PARLIAMENTARY COMMITTEE
Lok Sabha adjourned for day amid oppn protests over PM's Maha Kumbh remarks, demand for discussion
The Lok Sabha was adjourned for the day amid opposition protests demanding a discussion on the Maha Kumbh stampede that left 30 dead and 60 injured. Opposition members sought to question Prime Minister Modi's statement and were not allowed to speak, prompting disruption and a walkout. The House plans to discuss the Jal Shakti ministry's grants on Wednesday.
Panel calls for significant MEA budget hike
A parliamentary panel urged for a significant budget increase for the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) to align with India's foreign policy priorities and global role. The panel stressed the need for a comprehensive foreign policy strategy, highlighting the current budget's inadequacy amid India's expanding diplomatic responsibilities.
Parliamentary Panel urges fast-tracking census, calls for more funding for forces
A parliamentary panel led by BJP MP Radha Mohan Das has called for the swift completion of the Census. The panel emphasized securing increased allocations for organizations such as the Intelligence Bureau and CAPFs and highlighted the progress in Census preparatory work. The Ministry of Home Affairs may receive additional funds during the Revised Estimates stage if necessary.
Record defence contracts to be inked this year: MoD to parliamentary panel
India is set to sign a record number of defence contracts worth ₹2-3 lakh crore this year, despite delivery delays due to conflicts in Russia and Israel. The defence ministry is streamlining procurement processes to avoid delays, and additional funds will be provided if necessary to maintain operational readiness and meet budget allocations.
Malware data sharing: Beyond big tech, panel demands government clarity
Standing Committee questions reach of cybercrime information, seeks inclusion of local search engines and rural connectivity agencies.
Govt scholarship not sufficient to meet present-day expenditure: Parl panel
A parliamentary committee recommends increasing scholarships to match present-day educational expenses and addressing inefficiencies in fund utilization. Despite increased allocations, many welfare schemes underperform due to delays and administrative issues. The panel highlights the importance of transparent coordination, timely fund disbursement, and stakeholder consultations for improving scheme implementation and supporting first-generation entrepreneurs.
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Par panel suggests formulation of comprehensive foreign policy strategy tailored to India's context
A parliamentary panel recommends a comprehensive foreign policy strategy tailored to India's unique geopolitical context and growing global stature. Chaired by Congress MP Shashi Tharoor, the committee urges the Ministry of External Affairs to develop a long-term strategic document to guide India's future international engagements.
Parliamentary panel for hike in MEA budget says current allocation not reflective of India's growing stature
A parliamentary panel led by Shashi Tharoor recommends a substantial increase in the budget allocation for India's Ministry of External Affairs to support the country's growing global influence and diplomatic responsibilities. The panel highlights the need for more funds to strengthen India's diplomatic cadre, embassy operations, and development assistance.
Trying to confuse people, create differences: JPC Chairman on AIMPLB's planned protest against Waqf Bill
Jagadambika Pal criticizes AIMPLB's planned protest against the Waqf (Amendment) Bill, 2024, stating it could create divisions and challenge Parliament's authority. AIMPLB argues the Bill will negatively impact unregistered Waqf properties and insists on continuing its protest, despite government assurances.
Banks in direct link-up with I4C to check fraud on accounts
Until now, banks and payment firms relied on manual information when a customer filed a complaint with I4C on payment frauds. However, from now on, alerts will be automatically generated in the bank's system, prompting faster action.
AIIMS critically short of staff amid land & budgetary issues
AIIMS in New Delhi is experiencing severe staff shortages, with hundreds of vacant posts for doctors and faculty members. A parliamentary committee has urged the health ministry to offer competitive compensation and prioritize the filling of these positions. Additionally, the slow progress of AIIMS' expansion projects has been criticized.
Parl panel recommends single independent drug controller for AYUSH
A parliamentary committee recommends a single independent drug controller for AYUSH drug standard-setting, involving stakeholders for efficiency. It suggests extended reach of Ayurveda fairs, better communication with first-world countries to promote AYUSH, and boosting AYUSH healthcare travel. Emphasis on research, capacity building, and early completion of WHO Global Traditional Medicine Centre at Jamnagar.
SC to hear on Monday PIL for declaring present process of appointment of CAG unconstitutional
The Supreme Court is set to hear a plea on March 17 challenging the current method of appointing the Comptroller and Auditor General of India solely by the executive and the Prime Minister. The plea argues this practice violates the Constitution and calls for a transparent appointment process involving an independent selection committee.
Parliamentary panel flags brain drain from health dept, delay in filling vacancies in research posts
A parliamentary committee has raised concerns about unoccupied posts of scientists in the Department of Health Research and recommended stopping contractual appointments to prevent brain drain. The panel emphasized enhancing higher education and research infrastructure, improving standards of living, and offering competitive pay to retain Indian professionals.
Parl panel on health: Cos scared to set up units due to CDSCO approach
The Parliamentary Standing Committee on Health and Family Welfare criticized the Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation (CDSCO) for delays and lack of transparency in the drug licensing process. They recommended streamlining the system and establishing an independent advisory board to improve India's medical device industry.
