Budget 2025 India: The much-anticipated date of the Union Budget presentation is fast approaching. On February 1, 2025, Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman will present the Union Budget for the financial year 2025–26 in Parliament. As per tradition, the preparation of budget documents begins with the Halwa Ceremony, which took place on Friday, January 24, at 5 PM in the Finance Ministry’s North Block premises.
The Halwa Ceremony is a long-standing tradition where sweets are distributed to mark the start of the budget finalization process. Just as sweets symbolize the beginning of auspicious events, the ceremony celebrates the hard work and dedication of those involved in the budget-making process.
What is the Halwa Ceremony, and How Did It Start?
The exact origin of the Halwa Ceremony remains unclear, but it has been a cherished tradition for decades. This ceremony signifies the completion of the initial drafting of the budget documents by the officials and staff of the Finance Ministry. A large batch of halwa is prepared in the North Block, and the Finance Minister, along with other senior officials, participates in the event. The Finance Minister personally serves halwa to the attendees, symbolizing camaraderie and appreciation for the collective efforts involved in budget preparation.
The ‘Lock-In’ Phase Begins
Following the Halwa Ceremony, the ‘lock-in’ period officially begins. During this time, officials and staff involved in the budget preparation process stay confined within the North Block premises until the budget is presented in Parliament. This practice, lasting around 10 days, ensures complete secrecy and prevents any potential leaks of budget-related information. The isolation ends only when the Finance Minister delivers the budget speech in Parliament on February 1.
This rigorous tradition highlights the importance of maintaining confidentiality in the preparation of one of the most crucial financial documents for the nation. The Halwa Ceremony not only serves as a sweet beginning to the process but also honors the dedication and hard work of all those involved.
