Foreign Trips Cancelled; Ministers Asked to Use Public Transport and Video Conferencing
Mumbai: In a major push toward fiscal discipline and resource conservation Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis has announced a sweeping austerity drive across the state administration.
The move comes in response to Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s appeal for fuel and foreign exchange conservation amid evolving economic and global challenges.
During a high-level review meeting held on Wednesday the Chief Minister directed all departments to immediately adopt strict cost cutting and sustainability measures aimed at reducing government expenditure and curbing administrative extravagance.
50% Reduction in VIP Convoys
One of the most significant decisions taken during the meeting was the immediate reduction of vehicles in the convoys of the Chief Minister and all state ministers by 50 percent.
To ensure strict implementation Police Commissioners and Superintendents of Police across the state have been instructed to monitor compliance and ensure that convoys do not exceed the revised limits during official movement.
Cancellation of Foreign Tours
All foreign visits by ministers and government officials have been cancelled in an effort to conserve foreign exchange reserves.
Restrictions on State Aircraft
The use of government owned aircraft and helicopters will now be limited strictly to emergency situations. For routine official travel ministers and officials have been directed to use commercial flight services.
Push for Public Transport
In an effort to set an example for citizens ministers and senior bureaucrats have been instructed to use Metro services or other forms of public transport at least once every week.
Digital-First Governance
The administration has been directed to prioritize video conferencing over physical meetings to reduce unnecessary travel and related expenditure. District level officers will no longer be routinely summoned to Mantralaya for meetings unless absolutely necessary.
Energy Conservation Measures
The government has also announced action against unnecessary hoardings and banners particularly those using decorative lighting. Ornamental illumination on such structures has now been prohibited as part of broader energy saving efforts.
Focus on Efficiency and Sustainability
The Maharashtra government believes the measures will substantially reduce operational expenses while encouraging a culture of accountability efficiency and resource consciousness within the state bureaucracy.
The review meeting was attended by the Chief Secretary Director General of Police and several senior administrative officials.
