The NDA government in Bihar has imposed a six-month ban on foreign travel at state expense for government officials, citing the need for strict austerity measures amid rising global fuel prices triggered by conflicts in West Asia. This decision follows repeated appeals by Prime Minister Narendra Modi urging the public to reduce unnecessary expenses and fuel consumption in the national interest.
Government Directive
Chief Secretary Pratyaya Amrit issued six instructions on Tuesday evening, stating, "There will be a general ban on foreign travel of officials at government expense for the next six months." The directive was addressed to all additional chief secretaries, principal secretaries, secretaries, divisional commissioners, and district magistrates.
Deputy CM's Response
Deputy Chief Minister Vijay Kumar Choudhary welcomed the move, saying, "This is a welcome step by the state government. If we go on foreign trips, this will put pressure on foreign exchange reserves." He emphasized that every Indian should work in the national interest and advised citizens to reduce fuel consumption.
Additional Measures
To maintain financial discipline and promote energy conservation, the state government has introduced several initiatives:
- Carpooling Promotion: Encouraging carpooling from state to district levels.
- Electric Vehicles: Promoting the purchase or rental of electric vehicles.
- Energy Conservation Nodal Officer: Each department must nominate a nodal officer for energy conservation, with monthly meetings chaired by the Energy Department Secretary.
- AC Usage: Officials are instructed not to misuse air conditioners and to switch off all electrical equipment after office hours.
- Solar Energy: Mandatory use of solar energy in all government offices, guest houses, and buildings.
- Fuel and Electricity Reduction: Drawing and disbursal officers must ensure average consumption of fuel and electricity remains lower than the corresponding month of the previous year.
Broader Context
These measures are the latest in a series of steps by the state government to cut fuel costs. Several ministers have already begun walking to office or reducing the number of vehicles in their convoys, hoping to inspire citizens to follow suit.
