Parliament convened on 12 March 2026 with discussions in both Houses focusing on fiscal policy, energy security and rural development programmes. In the Lok Sabha, the Speaker addressed the House at the conclusion of the two-day debate on the No-Confidence Motion against the Speaker, reflecting on parliamentary procedure and institutional traditions. The House then proceeded with deliberations on the Second Batch of Supplementary Demands for Grants for 2025–26, where members discussed additional fiscal allocations and the broader economic context, including global energy disruptions arising from developments in West Asia.
I. Key Highlights of The Proceedings:
The proceedings of the Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha commenced at 11:00 AM.
In the Lok Sabha, Shri Om Birla Ji (Speaker, Lok Sabha; BJP, Kota, Rajasthan) addressed the House at the conclusion of the two-day debate on the No-confidence Motion, noting that it was only the third such resolution in the nation’s history. He summarised the 12-hour discussion, praised India’s democratic traditions and freedom of expression and stated that he has recused himself from presiding over the proceedings after receiving the notice.
Referring to Shri Rahul Gandhi (Leader of Opposition; INC, Raebareli, Uttar Pradesh), he said that the members are free to speak but must follow parliamentary rules. He cited precedents involving Smt. Renu Chakravarty, and Shri S. M. Banerjee on the matter of seeking prior permission for displaying materials.
He also referred to initiatives undertaken during his tenure, including the digitisation of parliamentary work, capacity building, and translation in 22 languages, and noted that delegations from over 100 countries have visited the PRIDE (Parliamentary Research & Training Institute for Democracies) Committee of the Lok Sabha. He concluded by urging members to uphold parliamentary traditions and constitutional morality.
In the Lok Sabha, Smt. Sandhya Ray (BJP, Bhind, Madhya Pradesh) started the Discussion on the Second Batch of Supplementary Demands for Grants for 2025–26.
Shri Jagdambika Pal (BJP, Domariyagunj, Uttar Pradesh) highlighted supplementary grants of about ₹ 2.81 lakh crore, referring to global supply disruptions affecting the Strait of Hormuz due to West Asia war, rising crude prices from $ 89 to $ 119 per barrel.
Shri Shafi Parambil (INC, Vadakara, Kerala) raised concerns about LPG shortages linked to the West Asia conflict and accused the Government of creating a “cylinder crisis.” He also criticised growing inequality and declining employment under the MNREGA, stating that ground realities were not reflected in macroeconomic indicators.
Shri Kirti Azad (AITC, Bardhaman–Durgapur, West Bengal) raised concerns about rising LPG prices, stating that many beneficiaries of free connections were unable to afford refills costing ₹ 1100 – ₹ 1200. He urged investment in alternative energy sources such as biogas and alleged delays in the release of central funds to West Bengal, including dues under the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (MNREGA) and Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana Gramin (PMAY-G).
In the Lok Sabha, Shri Om Birla Ji (Speaker, Lok Sabha; BJP, Kota, Rajasthan) paused the discussion on the Second Batch of Demands of Grants for 2025-26 and invited Shri Rahul Gandhi (Leader of Opposition; INC, Raebareli, Uttar Pradesh) to speak on alleged LPG shortage issue due to the West Asia war.
Shri Rahul Gandhi (Leader of Opposition; INC, Raebareli, Uttar Pradesh) raised concerns regarding the global energy situation, referring to the Israel–Iran conflict and the closure of the Strait of Hormuz, through which about 20% of global oil supply passes. He stated that such disruptions could affect India’s energy security and increase inflation, impacting sectors dependent on energy imports. During his remarks, he referred to Shri Hardeep Singh Puri (Union Minister, Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas; BJP, Uttar Pradesh) in connection with allegations relating to Jeffrey Epstein, following which the Speaker directed him to confine his remarks to the notified subject and adhere to the parliamentary procedures.
Responding to the concerns, Shri Hardeep Singh Puri (Union Minister, Petroleum and Natural Gas; BJP, Uttar Pradesh) stated that despite disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz, India’s crude supply remains secure due to diversification of imports from about 40 countries. He clarified that there was no shortage of petrol, diesel, ATF, kerosene, or fuel oil, and that supply chains were functioning normally. He also informed the House that measures such as booking regulations, mobile authentication, and stricter monitoring of distributors had been introduced to prevent hoarding and ensure fair distribution. He remarked that the LPG sourcing has also been diversified to countries such as the US, Norway, Canada, Algeria and Russia and that domestic LPG production has increased by about 28% to ensure supply to about 33 crore households.
