Halwa Ceremony: The Sweet Tradition Before India's Union Budget Presentation

• The Halwa Ceremony marks the final stage of the Union Budget preparation process, held about a week before its presentation.
• It signifies the beginning of a 'lock-in' period for approximately 100 officials and staff involved in budget creation.
• During the lock-in, staff are isolated from the outside world, with no mobile phone access, to prevent information leaks.
• The tradition of distributing halwa, a sweet dish, reflects India's custom of celebrating auspicious occasions with sweets.
• This security measure was intensified after a budget information leak incident in 1950, leading to printing in North Block's basement.

Why It Matters: The Halwa Ceremony is a symbolic ritual preceding the Union Budget, initiating a strict lock-in for budget officials.