Union Budget 2026: Tax relief and machinery upgrades urged by Morena gajak traders

Morena in Madhya Pradesh is known for its gajak, a traditional sweet made from jaggery and sesame seeds. The town’s gajak is famous across India for its distinctive taste and texture and holds a Geographical Indication (GI) tag.

Despite its popularity, the gajak industry faces several challenges. Many producers still use old-fashioned machinery, limiting production capacity. Rising costs of raw materials and lack of financial incentives have also slowed growth. Traders say the industry needs tax relief and government support to modernise and expand.

Budget hopes

As the Union Finance Minister prepares to present the Budget on February 1, Morena’s gajak makers are hopeful that the government will announce measures to help the sector. These could include tax breaks, subsidies for new machinery, and support for upgrading production facilities.

Strengthening the gajak industry could create jobs, preserve a traditional craft, and boost the economy in Morena. Local producers believe that modernising operations while maintaining traditional quality will allow the industry to thrive nationally and even reach international markets.