Prime Minister Narendra Modi urged parties "to help in the smooth functioning" of parliament , pointing out that "this is the first time the budget has been advanced by a month." Mr Modi said "a new beginning is being made," pointing out that for the first time ever, the railway budget has been merged with the annual budget, ending a nearly century-long practice, while the date of the general budget, usually the last working day in February, has been advanced to ensure proposals take effect from April 1, the start of the new financial year. (Video courtesy: DD news)