The Lok Sabha is scheduled to initiate the discussion on the Motion of Thanks to the President's Address today, marking a significant phase in the ongoing Budget Session. This debate follows the address delivered by President Droupadi Murmu to a joint sitting of both Houses on January 28. According to the parliamentary schedule, Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal will lead the discussion starting at 12 PM, with Member of Parliament Tejasvi Surya slated to second the motion. A total of 18 hours has been allocated for this discussion in the Lok Sabha, allowing members across the political spectrum to deliberate on the government's policy roadmap.
Proceedings in the Rajya Sabha
Simultaneously, the Rajya Sabha will also begin its deliberations on the Motion of Thanks today. The discussion in the Upper House is expected to start at 2 PM. From the treasury benches, Sadanand Master will initiate the debate. The Rajya Sabha proceedings will run parallel to the Lok Sabha, focusing on the legislative and administrative priorities outlined by the President. The Motion of Thanks is a constitutional requirement under Article 87, providing a platform for the legislature to review the executive's performance and future objectives as presented at the start of the first session of the year.
Prime Minister's Scheduled Reply
As per the information available from parliamentary sources, Prime Minister Narendra Modi is likely to reply to the discussion on the Motion of Thanks on February 4. The Prime Minister's response is highly anticipated as it typically addresses the concerns raised by the opposition and reinforces the government's strategic vision, while this will be the Prime Minister's first major address in Parliament following the presentation of the Union Budget 2026 by Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman on February 1. The reply will conclude the debate before the motion is put to a vote in the house.
Context of the Budget Session
The Budget Session of Parliament commenced on January 28 with the President's address, which serves as a statement of the government's policies and programs. Following this, the Union Budget for the financial year 2025-26 was presented on February 1, introducing various fiscal measures and developmental projects. The current discussion on the Motion of Thanks provides an opportunity for members of Parliament to discuss the broader governance framework beyond the specific financial allocations of the budget. The session has seen active participation as the government seeks to pass key legislative agendas.
Analytical Perspective and Conclusion
According to political analysts, the discussion on the Motion of Thanks is expected to be a rigorous exercise in parliamentary oversight. While the treasury benches will highlight the achievements mentioned in the President's speech, the opposition is likely to raise issues pertaining to the economy, employment, and social welfare, while the 18-hour window in the Lok Sabha ensures a comprehensive debate. The conclusion of this discussion with the Prime Minister's reply and the subsequent adoption of the motion will mark the completion of a vital constitutional formality, paving the way for further legislative business in the remainder of the Budget Session.