Arunachal Pradesh's Sustainable Shift: A Bold Fiscal Strategy in Response to Global Crisis

The Arunachal Pradesh government has unveiled a set of initiatives designed to curb unnecessary spending and embrace sustainable practices, in response to the Prime Minister's call to reduce fuel consumption amid the crisis in West Asia.

Key decisions announced by the state cabinet focus on fiscal discipline, digital governance, and energy conservation. Measures include a one-year ban on foreign travel for ministers and officials, a 50 per cent reduction in convoy sizes for the chief minister, deputy chief minister, and ministers, and a 'Virtual First' policy for official meetings to cut travel-related costs.

The state aims for 100 per cent e-office and paperless governance by March 2027, banning new vehicle procurement except for emergencies, and advocating carpooling and public transport use. The energy conservation strategy also includes setting air conditioning to 24 degrees Celsius or higher and only procuring 5-star energy-efficient products. Efforts to promote sustainability and self-reliance encompass organic farming, reduced edible oil usage, and a 'Buy Swadeshi, Buy Local' initiative.

(With inputs from agencies.)