'No Diwali gifts from public funds': Finance Ministry's message to all ministries, departments
PTC News Desk: The Finance Ministry has issued a directive to all the central government ministries, departments and associated organisations not to spend public money on gifts during Diwali or any other festival.
The announcement is a part of government's plan to maintain fiscal discipline and restrict non-essential spending. The restriction applies to all the departments with immediate effect.
The circular noted that earlier instructions have been issued on similar lines and this decision is in continuation of the government’s approach to ensure careful use of public funds.
"The Ministry of Finance, Department of Expenditure has been issuing instructions from time to time aimed at promoting fiscal discipline and curbing non-essential expenditure. In continuation of these efforts and in the interest of prudent and judicious use of public resources, it has been decided that no expenditure shall be incurred on gifts and related items for Diwali and other festivals by Ministries/Departments and other organs of the Government of India," said the notice.
The memorandum clearly states: “No expenditure shall be incurred on gifts and related items for Diwali and other festivals by Ministries/Departments and other organs of the Government of India.”
The Finance Ministry's Expenditure department said the move to stop spending public funds on festive season gifts departments or ministries may exchange or give to high-ranking officials, is part of a larger policy of 'curbing non-essential expenditure'.
- PTC NEWS
