PANJIM: While the State battles a financial crisis, the government has decided to upgrade the sanctioned amount for purchase of vehicles for ministers and bureaucrats.
A circular dated March 18 and served this week, issued by Pranab G Bhat (under Secretary Finance), copy of which is in possession of Herald, says the government had issued standing instructions regarding the type of model of vehicles to be purchased by government organisations/ corporations/autonomous bodies under the State government for the use of staff cars/operational vehicles.
“In view of the economy and the utility aspects of the vehicles and in day-to-day operational expenses, which are mounting, as also rise in prices of vehicles, it has been decided to review the guidelines,” the office memorandum says.
It further says that the government has modified the earlier office memorandum for the purchase of vehicles to dignitaries and officials. As such, the Chief Minister/Speaker can purchase a vehicle costing up to Rs 35 lakh, Ministers/Dy Speaker/LoP/AG/chairpersons of commissions can get one amounting up to Rs 30 lakh, while the Chief Secretary/Corporation chairman can avail vehicles priced up to Rs 20 lakh. Secretaries/ vice chairpersons of corporations are sanctioned vehicles costing up to Rs 15 lakh, Additional Jt Secretaries/HoDs/MDs/directors of corporations can get vehicles of up to Rs 10 lakh, while Department officers/Ex-officers/inspection teams can avail of vehicles costing up to Rs 10 lakh.
The circular further says that the instructions come into force with immediate effect. “All other terms and conditions circulated by Finance Department from time to time will remain the same,” it says.
The development has come at a time when the State is going through a tough financial phase and is borrowing nearly Rs 200 cr every month from the markets. As per government documents, the State borrowings have crossed nearly Rs 16,000 cr.
