Guwahati : The Assam government has announced a major set of austerity measures aimed at tightening public expenditure, improving fiscal discipline and boosting revenue generation during the current financial year.

The directives were issued through an executive order by Finance Commissioner and Secretary Jayant Narlikar. The government has set a target to reduce fuel expenditure by 20 per cent and cut revenue and establishment expenses by 10 per cent across departments.

According to the order, the measures have been introduced in view of the prevailing crisis in West Asia and the need for greater fiscal prudence and administrative preparedness.

Departments have been asked to ensure careful utilisation of government funds and avoid unnecessary expenditure. The order also stressed the importance of improving internal revenue collection and maintaining financial discipline at all administrative levels.

Officials said the move is intended to strengthen the state’s financial management while ensuring that essential public services and development works continue without disruption.

Further guidelines on implementation of the austerity measures are expected to be issued by the finance department.