people of the country are unhappy."
Hasnain Masoodi of Jammu and Kashmir National Conference begins by the hardship faced by the migrant workers and then says in that background, “One has to be appreciative of the efforts made subsequently.” He said the main issue is the absence of tax breaks and the second issue is the alarming rate of disinvestment. He pointed out that Swadeshi was a BJP slogan. He said that lack of focus on healthcare is another factor. Over ₹8,000 crore were spent in getting VIP planes but that could have gone to get critical care ambulances. He cited the loss of ₹40,000 crore impact to tourism sector in Jammu and Kashmir.
Preneet Kaur of Congress spoke about the minus 23 % contraction of the economy, and that agriculture has been the silver lining. She said that experts are questioning the presence of green shoots and there has been no relief for the salaried class and that it’s a big let-down. The relief given to senior citizens is not an exemption from the income tax. Another issue is the agriculture infrastructure tax, but doesn't go to the general pool. Audit report says the government kept 40 % of the cess with the consolidated fund. Finance Bill contains several provisions that don't strictly qualify to be a money Bill. She raised the issue of stopping MPLAD Funds and the issue of Asha workers and the problems faced by them.
Manoj Kishorbhai Kotak of the Bharatiya Janata Party praised the efforts taken by the government in managing the economy during the pandemic. “When MPs spoke about their States, they should have thanked Modi ji for providing them with PPEs, ventilators, etc., When many economies are struggling, our economy has shown resilience.”
He praised India's role in providing vaccines to smaller nations. “When Modi ji talked about Digital India, Opposition MPs used to ask how we could do it when there are hardly phones. Today, the Opposition MPs can't deny that poor benefitted from direct benefit transfer during the pandemic.”
He recounted the boost for Atma Nirbhar Abhiyan and ‘Vocal for Local’ campaign. While praising the government paying refunds, he said there are some issues regarding refund in integrated bank accounts and that there are some confusions regarding Tax Collected at Source and Tax Deducted at Source. “Our government is a committed government that honours honest tax payers.” He quoted PM Modi to say that BJP government is a government of schemes while the Opposition governments were governments of scams.
Sudhanshu Trivedi of the BJP says, “There is a need to become free of the negative mindset based on internationally published reports on India.” He said that democracy has gone to the grassroots level in Jammu and Kashmir and funds have been allocated for the district and block development councils. He said that the government has taken steps for the migrants in Kashmir also.
M. Thambidurai of the AIADMK says, "Our party supported the Budget last time, and even now we are supporting. Finance Minister and Prime Minister presented the Budget amidst the COVID-19 crisis. Nirmala Sitharaman knows the pulse of the nation and the home since she's a woman." He said that India has become a powerful country and the Budget allocations for defence shows that.
"Tamil Nadu CM has written so many letters to the PM and FM over GST. The GST rates should also be reduced," Mr. Thambidurai said.
Prashant Nanda (BJD) supports the Bill, however raised certain issues of Centre-State sharing.
Referring to Ritesh Pandey's speech on privatisation and disinvestment, Supriya Sule of the Nationalist Congress Party asks, “Are we hurting the economic sovereignty of the country going by the pace of disinvestment?" She said FM Sitharaman asserted that family silver is not being sold but the signs and symptoms give us that sense.
Ms. Sule asks a question about taxation on petroleum products and asks the FM to elaborate on the topic. She highlights the problems faced by the State governments during the pandemic. Ms. Sule mentions about duties on extra long stable cotton that is affecting the manufacturers of textiles such as bed sheets etc., and asks the government to take a relook. "More so, because of the threat of cheap finished textiles." she said. She asks about the government printing of additional ₹3 lakh crores and if it is the right time.
Ms. Sule also raised questions about the pending ₹28,000 crore in GST. She has also urged the Centre to relook the prices of petrol, diesel and LPG and help the States. The NCP also raised the issue of Punjab Maharashtra Bank and a quick resolution.
Shakti Sinh Gohil said, "The government is insensitive towards the farmers and this is evident from the cut in the subsidy for fertilizers." He further said that if the vaccination goes on at this pace it will take 18 years for it to be completed.
"The federal structure of the Constitution should be preserved. What did you do in Puducherry. Please don't impose andolan jeevi as Lt. Governor to interfere in the working of an elected government."
