Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma revealed a set of initiatives for the next six months, imposing restrictions on foreign travel, purchase of foreign goods, and acquisition of new vehicles by the state government. The decisions were made following Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s call for economic caution and self-sufficiency. Sarma stated that the government aims to conserve foreign exchange reserves by refraining from buying foreign-made products for half a year.
The Chief Minister declared a halt on acquiring new vehicles for government use during this period, including for newly appointed Ministers or officials. Existing vehicles will be utilized instead. Sarma emphasized that there will be no procurement of new cars or vehicles by the government in the next six months, even for new Ministers. The state Cabinet also agreed to reduce the size of official convoys linked to Ministers, the Chief Minister, and the Governor to lower fuel expenses.
Furthermore, a temporary prohibition on foreign trips by Ministers, bureaucrats, and government personnel was announced, except for medical emergencies and with prior authorization. The state government will refrain from organizing events involving foreign participants over the next six months in line with PM Modi’s appeal to the citizens.
