Major Ports are under the administrative control of the Ministry of Ports, Shipping & Waterways and Ports other than Major Ports (Non-Major/Minor) are under the jurisdiction of respective State Government. 12 Major Port in the country accounts for the bulk of India’s cargo handling capacity and have benefitted from substantial investments in infrastructure, modernization, and automation. For a balanced and sustained growth of the Indian port sector, Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways under Sagarmala Scheme is providing financial assistance to State Government / UT for development of port infrastructure.
The details of cargo handled by Major Ports and Non-Major Ports is annexed. [Annexure-I]
Inland Waterways Authority of India (IWAI) has undertaken implementation of the Jal Marg Vikas Project (JMVP) to augment the capacity of National Waterway-1 (NW-1) (from Varanasi to Haldia, 1390 Kilometer stretch). The development objective of JMVP is to enhance transport efficiency and reliability of NW-1 which passes through the states of Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, Jharkhand and West Bengal. Under JMVP, the details of developments in Bihar along with employment generation is annexed. [Annexure-II]. The number of people directly employed at Major Ports and Non-Major Ports is annexed. [Annexure-III]
Ministry constituted Maritime States Development Council (MSDC) in the year 1997, an apex advisory body for the development of maritime sector and aims to ensure development of Major and Non-Major Ports, in consultation with State Governments, the future development of existing and new Minor Ports by the respective Maritime States either directly or through captive users and private participation. Till date, twenty meetings of MSDC have been held. Further, under Sagarmala, the Government aims holistic port infrastructure development along the coastline though modernisation, mechanisation and computerisation.
Sagarmala is the flagship Central Sector Scheme of the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways to promote port-led development in the country through harnessing lndia’s 7,500 km long coastline, and 14,500 km of potentially navigable waterways. Under the Sagarmala Scheme, the Ministry provides financial assistance to State/UT Governments for Port infrastructure projects, Coastal berth projects, Road & Rail projects, fishing harbours, skill development projects, Coastal community development, cruise terminal and projects such as Ro-Pax ferry services. Ministry has till date provided partial assistance to 71 projects at a total Cost of Rs. 4925 Cr. for development of Non-Major Ports under Sagarmala Scheme.
Annexure-I
Year
Cargo handled by Major Ports (Million Tonnes)
Cargo handled by Non- Major Ports
(Million Tonnes)
2019-20
704.92
615.05
2020-21
672.68
577.30
2021-22
720.05
603.75
2022-23
784.30
651.01
2023-24
819.30
723.59
Annexure-II
JMVP Sub Projects in Bihar
Cost (In Cr.)
Approx. No. of Employment Generated
Development of Intermodal Terminal Kalughat
84.5
171
Development of 21 Community Jetties in Bihar
34.79
546
Fairway Development Kalughat Access Channel
9.63
24
Fairway Development Sultanganj – Mahenderpur (2019 – 2024)
159.3
52
Fairway Development Mahenderpur to Barh (2019 – 2024)
182.9
48
Fairway Development Sultanganj – Mahenderpur – Barh (2027 -2027)
147.43
84
Fairway Development Barh – Digha
73.14
45
Fairway Development Digha – Majhauwa
58.93
50
Development of Ship Repair Facility Patna
50
–
Quick Pontoon Opening Mechanism
11.61
5
Total
800.62
1025
JMVP staff at Project Implementation Unit Patna
9
Total
1034
Annexure-III
Employment of Manpower at Major Ports and Non-Major Ports
Year
Major Ports (in numbers)
Non- Major Ports
(in numbers)
2020
26318
5232
2021
23330
9945
2022
20924
9598
2023
18109
14219
2024
16667
13381
This information was given by the Union Minister of Ports, Shipping and Waterways, Shri Sarbananda Sonowal in written reply to QUESTION NO. 5693 in the Lok Sabha.
Under Modernisation pillar of Sagarmala Programme, 234 projects at cost of around Rs. 2.91 Lakh crores have been undertaken for implementation across Coastal States/UTs. These projects are implemented by Central Ministries, IWAI, Indian Railways, State Government and Major Ports etc. Out of these, 103 projects worth Rs. 32,634 crores have been completed and 56 projects worth Rs. 74,744 crores are under implementation. The details of projects undertaken in Sagarmala Programme in the State of Andhra Pradesh under Port Modernisation pillar is annexed. [Annexure-I]
Under the Sagarmala Scheme, the Ministry provides financial assistance to State/UT Governments for Port infrastructure projects, Coastal berth projects, Road & Rail projects, fishing harbours, skill development projects, Coastal community development, cruise terminal and projects such as Ro-Pax ferry services. Ministry has till date undertaken 119 projects at a total Cost of Rs. 9407 Cr. for partial funding under Sagarmala Scheme. Out of these, 72 projects have been completed till date. The State Wise details of projects under Sagarmala Scheme are annexed. [Annexure-II]. Under Sagarmala Scheme, Ministry is partially funding 12 projects costing around Rs. 2,410 Crore in the State of Andhra Pradesh including Visakhapatnam Port Authority. Out of these, 7 projects have been completed. The details of projects are provided at Annexure-III.
Major Ports are under the jurisdiction of the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways. The details of companies (public and private) which are involved in the construction and upgradation of Major Ports across the country is annexed. [Annexure-IV]
Annexure – I
List of Sagarmala Projects in Andhra Pradesh under Ports Modernisation pillar.
Annexure II
Annexure-III
List of Sagarmala-funded Projects in Andhra Pradesh
Annexure-IV
Companies (public and private) which are involved in the construction and upgradation of Major Ports
West Bengal: Syama Prasad Mookerjee Port
Century Ports Pvt. Ltd.
Mackintosh Burn Limited
M/s Biswajyoti Bhattacharyya
M/s Tribeni Constructions Ltd
Hooghly Oil and Gas Terminal Private Limited (HOGTPL)
HDC Bulk Terminal Ltd (HBTL)
Ganges bulk terminal Pvt. Ltd.
Tamil Nadu: Kamarajar Port Limited
Indian Pors Rail & Ropeway Corporation Limited
Tamil Nadu Road Development Company (TNRDC)
Jan De Nul Dredging India Pvt. Limited
Van Oord Dredging and Marine Contractors bv
Sripathy Associate Pvt. Ltd.
Sentinel Technologies Pvt. Ltd.
Tamil Nadu:V.O. Chidambaranar Port Authority
M/s Jandenul Dredging India Pvt. Ltd.
M/s Surabhi pile foundation & Gio Technics Pt. Ltd. Mumbai.
M/s Jefferson samuelraj& Sons.
M/s TTK Construction, Madurai
M/s R.K & Sons, Salem
M/s JSWTMTPL, Mumbai
M/s Tuticorin International Container Terminal Pvt. Ltd. (TICTPL), Tuticorin.
Maharashtra: Jawaharlal Nehru Port Authority
M/s Ferro Concrete Construction (India) Pvt. Ltd. Indore, MP
M/s Thakur- Mhatre JV, Mumbai.
M/s Alfra- Backbone- Tarmat JV Mumbai
M/s Thakur-Mhatre- Kharpatil JV, Mumbai
M/s RKEC Projects Ltd., Visakhapatnam.
M/s Blue Star Construction Co,
M/s Manoj Infracon Private Limited, Mumbai.
M/s J.M. Mhatre infra Pvt. Ltd, Mumbai.
M/s Paresh Construction Co., Mumbai
M/s JPR Balaji Infra Pvt. Ltd., Jalna.
M/s Niraj Cement Structurals Ltd., Mumbai.
M/s Ferro Concrete Construction (India) Pvt. Ltd., Mumbai
M/s DEV Engineers
M/s Capacite Engineering Pvt Ltd and M/s. Capacit’e Infraprojects Ltd. (JV), Mumbai.
M/s P.P. Kharpatil Construction Pvt. Ltd., Mumbai
M/s ITD Cementation Ltd., Mumbai
M/s Shandar Interior Pvt. Ltd, Pune
M/s Van Oord India Pvt Ltd
M/s MAN Infra Construction Ltd
M/s ITD Cementation
M/s MAN Infraconstruction Ltd
M/s Antelec Pvt Ltd
M/s Doosan Enerbility Vietnam
M/s Doosan Enerbility Vietnam
M/s Wuxi Huadong Heavy Machinery
M/s Cullen Grummitt& Roe (India) Pvt. Ltd.
