The Jammu and Kashmir government has introduced measures to rationalize spending and ensure financial prudence for the fiscal year 2026-27. These steps, effective immediately, include guidelines to reduce non-essential expenses. Essential seminars, conferences, and workshops are encouraged to be held virtually, with a strong discouragement against organizing events outside the Union Territory.
Expenditure on ceremonial events, branding, and publicity activities has been limited, with a focus on digital dissemination over printed materials. The government has also restricted the purchase of new vehicles, allowing exceptions only with Finance Department approval and a 20% reduction in fleet size. Strict controls have been placed on official travel, emphasizing the use of video conferencing and economy class for domestic trips.
To promote fuel and energy conservation, departments are directed to minimize unnecessary vehicle use and restrict the movement of official vehicles. New office accommodation cannot be hired without prior approval, and furniture procurement is limited. The government is pushing for a digital-first approach, encouraging the use of e-Office systems and digital platforms to reduce physical meetings and paper usage.
A ban has been imposed on official hospitality events, except those hosted by high-ranking officials. No new posts will be created, and vacant positions older than two years will be identified for surrender. The Finance Department has prohibited fresh financial commitments on schemes not in the approved Budget Estimates for 2026-27. Administrative Secretaries are tasked with ensuring compliance, with monitoring by Finance Directors and Advisors.
