Budget 2025: Why Does FM Nirmala Sitharaman Present Budget From A Tablet? Find Out

Sitharaman disrupted the briefcase norm in 2019 by opting for a "bahi khata" or a traditional ledger book wrapped in a red cloth. The transformation didn’t stop there.

Sitharaman's choice of a tablet was not just practical but also symbolic.

Source : એબીપી અસ્મિતા

Budget 2025: Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman is set to present the Union Budget for 2025, marking her eighth consecutive appearance for this critical financial event. Over the years, Sitharaman has introduced significant changes to how the budget is physically presented, moving away from the traditional briefcase to more symbolic alternatives, reflecting a combination of modernity and tradition.

From Briefcase To Tablet: A Modern Transition

Traditionally, Indian finance ministers carried a leather briefcase containing the budget documents to Parliament. This practice, reminiscent of British traditions, was seen as a formal and symbolic gesture. However, Sitharaman disrupted this norm in 2019 by opting for a "bahi khata" or a traditional ledger book wrapped in a red cloth. This shift was interpreted as a nod to India's cultural heritage and an effort to break away from colonial influences.

The transformation didn’t stop there. In 2021, Sitharaman made headlines by introducing a digital element to the budget presentation — a move that aligned with the government’s vision of a ‘Digital India.’ She carried a ‘Made in India’ tablet encased in a red pouch bearing the State Emblem of India. This decision highlighted the country’s push towards technological adoption and sustainability by reducing paper usage.

Symbolism And Technological Emphasis

The choice of a tablet was not just practical but also symbolic. It underscored the government's commitment to digital advancements and aligned with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s ambitious ‘Digital India’ initiative. The shift was seen as a forward-thinking approach, emphasizing innovation while maintaining elements of traditional Indian culture.

According to reports from CNBCTV18, the tablet used by Sitharaman during the presentation was a Samsung device. It came housed in a distinctive red folder featuring the State Emblem — an adaptation of the Lion Capital of Ashoka from 250 BCE, crafted in Moradabad, Uttar Pradesh. This blend of indigenous craftsmanship and modern technology captured widespread public attention.

Beyond The Symbolism

While the presentation style garners considerable interest, the core focus remains the finance minister’s speech and the accompanying financial documents. These crucial papers outline the government’s economic strategies and fiscal policies for the upcoming year, impacting various sectors of the economy.

As Sitharaman steps into Parliament today, all eyes will be on the contents of her budget speech. However, the evolution of the presentation method serves as a reminder of India’s dynamic approach to governance — balancing tradition, innovation, and technological advancement.