Govt to spend less on IFFI this year!

PANJIM, AUG 4
The State Government would spend less on IFFI this year than expenditure it incurred on IFFI in 2007 and 2008.
As per information given to the House today with respect to question posed by Mayem MLA Anant Shet, the total cost estimated for 2009 is Rs 6,48,00,000 as against expenditure incurred in IFFI – 2007 Rs 11,65,55,195 and Rs 11,83,82,221 in 2008.
The Chief Minister Digambar Kamat who also holds information and publicity portfolio, in his written reply revealed there are no pending bills as far as IFFI 2007, is concerned but some bills of 2008 IFFI are yet to be cleared.
The total bill amount Rs 1,63,25,085 pending pertains to Alternate Brand Solutions Ltd, and Omkar Melodies.
As per revised IFFI -2009 estimated budget, some major expenditure earmarked — air travel Rs 1,50,00,000, hotel accommodation Rs 1,40,00,000, opening and closing ceremony Rs 10,00,000, awards Rs 13,00, 000, printing Rs 50,00, 000, publicity Rs 60,00,000, IFFI dinners and lunches Rs 8,00,000, transport Rs 35,00, 000 etc.
The government has earmarked Rs 1 lakh for red carpet events, festival uniforms Rs 7 lakh and Rs 20 lakh for organisational expenses.