A day before unveiling the Delhi Budget 2025-26, Chief Minister Rekha Gupta will perform the customary pre-budget “Kheer Ceremony” on Monday to kick off the Budget Session. This marks her second consecutive budget presentation on March 24. The “Kheer Ceremony” was initiated last year by the Chief Minister, involving the preparation of the traditional Indian dessert as an offering to Lord Ram before distributing it to those involved in budget preparation and the public.
The ceremony symbolizes a unique commencement of the financial proceedings in the Assembly with divine blessings. During last year’s pre-budget event, the Chief Minister highlighted the significance of the ceremony, stating that it was the first of its kind in Delhi. She emphasized the sweetness of the kheer in relation to the budget and its distribution among contributors and the public after being offered to Lord Ram.
In preparation for the 2025-26 Budget, the Chief Minister conducted consultations at the Delhi Secretariat with gig workers, farmers, rural representatives, and labor groups. Stressing the importance of public involvement, she held separate meetings with each group, aiming to incorporate their aspirations into the budget. Participants shared their experiences, concerns, suggestions, and expectations during these interactions.
Engaging directly with the attendees, the Chief Minister attentively listened to their inputs and assured them that their feedback would be prioritized in the upcoming budget. Additionally, she hinted at unveiling various initiatives for women and girls in the Budget 2026-27, scheduled for presentation in the Assembly on Tuesday. At a ‘Nari Utsav’ event held at the Nirmal Chhaya Complex, she discussed her government’s plans to introduce women-centric schemes in the budget, acknowledging the significant role of women in nation-building and their contributions towards a developed India by 2047.
