Austerity drive spreads to Rajasthan

The new austerity drive will discourage air travel by ministers, who would be expected to travel only by economy class, that too with prior permission of the chief minister. The directive coming into immediate force will remain effective till June next year. The austerity measures will also be applicable to government sector undertakings, companies, boards, universities and aided institutions, the circular issued on Wednesday said.

The chief minister has also asked all government departments to make at least ten per cent savings in electricity consumption. The directive also expects officials to follow austerity measures in buying new equipment and constructing new buildings.

The new drive will discourage those seeking transfers since the state government will not reimburse travel allowance. Among other measures meant at stopping wasteful expenditure is a ban on buying vehicles, cell phones, telephones, air conditioners. The ban, however, exempts purchase of computers, the circular says.

Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot who is known for his simplicity and dislike for ostentatious display of resources has also asked to hold all government functions in a simple manner.