Nama Nageshwar Rao of the TRS said, “Exemption on filing returns to be extended to those with income under ₹5 lakh. Telangana government has a scheme of double bedroom houses for the BPL, this should be considered across the country. He said that the import duty has been raised on cotton from 10% to 15%. “Telangana produces quality cotton and we require protection and promotion of farmers beyond just hike in import duty,” he said.
"Andhra Pradesh Reorganisation Act has many pending provisions. I request the government to sort out pending issues, Mr. Rao said. He requested second phase of Hyderabad metro and a mega textile park. "We can accommodate the mega powerloom from Sircilla," he said.
"Telangana is the only State providing 100% drinking water to all households. Therefore, the Centre should consider ₹5,000 crore devolution funds."
Ritesh Pandey of the BSP said, “Government’s plans to disinvest PSUs and raise funds has been brought in as an amendment in the finance Bill, the BSP believes this will hurt the country. The government may be within its rights to disinvest, but the effect of exercising this right will hurt the country.” He said that capitalism is mired in greed.
“PSUs will be sold. People hired under reservations will lose their jobs and a respectable space in the society, which the private sector does not extend. We need to defeat this ideology,” he said.
He said that privatisation hadn’t helped anyone. “Look at Iceland, the U.S., private capital only thinks of profit and not public good. We need to be alert against the long-term consequences of privatisation.”
With regard to the Kisan Cess on petrol and diesel, he said, “The commensurate cut in excise to prevent pressure on consumers used to accrue to the States, so they have been cheated out of revenue.” He said that people should be given some relief from high diesel and petrol prices. “Offline transactions will have an equalisation levy; and 2% tax on online transactions, how does that square with your drive to encourage digital transactions,” he asked.
"Government is just searching around in the empty pockets of the people to somehow collect revenue." he said.
Muraleedharan, MOS Parliamentary Affairs, said, "We have to discuss the Appropriation Bill and the Budget of Pudducherry."
Jairam Ramesh said that on October 28, 2020, the government released an Ordinance for Constituting Commission for Air Quality Management, but unfortunately, that Ordinance was allowed to lapse on March 12. This happens rarely, particularly in this government. The BAC has allotted 2-3 hours. We are in the fag end of the session, we have only two more days to go. I would like a clarification from the government on the Ordinance."
MOS Finance moves The Appropriation Bill 2021, Budget of Union Territory of Puducherry, 2021-22, and The annual and Kashmir Appropriation Bill, 2021.
Shakti Sinh Gohil of the Congress said, "The government Budget figures show that there is a revenue deficit of 11 lakh crore. And I am sure that by the end of the financial year, they will cross this figure too. In 2020-21, the revenue deficit was more than six lakh crore. But when you revised it far exceeded it."
Mr. Gohil said, "The Union excise duties in 2020-21 was at ₹2.2 lakh crore and now it is ₹3.71 lakh crore, the money that the common man has to give. You wanted to increase the GDP of the country, instead you hiked the fuel rates. Your policies have been complimentary towards the corporate world."
Sunil Kumar Pintu (JDU) commends FM on the Budget. He commends the PM and the FM for not levying any new tax despite pandemic. "Exemption from filing returns for those above 75 years should be modified to those above 70 years, he said.
"Late fine on small business owners on GST should be waived and an outer limit on the quantum of the fine. The country’s traders filled the coffers of the government despite the pandemic and deserve some relief on compliance and quantum of GST." He said that Bihar should also be given Special Category Status.
"Instead of splitting the costs on the schemes, the Centre and the States should divide schemes among themselves to be financed completely by one entity only. This will end cost escalation as bureaucracy extends red tape lead to wastage," he said.
Vinayak Rout said, “Unfortunately 6.8 lakh companies in India have shut shops and 74% small businesses and more than 10,000 firms are closed."
He said that employment should be at the centre of planning and that hotel and aviation sectors should be encouraged as employment generators on a large scale.
"Corporate sectors, on the other hand, saw a write off of ₹68,000 crore from the government. People have died because of the crises of the GST and pandemic. Nearly 71 lakh EPF accounts have been closed."
He further said that the policy of privatisation being followed by the government is worrisome. "Does this government want to sell the country so that only “one nation, two men” are left standing," he asked.
