Puducherry, June 3: In an effort to ensure the economical use of fuel, electricity, and essential resources, the Puducherry government has issued new guidelines for its employees. These directives include a six-month ban on foreign travel and a prohibition on employees leaving the office for lunch.
The circular was released by S. Murugesan, the Under Secretary of the Personnel and Administrative Reforms Department, to all government departments, offices, public sector enterprises, and autonomous bodies. It states that these guidelines were issued following Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s call for fuel-saving measures and a review meeting chaired by the Chief Secretary.
The circular advises postponing non-essential foreign trips, study tours, and consultancy visits for six months. Additionally, it instructs the prudent use of government vehicles and encourages the adoption of a “vehicle pooling” system to reduce fuel expenses.
Officials are also advised to avoid unnecessary official travel and, whenever possible, conduct inter-departmental meetings, review sessions, and coordination meetings via video conferencing.
Moreover, the circular emphasizes the need for government officials and employees to utilize public transport for official duties. It also highlights the importance of saving electricity, urging offices to immediately turn off unused electrical equipment, including lights, air conditioners, and computers.
Employees are instructed not to leave the office premises during lunch breaks without reason and are encouraged to bring their meals to work instead.
Under Secretary S. Murugesan stated that all departmental secretaries, heads of departments, and public sector enterprises must strictly adhere to these directives. The circular notes that these cost-cutting measures take effect immediately, aiming to reduce fuel consumption, save electricity, and ensure efficient use of government resources.
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