March 17, New Delhi: The Indian Parliament continued its Budget session on Tuesday. In the Lok Sabha, members discussed the demands for grants under the control of the Ministry of Railways for 2026-27. The debate focused on fund allocation for railway projects, modernization, and passenger services. Earlier in the day, the house conducted its usual business, including question hour and zero hour.
In the Rajya Sabha, Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman highlighted India's low insurance penetration compared to global levels, stating that per capita insurance premiums in India stand at just $97, including health insurance, against a global average of $943. She added that the sector is expanding rapidly, with total premiums reaching ₹1,17,505 crore in 2024-25 and around 58 crore lives covered under various insurance schemes.
Following the resumption of proceedings at 2 PM IST, Shivraj Singh Chouhan responded to discussions on the working of the Ministry of Rural Development that were initiated in the Rajya Sabha on March 10.
(Caption: Parliament discusses railway funding, insurance growth, and rural policies)