M/s Egis India Consulting Engineers Pvt Ltd
M/s Ultratech Environmental Consultancy and Laboratory Pvt Ltd.
M/s National Institute of Oceanography (NIO)
M/s Gujarat Institute of Desert Ecology (GUIDE)
M/s ARI Simulation, New Delhi
M/s Central Water and Power Research Station, Pune (CWPRS)
Maharashtra: Mumbai Port Authority
M/s Vanoord India Private Ltd.
M/s Magoxy Infra Pvt. Ltd.
M/s BELIEVE Infra Project Pvt. Ltd.
M/s Belhekar and Kale Associated (JV)
M/s Kargwal Construction Pvt. Ltd
M/s ITD Cementation India Ltd.
M/s DVP Infraprojects Pvt Ltd.
Andhra Pradesh: Visakhapatnam Port Authority
M/s Rail Vikas Nigam Limited
M/s RKEC & M/s SBEC
M/s ITD Cementation Ltd.,
M/s SSN&Co.
M/s Indus Project Pvt. Ltd.
M/s SSN&Co.
M/s PJR Constructions (P) Ltd.
M/s JD Constructions
M/s GR Constructions
M/s Sri Venkateswara Constructions
M/s Md. Jahangeer
M/s Lalitha Constructions
M/s Hardware Tools and Machinery Projects Pvt Ltd.,
M/s IPRCL
M/s IPRCL
M/s JD Constructions
M/s ShrushtiContechPvt. Ltd. & Others.
M/s AKVR Infra
M/s Shell Refractories and Insulations, (JV) with M/s. Karagwal Constructions Pvt.
M/s Integrated Cargo Terminal Pvt. Ltd.
M/s Everson Marine Trade Pvt. Ltd.
Gujarat: Deendayal Port Authority
M/s Kandla International Caontainer Terminal
M/s Italgrus.r.l., Italy
M/s Suzlon Energy Limited, New Delhi
M/s Inox Wind Limited, Noida.
M/s RISHI Shipping, Gandhidham
M/s Merit BMH Engg. Pvt. Ltd., Chennai
M/s Sterling and Wilson Pvt. Ltd.
M/s Omkar Enterprise, Ahmedabad
M/s Hi-Tech Elastomers Ltd., Ahmedabad
M/s Hi-Tech Elastomers Ltd., Ahmedabad
M/s Woodfield Systems International Pvt. Ltd., Mumbai
M/s Italgrus.r.l., Italy
M/s Jay Project, Baroda and M/s Patel Construction Co., Gandhi Dham
M/s Jay Project, Baroda
M/s C.K Electrical, Surat
M/s L&T Energy Green Tech Limited, Vadodara.
M/s Adani Ports & Special Economic Zone Limited (APSEZL)
M/s Hindustan Gateway Container Terminal Kandla Pvt. Ltd.
M/s Kandla Oil Terminal Private Ltd.
M/s Coviva Energy Terminal Ltd.
M/s Rock and Reef Dredging Pvt Ltd.
M/s K.K. Sorathia JV Hariom Earthmovers and Transport, Adipur
M/s BMS Projecs – Marymatha JV
M/s Indian port rail & ropeway corporation limited (IPRCL)
M/s Neelkanth Infratech Pvt. Ltd.
M/s Hariom Earthmovers and Transport – Adipur
M/s Radhe Associated, Mehsana
M/s Neelkanth Infratech Pvt. Ltd.
M/s Dhanji K. Patel
M/s Patel Corrtech JV
M/s Patel Construction Co., Gandhidham
M/s Baldaniya Construction
Goa: Mormugao Port Authority
M/s South West Port Ltd (SWPL)
M/s Delta Ports Mormugao Terminal Pvt. Ltd.
M/s Goa IGT Pvt. Ltd. Navi Mumbai
Kerala: Cochin Port Authority
M/s KVJ Builders & Developers Pvt. Ltd. Kochi
M/s KVJ Builders & Developers Pvt. Ltd. Kochi
M/s RKEC Projects Pvt. Ltd., Visakhapatnam
Karnataka: New Mangalore Port Authority
M/s JSW-MCTPL
Odisha: Paradip Port Authority
Paradip East Quay Coal Terminal Pvt. Ltd.
Jindal Paradip Port Ltd.
This information was given by the Union Minister of Ports, Shipping and Waterways, Shri Sarbananda Sonowal in a written reply to QUESTION NO. 5544 in the Lok Sabha.
There are a total of 101 projects of Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways (MoPSW) under PM Gati Shakti National Master Plan. All of these are only infrastructure projects related to port and waterways development. The state wise details of 101 projects is annexed. [Annexure-I]
Out of 101 MoPSW projects under PM Gati Shakti National Master Plan, 5 projects are related to waterways development. The details of these projects are annexed. [Annexure-II]. The details of projects undertaken for development of National Waterways in India is annexed. [Annexure-III].
There are a total of 13 projects of Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways of around Rs. 7101.68 Cr. in the state of Andhra Pradesh under PM Gati Shakti National Master Plan. These projects are being implemented by Andhra Pradesh Maritime Board and Visakhapatnam Port Authority. Details of these 13 projects are annexed. [Annexure-IV]
Ministry of Finance has informed that based on the recommendations of Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT), capital expenditure amounting to Rs. 202.00 crore was approved and released by Ministry of Finance under “Scheme for Special Assistance to States for Capital Investment for 2022-23” to the State Government of Andhra Pradesh as per details annexed. [Annexure-V]
Annexure-I
State wise number of projects of MoPSW under PM Gati Shakti National Master Plan:
State
No. of projects
Andhra Pradesh
13
Gujarat
19
Karnataka
10
Kerala
3
Maharashtra
13
Odisha
7
Tamil Nadu
12
West Bengal
6
Bihar
2
Goa
12
Pondicherry
2
UP
2
Annexure-II
Waterways project under PM Gati Shakti National Master Plan:
Sr No
Name of Project
Cost (Rs. Cr)
Executing Agency
State
1
Multi-modal terminal at Varanasi
186.61
IWAI
UP
2
Multi-modal terminal at Sahib Ganj
278.56
IWAI
Bihar
3
Multi-modal terminal at Haldia
503.16
IWAI
West Bengal
4
Setting up of the Freight Village at Varanasi
165
IWAI
UP
5
Industrial Cluster cum Logistic park, Sahib Ganj
72
IWAI
Bihar
Annexure-III
DETAILS OF PROJECTS ON NATIONAL WATERWAYS DURING THE LAST FIVE FINANCIAL YEARS WITH FUNDS SANCTIONED/ALLOCATED:
(Rs. in Cr.)
S.No
Name of Project in States
Sanctioned Cost
A
Ongoing sanctioned NWs projects –
1
Jal Marg Vikas Project (JMVP-I & II) from Varanasi-Haldia stretch on NW-1 (Ganga-Bhagirathi-Hooghly River System) in Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, Jharkhand & West Bengal
5061. 15
2
Comprehensive Development of NW-2 (River Brahmaputra from B’desh Border –Dhubri to Sadiya) in Assam
474.00
3
Comprehensive Development of NW-16 (River Barak from Lakhimpur to Tuker Gram) in Assam and Indian Portion of IndoBangladesh Route in Assam
148.00
B.