"We don’t object to PM buying an aircraft worth ₹7,500 crore but why deprive MPs of a few crore of MPLADS from which we help our constituents," he said.
Mithun Reddy of the YSRCP said that advance GST payment should not be pushed just to harass private sector. Objections are being raised to selling profitable PSUs. He said, "I strongly oppose the privatisation of the Vishakhapatnam Steel Plant. It has a huge land bank and there are ways to leverage resources to deal with the debt. Even the Andhra Pradesh BJP has opposed privatisation of Vishakhapatnam Steel Plant."
He further said, MSME has a fear psychosis with regard to the GST, which has had more than 900 amendments to the Act and has "confused" all. "Collection of tax should not choke businesses," he said.
Vinayak Rout of the Shiv Sena said, "More than 100 supplementary amendments form part of the finance Bill which we are now debating. When the Budget was presented she delineated eight sectors as priority sectors and we agreed on priority areas."
"The pandemic has played havoc with the economy and the society. In such a situation, the common needs to be at the Centre of any revival plan. The priority area with regard to agriculture was of doubling income. It shows that farmers are agitating on Delhi’s doorstep for the last three months. No attempts have been made to understand their issues, just words that farmers income needs to be doubled. This government is in fact most harsh on farmers."
He said that diesel and petrol has been taxed at 2% additional cess in the name of farmers and that this hurts the farmers the most. "You have distributed gas cyclinders but priced it over ₹850 per month. PM had said that he would bring diesel and petrol under the GST, as did late Finance Minister Arun Jaitley, but it has not happened."
"I hope the FM gives an assurance, in her speech, that it will be done."
He commends the government on vaccine initiatives but said that it has to be distributed free to as many people as possible. “Public health systems need to be boosted and AYUSH needs to be encouraged.”
Rajendra Agarwal, continuing to speak, gives examples, "Setting up of category of aspirational districts, concentration of development of north east," to prove his point that Mr. Modi ensured the development of everyone.
"The corona crisis was huge. The economy shrunk and common man suffered. But the government handled it well and the world saw our efforts."
"When you (Congress) say that disinvestment goals may not be reached, you must acknowledge you left them unfit for disinvestment. Air India is just an example. I commend the Finance Minister for not introducing a single new tax in the budget."
"In cricket, every century is important. But when the pitch is uneven, the century made then is more valued. The Finance Minister has made an extraordinary century this time around."
Mithun Reddy of the YSRCP congratulates Ms. Sitharaman on the budget under difficult circumstances. It is a fine balance between fiscal and government spending. But having said that, I want to stress that the economy was going down from even before the pandemic onset."
He requests the Minister to release funds due to States. "Nevar cyclone devastated the area. We request that Rs. 2270 crores be released soon. Under MGNREGA, Rs. 3000 crores is pending for material components and many BPL people are dependent on the scheme."
For the last two years, Andhra Pradesh is eligible for Rs. 700 crores for backward districts, he says, requesting that the money be released.
"We were promised special category status under the AP Reorganisation Act. We need the promises made to us to be fulfilled. We are running on borrowed finances. We only have enough to pay salaries. States like AP, that implemented population control measures, are being punished now," Mr. Reddy says.
If projects are delayed by more than two years, loss per year should be calculated, he says.
Fauzia Khan of NCP asks if the government will train ASHA workers for digital operations. Dr. Vardhan syas, "There is no doubt that ASHA workers are the greatest asset in health delivery system. As far as online training is concerned, in the last one year, during the lockdown months, the training has been largely done online."
Sukhram Singh Yadav of SP asks if the Centre has given any direction to the State governments to increase the pace of COVID-19 vaccination.
Dr. Vardhan says, "The Centre and the sSate governments are closely coordinating. Even recently, PM Modi had spoken to the State CMs."
Mr. Yadav says, "Private hospitals in many cities, including Delhi, have got land on subsidised rates. But these hospitals do nothing for the poor. Is there a mechanism to address the problem?"
Dr. Vardhan says that Health is in the State list and they have the regulatory power.
Bhagwat Karad of BJP asks, "Will you increase vaccine distribution in States like Maharashtra where the number of COVID-19 cases are rising?"
Dr. Vardhan replies, "Each State has been provided with enough number of shots and they get more depending on their vaccine coverage."
