The Assam government has unveiled a set of austerity measures aimed at reducing fuel costs by 20% and trimming revenue expenses by 10%. The announcement was made on Wednesday, outlining a comprehensive strategy to streamline state finances and enhance fiscal efficiency.
Key Austerity Measures
As part of the cost-cutting drive, the state administration will focus on minimizing unnecessary expenditures, particularly in fuel consumption across government departments. A 20% reduction in fuel costs is targeted through stricter monitoring and optimization of vehicle usage. Additionally, a 10% cut in revenue expenses is expected to be achieved by rationalizing administrative costs and curbing non-essential spending.
Revenue Generation and Energy Audits
The government also listed several steps to boost revenue generation. These include improving tax compliance, leveraging digital platforms for better collection, and exploring new sources of income. Furthermore, energy audits will be conducted across government buildings and facilities to identify and minimize wastage of power, contributing to both cost savings and environmental sustainability.
Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma emphasized the need for fiscal discipline, stating that these measures are essential to ensure long-term economic stability. The austerity plan is part of a broader effort to enhance governance efficiency and redirect savings toward developmental projects.
The state government has directed all departments to implement the measures immediately, with regular reviews to track progress. Officials have been tasked with submitting monthly reports on fuel consumption and revenue expenditure to ensure compliance.
