The Jammu and Kashmir government on Saturday issued a circular directing all departments to implement austerity measures, described as "economy and austerity measures for rationalization of expenditure." The measures include a ban on official dinners and lunches, restrictions on holding exhibitions outside the union territory, and a freeze on the purchase of new vehicles, among others.
Opposition Reaction
The opposition has sharply criticized the circular. Peoples Conference chairman Sajad Lone said, "The government promised creation of one lakh new jobs for the youth in their manifesto. And now rubbing salt into the wounds of those who voted for them, it has now banned the creation of new posts." He added, "Even posts that have remained vacant for two years will be surrendered. This government will go down in history as one of the most dishonest governments ever elected. Lies, lies and lies. Nothing else. They have been lying through their teeth."
Key Austerity Measures
According to the circular issued by the Finance Department, there will be a complete ban on official dinners, lunches, receptions, and similar hospitality functions, except those hosted by the lieutenant governor and the chief minister. The order also said no new posts will be created. However, filling up of regular posts will be undertaken only through prescribed recruitment agencies. The government stated that engagement of consultants, outsourcing agencies, and contractual support services will be allowed only after a "careful assessment."
Financial Restrictions
The circular said no fresh financial commitments will be made on schemes or proposals not provided for in the approved budget estimates for 2026-27. Seminars, conferences, workshops, and training programs will be undertaken only where absolutely necessary and after exploring virtual alternatives. Holding exhibitions, fairs, seminars, conferences, and workshops outside the Union Territory of J&K is strongly discouraged. There will be a complete ban on holding meetings and conferences in private hotels and commercial venues.
Travel and Vehicle Use
Expenditure on ceremonial events, functions, excessive branding, souvenir printing, promotional materials, and non-essential publicity activities will be minimized. Purchase of new vehicles is strictly discouraged. The government has asked departments to ensure "optimal utilization and pooling of available government vehicles and avoid deployment of vehicles beyond functional necessity." International travel will not be permitted unless specific approval is obtained from the Finance Department. Departments must use video conferencing and virtual platforms for meetings to minimize avoidable travel expenditure. Within the country, all officers will travel only by economy class irrespective of entitlement if need arises.
Energy and Furniture
Departments have been asked to stop unnecessary use of official vehicles, generators, air-conditioning systems, lighting, and other energy-consuming equipment. Travel within the UT should be preferred by road or rail for all officers. "No furniture will be procured except in case of newly established offices and only with the concurrence of the Finance Department," the circular added.
