The Budget Session of Parliament, which began on January 31, has officially concluded, with both Houses being adjourned sine die today.
Both Houses will reconvene during the Monsoon Session of Parliament; however, the dates have not yet been announced.
Rajya Sabha Chairman and Vice-President Jagdeep Dhankhar, during his valedictory remarks in the 267th session of the Upper House, extended his gratitude to the members for their “active participation and valuable contribution.”
“Hon’ble Members, we have come to the conclusion of a very productive 267th session of the Sabha. As we conclude this session, I extend my gratitude to each one of you for your active participation and valuable contribution,” Dhankhar said.
He noted that the House functioned for 159 hours during the session, achieving a productivity rate of 119 percent. He further stated that on April 3, Rajya Sabha had its longest-ever sitting, starting at 11 AM and continuing until 4:02 AM on April 4. A record 49 private members’ bills were introduced in the Upper House.
“Overall, the House functioned for a total of 159 hours, including more than four hours past midnight. The productivity of this session stood at 119 percent. On April 3, 2025, Rajya Sabha began its proceedings at 11 AM and held its longest-ever sitting, lasting until 4:02 AM the next day, marking a historic milestone,” the Rajya Sabha Chairman said.
“A record 49 private members’ bills were introduced in the Upper House. I extend my appreciation to all members and staff for their dedication and efforts,” he added.
Meanwhile, Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla stated that the Lower House held 26 sittings from January 31, 2025, achieving an overall productivity rate of approximately 118 percent.
“We are at the end of the fourth session of the 18th Lok Sabha. This session started on January 31, 2025, and included 26 sittings, with an overall productivity rate of about 118 percent,” Birla said in his closing remarks.
During the session, 10 government bills were introduced, and 16 bills, including the Waqf (Amendment) Bill and the Mussalman Wakf (Repeal) Bill, were passed.
One of the key highlights of the session was the passage of the Waqf (Amendment) Bill, 2025. The bill was passed in the early hours of Friday following a marathon and heated debate.
Dhankhar announced the results: “Ayes 128, Noes 95, Absent zero. The Bill is passed.” The House sat beyond midnight to pass the legislation.
The Lok Sabha had discussed the Waqf (Amendment) Bill on Wednesday, passing it past midnight after an extensive debate.
The government introduced a revised version of the bill after incorporating recommendations from the Joint Parliamentary Committee, which had examined the legislation introduced in August last year. The bill aims to amend the 1995 Act to enhance the administration and management of waqf properties in India.
It seeks to address the shortcomings of the previous Act, improve the efficiency of Waqf boards, streamline the registration process, and integrate technology into waqf record management.
The Budget Session of Parliament was held in two parts: the first session ran from January 31 to February 13, while the second session commenced on March 10.
(ANI)
