The Assam government has instructed its departments to enhance revenue generation through timely revision and rationalization of user charges, license fees, lease rents, and service charges wherever feasible. These measures come alongside austerity actions, as outlined in a recent notification from the finance (budget) department.
Fiscal Prudence Amid Global Crisis
The notification emphasizes that due to the national appeal arising from the ongoing crisis in West Asia, the government deems it necessary to enforce additional measures of fiscal prudence and economy. The austerity measures are designed to contain non-developmental expenditure and mobilize additional resources for priority schemes, promoting fiscal discipline without compromising operational efficiency.
Revenue Generation Through Asset Utilization
Administrative departments have been directed to commercially utilize government assets, such as buildings and community halls constructed under various schemes, to generate revenue for the state. To ensure transparency, all revenue activities must be routed exclusively through the Electronic Government Receipt Accounting System (e-GRAS).
Energy and Fuel Conservation
On the energy front, departments are advised to conduct energy audits in their offices to curb electricity wastage. Municipal authorities have been asked to reduce wasteful power consumption, particularly in street lighting. The guidelines also stress austerity in fuel use, urging officials to economize on petrol and diesel for personal travel and to promote public transport, carpooling, and electric vehicle (EV) usage.
EV Incentives and Charging Infrastructure
The transport department has been tasked with issuing notifications on incentives for EV purchases and developing charging infrastructure across the state. In a significant green push, the Department of Housing and Urban Affairs (DoHUA) has been directed to initiate the transition of municipal public transport systems to non-fossil fuel alternatives within the next 12 months. The Guwahati Municipal Corporation has been asked to lead by example, moving towards a fully green public transport system.
