In a blend of tradition and high-stakes preparation, Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman spearheaded the Halwa Ceremony on Tuesday, kicking off the final lock-down for the Union Budget 2026-27 at North Block’s Budget Press. Minister of State Pankaj Chaudhary was by her side for this pivotal moment.
The ceremony, a longstanding custom, means business: budget officials now enter a blackout phase, isolated until the document is presented in Parliament on February 1, 2026. It’s the unspoken vow of confidentiality that has defined India’s budget process for decades.
Joined by Finance Ministry secretaries and key personnel, Sitharaman participated in the halwa feast, a gesture laden with cultural significance. She capped the event with a facility inspection, gauging readiness and motivating the team ahead of the big reveal.
On the tech front, the government vows instant digital access to all essentials – from the core budget to Finance Bill and Demands for Grants. The revamped Union Budget Mobile App, available in Hindi and English across platforms, alongside indiabudget.gov.in, ensures no one misses out.
As anticipation builds, this budget could herald bold reforms in areas like employment, agriculture, and green energy. The digital push reflects India’s commitment to inclusive governance, making complex fiscal data approachable for all.