In the Lok Sabha, amid disruptions, Shri Kiren Rijiju (Union Minister, Ministry of Parliamentary Affairs; BJP, Arunachal East, Arunachal Pradesh) stated that the Leader of Opposition had written to the Speaker seeking permission to raise the LPG supply issue due to its seriousness. He urged Members to allow the House to continue its scheduled discussion in an orderly manner.
In the Lok Sabha, Following this, Shri Jagdambika Pal (Speaker; BJP, Domariyaganj, Uttar Pradesh) resumed the discussion on the Second Batch of Supplementary Demands of Grants for 2025-26.
Smt. Lovely Anand (JD(U), Sheohar, Bihar) supported the Supplementary Demands for Grants, stating that they involved additional expenditure of about ₹ 2.81 lakh crore, including fresh spending and adjustments through savings. She highlighted allocations for urban local bodies, fertiliser subsidy, defence and disaster management. Referring to the Union Budget 2026–27, she noted total expenditure of ₹53.47 lakh crore and India’s growth rate of about 7%, adding that around 25 crore people had been lifted out of poverty.
Shri Rajesh Ranjan Alias Pappu Yadav (Ind., Purnia, Bihar) stated that the Government’s ₹100 crore allocation for AI centres was insufficient and called for large-scale investment in hybrid schools combining traditional classrooms with digital infrastructure to reduce the rural digital divide and support the goals of the National Education Policy.
In the Rajya Sabha, Shri Mallikarjun Kharge (Leader of Opposition; INC, Karnataka) raised concerns in the House over the attack on Shri Farooq Abdullah in Jammu and Kashmir. He held the Central Government responsible for the deteriorating security situation and argued that revocation of Jammu and Kashmir’s statehood had transferred security control to the Union Home Ministry, demanding that the statehood be restored immediately.
Shri Jagat Prakash Nadda (Leader of the House; BJP, Gujarat) acknowledged that the attack on Shri Farooq Abdullah was a serious matter and assured the House that the Government would take all necessary steps to prevent such incidents, while criticizing the Opposition for politicizing the issue.
In the Rajya Sabha, Shri C.P. Radhakrishnan Ji (Chairman, Rajya Sabha) commenced the Question Hour.
Shri Sukhendu Sekhar Ray (AITC, West Bengal) asked whether the Government would consider further excavations at Pandua, Malda and Devi Kot in West Bengal. In response, Shri Gajendra Singh Shekhawat (Union Minister, Ministry of Culture; BJP, Jodhpur, Rajasthan) replied that excavation expenditure in the last 10 years has been more than double that of the previous Government’s decade and noted that among 135 ASI-protected monuments in West Bengal, entry fees are charged at only four.
Shri John Brittas (CPI(M), Kerala) raised concerns over attacks on minority cultural and heritage sites and demands to rename the Taj Mahal. In response, Shri Gajendra Singh Shekhawat (Union Minister, Ministry of Culture; BJP, Jodhpur, Rajasthan) clarified that protection of such sites falls under State Governments and that there is no proposal to change the name of the Taj Mahal.
Shri Mallikarjun Kharge (Leader of Opposition; INC, Karnataka) suggested excavation along the Bhima River and Krishna River, citing the likelihood of Buddhist sites. In response, Shri Gajendra Singh Shekhawat (Union Minister, Ministry of Culture; BJP, Jodhpur, Rajasthan) assured that excavations would be expanded and thanked him for acknowledging the return of the sacred Piprahwa relics of Lord Buddha after 127 years under the leadership of Hon’ble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi Ji.
In the Rajya Sabha, the discussion on the working of the Ministry of Rural Development resumed from yesterday.
Dr. Sangeeta Balwant (BJP, Uttar Pradesh) stated that ₹1,94,368.81 crore has been allocated for rural development in 2026–27. She highlighted achievements including 3.70 crore Houses under PMAY-G, sanitation improvements, benefits to women under Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana (PMUY), support to farmers through Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samman Nidhi (PMKSN), access to drinking water through Jal Jeevan Mission, and digital initiatives enabling farmers to track crop prices.
