Sikkim Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang today walked from his official residence at Mintokgang to Manan Kendra to attend an official programme as the Sikkim government formally began implementing austerity measures across the state. According to a press note issued by Press Secretary Yougan Tamang, the move follows an appeal made by Narendra Modi urging governments to adopt disciplined and responsible governance practices in the interest of economic management and efficient administration. Officials said the Chief Minister walked for around 14 minutes from Mintokgang to Manan Kendra as part of an effort to demonstrate the government’s commitment to austerity and responsible use of public resources. The press note stated that Tamang had also attended the Sikkim Kalakar Bharosa Sammelan at Manan Kendra on May 15 on foot and returned in the same manner while interacting with people along the route.
Describing the gesture as more than symbolic, the government said the Chief Minister’s action reflected the administration’s intention to implement austerity measures through conduct as well as policy decisions. As part of the measures, the state government has issued several directives aimed at reducing fuel consumption and ensuring efficient utilisation of government resources across departments, autonomous bodies, public sector undertakings and government institutions. One of the major decisions includes a 50 per cent reduction in the Chief Minister’s motorcade. The government has also decided to implement odd-even norms for government and private vehicles, with exemptions for taxis and emergency services. Officials and public servants have been encouraged to use public transport wherever possible, reduce unnecessary vehicle use and rely more on virtual meetings and digital coordination. They have also been advised to walk to nearby meetings and official engagements whenever feasible.
The notification regarding the austerity measures was issued by the Home Department on May 14. According to the government, the measures are aimed at promoting responsibility, efficiency and disciplined governance while ensuring optimum use of public resources.