The Assam government on Wednesday announced a series of austerity measures, including downsizing official convoys and suspending physical seminars and workshops for six months, during the first cabinet meeting chaired by Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma after the new government’s swearing-in.
Addressing reporters in Guwahati, Sarma said the decisions were aimed at reducing government expenditure over the next six months amid prevailing global uncertainties.
The cabinet decided to reduce the size of convoys used by all ministers, including those of the chief minister and the governor.
The government also resolved that no foreign-made objects would be imported for official use during the six-month period.
In another major decision, all physical seminars and workshops organised by government departments have been suspended for six months. Departments, however, will continue to hold meetings and conferences through video conferencing platforms.
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Sarma also announced the schedule for the upcoming session of the Assam Legislative Assembly, which will be held on May 21, 22, 25 and 26.
During the session, newly elected MLAs will take oath, while the Governor of Assam will deliver the customary address to the House.
The chief minister said the government had requested the governor to appoint Chandra Mohan Patowary as the Protem Speaker for the Assembly session.
Sarma further stated that portfolios for ministers were yet to be allocated and that cabinet expansion would take place after the Assembly session.
The decisions were taken during the first cabinet meeting of the newly sworn-in BJP-led government in Assam.
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