Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman has said that the government has strengthened the overall macroeconomic framework, which has enabled the nation to absorb economic shocks of various kinds without deviating from the fiscal consolidation roadmap. Replying to the Discussion on Supplementary Demands for Grants – Second Batch 2025-26 – in Lok Sabha today, Mrs Sitharaman said the government has proposed 57 thousand 381 crore rupees as Economic Stabilisation Fund to provide physical headroom to allow India to respond to global headwinds. The Minister said, ” This fund will allow India to respond to the recent global crisis, unanticipated supply chain disruptions, and unexpected shocks to sub-sectors of the economy.” Mrs Sitharaman said the government is ready to face any unexpected events, including supply chain disruptions and LPG.
She said, 41 thousand 430 crore rupees is being allocated for Defence Services Revenue in this Supplementary Demand for Grants. Mrs Sitharaman said, additionally, six thousand 140 crore rupees is being provided for the Ex-Servicemen Contributory Health Scheme (ECHS) to ensure that no ex-serviceman faces any deficiency in healthcare services. The Minister highlighted that a grant of 37 thousand 886 crore rupees is being provided to the states for local bodies. She added that 19 thousand 230 crore rupees is being provided in the form of fertilizer subsidies to ensure that farmers do not face any shortage of fertilizers.
The Minister said that, during the global crisis, every member must rise above party lines and act in the national interest and also work together to instil hope among the public. The Minister said that Prime Minister Narendra Modi is working tirelessly to ensure that the citizens of the country do not face any difficulties.