NWs projects sanctioned since 3 years
4
Development of Approach Road from Pandu Port Terminal to NH27 on NW-2
180.00
5
Development of Ship Repair Facility at Pandu, Guwahati (Assam) on NW-2
208.00
6
Development of 23 NW’s (Phase1) (** 3 existing & 13 new NW’s) — Development of 20 NWs (NW-3, 4, 5 & 17 new NWs) in the States of Kerala, Andhra Pradesh, Odisha, Goa, West Bengal, Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, Maharashtra & Assam
266.09
(i)
NW-3-West Coast Canal (Kottapuram – Kollam), Champakara and Udyogmandal Canals in Kerala
(ii)
Part of NW-4- Krishna River (Vijayawada – Muktyala) in Andhra Pradesh
(iii)
NW-5- Dhamra-Paradip via Mangalagadi to Pankopal of river Brahmani in Odisha
(iv)
NW-8- Alappuzha-Changanassery Canal in Kerala
(v)
NW-9- Alappuzha-Athirampuza Canal in Kerala
(vi)
NW-27-Cumberjua River in Goa
(vii)
NW-68- Mandovi River in Goa
(viii)
NW-111- Zuari River in Goa
(ix)
NW-86- River Rupnarayan in West Bengal
(x)
NW-97- Sundarbans Waterways in West Bengal
(xi)
NW-40- Ghaghra River in U.P. & Bihar
(xii)
NW-44- Ichamati River in West Bengal
(xiii)
NW-10- Amba River in Maharashtra
(xiv)
NW-28-Dabhol Creek Vashisthi River in Maharashtra
(xv)
NW-57- Kopili River in Assam
(xvi)
NW-31- Dhansiri River in Assam
(xvii)
NW-73- Pontoons in River Narmada in Gujarat
(xviii)
NW-73 (the Narmada) & NW-100 (the Tapi) – EIA/EMP Study in Gujarat NWs
(xix)
NW-110 (the Yamuna)- Pontoons in Mathura
(xx)
NW-37 (the Gandak)- Pontoons in Battiah in Bihar
Total
6337.24
Annexure-IV
Sl.No
Name of Project
Cost (Rs. Cr)
Name of Port
Location
Project Status
Physical Progress
Objective of the Project
1
Development of Ramayapatnam Ports, Prakasam district, Andhra Pradesh
4929.39
Ramayapatnam Port
Ramayapatnam Port
Under Implementation
52.95%
The port is being built to handle potential traffic of 34.04 MMTPA in Phase I (2024 25) to facilitate EXIM trade and rapid industrialisation in the region.
2
Liquid Jetty
236
Krishnapatnam Port
Krishnapatnam Port
Completed
100%
Liquid jetty has been constructed to handle 6 MMTPA (million metric tonnes per annum) of liquid cargo.
3
Berth 6 Mechanization
125.4
Krishnapatnam Port
Krishnapatnam Port
completed
100%
Mechanization of Berth undertaken to carry out Mechanized handling of cargo at berth 6.
4
West Berth Extension
90
Krishnapatnam Port
Krishnapatnam Port
Under Development
0
Capacity Addition
5
West Berth Mechanization
200
Krishnapatnam Port
Krishnapatnam Port
Under Development
0
Capacity Addition
6
Phase-II of Wagon Loading Station
20
Krishnapatnam Port
Krishnapatnam Port
Under Development
0
Capacity Addition
7
Development of New Berth EQ-1A Visakhapatnam (left over civil works)
22.35
Visakhapatnam Port Authority
Visakhapatnam Port
Completed
100%
Capacity Augmentation of port
8
Extension of existing container terminal at VPT on DBFOT basis
633.11
Visakhapatnam Port Authority
Visakhapatnam Port
Completed
100%
Capacity augmentation from 0.54 TEUs to 0.99TEUs
9
Mechanisation of WQ-7 & WQ-8 berths in the Inner harbour
288.47
Visakhapatnam Port Authority
Visakhapatnam Port
Under Development
0
Augmentation of Port Cargo handling capacity with improved performance.
10
Mechanisation of EQ-7 berth in the Inner harbour
201
Visakhapatnam Port Authority
Visakhapatnam Port
Under Development
0
Augmentation of Port Cargo handling capacity with improved performance.
11
Additional Oil Jetty -OR3 along with OR1 and OR2 at Visakhapatnam
167.66
Visakhapatnam Port Authority
Visakhapatnam Port
Under Implementation
84.74%
The objective is to handle PANAMAX vessels with 85,000 DWT vessel.
12
a) Construction of cruise berth b) Construction of cruise terminal
72.26
Visakhapatnam Port Authority
Visakhapatnam Port
Completed
100.00%
To enhance the tourism potential of this area & to create indirect employment to the local people.
13
Construction of covered storage sheds
116.04
Visakhapatnam Port Authority
Visakhapatnam Port
Completed
100.00%
to improve the Environmental Hygiene and to meet statutory requirements of Pollution control Board and NGT in order to create Eco friendly environment during the cargo handling operations.
Annexure-V
Details of Capital Expenditure released by DoE, MoF to Govt. of Andhra Pradesh under Part-II (PM Gatishakti related Expenditure) of “Scheme for Special Assistance to States for Capital Investment for 2022-23:
(Rs. in crore)
Sl. No.
Name of project
Location
Estimated Project Cost
Capital Expenditure approved by
DoE, MoF
Capital Expenditure released by
DoE, MoF
1
Phase 1 to 46 MLD External Water Supply to Jagananna Mega Industrial Hub (JMIH)
Kopparthy YSR Kadapa district
171.00
171.00
171.00
2
Railway siding to YSR JMIH, Kopparthy, Kadapa
Kopparthy YSR Kadapa district
54.00
31.00
31.00
Total
225.00
202.00
202.00
This information was given by the Union Minister of Ports, Shipping and Waterways, Shri Sarbananda Sonowal in written reply to QUESTION NO. 5545 in the Lok Sabha.
Union Ministers of State Prof. S.P. Singh Baghel and Shri Sanjay Seth Celebrate Tribal Heritage at “Hamari Parampara Hamari Virasat” event in New Delhi, commemorating Bhagwan Birsa Munda’s 150th Birth Anniversary Year Prof. S.P. Singh Baghel Calls for Recording Tribal Traditions to Safeguard India’s Heritage; Urges Tribal Communities to Prioritize Education
Posted On: 04 APR 2025 5:05PM by PIB Delhi
A special event under the “Hamari Parampara, Hamari Virasat” program, held in conjunction with Sarhul Mahotsav 2025, by the Ministry of Panchayati Raj (MoPR), in collaboration with the Government of Jharkhand, marked a significant step in celebrating India’s indigenous heritage in New Delhi, today. The event, marking the 150th Birth Anniversary Year of Bhagwan Birsa Munda (Janjatiya Gaurav Varsh), celebrated tribal heritage at the national level. It was inaugurated by Prof. S.P. Singh Baghel, Union Minister of State for Panchayati Raj, and Shri Sanjay Seth, Union Minister of State for Defence, in the presence of Shri Vivek Bharadwaj, Secretary, MoPR, Shri Sushil Kumar Lohani, Additional Secretary, MoPR along with other key officials of the Ministry of Panchayati Raj and Government of Jharkhand along with over 560 tribal representatives from Jharkhand.
Union Minister of State for Panchayati Raj, Prof. S. P. Singh Baghel, in his address, emphasized the significance of preserving India’s tribal culture that encompasses their local languages, music, food, and traditions defining their rich heritage. He articulated that the recording and documentation of “Lok Bhasha, Bhoosha, Bhojan, Sangeet” is imperative for keeping the nation’s heritage alive for future generations. While commemorating the valour and sacrifice of Bhagwan Birsa Munda in his 150th birth anniversary year, Prof. Baghel particularly acknowledged the invaluable contributions of tribal communities in the struggle against British colonialism, especially in the fight to conserve essential resources of “Jal–Jangal–Jameen” (water, forest, land). He highlighted how Adivasis, being the most indigenous group, have played a crucial role in environmental protection. Prof. Baghel noted that the Adivasis’ environmental conservation efforts are not merely part of their legacy but are vital to the overall ecological health of mother earth. He commended the community’s profound connection to land and environment, which has enabled them to preserve natural resources across generations. “If we had learnt the values like respect for nature from the tribal way of living, problems like global warming, ecological imbalance and ozone depletion may not have become so serious”, added Prof. Baghel. He urged tribal communities to prioritize their children’s education, as it is the cornerstone for societal upliftment and progress.
