The West Bengal government has ordered a comprehensive review of state expenditure, with Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari directing officials to implement austerity measures and submit reports by June 7, sources said.
CM expresses concerns over treasury expenditure and pending electricity dues
During a meeting with departmental secretaries at Nabanna on Monday, the Chief Minister expressed concerns over the state's treasury expenditure and pending electricity dues. Sources revealed that Adhikari instructed the power department to recover all outstanding power bills, especially from government departments, private educational institutions, and major commercial consumers.
Review of Trinamool-era schemes and projects
The Chief Minister called on all departments to review schemes and projects introduced during the previous Trinamool Congress government, and to prepare a list of those that may be discontinued. This move is part of the government's effort to streamline finances and ensure efficient use of public funds.
The austerity measures are expected to impact various sectors, with a focus on reducing unnecessary expenditures and improving revenue collection. The power department has been given a strict timeline to recover dues, which have been a significant burden on the state's finances.
Sources indicate that the review will cover all major spending areas, including subsidies, welfare schemes, and infrastructure projects. Departments have been asked to submit detailed reports on their current expenditures and proposed savings by the June 7 deadline.