Shri Shaktisinh Gohil (INC, Gujarat) referring to the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act, he alleged that although ₹86,000 crore was allocated in 2025–26, the budget was reduced to about ₹30,000 crore after the VB-GRAMG Act, 2025. He also claimed that allocations for Jal Jeevan Mission, Rashtriya Gram Swaraj Abhiyan, and PMAY-G had been reduced.
Shri Imran Pratapgarhi (INC, Maharashtra) alleged that since 2014 the social atmosphere in villages has deteriorated, affecting harmony and mutual trust. He also criticised the implementation of schemes such as PMAY-G and stated that farmers are still struggling for fair prices and MSP.
The proceedings of Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha were adjourned at 7:08 PM and 5:34 PM, on 12th March, 2026, respectively, to reconvene at 11:00 A.M on Friday, 13th March, 2026.
I. Lok Sabha Proceedings:
The proceedings of the Lok Sabha commenced at 11:00 AM.
Shri Om Birla Ji (Speaker, Lok Sabha; BJP, Kota, Rajasthan) presided over the proceedings of the House. Amid disruptions by the Opposition, the House was adjourned till 12:00 PM.
On recommencement, Shri Om Birla Ji (Speaker, Lok Sabha; BJP, Kota, Rajasthan) addressed the House at the conclusion of the two-day debate on the No-confidence Motion, noting that it was the third such resolution in the history of the nation. He summarized the 12-hour discussion, praised India’s democratic traditions and commitment to freedom of expression, and stated that he had recused himself from presiding over the proceedings immediately after receiving the notice.
Referring to Shri Rahul Gandhi (Leader of Opposition; INC, Rae Bareli, Uttar Pradesh), Shri Om Birla Ji (Speaker, Lok Sabha; BJP, Kota, Rajasthan) stated that every member is allowed to speak in the House, but they must follow the Rules and Procedures of the Parliament. He cited precedents of previous ruling of speakers when they stopped speakers from presenting material without speaker’s permission citing speakers such as Smt. Renu Chakravarty (1958) and Shri S.M. Banerjee (1958).
On the issue of microphone closure, he stated that the Speaker has no direct mechanism to control microphones. He also referred to initiatives undertaken during his tenure, including the digitization of parliamentary work, capacity building, and translation in 22 languages, and noted that delegations from over 100 countries have visited the PRIDE Committee of the Lok Sabha. He concluded by urging members to uphold parliamentary traditions and constitutional morality.
The proceeding of the House was adjourned to reconvene at 2:00 PM with Smt. Sandhya Ray (BJP, Bhind, Madhya Pradesh) presiding over the Chair. She commenced the discussion on the Second Batch of Supplementary Demands of Grants for 2025-26.
Shri Jagdambika Pal (BJP, Domariyagunj, Uttar Pradesh) highlighted the importance of supplementary grants and stated that the Government had prepared the country to face global supply disruptions, particularly those affecting the Hormuz Channel. He stated that because of the West Asia war, crude oil prices had increased from $ 89 to $ 119 per barrel.
He stated that because of the West Asia war, crude oil prices had increased from $ 89 to $ 119 per barrel, and that 80 crore people were provided 5 kg of free foodgrains. He mentioned the creation of an Economic Stabilization Fund to reduce the fiscal deficit and referred to ₹ 1,730 crore raised through sovereign bonds, and ₹3,788 crore sought for MSMEs.
Further, he praised the Government for improvement in agricultural production and stated that every farmer of India today thanks the NDA Government for implementing the Swaminathan Committee recommendations. He also compared economic indicators, stating that nominal GDP increased from ₹ 113.55 lakh crore in 2014 to ₹ 357.14 lakh crore, forex reserves rose from $ 304 billion to $ 686 billion, and foreign investment increased from $ 308 billion to $ 748 billion.
Shri Shafi Parambil (INC, Vadakara, Kerala) raised concerns about an alleged LPG shortage due to the West Asia war. He accused the Government of creating “Cylinder crises” and ‘’Surrender Crises’‘. He stated that the economic realities of ordinary citizens were not reflected in macroeconomic indicators and cited wealth distribution statistics showing the concentration of income among the top earners. He also referred to issues related to MGNREGA employment, declining participation, and lack of creation of new work since January of this year.
