Rajya Sabha Takes Up Discussion on Appropriation Bill 2026

The Rajya Sabha has taken up discussion on the Appropriation Bill 2026, which authorises withdrawals from India's Consolidated Fund of India for the financial year 2025-26. The Lok Sabha had previously passed the legislation.

Key Issues Raised

• LPG Supply: Congress MP Shaktisinh Gohil raised concerns about LPG supply disruptions amid the West Asia conflict and alleged that farmers are being pressured into buying nano urea by dealers.
• Government Schemes: BJP's Arun Singh highlighted that the bill supports free food grain distribution, farmer welfare, and benefits for ex-servicemen, defending various agricultural initiatives since 2014.
• Tax Relief: AAP's Raghav Chadha called for allowing married couples to file joint income tax returns and proposed removing tax on disability pensions for armed forces personnel. He also demanded an end to bank charges on accounts below minimum balance requirements.
• Energy Concerns: CPI(M)'s Jhon Brittas urged resolution of LPG shortages caused by the West Asia conflict and warned of broader economic consequences.

What's Next

Multiple opposition parties participated in the debate, which remained unresolved. The Rajya Sabha is scheduled to continue deliberations on March 17, 2026.