Budget Printing Traditions: From North Block to Paperless Innovation

Budget documents will continue to be printed at North Block's press for confidentiality. Despite the Finance Minister moving offices, budget printing remains traditional. The switch to paperless budgets began in 2021. The 'halwa' ceremony signals the printing start, with the Union Budget 2026-27 to be presented on February 1, 2026.

The confidential printing of Budget documents remains at the old North Block, even as the Finance Minister's office shifts to Kartavya Bhawan. This traditional secrecy effort continues as part of the annual preparation ritual for the Union Budget.

The Finance Ministry has embraced modernity, having transitioned to paperless budgets since 2021. Despite these changes, traditional practices like the 'halwa' ceremony persist, marking the onset of budget preparations and the quarantine of staff involved in printing.

This year, Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman will present her ninth Budget, against an economic backdrop of 7.4% GDP growth. The Union Budget 2026-27 will be presented on February 1, with its electronic format ensuring greater accessibility.

(With inputs from agencies.)