Shri Ram Shiromani Verma (SP, Shravasti, Uttar Pradesh) stated that farmers continue to face difficulties and that allocations for rural development and MGNREGA were insufficient. He raised concerns about delayed payments under the scheme and suggested increasing Members of Parliament Local Area Development Scheme (MPLADS) allocations from ₹ 5 crore to ₹ 25–₹ 30 crore and exempting them from GST. He also demanded a caste-based census and highlighted infrastructure challenges in Shravasti and Balrampur, including flood-prone areas and poor road connectivity.
Shri Kirti Azad (AITC, Bardhaman–Durgapur, West Bengal) raised concerns about rising LPG prices, stating that a significant number of beneficiaries of free connections were unable to afford refills costing ₹ 1100–₹ 1200. He urged investment in alternative energy sources such as biogas. He also alleged that central funds due to West Bengal, including about ₹ 52,000 crore under MGNREGA and ₹ 24,000 crore under PMAY-G, had not been released.
Shri Om Birla Ji (Speaker, Lok Sabha; BJP, Kota, Rajasthan) paused the discussion on the Second Batch of Supplementary Demands for Grants for 2025-26 and invited Shri Rahul Gandhi (Leader of Opposition; INC, Rae Bareli, Uttar Pradesh) to speak on the alleged LPG shortage issue due to the West Asia war.
Shri Rahul Gandhi (Leader of Opposition; INC, Rae Bareli, Uttar Pradesh) raised concerns over the global energy situation, stating that the Israel-Iran conflict and the closure of the Strait of Hormuz, through which nearly 20% of global oil supply passes, could affect India’s energy security and lead to inflation. He said that disruptions could impact sectors dependent on energy supplies and highlighted the rise in LPG prices from about ₹ 500 in 2021 to around ₹ 1100–₹ 1200, stating that this is burdening the middle class and poorer sections. He further stated that India’s energy procurement decisions should remain independent and expressed concern over economic pressures on citizens.
Further, he mentioned the relationship of the Shri Hardeep Singh Puri (Union Minister, Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas; BJP, Uttar Pradesh) with ‘Epstein’ referring to the Epstein Island Files Case.
Hon’ble Speaker Shri Om Birla Ji (Speaker, Lok Sabha; BJP, Kota, Rajasthan) intervened and directed him to confine his remarks to the notified subject and follow parliamentary procedure.
In response, Shri Hardeep Singh Puri (Union Minister, Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas; BJP, Uttar Pradesh) stated that despite disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz, India’s crude supply remains secure due to diversification of imports from about 40 countries. He added that there is no shortage of petrol, diesel, ATF, kerosene or fuel oil and that supply chains are functioning normally. He further stated that the Government has prioritised domestic gas allocation to households, transport and essential sectors, while securing additional LNG supplies through alternative routes.
Further, he remarked that the LPG sourcing has also been diversified to countries such as the US, Norway, Canada, Algeria and Russia and that domestic LPG production has increased by about 28% to ensure supply to about 33 crore households.
He informed the House that the Government has introduced measures such as booking regulations, mobile authentication and stricter monitoring of distributors to prevent hoarding and ensure fair distribution. He concluded by stating that the Government is coordinating with states to ensure fair distribution and safeguard India’s energy security.
Amid disruptions, Shri Kiren Rijiju (Union Minister, Ministry of Parliamentary Affairs; BJP, Arunachal East, Arunachal Pradesh) stated that the Leader of Opposition had written to the Speaker seeking permission to raise the issue of LPG supply due to its seriousness. He said the Speaker allowed the matter to be discussed as a special case during the debate on Supplementary Demands for Grants and that the Government coordinated with the concerned Ministry for a statement by the Petroleum Minister. He urged Members to allow the House to proceed with the scheduled discussion in an orderly manner.
Following this, Shri Jagdambika Pal (BJP, Domariyaganj, Uttar Pradesh) resumed the discussion on the Second Batch of Supplementary Demands of Grants for 2025-26.
Smt. Lovely Anand (JD(U), Sheohar, Bihar) stated that the proposals involved gross additional expenditure of about ₹ 2,81,289.26 crore, including ₹ 2,01,142.96 crore in fresh spending and about ₹ 80,142.71 crore through savings and receipts. She highlighted allocations including about ₹ 30,000 crore for urban local bodies, ₹ 42,000 crore for fertilizer subsidy, ₹ 26,236 crore for defence and about ₹ 30,116.8 crore for disaster management, and expressed support for the demands. Referring to the Union Budget 2026–27, she stated that the total expenditure was about ₹ 53,47,315 crore, about 7.7% higher than the previous year. She noted India’s growth rate of around 7% and stated that about 25 crore people had been lifted out of poverty.