Shri Sanjay Seth, Union Minister of State for Defence, addressing the “Hamari Parampara Hamari Virasat” program, highlighted Bhagwan Birsa Munda’s inspiring legacy and appreciated the cultural awareness of Jharkhand’s tribal groups, that have immensely contributed to India’s rich cultural traditions. Referring to the Tribal Museum in Ranchi, established at the site where Bhagwan Birsa Munda was imprisoned during British rule, he stated that this museum serves as an inspiration center for future generations.Union Minister of State said “Hon’ble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi Ji inspires us to connect heritage with development. Taking forward this vision, the Sarhul festival organised in New Delhi gave a strong message to the nation – conserve Jal, Jangal aur Jameen. The contribution of the tribal community in preserving India’s civilizational values is unparallel. Sarhul reflects the belief that the closer we are to nature, the more joyful, energetic, and prosperous our lives become”.
Shri Vivek Bharadwaj, Secretary, Ministry of Panchayati Raj, emphasized the vital importance of preserving rich tribal cultural heritage that forms the backbone of India’s diverse traditions. He asserted, “Our tribal songs, music, folklore, and traditions are invaluable treasures. If we do not safeguard them, they risk fading away with time. It is not just our duty but a profound responsibility to protect and nurture these cultural legacies for future generations”. Shri Bharadwaj apprised that over 3,000 villages in Jharkhand, have pledged to actively participate in this campaign to safeguard their art, culture, and traditions. He called for accelerated efforts in Jharkhand to establish it as a model for other States, showcasing how cultural preservation can thrive through community engagement.
The program also featured vibrant cultural performances, including traditional Mundari dance of the Santhali community and Munda tribal storytelling, alongside substantive discussions on the role of Gram Sabhas in heritage conservation, government initiatives for indigenous traditions, and insights from tribal leaders on grassroot governance and cultural preservation.
About Hamari Parampara Hamari Virasat
The “Hamari Parampara Hamari Virasat” initiative helps to integrate tribal heritage into the nation’s cultural and governance framework. Envisioned and supported by the Ministry of Panchayati Raj, this campaign was launched by the Department of Panchayati Raj, Government of Jharkhand on 26th January 2025 and has already witnessed more than 3,000 villages pledging their dedication to preserving traditional self-governance and cultural legacy. The objective of “Hamari Parampara Hamari Virasat” is to preserve, enhance, and transmit to future generations the cultural heritage, folk songs, festivals, and worship practices integral to the traditional governance systems of various Scheduled Tribe communities in Scheduled Areas. The program aims to document the vibrant history and cultural practices of villages across Jharkhand. This initiative aligns closely with the Panchayats (Extension to the Scheduled Areas) Act, 1996 (PESA Act), which empowers Gram Sabhas in Scheduled Areas to safeguard tribal customs, traditions, and self-governance. The Ministry of Panchayati Raj has constituted a high-level committee to oversee the successful implementation of this initiative, ensuring that the traditional governance structures of Scheduled Tribes continue to thrive.
Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Scheme (Mahatma Gandhi NREGS) is a demand driven wage employment Scheme. It provides livelihood security, i.e. fall back options for livelihood for the rural households, when no better employment opportunity is available.
State/UT-wise and year-wise details of persondays generated under Mahatma Gandhi NREGS from the financial year 2019-20 to 2024-25 (as on 31.03.2025) are given atAnnexure-I.
State/Union Territory (UT)-wise details of fund released for the wage component under Mahatma Gandhi NREGS from the financial year 2019-20 to 2024-25 (as on 30.03.2025) are given at Annexure-II.
In the beginning of every financial year, due and admissible pending liabilities, if any, of the previous financial year are reimbursed by the Government of India to concerned States/UTs. Accordingly, due and admissible pending liability up to FY 2023-24 has already been released to the States/UTs.
Fund release to the States/Union Territories is a continuous process and Central Government is committed for making funds available to States/UTs for the implementation of the Scheme as per demand for work on the ground.
Annexure-I
Annexure referred to in reply to part (a) of Rajya Sabha Unstarred Question No. 3972 dated 04.04.2025.
State/UT-wise and year-wise details of persondays generated under Mahatma Gandhi NREGS from the financial year 2019-20 to 2024-25 (as on 31.03.2025)
SI. No.
State/UTS
Total Persondays generated (in lakh)
2019-20
2020-21
2021-22
2022-23
2023-24
2024-25
1
ANDHRA PRADESH
2002.25
2586.56
2414.87
2395.43
2554.97
2413.57
2
ARUNACHAL PRADESH
85.97
127.97
158.69
151.17
160.98
203.53
3
ASSAM
623.06
911.53
915.85
788.01
874.99
707.59
4
BIHAR
1406.81
2261.26
1802.75
2364.55
2205.25
2449.87
5
CHHATTISGARH
1361.75
1840.90
1692.27
1325.09
1276.63
1302.28
6
GOA
0.34
1.10
0.95
0.94
0.43
0.75
7
GUJARAT
353.69
482.29
568.01
466.41
492.76
428.12
8
HARYANA
91.19
179.62
146.39
96.51
123.18
115.87
9
HIMACHAL PRADESH
259.19
336.19
370.94
307.89
344.31
391.14
10
JAMMU AND KASHMIR
313.41
407.01
406.18
308.77
374.76
397.64
11
JHARKHAND
641.95
1176.08
1132.20
914.90
1097.17
999.59
12
KARNATAKA
1118.63
1480.27
1632.10
1258.25
1385.01
1297.22
13
KERALA
802.30
1023.00
1059.66
965.78
994.59
903.16
14
LADAKH
19.03
21.30
19.27
19.56
20.24
22.17
15
MADHYA PRADESH
1929.15
3418.06
2998.52
2259.82
1995.98
1872.70
16
MAHARASHTRA
629.58
679.35
825.30
787.99
1160.16
1611.20
17
MANIPUR
234.07
330.52
303.31
74.62
150.11
240.93
18
MEGHALAYA
370.22
383.70
393.63
289.22
325.48
310.82
19
MIZORAM
192.08
198.65
200.77
202.33
204.07
196.75
20
NAGALAND
138.48
180.12
192.58
196.83
178.73
92.76
21
ODISHA
1113.89
2080.75
1977.63
1852.73
1828.43
1173.86
22
PUNJAB
235.25
376.75
331.43
321.18
350.81
309.10
23
RAJASTHAN
3286.42
4605.35
4242.67
3571.46
3751.61
3108.64
24
SIKKIM
29.47
37.34
34.34
32.47
34.33
33.00
25
TAMIL NADU
2485.10
3339.46
3457.26
3346.55
4087.02
3051.74
26
TELANGANA
1071.14
1579.53
1457.93
1218.67
1208.58
1187.46
27
TRIPURA
344.02
437.22
426.18
334.55
370.49
352.70
28
UTTAR PRADESH
2443.28
3930.67
3255.82
3115.16
3452.85
3337.91
29
UTTARAKHAND
206.10
303.60
243.18
206.46
196.92
188.38
30
WEST BENGAL
2722.81
4140.17
3642.27
378.75
1.65
0.00
31
ANDAMAN AND NICOBAR
2.21
2.61
1.14
1.29
1.24
0.87
32
DN HAVELI AND DD
0.00
0.00
0.00
0.00
0.41
2.94
33
LAKSHADWEEP
0.04
0.02
0.01
0.05
0.04
0.00
34
PUDUCHERRY
7.65
10.57
6.15
8.30
21.89
10.77
Total
26520.54
38869.49
36310.21
29561.65
31226.02
28715.01
As per NREGASoft
Annexure-II
Annexure referred to in reply to part (b) of Rajya Sabha Unstarred Question No. 3972 dated 04.04.2025.
State/Union Territory (UT)-wise details of fund released for the wage component under Mahatma Gandhi NREGS from the financial year 2019-20 to 2024-25 (as on 30.03.2025).
(Rs. in Crore)
Sl.
No.
