PM Modi: "First Parliament session without any 'videshi chingari'" in dig at Opposition ahead of Budget 2025

Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed the Parliament on January 31, 2025, as the Budget Session began. This session is split into two parts: the first phase will run from January 31 to February 13, while the second phase will resume on March 10 after a recess and conclude on April 4. Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman is scheduled to present the Union Budget 2025 on February 1, marking her eighth consecutive budget presentation, a record in Indian history. The most budget presentations by any Finance Minister remains with former Prime Minister Morarji Desai, who presented ten budgets.

In his speech, PM Modi remarked that this is the first time in the past decade that there has been no foreign interference ahead of a Parliament session. He stated, “Since 2014, this is the first Parliament session without any 'videshi chingari' (foreign sparks) being fanned,” signaling the absence of foreign attempts to disrupt the parliamentary proceedings. Over the years, such interference has been a recurring issue, often related to political and social tensions, but Modi emphasized the change this year.

The Prime Minister outlined the key themes of the Union Budget, focusing on innovation, inclusion, and investment. He described these as the guiding principles of India's economic agenda. The government aims to position India on a clear path towards becoming a "Viksit Bharat" (Developed India) by 2047, the centenary year of India’s independence. This vision seeks to transform the nation into an economic powerhouse by emphasizing technological innovation, sustainable growth, and greater financial inclusion.

Modi also highlighted the central role that women and youth would play in the country’s future. He noted that the Budget would focus on empowering women and the youth through targeted policies and reforms. “This budget will focus on 'Nari Shakti' (women empowerment) and youth, ensuring that they are at the forefront of India’s developmental journey,” he stated. He also mentioned that the government’s aim is to create a conducive environment for entrepreneurship and skill development, particularly for young people.

In terms of social welfare, the Prime Minister invoked Goddess Lakshmi and prayed for the prosperity of India’s poor and middle-class citizens. He expressed confidence that the Union Budget 2025 would generate trust and energy for economic development, benefiting all segments of society, especially those in need of financial assistance and support. The Budget is expected to focus on strengthening India’s social safety nets and creating more opportunities for economic mobility. The session will also include discussions on a range of historic bills and constitutional amendments, which will be debated in detail before being formed into laws.