Shri Vishaldada Prakashbapu Patil (Ind., Sangli, Maharashtra) stated that the original Union Budget is about ₹ 48 lakh crore and that after interest payments the effective expenditure is around ₹ 30 lakh crore. On agriculture, he stated that its share in GDP has declined from about 35% in 1990–91 to around 16% despite about 46% of the population depending on it. He said ₹ 6,000 annual assistance to farmers is inadequate.
Shri Rajesh Ranjan Alias Pappu Yadav (Ind., Purnia, Bihar) stated that the Government’s allocation of ₹ 100 crore for AI centres was insufficient and emphasized the need for large-scale investment in hybrid schools integrating traditional classrooms with digital infrastructure.
He also highlighted the strategic importance of the Kosi–Seemanchal region, urging direct subsidies for farmers instead of fertilizer companies, and called for greater support for alternative fertilizers and welfare programmes such as the Pradhan Mantri Garib Kalyan Yojana.
Consequently, the Lok Sabha was adjourned at 05:57 PM to reconvene at 11:00 A.M on Friday, 13th March, 2026.
III. Rajya Sabha Proceedings:
The proceedings of the Rajya Sabha commenced at 11:00 AM.
Shri C.P. Radhakrishnan Ji (Chairman, Rajya Sabha) presided over the proceedings of the House, and Papers were laid on the Table.
Shri C.P. Radhakrishnan Ji (Chairman, Rajya Sabha) informed the House that the Business Advisory Committee has allocated a total of seven hours for consideration and passing of the Appropriation Bill related to the second and final batch of Supplementary Demands for Grants for 2025–26.
Shri. Mallikarjun Kharge (Leader of the Opposition; INC, Karnataka) raised concerns in the House over the attack on Shri Farooq Abdullah in Jammu and Kashmir. He held the central Government responsible for deteriorating security, arguing that revoking J&K’s statehood transferred security control to the Home Ministry. He strongly demanded that the statehood of Jammu & Kashmir be restored immediately.
Shri Jagat Prakash Nadda Ji (Leader of the House; BJP, Gujarat) acknowledged the attack on Shri Farooq Abdullah as a serious concern and assured the House that the Government would take all necessary steps to prevent such incidents. He, however, criticised the opposition for politicizing the matter and attempting to build a political narrative around the incident.
Shri Chowdry Mohammad Ramzan (J&KNC, Jammu and Kashmir) raised the matter of the attack on Chief Minister Shri Farooq Abdullah and questioned the security situation in the region. In response, Shri Ghulam Ali Khatana (BJP, Nominated) responded to the remarks made by Shri Chowdry Mohammad Ramzan and alleged that their leaders had promoted insurgency in Kashmir over the past 40 years.
Following this, Shri C.P. Radhakrishnan Ji (Chairman, Rajya Sabha) commenced the Question Hour.
Shri Sukhendu Sekhar Ray (AITC, West Bengal) questioned whether the Government would consider further excavation at Pandua, Malda and Devi Kot in West Bengal. In response, Shri Gajendra Singh Shekhawat (Union Minister, Ministry of Culture; BJP, Jodhpur, Rajasthan) stated that the excavation expenditure in the last 10 years has been more than double in comparison to the previous Government’s ten-year period. He further noted that out of 135 Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) maintained monuments of national importance in West Bengal, entry fees are levied at only four.
Shri John Brittas (CPI(M), Kerala) raised concerns over increasing attacks on minority cultural and heritage sites and demands to rename the Taj Mahal, asking whether the Government had taken note. In response, Shri Gajendra Singh Shekhawat (Union Minister, Ministry of Culture; BJP, Jodhpur, Rajasthan) clarified that security of such sites falls under State Governments’ jurisdiction and that there is no proposal under consideration to change the name of the Taj Mahal.
Shri Gulam Ali Khatana (BJP, Nominated) asked whether 2 heritage buildings from the reign of Maharaja Ranbir Singh, a hospital building and Ranbir High School, are under ASI protection and whether any modifications are being considered. In response, Shri Gajendra Singh Shekhawat (Union Minister, Ministry of Culture; BJP, Jodhpur, Rajasthan) clarified that ASI neither carries out nor permits modifications to such protected structures.
