Parliament Diary

The discussion on the Demands for Grants for the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways concluded in Lok Sabha today. Responding to the debate, the Minister highlighted the government's key projects and expressed confidence in their impact on enhancing connectivity and cutting down logistical costs. The Minister added that the government is also increasing the road network to boost tourism. He noted that the Buddha Circuit of 419 KM is nearing completion at a cost of Rs 20,000 crore. 

The House then took up discussion on the Demands for Grants for the Ministry of Civil Aviation. The total expenditure of the Ministry of Civil Aviation for 2022-23 is estimated to be Rs 10,667 crore, which is 85% lower than the revised estimate of 2021-22. This is on account of the revised estimates of 2021-22 which shot up with the allocation Rs 70,718 crore to repay the debts of Air India.

Speaking on the debate, a Member urged the government to integrate the Civil Aviation Ministry with a larger Ministry of Transport for holistic development of the sector. The Member also raised the need to expand existing airports which are running above their capacity. The discussion did not conclude.

Rajya Sabha was repeatedly adjourned in the first half over disruptions. However, the House resumed functioning in the second half to discuss the Budget for the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir. Speaking on the debate, a Member raised concern over low allocation to capital expenditure and a high allocation towards police and Home Departments. Another Member welcomed the Budget by noting that Rs 41,335 crore has been allocated towards developmental projects.

Proceedings in Lok Sabha were ongoing at the time of uploading this note.