Why are national budgets presented on Thursdays?

Since independence, all budgets of Bangladesh have been presented on the first Thursday of every fiscal year.  

This practice started in 1972-73. Many believe the Ministry of Finance continues to follow this tradition.

However, experts say that considering various facts including that it allows the officials who prepare the budget to have a break immediately afterwards, providing a window on Friday and Saturday for thorough analysis and understanding of the budget's details.

This scheduling also prevents immediate legal actions following the announcement, ensuring stability and allowing members of parliament and the public time to digest the implications before the workweek resumes. Thus, presenting the budget on Thursdays aligns with both logistical needs and strategic planning.

Finance Minister Abul Hassan Mahmood Ali unveiled a Tk797,000 crore (Tk7.97 trillion) national budget for FY25 in parliament on Thursday.

This was the country's 53rd budget and the 25th of the Awami League government in six terms. It was also the 21st under Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina in different terms.

Tajuddin Ahmad presented the country's first budget as finance minister of the post-independence Bangabandhu government in 1972.

This budget for FY25 was the maiden budget of incumbent Finance Minister Mahmood Ali.