New Delhi

Proceedings in both Houses of Parliament were adjourned on Wednesday afternoon amid noisy scenes, with NDA-BJP MPs thumping their desks in support of the government, while Opposition members stood in protest demanding the withdrawal of a law. The Lok Sabha and the Rajya Sabha will reconvene on Thursday at 11 am.

President Droupadi Murmu addressed a joint sitting of Parliament on the opening day of the Budget Session 2026–27, outlining the Union government’s roadmap for inclusive growth, social justice and the goal of building a developed India.

The President delivered her address in the Lok Sabha chamber on the first day of the Seventh Session of the 18th Lok Sabha and the 270th Session of the Rajya Sabha.

Referring to the Viksit Bharat – Guarantee for Rozgar and Ajeevika Mission (Gramin) Bill, 2025 (VB-G RAM-G Bill), Murmu said the legislation had been framed to strengthen employment and development in rural areas. “Under this reform, villages will see an employment guarantee of 125 days,” she said.

Expressing her happiness at addressing Parliament, the President said the previous year had been significant for celebrating India’s rapid progress as well as its rich cultural legacy. She recalled nationwide observances marking 150 years of Vande Mataram, during which citizens paid homage to Bankim Chandra Chatterjee.

She also highlighted major national commemorations, including the 350th Shaheedi Diwas of Sri Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji, the 150th birth anniversary of tribal icon Birsa Munda, celebrations linked to Sardar Patel that strengthened the spirit of Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat, and events marking the birth anniversary of Bharat Ratna Bhupen Hazarika, which fostered unity through music and culture.

“When a nation remembers the contributions of its great ancestors, it inspires the younger generation and accelerates the journey towards Viksit Bharat,” the President said.

On social justice, Murmu said Dr B R Ambedkar had consistently championed equality and fairness, principles enshrined in the Constitution. “Every citizen should enjoy their rights without discrimination. My government is fully committed to genuine social justice,” she said.

She noted that nearly 25 crore people had moved out of poverty over the past decade and that efforts to empower the poor were being intensified in the government’s third term. Highlighting welfare outreach, she said social security schemes covered only about 25 crore people in 2014, but now nearly 95 crore citizens have access to such benefits.

Earlier, President Murmu was accorded a Guard of Honour upon her arrival at Parliament. Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Vice President C P Radhakrishnan, Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi and Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge were present during the address.

Both Houses also paid obituary tributes to former Bangladesh Prime Minister Khaleda Zia, who passed away on December 30, 2025, at the age of 80 while undergoing treatment at a hospital in Dhaka.

Parliament will break for recess on February 13 and reconvene on March 9 to allow Standing Committees to examine Demands for Grants of various ministries and departments. The Budget Session will span 30 sittings over 65 days and conclude on April 2.

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The Union Budget will be presented on February 1.