Kolkata, 19 May (H.S.): The West Bengal government has decided to implement a series of stringent measures aimed at improving administrative efficiency and reducing unnecessary expenditure from the state exchequer. In an urgent directive issued by the office of the Chief Secretary, all government departments and district administrations have been asked to prepare detailed action plans for the 2026-27 financial year.
The initiative is being viewed as part of Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari’s recent emphasis on fuel conservation, greater use of public transport, and expansion of digital systems in governance.
The directive clearly states that government offices must focus on reducing avoidable fuel consumption, maximising the use of digital platforms, and promoting indigenous products. Each department has been instructed to formulate a structured “Action Plan” covering immediate, medium-term, and long-term objectives.
The Chief Secretary has identified seven key focus areas for implementation across the administrative structure. One of the major priorities is increasing the use of virtual meetings. Departments have been directed to prefer video conferencing and digital platforms over physical meetings wherever feasible.
The notification also advises departments to examine the possibility of implementing work-from-home arrangements in suitable cases without affecting the quality of work.
As part of fuel-saving measures, the government has stressed reducing unnecessary official travel. Senior officials have been encouraged to use public transport, adopt car-pooling practices, and gradually increase the use of electric vehicles for official purposes.
Electricity and energy conservation in government offices and institutions has also been identified as a major priority. Departments have been instructed to ensure that lights, fans, and other electrical appliances are not used unnecessarily and to promote the use of energy-efficient equipment.
To accelerate digitisation, the state government has decided to expand the e-office mechanism and implement a paperless office system. Departments have been asked to increase digital file transfers and reduce avoidable expenditure related to paper usage and physical documentation.
The new guidelines also place emphasis on giving preference to indigenous and locally manufactured products in government procurement. Officials said the objective is to strengthen local manufacturing and supply chains within the state.
The directive further highlights the importance of efficient utilisation of natural resources by strengthening waste management systems, promoting recycling, and improving supply management to minimise wastage.
In addition, departments have been advised to spread awareness regarding healthy and sustainable lifestyles. The notification encourages the use of locally produced edible oils and environmentally friendly agricultural products, particularly organically grown items.
The state government has also fixed a strict deadline for implementation of the measures. All departments and district administrations have been directed to submit their respective action plans to the Chief Secretary’s office by May 22, 2026. Thereafter, monthly progress reports will have to be submitted from July 1 onwards.
The Chief Secretary has instructed all Additional Chief Secretaries, Principal Secretaries, and District Magistrates to treat the matter with the highest priority. Senior officials have also been made responsible for ensuring full compliance with the new guidelines by subordinate offices.
A copy of the directive has also been forwarded to the Principal Secretary to the Chief Minister.
According to administrative sources, the measures are aimed not only at improving transparency and efficiency in government functioning, but also at reducing pressure on the state treasury by eliminating wasteful expenditure.
Hindusthan Samachar / Satya Prakash Singh
