New Delhi: Dressed in a resplendent Kanjivaram silk saree, Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman posed with the all-important Budget tablet in a striking red sleeve outside Kartavya Bhavan, the headquarters of the Ministry of Finance, signaling the start of her preparations to present a historic ninth consecutive Union Budget.
The choice of a handwoven Kanjivaram saree pays tribute to the centuries-old weaving heritage of Tamil Nadu, underscoring the government’s continued effort to highlight India’s rich tapestry of handloom traditions. Over the years, Finance Ministers have showcased a variety of regional weaves during Budget presentations from Mangalgiri and Ikat to Bomkai, Kantha, and Madhubani and Sitharaman’s selection continues this symbolic gesture. Observers note that selecting a saree from Tamil Nadu could also carry subtle political undertones ahead of the state assembly elections.
After the ceremonial photo with the red-sleeved tablet, Sitharaman proceeded from the finance ministry to Rashtrapati Bhavan, where she held discussions with President Droupadi Murmu. Following this, the Union Cabinet is scheduled to convene to formally clear the Budget, which will be tabled in Parliament at 11 a.m.
This year marks a historical first: the Union Budget will be presented on a Sunday, maintaining the February 1 tradition introduced in 2017. The timing is designed to ensure continuity and streamline legislative procedures, as well as to underscore the significance of the Budget as a national event.
Sitharaman’s poised appearance with the tablet and her sartorial choice reflect a blend of tradition, governance, and regional pride, setting the stage for what promises to be a highly anticipated Budget session.