New Delhi: Parliament on Thursday approved the Finance Bill, 2025, with Rajya Sabha returning it to Lok Sabha, marking the completion of the budget process.

During the debate, Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman strongly refuted allegations of discrimination against opposition-ruled states, citing Kerala as an example. She stated that the state had received ₹1.57 lakh crore between 2014-24, reflecting a 239% increase from the UPA era (2004-14), when it was allocated ₹46,300 crore.

“Is Kerala being discriminated against? Grants-in-aid have surged by 509%. Between 2004-14, Kerala received ₹25,630 crore, whereas under the Modi government, from 2014-24, it has received ₹1.56 lakh crore. Additionally, post-COVID-19, a special capital expenditure assistance of ₹2,715 crore was granted to Kerala, interest-free for 50 years. This level of support has never been extended before,” Sitharaman said.

She also defended the government's stance on pensions, clarifying that recent validation rules do not alter existing pensions for civil or defence retirees. The minister dismissed opposition claims of policy changes, emphasizing that the distinction between pre- and post-2016 retirees had been introduced by the previous UPA government based on recommendations of the 6th Central Pay Commission.

Sitharaman also responded to criticism from Trinamool Congress MP Sagarika Ghose, listing various welfare schemes benefiting citizens and countering claims about the BJP government’s performance.

The passage of the Finance Bill concludes the budgetary process that began on February 1 with the presentation of the Union Budget. (ANI)