Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta will perform the customary pre-budget “Kheer Ceremony” on Monday, a day before unveiling the Delhi Budget 2025-26. This event marks the commencement of the Budget Session. Gupta initiated this tradition last year by preparing the traditional Indian dessert and offering it to Lord Ram before sharing it with those involved in the budget preparation and the public.
The “Kheer Ceremony” symbolizes a unique start to the financial proceedings in the Assembly, seeking divine blessings for the budget process. During last year’s pre-budget ceremony, the Chief Minister emphasized the significance of the event, stating that it was the first time such a ceremony had taken place in Delhi. The kheer was first offered to Lord Ram and then distributed to those who contributed suggestions.
In preparation for the 2025-26 Budget, Chief Minister Gupta conducted consultations at the Delhi Secretariat with various groups, including gig workers, farmers, rural representatives, and labor organizations. She emphasized the importance of public participation in shaping a developed Delhi, aiming to incorporate the aspirations of all sections into the budget. Participants actively shared their experiences, concerns, and expectations during these meetings.
Gupta interacted directly with the attendees, attentively listening to their inputs and assuring them that their feedback would be given due consideration in the upcoming budget. Additionally, she hinted at unveiling multiple initiatives for women and girls in the Budget 2026-27, which she will present in the Assembly on March 24. At a ‘Nari Utsav’ event held at the Nirmal Chhaya Complex, the Chief Minister highlighted her government’s plans to introduce women-centric schemes in the budget, acknowledging the significant role women play in various sectors and in the nation’s progress towards Viksit Bharat 2047.