States/UTs
Fund released for the wage component
2019-20
2020-21
2021-22
2022-23
2023-24
2024-25
1
Andhra Pradesh
4510.63
6273.13
5270.54
5118.93
5629.31
6040.4
2
Arunachal Pradesh
84.81
224.89
326.09
352.14
283.19
402.13
3
Assam
1222.02
2154.95
2126.41
1831.4
1943.17
1558.85
4
Bihar
2305.56
4756.87
3539.93
5024.83
4284.17
4811.34
5
Chhattisgarh
2033.52
3362.94
2849.06
2381.67
2088.35
2569.71
6
Goa
0.85
2.34
0.24
3.75
0.88
2.36
7
Gujarat
565.32
1066.02
1159.92
1011.03
1000.81
1104.23
8
Haryana
242.58
600.89
461.95
306.35
357.77
398.8
9
Himachal Pradesh
423.71
736.75
743.4
656.13
597.66
798.98
10
Jammu & Kashmir
691.02
810.49
867.93
704.37
725.61
909.81
11
Jharkhand
945.79
2399.42
2238.73
2196.3
2249.64
2425.71
12
Karnataka
2690.96
4251.44
4680.81
3793.51
3794.71
4198.23
13
Kerala
3173.83
3356.22
3030.03
2935.75
2953.63
2450.68
14
Madhya Pradesh
3495.46
6419.71
5569.66
4541.45
3640.64
4286.63
15
Maharashtra
1098.01
1351.62
1670.9
1744.29
1947.47
3190.58
16
Manipur
252.08
596.26
553.65
757
0
542.9
17
Meghalaya
602.69
974.97
897.76
670.25
577.41
764.13
18
Mizoram
469.54
501.75
464.11
420.13
447.58
584.97
19
Nagaland
414.5
263.61
311.26
573.06
422.93
137.83
20
Odisha
1604.74
4219.2
4321.9
3743.86
3930.67
2667.14
21
Punjab
603.02
1021.25
913.08
883.11
928.24
947.09
22
Rajasthan
5158.53
8097.76
7793.29
6757.26
6490.07
6313.93
23
Sikkim
56.56
80.75
74.38
70.46
75.7
74.59
24
Tamil Nadu
4503.88
6958.79
7358.88
7469.9
10191.6
5995.6
25
Telangana
1693.05
2634.34
2680.23
2027.44
1785.29
2799.1
26
Tripura
579.41
904.4
822.16
672.17
724.3
725.9
27
Uttar Pradesh
4337.6
7817.58
6644.45
6551.57
7176.97
6585.39
28
Uttarakhand
306.85
713.17
503.45
433.61
384.98
432.87
29
West Bengal
6215.73
9397.68
5645.91
*
*
*
30
Andaman & Nicobar
3.09
5.81
5.62
8
0
3.11
31
Lakshadweep
0.9
0.5
0.1
0
0
31.5
32
Puducherry
13.55
24.44
14.11
20.65
50.39
38.8
33
Ladakh
0
22.49
42.48
42.3
44.66
62.96
34
Dadra & Nagar Haveli & Daman & Diu
0
0
0
1
0
8.66
Total
50,299.79
82,002.43
73,582.42
63,703.67
64,727.84
63,864.91
*As per provisions under Section 27 of Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act, 2005 due to non-compliance of directives of Central Government, funds to the State of West Bengal have been stopped since 09th March, 2022.
This information was given by Minister of State for Rural Development, Shri Kamlesh Paswan in a written reply in Rajya Sabha today.
During 03-04 April 2025, H.E. Shri Narendra Modi, Prime Minister of the Republic of India paid an Official Visit to Thailand and participated in the 6th BIMSTEC Summit in Bangkok, on the invitation of H.E. Ms. Paetongtarn Shinawatra, Prime Minister of the Kingdom of Thailand. Prime Minister Modi was accorded a ceremonial welcome by Prime Minister Shinawatra at the Government House in Bangkok.
Acknowledging the deep civilisational, cultural, religious and linguistic bonds and 78 years of establishment of diplomatic ties between India and Thailand, both leaders held wide ranging discussions on various areas of bilateral cooperation including defence and security, trade and investment, connectivity, science and technology, innovation, space, education, health, culture, tourism and people-to-people exchanges. They also exchanged views on sub-regional, regional, and multilateral issues of mutual interest. Both leaders witnessed exchange of several MoUs covering various areas of cooperation. They also welcomed the establishment of an India-Thailand Consular Dialogue.
Prime Minister Shinawatra and Prime Minister Modi also visited Wat Phra Chetuphon Wimon Mangkhalaram Rajwaramahawihan to pay homage to the historic Reclining Buddha.
Taking into consideration the existing cooperation and the potential for closer cooperation not only at the bilateral and regional levels but also in the global context in view of the rapidly evolving global geopolitical situation, the two leaders agreed to elevate the existing bilateral relations to a Strategic Partnership. This marks a new chapter of enhanced partnership for realising the full potential of cooperation between the two countries.
The Strategic Partnership is based on mutual commitment to strengthen bilateral relations for the continuing peace, stability and prosperity of the two countries and their respective regions. The Strategic Partnership will serve as an important foundation for the two countries to chart a future-oriented and mutually-beneficial path towards increasing opportunities, closer cooperation and to jointly respond to common challenges.
The Strategic Partnership will build upon existing agreements and mechanisms of cooperation which encompass partnering in political, defence and security, trade and investment, connectivity, education, socio-cultural development and people-to-people exchanges, as well as other areas of mutual interest.
In declaring this Strategic Partnership, the two leaders reaffirmed their shared interests in a free, open, transparent, rules-based, inclusive, prosperous and resilient Indo-Pacific region and reiterated their strong support for ASEAN Centrality. They also reaffirmed their commitment to exploring concrete activities to implement the ASEAN-India Joint Statement on Cooperation on the ASEAN Outlook on the Indo-Pacific (AOIP) for Peace, Stability and Prosperity in the Region through enhanced cooperation between the AOIP and the Indo-Pacific Oceans Initiative (IPOI) including Thailand’s constructive role to co-lead the Maritime Ecology Pillar of the IPOI with Australia.
In an effort to further broaden and deepen the relationship between the two countries, the two leaders agreed to the following:
Political Cooperation
Strengthen political engagement through regular high-level exchanges at the Leadership level, including on the sidelines of multilateral meetings with a view to discuss shared regional interests, as well as to address regional and global security challenges.
Convene regular meetings between the Foreign Ministers and Senior Officials from respective Ministry of Foreign Affairs/External Affairs under existing mechanisms of Joint Committee for Bilateral Cooperation at the Foreign Ministers’ level and Foreign Office Consultations at the Senior Officials’ level.
Promote regular Parliamentary exchanges between both countries.
Defence and Security Cooperation
Strengthen the existing mechanisms of defence cooperation, as well as to promote further collaboration between the defence sectors of the two countries, with particular emphasis on defence technology, defence industry, research, training, exchanges, exercises and capacity building including by establishing appropriate mechanisms.
Enhance security cooperation through regular dialogues and exchanges between the respective security and law enforcement agencies/ organisations, also by including a Deputy National Security Adviser/ Secretary General level strategic dialogue between the Thai National Security Council and the National Security Council Secretariat of India, to address the increasingly challenging global and regional security environment and cooperate on both traditional and non-traditional security issues such as defence, maritime security, cybersecurity, counter terrorism, law enforcement issues and combating transnational organised crime like cyber-crimes, international economic crimes, anti-money laundering and human, drug, arms and wildlife trafficking, through exchange of information and intelligence, and sharing of best practices.
Economic, Trade and Investment Cooperation
To organise regular meetings and exchanges between the respective Ministry of Commerce/Commerce & Industry under existing mechanism of the Joint Trade Committee between India and Thailand. It was also agreed to ensure annual meetings of existing mechanisms to promote trade and investment between the two countries; to facilitate trade and resolve market access issues with a view to strengthening both countries’ linkages to the global supply chain and to enhance the confidence of the private sectors of both countries; including through cooperation in harmonization, equivalence and Mutual Recognition of Standards of mutually agreed areas; and to prepare for new areas of trade and investment, especially in future-oriented industries, such as renewable energy, electric vehicles, digital technology, robotics, ICT, space technology, biotechnology, creative industry and startups.
