New Delhi’s North Block buzzed with anticipation on Tuesday as the traditional Halwa Ceremony marked the final phase of preparations for the Union Budget 2026-27. Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, alongside Minister of State Pankaj Chaudhary, graced the event held in the Budget Press room.
This age-old ritual signals the start of the intense ‘lock-in’ period for budget-making officials. From this moment, they retreat into isolation, cut off from the outside world until the budget is unveiled in Parliament on February 1, 2026. The ceremony isn’t just symbolic; it’s a rite of passage that underscores the secrecy and precision of India’s fiscal planning.
Senior secretaries from all Finance Ministry departments joined Sitharaman, witnessing the distribution of halwa – a sweet delicacy symbolizing prosperity. Post-ceremony, the minister toured the printing facilities, inspecting the meticulous preparations and offering words of encouragement to the dedicated team.
In a push towards digital accessibility, the government announced that all budget documents – including the annual financial statement, Demands for Grants, and Finance Bill – will be available on digital platforms immediately after presentation. The Union Budget Mobile App, supporting Hindi and English on Android and iOS, will make these accessible to everyone. The official website, indiabudget.gov.in, will also host comprehensive details.
This digital initiative aims to democratize budget information, allowing citizens and lawmakers to dive into the fiscal blueprint effortlessly. As India gears up for another landmark budget, expectations run high for measures that balance growth, welfare, and economic resilience in a dynamic global landscape.