Ramgopal Yadav of SP asks what happens to those who are not getting the vaccine.
Dr. Vardhan says that the government had run a detailed campaign to deal with vaccine hesitancy.
The House is adjourned till 2:00 p.m. for lunch break.
Rajendra Agarwal of the BJP says, "In 2014, when PM Modi was elected, he declared his government was for the oppressed and the depressed, and for the empowerment of the poor and women. And the last seven years have been witness to it."
He recounts Gandhiji’s talisman. "Congress now has nothing to do with Bapu. The “Gandhi” they follow is different. But PM Modi followed these tenets. Jan Dhan Yojana, DBT, etc., have restored confidence of the people that what is meant for them will reach them. All indices have reflected this change."
Mr. Agarwal says, "There were two major mistakes the Congress governments made. One, the adoption of leftist policies for the economy, which led to license quota Raj, and corruption. We saw all this in the Soviet Union and in India too.Chaudhary Charan Singh stood against collectivisation of agriculture.
"The second was the blunder of 1962, which grew from this Leftist tilt. If anyone has forced China to remain in its territory, it is PM Modi. Liberalisation happened in 1991, but under international pressure. The result was that we grew as a market ,but not as a big manufacturing power."
"The growth rate that we left in 2004 under Vajpayeeji, that of 8.4%, the UPA left it at 4.8% in 2014. We didn’t obfuscate or hide the truth. We have been transparent in our budgeting figures," he says.
Amar Singh of the Congress intervenes to appreciate transparency in budget numbers.
Mr. Agarwal continues, "The Congress, in the past only pandered to their vote banks. Former PM declared that the first right on the country’s resources was of minorities. Can there be a worse example of vote bank politics? PM Modi spoke of Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas."
Dr. Singh continues: "The C&AG has said, looking at 2018-19, Rs. 1.6 crores not given to those to whom it was due. What about revenue foregone after disinvestment of PSUs which contribute Rs. 1.5 lakh crores to you? Health outlays are too low, it is not even at last year ‘s levels. Why are you adding outlays for water and sanitation to the health budget? Many private hospitals shut shop and run away during the pandemic. Only government doctors, nurses abd ASHA workers did the real work and you haven’t referenced them in you budget. You need to also increase outlays for raising Human Resources in the health sector. 65-70% of all spending by people is on private sector in the health sector. That has to be brought down."
"Malnutrition and anaemia has shown an increase and you need to address this. MGNREGA allocations last year were appreciated but why bring it down for this financial year?" says Dr. Singh.
He says, "An urban-based employment guarantee act is also required. Please restore MPLADS so MPs can help constituents. 1.6 to 2 lakh job losses were reported during the lockdown according to CMIE data. What are you going to do to address it? Capital expenditure under the NDA on defence is lower than that under UPA. Injustice has been done to Punjab. Our pending GST compensation hasn’t been paid. Pay it monthly, also extend compensation period to beyond 2022."
"I demand that when you respond, you announce that you have increased allocations to health and for employment and to reduce cess on fuel."
Mr. Thakur responds, "Respected Member comes from the economic capital of the country and a while back the ruckus in the House was..." (ruckus in the House doesn't let him finish at this point).
Deputy Chairman Harivansh insists that the Minister answer the questions only.
On the 59-minute loan platform, the Minister says, "we have already sanctioned Rs. 60,000 crores."
Sonal Mansingh, Nominated Member, says, "Culture Ministry is an expert in giving vague answers. How many cultural institutions exist across the nation?"
Prahalad Patel, Tourism Minister responds, "All the necessary information has been given to the Members. I don't agree with her statement that the Ministry gives wrong information."
BJP MP Jyotiraditya Scindia asks the Minister to explain the steps taken by the government to make ASI profitable.
Narendra Jhadav, Nominated Member says, "Most museums in our country are no better than godowns. Has the government taken any steps with regards developing a financial model which will help the museums operate on funds they generate themselves?"
Mr. Patel replies, "I don't agree with the Member's description. Our museums have so many artifacts that only 6 to 8% of the artifacts can be displayed at one point of time."
Iranna Kadadi of the BJP asks about the steps taken to counter anemia, specifically in context of Karnataka.