Welcome the increasing bilateral trade, which reached approximate US$ 15 billion in 2023-24 and seek to enhance sustainable bilateral trade to realise its full potential, through an expansion of economic linkages in potential areas. Promote sustainable trade in sectors such as value-added marine products, smartphones, electrical vehicles, food processing, petroleum products, auto components, services and pharmaceuticals.
Promote trade facilitation and to deepen cooperation under the existing agreements and frameworks, including the Framework Agreement for Establishing Comprehensive Free Trade Area between Thailand and India and the ASEAN-India Trade in Goods Agreement (AITIGA). Provide greater impetus to bilateral trade by exploring the establishment of local currency-based settlement mechanism.
To support and expedite the review of the ASEAN-India Trade in Goods Agreement (AITIGA) to make it more user-friendly, simple and trade facilitative for businesses, aiming to achieve substantial conclusion in 2025 and to strengthen supply chains between India and ASEAN Countries.
Promote closer collaboration between the investment promotion agencies of the two countries, including the Board of Investment of Thailand and Invest India, to promote effective utilisation of existing investment policies and schemes, particularly those driving forward the vision of Ignite Thailand through Act East Policy and Make In India, as well as the utilisation of Special Economic Zones (SEZs) & Industrial Corridors in both countries for increasing bilateral investment.
Organise regular meetings on annual basis of the India-Thailand Joint Business Forum (ITJBF) to serve as the main mechanism for exchanges and the promotion of joint projects and collaboration between the private sectors of the two countries.
Explore appropriate mechanisms to promote exchanges between entrepreneurs, SMEs, and startups. Keeping in mind the common strategic goals of capacity building and increased market access for India and Thailand startup ecosystems, both sides agreed to conduct startup related activities including mentorship programmes and expert sessions on sectors of mutual importance, focused investor pitching, business matchmaking with corporates and business associations, innovation challenges, integration of academic institutes in both countries and supporting cross-incubation models.
Promote closer collaboration between the financial service providers in India and Thailand to facilitate trade, investment, and cross-border payments to strengthen economic and financial linkages between the two countries.
Promote cooperation for sustainable economic growth, including Bio-Circular- Green Economy and Life Style for Environment, especially in the areas of renewable energy, and energy efficiency technologies, to meet both sides’ respective climate change goals.
Connectivity
Enhance all modes of connectivity such as physical, digital and financial between India and Thailand and strengthen regional linkages, including through expediting the India-Myanmar-Thailand Trilateral Highway and its eastward extension, as well as the India, Myanmar and Thailand Motor Vehicles Agreement, strengthening regional maritime connectivity through coastal shipping and enhancing port-to-port connections and to encourage the civil aviation authorities of the two countries to continue engaging in discussions for enhancing air connectivity between both countries.
Socio-cultural, Educational and People-to-People Exchanges
Foster the positive momentum of people-to-people exchanges, as well as promote potential areas of tourism between the two countries.
Strengthen mechanisms of cooperation between the Ministries responsible for education in both countries in order to promote educational cooperation, including through mutual recognition of qualifications, increased exchanges of scholarships for students pursuing university-level education in India and Thailand, to facilitate student exchanges, joint research and fellowships. Promote cooperation in skill development, English Language training, Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET), Thai and Hindi Studies, and collaboration between educational and training institutions in both countries.
Strengthen the links between the two countries through the deepening of cultural relations and cooperation, including in performing arts, exhibitions, seminars, conference, archaeology, archives, museums, research and documentation, and festivals as identified in the Cultural Exchange Programme (CEP).
Explore potential areas of collaboration in sports, such as sports integrity, sports governing bodies, sport sciences & research, sports industry, and sports tourism, as well as exchanges of experts and practitioners in areas of mutual interest.
Promote closer collaboration between India and Thailand in establishing closer cooperation with the North Eastern Region (NER) of India and to increase exchanges, particularly in the areas of tourism, culture, education, vocation and technical cooperation.
Strengthen cooperation between Ministries responsible for science and technology to address new challenges and create opportunities with increased exchanges and closer collaboration in science and technology, through joint research projects, workshops, and exchanges in priority areas such as agriculture, biotechnology, ICT and space technology.
Promote closer cooperation between the two countries in the areas of health, medical products, as well as traditional medicine, including through increased exchanges of information, research and development, and human resource development.
Establish exchanges and cooperation involved in women’s all-round development, including leadership, decision-making and vocational skills to enhance women entrepreneurship.
Regional, Multilateral and International Cooperation
Enhance cooperation between India and Thailand especially at the United Nations to promote constructive role of both sides on global issues of mutual concern and interest.
Strengthen cooperation between India and Thailand within regional and sub-regional frameworks, including the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), Ayeyawady-Chao Phraya-Mekong Economic Cooperation Strategy (ACMECS), Mekong-Ganga Cooperation (MGC), Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation (BIMSTEC), Indian Ocean Rim Association (IORA), Asia Cooperation Dialogue (ACD) and Indonesia-Malaysia-Thailand Growth Triangle (IMT-GT) and promote synergies and complementarities among these frameworks with the aim to comprehensively and effectively address regional and sub-regional challenges.
Strengthen cooperation between Thailand and India in multilateral frameworks such as G77 and South-South Cooperation to jointly advocate the voice of developing countries.
Jointly strengthen the ASEAN-India Comprehensive Strategic Partnership established at the 19th ASEAN-India Summit to commemorate the 30th Anniversary of ASEAN-India Dialogue Relations in 2022 in Phnom Penh and welcome India’s continued support for ASEAN Centrality and active cooperation in ASEAN-led mechanisms in the evolving regional architecture.
Further strengthen cooperation under the Mekong-Ganga Cooperation (MGC) framework for enhancing socio-economic development and connectivity of the region, and further strengthen the centuries old civilisational ties.
Promote the leading and proactive role of India and Thailand as founding members and the two largest economies of BIMSTEC in working towards a prosperous, resilient and open Bay of Bengal community, while capitalising on the commitment from the recent adoption of the BIMSTEC Charter as well as the unique character of BIMSTEC as a bridge between South and Southeast Asia. Strengthen BIMSTEC transport connectivity through implementation of the BIMSTEC Master Plan for Transport Connectivity and related agreements, including the Agreement on Maritime Transport Cooperation.
The Prime Minister of the Kingdom of Thailand and the Prime Minister of the Republic of India agreed to task the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Kingdom of Thailand and the Ministry of External Affairs of the Republic of India to coordinate with relevant agencies to formulate a Joint Plan of Action towards the effective implementation of the Strategic Partnership.
The Government is committed to providing safe, secure and affordable hostel facility for working women and women aspiring to join the work force. Working women hostels are critical components for improving participation of women in the labour force, which is a major step towards realising the idea of ‘Women led development’.
Sakhi Niwas Scheme [Working Women Hostel (WWH)] under the umbrella Mission Shakti, is a demand driven Centrally Sponsored Scheme where States/UTs assess their requirement as per local needs and proposals are approved by the Programme Approval Board (PAB) after discussion with States/UTs. The scheme aims to promote availability of safe and conveniently located accommodation for working women and for those women who are pursuing higher education/training, with Day care facility for children in urban, semi-urban and even rural areas where employment opportunity for women exist. In this scheme, fund is provided on rental basis. The component of new greenfield construction has been discontinued.
However, the Department of Expenditure(DoE), Ministry of Finance, under the Scheme for Special Assistance to States for Capital Investment (SASCI) has allocated Rs.5000.00 crore for greenfield construction of new WWH to 28 States during the financial year 2024-25. After assessing their needs and requirements, 28 States have submitted proposals of construction of WWH to the DoE. Based on theproposals received from States, DoE has released 1stinstalment to 28 States for construction of WWH during the financial year 2024-25.
There is no provision in the Sakhi Niwas Scheme (WWH) for providing skill and marketing facilities to the beneficiary of WWH.
The Empowered Committee under the framework of Nirbhaya Fund has also appraised greenfield construction of more WWH i.e. 7 in Uttarakhand, 3 in Uttar Pradesh, 7 in Nagaland, 1 in Punjab, 3 in Tamil Nadu and 1 for the University of Delhi.
This information was given by the Minister of State for Women and Child Development Smt. Savitri Thakur in Lok Sabha in reply to a question today.
Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) and the Indian Army conducted four successful flight-tests of the Army version of Medium-Range Surface-to-Air Missile (MRSAM) from Dr APJ Abdul Kalam Island off the coast of Odisha on April 03 & 04, 2025. The four operational flight-trials were carried out against high-speed aerial targets. The missiles intercepted the aerial targets and destroyed them, registering direct hits. The trials were carried out to intercept four targets at long-range, short-range, high altitude and low altitude, proving the operational capability.
The flight-tests were carried out with the weapon system in operational condition. The performance of the weapon system was validated through the flight data captured by range instruments like radars and electro-optical tracking systems deployed by Integrated Test Range, Chandipur. The flight tests were carried out in the presence of senior officials from DRDO and the Indian Army.
The trials were carried out by the Indian Army from Eastern and Southern Commands under DRDO guidance. These trials have proven the operational capability of both Army Commands and paved the way for operationalisation of weapon systems in two Regiments.
The MRSAM is developed jointly by DRDO and Israel Aerospace Industries for use by the Indian Army. The MRSAM Army weapon system comprises multi-function radar, command post, mobile launcher system and other vehicles.
Raksha Mantri Shri Rajnath Singh has congratulated DRDO, Indian Army and the industries for the successful flight-tests. Four successful tests have re-established the capability of the weapon system in intercepting targets at critical ranges, he said.
Secretary, Department of Defence R&D and Chairman DRDO Dr Samir V Kamat complimented the teams involved in the successful flight-trial, terming the as major milestones for building operational capability of the Indian Army.
PRODUCTIVITY DURING FOURTH SESSION OF 18TH LOK SABHA WAS AROUND 118 PERCENT: LOK SABHA SPEAKER 26 SITTINGS OF LOK SABHA WERE HELD DURING FOURTH SESSION, WHICH LASTED FOR 160 HOURS 48 MINUTES: LOK SABHA SPEAKER
DISCUSSION ON VOTE OF THANKS ON PRESIDENT’S ADDRESS LASTED FOR 17 HOURS 23 MINUTES AND 173 MEMBERS PARTICIPATED IN THE DISCUSSION: LOK SABHA SPEAKER
GENERAL DISCUSSION ON UNION BUDGET 2025-26 LASTED FOR 16 HOURS 13 MINUTES AND 169 MEMBERS PARTICIPATED IN DISCUSSION: LOK SABHA SPEAKER
10 GOVERNMENT BILLS WERE INTRODUCED IN LOK SABHA AND 16 BILLS WERE PASSED: LOK SABHA SPEAKER
RECORD 202 MATTERS OF PUBLIC IMPORTANCE WERE RAISED DURING ZERO HOUR ON 3 APRIL, 2025: LOK SABHA SPEAKER
FOURTH SESSION OF EIGHTEENTH LOK SABHA CONCLUDES
Posted On: 04 APR 2025 6:05PM by PIB Delhi
The Fourth Session of the Eighteenth Lok Sabha, which commenced on 31 January, 2025, concluded today. Shri Birla informed the House that 26 sittings were held during the Session which lasted for around 160 hours 48 minutes. The productivity of the House during the Session was 118 percent, informed Shri Birla.
Hon’ble President of India addressed Members of both the Houses of Parliament on 31 January, 2025 and the discussion on Vote of Thanks on the President’s Address lasted for 17 hours 23 minutes. 173 Members participated in the discussion, informed Shri Birla.
18वीं लोक सभा का चौथा सत्र आज अनिश्चितकाल के लिए स्थगित हो गया है।
31 जनवरी 2025 से प्रारंभ हुए इस सत्र में कुल 26 बैठकें हुई, तथा सत्र की उत्पादकता 118 प्रतिशत से अधिक रही।
माननीया राष्ट्रपति जी के अभिभाषण पर धन्यवाद प्रस्ताव पर 173 सदस्यों ने चर्चा में भागीदारी की। इसी तरह… pic.twitter.com/gfdNQ1s4cr
The Finance Minister presented Union Budget 2025-2026 on the floor of the House on 1 February, 2025. General Discussion on the Union Budget 2025-26 lasted for 16 hours 13 minutes. Shri Birla informed that 169 Members participated in the discussion. Finance Minister replied to the discussion on 11 February, 2025.
Demands for Grants of selected Ministries/ Departments were discussed in the House from 17 to 21 March, 2025 and subsequently the Demands for Grants were passed by the House. Appropriation Bill was passed in the Lok Sabha on 21 March, 2025 and the Finance Bill was passed on 25 March, 2025.
Shri Birla further informed that, 10 Government Bills were introduced and 16 Bills were passed, during the session. Some of the important bills which were passed are as follows:
(i) The Finance Bill, 2025;
(ii) The Appropriation Bill, 2025;
(iii) The “Tribhuvan” Sahkari University Bill, 2025;
(iv) The Waqf (Amendment) Bill, 2025; and
(v) The Immigration and Foreigners Bill, 2025
During the Session, 134 starred questions were answered orally. A total of 691 Matters of Public Importance were raised by the Members during the Zero Hour, out of which a record number of 202 Matters of Public Importance were raised during Zero Hour on 3 April, 2025, Shri Birla informed. A total of 566 matters were taken up under Rule 377 during the Session.
Shri Birla informed that during the Session, a total number of 32 Statements, including 23 Statements under Direction 73A. 61 Reports were presented by Departmentally Related Standing Committees and as many as, 2518 papers were laid on the Table of the House, he further said.
A Calling Attention Motion on hardships faced by fishermen community was discussed under Rule 197 on 1 April, 2025.
As regards Private Members’ Business, a Private Member’s Resolution moved by Shri Shafi Parambil, MP, regarding appropriate measure to regulate airfare in the country was discussed in the House on 28 March, 2025 however, the discussion remained inconclusive. On 2 April, 2025, Statutory Resolution ratifying President’s Rule in Manipur was adopted by the House.
During the Session, the House welcomed the Russian Parliamentary Delegation led by Chairman of the State Duma of the Federal Assembly of the Russian Federation, H.E., Mr. Vyacheslav Volodin on 3 February 2025. On 11 February 2025, the House welcomed the Parliamentary Delegation from Maldives led by H.E. Mr. Abdul Raheem Abdulla, Speaker of the People’s Majlis of Maldives. Similarly, on 12 March 2025, the House welcomed the Parliamentary Delegation from Madagascar led by H.E. Mr. Justin Tokley, President of the National Assembly of Madagascar.
Budget Session, 2025 of Parliament adjourns sine-die Productivities of Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha during Budget Session were approximately 118% and 119% respectively
16 Bills passed by both Houses of Parliament
Posted On: 04 APR 2025 6:14PM by PIB Delhi
The Budget Session, 2025 of Parliament which commenced on Friday, the 31st of January, 2025, adjourned sine-die on Friday, the 4th of April, 2025. In between both Houses were adjourned for recess on Thursday, the 13th of February, 2025 to reassemble on Monday, the 10th of March, 2025 to enable Department related Standing Committees to examine and report on the Demands for Grants relating to various Ministries/Departments.
The Union Minister of Parliamentary Affairs and Minority Affairs Shri Kiren Rijiju held a press conference today after the end of the Budget Session, 2025 of Parliament. The Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Law and Justice & Minister of State for Parliamentary Affairs, Shri Arjun Ram Meghwal and the Minister of State for Information and Broadcasting and Parliamentary Affairs, Dr. L. Murugan were also present on the occasion. Union Minister Shri Kiren Rijiju informed that the first part of the Budget Session yielded a total of 9 sittings of Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha. In the second part of the Session, there were 17 sittings of both Houses. During the entire Budget Session, in total, there were 26 sittings.
This being the first Session of the year, the President addressed both Houses of Parliament assembled together in terms of Article 87(1) of the Constitution, on 31st of January, 2025. Motion of Thanks on the President’s Address in Lok Sabha was moved by Shri Ramvir Singh Bidhuri and seconded by Shri Ravi Shankar Prasad. This item engaged the Lok Sabha for 17 Hours 23 minutes against allotted time of 12 Hours. 173 Members participated in the discussion. In Rajya Sabha it was moved by Smt. Kiran Choudhary and seconded by Shri Neeraj Shekhar. This item engaged the Rajya Sabha for 21 Hours 46 minutes against allotted time of 15 Hours. 73 Members participated in the debate. The Motions of Thanks on President’s Address were discussed and adopted after reply from the Prime Minister by the two Houses during the first part of the Session.
