KATHMANDU: The Prime Minister’s Office (PMO) has directed all government bodies to adopt austerity measures in public spending by restricting purchases of non-essential items.
The circular has been sent to all ministries, commissions, secretariats, offices, agencies, and provincial governments, including the Office of the Chief Minister and Council of Ministers, instructing them to avoid procurement of unnecessary goods.
It states that office heads should ensure existing items such as equipment, furniture, tools, and vehicles are kept in working condition and that new purchases should only be made for essential needs. The directive emphasizes reducing unnecessary public expenditure and promoting cost efficiency.
According to the Prime Minister’s Office, concerns have been raised that some offices are purchasing new items without proper use and incurring excessive repair and maintenance costs, thereby placing an unnecessary burden on the state treasury.
Surya Bahadur Basnet, Branch Officer at the Good Governance, Corruption Control and Employee Support Branch of the Prime Minister’s Office, said the circular was issued to promote fiscal discipline and ensure responsible use of public funds.
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