Several union ministries owe Rs 250 crore to FCI
The Food Corporation of India (FCI) is owed over Rs 250 crore by various ministries for food grains supplied to countries like Afghanistan, Korea, and Egypt. A Parliamentary Committee urged immediate action to recover these dues and stressed the formation of a high-level joint committee to resolve the issue, which impacts the efficiency of the food distribution system.
Parliamentary Panel urges Centre to release funds for Bengal
The Parliamentary Standing Committee on Rural Development has advised the Ministry of Rural Development to release West Bengal's pending funds for various schemes. The lack of funds has caused distress migration and disrupted rural development, impacting the state's beneficiaries negatively.
Sidda supports Stalin's march 22 meeting
Karnataka CM Siddaramaiah supports TN CM MK Stalin's initiative to unite like-minded political parties on constituency delimitation. Deputy CM DK Shivakumar will attend the meeting in Chennai on March 22. Siddaramaiah emphasizes the significance of discussing state autonomy and population benchmarks for constituencies, underlining the commitment to federal principles and state rights.
Panel urges MIB to set deadline for introducing Broadcasting Services Bill
The Standing Committee on Communications and Information Technology has urged the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting to establish a deadline for the Broadcasting Services Regulation Bill. Following consultation with stakeholders, the ministry plans to introduce a fresh draft for inter-ministerial review and Cabinet consideration, expecting a detailed process timeline.
Congress highlights recommendations of Parliament panel calling for legal guarantee for MSP
The parliamentary standing committee has recommended a legal guarantee for MSP, loan waivers, and extending MSP to organic crops. Financial support for crop residue management, universal crop insurance for small farmers, and renaming the Agriculture Department to include farm labourers' welfare have also been suggested.
Government seeks 5% UPI market share for Bhim by 2028
The NPCI-backed payment application currently has a market share of around 0.2%. The government is working on boosting Bhim’s tech backend to support 10,000 transactions per second by September 2025, up from 5,000 in January 2025.
Congress highlights recommendations of Parliament panel calling for MGNREGS wage revision
The Congress has highlighted the recommendations from the Parliamentary Standing Committee on Rural Development. Key suggestions include revising MGNREGA wage rates, making the Aadhar-Based Payment System optional, and releasing due funds to West Bengal. Additionally, the committee recommends extending guaranteed workdays under MGNREGA from 100 to 150 days.
Age criterion for Ayushman Vay Vandana Cards should be rationalised to 60 years: Parliament panel
A parliamentary committee has recommended extending the Ayushman Vay Vandana Cards age criterion to 60 years and above, regardless of socio-economic status, to widen coverage. They suggested increasing the healthcare coverage to Rs 10 lakh per family annually and including high-cost treatments and diagnostics. The committee also highlighted underutilisation of funds and urged better fund disbursement monitoring.
Parliamentary panel presses MIB to expedite Broadcast Bill rollout
The Parliamentary Committee has urged the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting (MIB) to expedite the Broadcasting Services Regulation Bill, following industry backlash over consultation transparency. The MIB plans detailed consultations and a draft Cabinet Note before the Bill's submission. Given the law's comprehensiveness, the committee seeks an update on its progress.
One nation one election: Panel to meet legal luminary Harish Salve, attorney general Venkataramani
The parliamentary panel deliberating on simultaneous election bills will consult legal expert Harish Salve and the attorney general of India. After discussions with former Chief Justice Ranjan Gogoi, the Joint Parliamentary Committee decided to launch a website for public feedback, implementing AI for real-time analysis. The next meeting is on March 17.
Parliamentary panel to launch website to invite suggestions on simultaneous polls
A parliamentary panel will soon launch a website to gather public suggestions on 'one nation, one election' bills. They aim for full transparency and inclusivity. The panel has already consulted legal experts. Advertisements will also be issued inviting memoranda from the public. Simultaneous elections were once common and have been a topic of discussion since the 1980s.
Budget allocations to CAPFs like CRPF, BSF, CISF fall short of projections: Parliamentary panel
A Parliamentary panel has reported a decline in the Budget Estimate for the Ministry of Home Affairs for 2025-26, dropping it to Rs 1,60,391.06 crore. Significant reductions have been observed in allocations for Central Armed Police Forces, Intelligence Bureau, National Disaster Response Force, and Union Territories, potentially impacting critical development and modernization projects.
Goyal to discuss trade issues with export councils on Mar 13 amid Trump tariff threat
Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal will discuss trade issues with export promotion councils amid the threat of US reciprocal tariffs. Exporters are concerned about potential impacts on India's largest trading partner, the US. Importantly, trade negotiations are ongoing, with no agreement yet on tariffs reduction despite recent claims by US President Donald Trump.
70 per cent prisoners in Indian jails are undertrials, observes parliamentary panel
A parliamentary panel notes that over 70% of Indian prisoners are undertrials who can't afford bail or fines. They suggest creating state funds to help poor prisoners and using technology to curb drug smuggling. Enhanced frisking and technology like e-Mulakat can reduce contraband entry and improve inmate rehabilitation.
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