Shri P. Sandosh Kumar (CPI, Kerala) alleged that the Minister had provided inaccurate data, questioning the relevance of five-year-old figures given the boom in the gig economy since 2022. He also asked what steps have been taken to register domestic workers on the e-Shram Portal. In response, Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya (Union Minister, Ministry of Labour and Employment; BJP, Porbandar, Gujarat) defended the data and stated that around 31 crore unorganised sector workers have been registered on the e-Shram portal, enabling the implementation of various social security schemes.
Shri Mallikarjun Kharge (Leader of Opposition, INC, Karnataka) suggested that excavation activities be undertaken along the Bhima and Krishna Rivers, citing the likely presence of Buddhism-related sites in those regions. In response, Shri Gajendra Singh Shekhawat (Union Minister, Ministry of Culture; BJP, Jodhpur, Rajasthan) assured that excavation activities would be expanded and expressed gratitude to Shri Mallikarjun Kharge (Leader of Opposition, INC, Karnataka) for acknowledging the return of the sacred Piprahwa relics of Lord Buddha after 127 years, under the leadership of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi Ji.
The Rajya Sabha reconvened at 2:03 PM. Shri Bhubaneswar Kalita (BJP, Assam) presided over the Chair and resumed the discussion from yesterday on the Working of the Ministry of Rural Development.
Dr. Sangeeta Balwant (BJP, Uttar Pradesh) highlighted the Government’s achievements since 2014 under Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi Ji, citing construction of 3.70 crore rural Houses under PMAY-G, restoration of dignity for women through toilet construction and the transformative impact of Ujjwala Yojana on village women who earlier relied on firewood for cooking.
Shri Shaktisinh Gohil (INC, Gujarat) stated that about 68% of India’s population lives in villages, making rural development crucial. Referring to the MNREGA, he alleged that although ₹ 86,000 crore was allocated in 2025–26 budget, it was later reduced to about ₹ 30,000 crore after the VB-GRAM G Act, 2025. He further claimed that allocations for Jal Jeevan Mission, Rashtriya Gram Swaraj Abhiyan, and PMAY-G had been reduced. He also alleged that land allocations favoured companies linked to Gautam Adani, following which Shri Shivraj Singh Chouhan intervened stating the issue was irrelevant.
Shri Surendra Singh Nagar (BJP, Uttar Pradesh) responded to Shri Shakti Sinh Gohil (INC, Gujarat) by referring to a 2013 report of the Comptroller and Auditor General of India (CAG) which highlighted wastage of about ₹ 5,700 crore under the previous Government. He stated that the VB–GRAM G Act, 2025 had been introduced to address such gaps and improve implementation.
Smt. Maya Naroliya (BJP, Madhya Pradesh) supported the Demands for Grants for the Ministry of Rural Development for 2026–27 and stated that the Ministry had been allocated ₹ 1,97,023 crore of budget, which is 46% higher than the revised estimates of the previous year. She referred to the restructuring of MNREGA into the VB-GRAM G under which the employment guarantee increased from 100 days to 125 days with an allocation of ₹ 95,692 crore, constituting about 40% of the Ministry’s budget.
Furthermore, she also noted that ₹ 19,000 crore had been allocated for rural road connectivity under the Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana (PMGSY), aiming to construct 62,500 km of roads connecting about 25,000 habitations. She also highlighted women’s empowerment initiatives and concluded by supporting the Demands for Grants.
Shri Imran Pratapgarhi (INC, Maharashtra) alleged that since 2014 the social atmosphere in villages has deteriorated, affecting harmony and mutual trust. He also criticised the implementation of schemes such as PMAY-G and stated that farmers are still struggling for fair prices and MSP. He concluded by stating that lack of basic facilities are forcing migration from villages to cities, leading to the neglect of rural areas.
Shri Ghanshyam Tiwari (BJP, Rajasthan) stated that early structured efforts toward rural development began after 1977 with programmes such as Antyodaya Yojana and Food for Work, while later Governments led by Shri Atal Bihari Vajpayee Ji introduced major initiatives like the Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana and Sarva Shiksha Abhiyan.
The proceedings of Rajya Sabha were adjourned at 5:34 PM to reconvene at 11:00 A.M on Friday, 13th March, 2026.