Health Minister Harsh Vardhan says that up to 50% pregnant women are still anemic. "Despite so many years we have not been able uproot anemia. We are working in this direction."
Papers being tabled in the House. Mentions under rule 377 being tabled.
Ravneet Singh Bittu of Congress says it has been 89 years since Bhagat Singh was martyred and, "I salute him on behalf of my party and country". "Today, a big scheme should have been announced in Bhagat Singh’s name."
MoS Parliamentary Affairs Arjun Meghwal requests that the Finance Bill be taken up first.
The Chair agrees.
FM Nirmala Sitharaman moves that the Bill to be taken into consideration.
Dr. Amar Singh of the Congress says, "I rise to oppose the Finance Bill on several points. We know the country is going through its toughest time through the ages. We know that while the government wants to push the blame on the pandemic, the fact is that the GDP was sliding even before that. We have been hit very hard by the pandemic as well. Employment, health, everything was hit. In the field of education, the digital divide emerged very starkly. The most important consequence is the speed with which inequality is growing in our country."
Mr. Singh continues, "Except agriculture, all sectors were hit, yet we are only looking at organised sector data. NSSO should have been asked to do a survey on the unorganised sector as well. When lockdown occurred, it was this non-formal sector that was hit. The migrant crisis has not been referenced at all. Some rebound has to take place after a lockdown but the real question is when we will go back to pre-2020 levels. You may say that you spent, spent, spent but the truth is, you have taxed the poor and let off the rich."
"Rs 1.5 lakh crore of corporate tax was let off by you in 2019-20. Your government is only giving tax relief to the rich. You are centralising taxes, you have increased cess and surcharges that amount to 24% of revenue. You keep them with you, and don’t share with States that spend 60% of the money. Where do you want to take the states?" he asks.
Mithun Reddy of YSRCP says in 2014, the NDA manifesto promised special status to Andhra Pradesh. "The Act is for 10 years, and seven years have already gone. We don’t want a package we only want Special Status."
Mr. Rai says, "I have clarified earlier that most issues are those that have to be resolved between the States of AP and Telangana. I Request both States to resolve these issues."
NaMo Nageshwar Rao of TRS says, "There is no such issue between the two States, the pending issues are all concerned with the Centre. Since you asked for specific issues, I ask, when are you giving a rail coach factory to Kazipet?"
Mr. Rai responds, "We are not saying there is a fight, but issues."
Question Hour ends.
Question Hour begins.
GST collection has increased in last three months, says MOS Finance, Anurag Thakur. "The measures taken by by government over the last year to deal with the COVID-19 pandemic has sped up the economic activity."
Ayodhya Rami Reddy says, "I would like to know about the consortium of lenders to recover the NPAs and the centre's road map about NPAs."
Mr. Thakur says that there has been a reduction in gross NPAs. "More than 2.34 lakh crores has been recovered."
"The Insolvency, Bankruptcy Code that we brought in has helped in NPA recovery. Banking has vastly improved from phone banking to digital banking. We have brought in a great deal of transparency," Mr. Thakur says.
Neeraj Dangi of the Congress asks, "Will the government explain if public sector banks will also bring in digital banking like the private banks."
Mr. Thakur responds, "7 out of the 12 public banks have been taken up on priority to introduce digital lending."
Vijay Sai Reddy of YSR Congress asks how the public sector banks will help rural customers. Mr. Thakur says that banking is available in regional languages.
Anil Desai of Shiv Sena says the platform for providing and processing loans in 59-minutes has miserably failed.
Rajeev Satav of Congress says the Bombay High Court should be renamed as Mumbai High Court. "This request has been pending for a long time," he says
BJP MP Sushil Modi says, "I had given a notice to discuss the Maharashtra police."
Chairman Naidu appeals to all Members to sit down and asks that no slogans be raised in the house. "I have not allowed it. This is not going on record."
Mr. Naidu tries to bring the House in the order as the Treasury Benches begin protests.
"I am just stepping inside the House," Mr. Naidu says. Deputy Chairman Harvansh is in the chair now.
Both, NCP leader Sharad Pawar and Shiv Sena MP Sanjay Raut, were present inside the House at the time of protests by the BJP Members.