The Union Budget for 2025-26 was presented on Saturday, the 1stof February, 2025. General Discussion on the Union Budget was held in both Houses in the first part of the Session. This engaged the Lok Sabha for 16 Hours 13 minutes against allotted time of 12 Hours and 169 Members took part in the debate and Rajya Sabha for 17 Hours 56 minutes against allotted time of 15 Hours and 89 Members participated in the discussion.
During the second part of the Session, Demands for Grants of individual Ministries of Railways, Jal Shakti and Agriculture & Farmers Welfare were discussed and voted in Lok Sabha. In the end the Demands for Grants of the remaining Ministries/ Departments were put to the Vote of the House on Friday, the 21stof March, 2025. The related Appropriation Bill was also introduced, considered and passed by Lok Sabha on 21.03.2025 itself.
Appropriation Bills relating to Second and Final Batch of Supplementary Demands for Grants for the year 2024-25; Excess Demands for Grants for the year 2021-22 and Supplementary Demands for Grants of Manipur for the year 2024-25 and Demands for Grant on Account for the year 2025-26 in respect of the State of Manipur were also passed on 11.03.2025 in Lok Sabha.
The Finance Bill, 2025 was passed by Lok Sabha on 25.03.2025.
In the Rajya Sabha the working of the Ministries of Education, Railways, Health & Family Welfare and Home Affairs were discussed.
The Rajya Sabha returned the Appropriation Bills related to Second and Final Batch of Supplementary Demands for Grants for the year 2024-25; Excess Demands for Grants for the year 2021-22 and Supplementary Demands for Grants for Manipur for the year 2024-25 and Demands for Grant on Account for the year 2025-26 in respect of the State of Manipur on 18.03.2025.
The Appropriation Bill relating to the Demands for Grants for Union for the year 2025-26 and the Finance Bill, 2025 were also returned by Rajya Sabha on 27.03.2025.
As such the entire Financial Business was completed in the Houses of Parliament before 31stof March, 2025.
Statutory Resolution approving the proclamation issued by the President on 13thFebruary, 2025 under Article 356(1) of the Constitution in relation to the State of Manipur was also adopted in both the Houses in their extended sittings on 3rdand 4thof April, 2025, respectively.
After the presentation of the report of the Joint Committee, the Waqf (Amendment) Bill, 2025 was passed, which seeks to focus on improving the management of waqf properties, empowerment of stakeholders relevant to management of waqf properties, improving the efficiency in survey, registration and case disposal process, and development of waqf properties. While the core purpose remains to manage waqf properties, the aim is to implement modern and scientific methods for better governance.” The Mussalman Wakf Act, 1923 was also repealed.
The Disaster Management (Amendment) Bill, 2025, seeks to bring more clarity and convergence in the roles of different organizations working in the field of Disaster Management to strengthen the efficient working of the National Disaster Management Authority and the State Disaster Management Authorities, empower the National Disaster Management Authority and the State Disaster Management Authorities to prepare the disaster plan at national level and state level, provide for creation of disaster database at national and state level, make provision for constitution of “Urban Disaster Management Authority” for State Capital and large cities having Municipal Corporation and make provision for constitution of “State Disaster Response Force” by the State Government has also been passed.
The “Tribhuvan” Sahkari University Bill, 2025 relating to establishment of “Tribhuvan” Sahakri University toprovide education, training, and capacity building in the cooperative sector and undertake research and development activities in related areas. It will offer degree programs, distance learning and e-learning courses, and develop centres of excellence in co-operative sectorwas also passed.
The Immigration and Foreigners Bill, 2025 has been passed to simplify the laws for requirement of passports or other travel documents in respect of persons entering into and exiting from India and for regulating matters related to foreigners including requirement of visa and registration.
The Banking Laws (Amendment) Bill, 2025 was also passed to improve governance standards, provide consistency in reporting by banks to the RBI, ensure better protection for depositors and investors, improve audit quality in public sector banks and bring customer convenience in respect of nominations etc.
During this Session a total of 11 Bills (10 in Lok Sabha and 1 in Rajya Sabha) were introduced. 16 Bills were passed by Lok Sabha and 14 Bills were passed/returned by Rajya Sabha. Total number of Bills passed by both Houses of Parliament is 16.
A list of Bills introduced in Lok Sabha, Bills passed by Lok Sabha, Bills passed/returned by Rajya Sabha, Bills passed by both Houses of Parliament is attached inAnnexure.
The productivity of Lok Sabha during the Budget Session, 2025 was approx. 118% and that of Rajya Sabha was approx. 119%.
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Annexure
LEGISLATIVE BUSINESS TRANSACTED DURING THE 4th SESSION OF 18th LOK SABHA AND 276th SESSION OF RAJYA SABHA
(BUDGET SESSION, 2025)
1. Bills introduced in Lok Sabha
The Finance Bill, 2025
The Tribhuvan Sahkari University Bill, 2025
The Income-Tax Bill, 2025
The Immigration and Foreigners Bill, 2025
The Appropriation Bill (No.2), 2025
The Appropriation Bill, 2025;
The Manipur Appropriation (Vote on Account) Bill, 2025
The Manipur Appropriation Bill, 2025
The Appropriation Bill (No.3), 2025
The Indian Ports Bill, 2025.
2. Bill introduced in Rajya Sabha
1. The Protection of Interests in Aircraft Objects Bill, 2025
3. Bills Passed by Lok Sabha
The Bills of Lading Bill, 2025
The Appropriation (No.2) Bill, 2025
The Appropriation Bill, 2025
The Manipur Appropriation (Vote on Account) Bill, 2025
The Manipur Appropriation Bill, 2025
The Oilfields (Regulation and Development) Amendment Bill, 2025
The Appropriation (No. 3) Bill, 2025
The Finance Bill, 2025
The Boilers Bill, 2025
The “Tribhuvan” Sahkari University Bill, 2025
The Immigration and Foreigners Bill, 2025
The Carriage of Goods by Sea Bill, 2025.
The Waqf (Amendment) Bill, 2025.
The Mussalman Wakf (Repeal) Bill, 2025
The Coastal Shipping Bill, 2025.
The Protection of Interests in Aircraft Objects Bill, 2025.
4. Bills Passed/Returned by Rajya Sabha
The Railways (Amendment) Bill, 2025
The Appropriation (No.2) Bill, 2025
The Appropriation Bill, 2025
The Manipur Appropriation (Vote on Account) Bill, 2025
The Manipur Appropriation Bill, 2025
The Disaster Management (Amendment) Bill, 2025
The Banking Laws (Amendment) Bill, 2025
The Appropriation (No. 3) Bill, 2025
The Finance Bill, 2025.
The Protection of Interests in Aircraft Objects Bill, 2025
The “Tribhuvan” Sahkari University Bill, 2025
The Immigration and Foreigners Bill, 2025
The Waqf (Amendment) Bill, 2025.
The Mussalman Wakf (Repeal) Bill, 2025
5. Bills Passed by Both Houses.
The Railways (Amendment) Bill, 2025
The Oilfields (Regulation and Development) Amendment Bill, 2025
The Appropriation (No.2) Bill, 2025
The Appropriation Bill, 2025
The Manipur Appropriation (Vote on Account) Bill, 2025
The Manipur Appropriation Bill, 2025
The Disaster Management (Amendment) Bill, 2025
The Boilers Bill, 2025
The Banking Laws (Amendment) Bill, 2025
The Appropriation Bill (3), 2025
The Finance Bill, 2025.
The “Tribhuvan” Sahkari University Bill, 2025
The Immigration and Foreigners Bill, 2025
The Waqf (Amendment) Bill, 2025.
The Mussalman Wakf (Repeal) Bill, 2025
The Protection of Interests in Aircraft Objects Bill, 2025.