IV. Events Outside The Parliament :
Shri Rahul Gandhi (Leader of Opposition; INC, Raebareli, Uttar Pradesh) criticised the Hon’ble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi Ji, stating that while he is asking people not to panic, he himself appears concerned over issues such as the Adani case and the Epstein matter. He alleged that this is the reason the Prime Minister is not attending the House. He also joined INC leaders in a protest within the Parliament premises over reports of a nationwide shortage of LPG cylinders.
Shri Piyush Goyal (Union Minister, Ministry of Commerce and Industry; BJP, Mumbai North, Maharashtra) accused Shri Rahul Gandhi of violating parliamentary rules and acting irresponsibly, as during the discussion on the LPG shortage, despite being given time by the Speaker for LPG discussion. He intervened speaking about the relation of Epstein and Shri Hardeep Singh Puri and made baseless comments, defaming the country. Shri Hardeep Singh Puri (Union Minister, Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas; BJP, Uttar Pradesh) had already assured the nation that the situation was under control and that there was no need for panic.
Shri S. P. Singh Baghel (MoS, Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying; BJP, Agra, Uttar Pradesh) stated that the protest by Shri Rahul Gandhi in Parliament may create confusion among the public and cause panic, despite the Hon’ble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi ji’s prior clarification on the gas issue.
Smt. Priyanka Gandhi Vadra (INC, Wayanad, Kerala) expressed skepticism over the Hon’ble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi ji’s assurance on the LPG supply, stating that she hopes he is correct but the situation suggests otherwise.
Shri Shashi Tharoor (INC, Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala) stated that an Indian-crewed vessel bound for Kandla had already been hit twice. He said that Iran should respect countries that have remained friendly and warned that innocent parties are being dragged into a conflict that is not theirs.
Smt. Rajani Patil (INC, Maharashtra) raised concerns over the attack on Shri Farooq Abdullah, a Z+ protectee, stating that it reflects serious security lapses and demanded strict action. She also referred to the past assassinations of Smt. Indira Gandhi Shri Rajiv Gandhi. She urged the Government to address the reported shortage of commercial LPG cylinders affecting households.
Shri P. Santhosh Kumar (CPI, Kerala) stated that the issue involving the Chief Election Commissioner of India concerns all Opposition parties and not just the TMC. He said that the Election Commission of India lacks a logical explanation on issues such as SIR, with cases arising in states including West Bengal and Kerala.
Smt. Dimple Yadav (SP, Mainpuri, Uttar Pradesh) stated that LPG and commercial gas prices are rising in Uttar Pradesh and alleged that shortages and black marketing are affecting households, restaurants and hotels, while accusing the Government of not acknowledging the problem.
Shri Manish Tewari (INC, Chandigarh, Chandigarh) stated that India’s key concern amid the Middle East conflict is energy security and the safe passage of oil tankers through the Strait of Hormuz. He urged the Government to ensure the protection of the 48-million Indian diaspora in the Gulf region and to safeguard India’s energy supplies as crude oil prices approach $ 100 per barrel.
Shri Sanjay Jaiswal (BJP, Paschim Champaran, Bihar) speaking on gas shortage assures there is no need to panic: India has over two months of petrol and diesel reserves, and 90% of gas from Oman ensures uninterrupted household supply.
The day’s proceedings combined political debate with substantive policy discussion across sectors. In the Lok Sabha, the government addressed concerns relating to fuel supply and energy security, emphasising diversification of crude imports and stable domestic supply chains. Meanwhile, discussions in the Rajya Sabha covered heritage conservation, labour welfare measures such as the e-Shram portal, and the ongoing review of rural development programmes. Together, the debates reflected Parliament’s role in examining fiscal decisions, assessing policy implementation, and addressing emerging economic and governance challenges.
Annexure I - Matters Raised Under Rule 377 In The Lok Sabha
Annexure II - Members Who Participated In The Discussion On Second Batch of Supplementary Demands of Grants for 2025-26 In The Lok Sabha.
Annexure III - Reports And Statements Presented In The Lok Sabha
Annexure IV - Matters Raised With Permission In The Rajya Sabha
Annexure V - Reports And Statements Presented In The Rajya Sabha
Annexure VI - Members Who Participated In the Discussion On Working of the Ministry of Rural Development In The Rajya Sabha
Annexure VII - Special Mentions In The Rajya Sabha