Chaya Verma, Congress: under the eco fuel policy if the centre the Chhattisgarh govt makes ethanol. We have urged in the past too that ethanol produced from paddy should be given the same rate as ethanol manufactured by the sugarcane industry
Vijay Pal Singh Tomar of BJP asks that Hastinapur be made part of Sri Krishna tourist sector. "This area needs a rail line."
Manoj K. Jha of RJD says, "I demand for the institution of a Bhagat Singh Chair. It is unfortunate that his ideas of universal brotherhood are little understood. Instituting a chair in his name in every central university will help us understand Bhagat Singh and his philosophy better. Bhagat Singh's idea regarding democracy should be studied."
Jagadambika Pal of BJP asks if the government would consider direct cash transfer to farmers on fertiliser rather than to companies. "The committee set up on this has yet to come up with a plan."
Mr. Gowda responds that the government’s intention is direct cash transfer to farmers, but several things need to debated and discussed. "The Committee under Cabinet Secretary met and discussed, but we must consult with stakeholders on how this can be done."
Mr. Pal says, "My question was on when all these discussions will fructify."
Mr. Gowda responds that several States have already given their opinion. "And, within a short time, we should be able to come to a decision on how this is to be done."
Feroze Varun Gandhi of BJP says transfers to farmers were more productive during sowing season than non sowing seasons. "Are we therefore looking at cropping pattern for DBT?" Mr. Gowda says that that is an issue of the Agriculture Ministry.
Harsimrat Kaur Badal of Akali Dal asks, "Which stakeholders have you consulted on Direct Cash Transfer on fertilisers in Punjab?"
Mr. Gowda says, "I can spell out specific suggestions when the report is finalised."
Ram Mohan Naidu Kinjarappu of TDP says, "I have received an insulting and brief answer to my detailed question to the Home Ministry on the AP Reorganisation Act. Is the Minister willing to publish a white paper on this?"
Nityanand Rai, MoS Home, says, "Answer has been clear. There are many issues that governments of AP and Telangana have to sort out between themselves and the Home Ministry has done a lot to facilitate it."
"The issues that are pending are mostly those concerning bilateral resolution between the two State governments, rather than the Centre."
Mr. Naidu says, "When the bill was passed in 2014, AP was promised Special Status, former PM, current PM both promised."
Mr. Rai says, "The 14th Finance Commission had spelt out that no State will be accorded the special status but a special financial package had been given to AP."
Meenakshi Lekhi of BJP says auto-immune diseases are on the rise, "due to gluten-filled flour. Gluten is being added even to millets and coarse grains to make it easy to knead. Is there any step being taken to prevent this?"
Mr. Rupala replies that a decision to celebrate millets via an international millets day has been taken and "we are in the process of promoting millets and coarse grains".
Uday Pratap Singh of BJP speaks on imports of fertiliser. "Can the use of chemical fertiliser be disincentivised?"
Sadananda Gowda, Minister for Chemicals and Fertilisers, says many steps have been taken to discourage chemical fertilisers and to encourage organic fertilisers. "A plan has been prepared for an increased push for nano fertilisers."
Manish Tewari of Congress says the government is going ahead with disinvestment in National Fertilliser Limited. "Can the fund raised by this not be sent to the consolidated fund of India but to encourage use of green fertilisers?"
Mr. Gowda says the suggestion is well taken, and adds, "So far, disinvestment has not been initiated."
Chitta Anuradha of YSRCP speaks about private sector participation in FPI. Mr. Rupala says there are plans afoot and "please apply via States".
Amar Patnaik of BJD says women farmers continue to be invisible. "There is stereotypical male-dominated leadership even iners' the present farm agitation. The women farmers have to be recognised. Only 30% of these women farmers have land rights."
Prasanna Acharya of BJD says, "Today is the day, 100 years back, Mahatma Gandhi came to Odisha for the first time. Three years later, he came again, this time to Sambhalpur Railway station. The Railway Ministry has decided to permanently shut down this station. Widespread agitation is going on in the region against this decision. The station has been in existence since 1895."
Sanjay Jadhav of Shiv Sena asks if a seed bank will be opened in Parbhani (his constituency).
Mr. Rupala replies, "I would like the MP to share with me the difficulty of the farmers in his constituency in accessing seeds. We ask each State, a year in advance, on stocks required and provide for the same. So please apply within time to the State government."
