Parliament's Productivity: A Concern for All
In a revelation that sheds light on the functioning of India's legislative body, a legislative think tank has reported that the Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha spent less than 30% of their time this year on legislative business. This news, while concerning, is essential for the citizens of Northeast India and the broader Indian context to understand.
A Year in Review: Bills Passed and Introduced
Despite the limited time spent on legislative business, 31 bills were passed by Parliament in 2025. These bills cover a wide range of sectors, from amending regulations for waqf properties in India to simplifying income tax laws. The Nuclear energy and insurance sectors were opened, and the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (MGNREGA), 2005, was modified, increasing the employment guarantee under the scheme to 125 days and altering the fund-sharing ratio between the Centre and the states.
Bills in the Pipeline: A Focus on North-East and Hilly States
It's worth noting that the 42 bills introduced during the 18th Lok Sabha's term have significant implications for the North-East and hilly states. Twenty-six percent or 11 of these bills were referred to parliamentary committees for detailed scrutiny. Only one bill has been referred to a department-related standing committee, with two bills on simultaneous elections and three on the removal of ministers on detention being examined together by joint committees.
Question Hour: A Time for Questions, Not Answers?
Another critical aspect of Parliament's performance is the Question Hour, a time set aside for members to ask questions to the government. However, the analysis by PRS Legislative reveals that the Question Hour functioned for less time than scheduled, with less than 30% of the time being spent on this essential democratic practice.
Looking Ahead: The Need for Efficiency and Transparency
As we move forward, it's essential that Parliament addresses the concerns raised by this analysis. The efficiency and transparency of our legislative body are crucial for the smooth functioning of our democracy. This is especially true for the North-East region, where the outcome of parliamentary decisions can significantly impact the lives of millions.
As we usher in the New Year, let's hope for a more productive Parliament that prioritizes the needs of its citizens and works diligently to pass bills that will bring about positive change.