Bhubaneswar, 18 October (H.S.): In a move to promote transparency and curb unnecessary expenditure, the Odisha government has formally adopted the Central government’s ‘No Gift Policy’ across all state government offices and public sector undertakings (PSUs) ahead of Diwali.

Under the directive, no department or PSU will be permitted to spend funds on the purchase, distribution, or acceptance of gifts during the festival season. The policy applies to all forms of gifts and related expenses, including procurement of items, their distribution among officials, or receipt of presents.

Departments and PSUs have been instructed to ensure strict adherence to the guidelines and to monitor compliance at all levels. The state government has circulated formal letters to all departments, directing that no expenditure be incurred on gifts or any related items during Diwali or other upcoming festivals.

The move follows a memorandum issued by the Government of India, which bars all Ministries, Departments, and other government entities from incurring any expenditure on gifts during festive occasions.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Monalisa Panda