Raghuram Krishna Raju of YSRCP says FPO is a good concept, "is there is any plan by the Centre to initiate a seed revolution via FPOs?"
Mr. Rupala again tells the MP this is a good suggestion. "Our basic problem is that we have a large number of small holdings. To improve collective bargaining, the FPO concept was floated. Currently, seed corporation of India and in States are doing the job of seed production. If FPOs want to join, that can be allowed."
Darshana Jardosh of BJP says sarpanches have been empowered under various schemes, "but what about zila and taluka panchayats?" Mr. Rupala says this has been addressed under 15th Finance Commission.
Dr. L. Hanumanthaiah of Congress says the U.T. of Lakshadweep has about 70,000 population with a very low crime rate. "The implementation of Prevention of Anti-Social Act (PASA Act) in the U.T. would infringe upon the people's consitutional rights," he says, since "the existing laws are more than enough to deal with the crimes happening in the territory. "The Act should be kept in abeyance."
M. Thambidurai of AIADMK says, "The AIADMK has always stood by people fighting for justice and equality. Not just Tamils in Sri Lanka, but we extend support to those fighting for human rights in other countries like Palestine. How do we establish peace? Peace can be established only by bringing the accused to justice. I urge the government to vote in favor of UNHRC resolution against Sri Lanka."
Jaya Bachchan of the SP says, "We have spoken multiple times about manual scavengers, and yet, there has been only a marginal improvement. It is a pity that we are still talking about death of manual scavengers. Why can't we get them protective kits? We are talking about going to Mars. And yet, we still employ manual scavengers. This is a national embarrassment."
Question Hour begins.
Vishnu Dutt Sharma of BJP speaks on provisioning of gram sabhas with computers in Khajuraho under Rashtriya Gram Swaraj Yojana.
Parshottam Rupala, MoS Agriculture and Farmers Welfare, says information has been provided. He gives details of funds, specifically accruing to 300 gram panchayats in Madhya Pradesh.
Mr. Sharma says, "according to information by Minister, no computers have been provided to Khajuraho. Will that be done now? Also will a computer operator be appointed?
Mr. Rupala asks Mr. Sharma to apply to the State government for specific allocation.
Poonam Madam of BJP says that zila panchayat and taluka panchayats also require funds for the same. Mr. Rupala responds that panchayats have been directly given funds under the 14th Finance Commission. "Zila parishads felt left out. So, under the 15th Finance Commission, funds will be given to them."
Rajiv Pratap Rudy of BJP says Rs. 1.5 lakh is being given to gram panchayats for computerisation. "Are there plans for coordinating for auditing by MPs?" Mr. Rupala says this is a good suggestion made by Mr. Rudy.
Ajay Bhat of BJP asks a question on seed banks. "I want to know whether any scheme for seed banks are in the pipeline in hill States like Uttarakhand for preserving their traditional agriculture?"
Mr. Rupala says no such proposal is thought of currently. "But 1806 local variety of seeds have been registered and preserved."
Mr. Bhat asks id there is any proposal to set up a centre for promoting organic agriculture in Uttarakhand. Mr. Rupala responds, "For hilly States, there is a tradition of organic agriculture. Schemes are already in place for promotion of organic agriculture."
Rajya Sabha proceedings begin for the day.
Chairman Venkaiah Naidu makes a reference to the 90th anniversary of martyrdom of Bhagat Singh, Rajguru and Sukhdev.
"The trio have become household names for valour and patriotism," he says, and adds they are an inspiration for the entire nation.
Members stand in silence as a mark of respect.
Lok Sabha convenes for the day.
Kirit Solanki is in the chair. He reads out a homage to Bhagat Singh. Two minutes silence is observed in the House.
Lok Sabha
Bills for consideration and passing
The National Bank for Financing Infrastructure and Development Bill, 2021
The Finance Bill, 2021
Rajya Sabha
Bills for consideration and return
The Appropriation (No. 2) Bill, 2021
The Appropriation Bill, 2021
The Jammu and Kashmir Appropriation Bill, 2021
The Jammu and Kashmir Appropriation (No.2) Bill, 2021
The Puducherry Appropriation Bill, 2021
The Puducherry Appropriation (Vote on Account) Bill, 2021
Bill for consideration and passing
The Government of National Capital Territory of Delhi (Amendment) Bill, 202
