Delhi govt slashes officials’ travel expenses by 25%:Foreign trips banned, public transport video calls pushed amid austerity drive

The Delhi government has ordered a 25% reduction in domestic travel expenses for officials as part of a wider austerity push aimed at controlling expenditure amid concerns over global fuel supply uncertainties and rising economic pressure. In a fresh directive issued by the Finance Department, all government departments have been instructed to ensure that domestic travel spending remains within revised budgetary limits during the current financial year. The government has also continued its restriction on all official foreign travel by officers and staff members until further orders. Why Delhi govt issued the order According to the Finance Department’s communication, both the Centre and the Delhi government have introduced a series of “austerity and expenditure rationalisation measures” in view of the current economic climate. The department said the measures were necessary to maintain prudent financial management and address fiscal pressures caused by factors such as volatile global oil prices and fuel supply concerns. The order stated that every department must adhere to a mandatory 25% cut in domestic travel expenditure compared to the previous financial year. Officials asked to avoid unnecessary spending The government has directed officers to exercise caution while selecting air travel classes and ensure that travel expenses remain within sanctioned budget limits. Departments have also been advised to maximise the use of video conferencing for official meetings and conferences, especially when travel from distant locations can be avoided. The directive stressed that reducing avoidable expenditure and ensuring efficient use of public money would remain a priority. Relaxation possible only in emergencies
The order clarified that the restrictions may be relaxed only in cases of official emergencies and with the approval of either the chief minister or the finance minister. The instructions will apply to: Administrative secretaries and heads of departments have been directed to ensure strict compliance with the measures. Part of ‘Mera Bharat, Mera Yogdan’ campaign The austerity measures are part of the Delhi government’s broader “Mera Bharat, Mera Yogdan” campaign focused on reducing fuel consumption and promoting public transport usage. As part of the initiative: The latest move comes as several state governments and departments across the country look to rationalise expenditure amid fluctuating fuel prices and wider economic uncertainty. ​