Centre bans festival gift expenditure by ministries and CPSEs

The Ministry of Finance has directed all central ministries, departments, and Central Public Sector Enterprises ( CPSEs) to refrain from spending public funds on gifts during Diwali and other festivals.

In an office memorandum issued by the Department of Expenditure, the ministry said the step is part of ongoing efforts to ensure fiscal discipline and curb non-essential expenditure. “No expenditure shall be incurred on gifts and related items for Diwali and other festivals by Ministries/Departments and other organs of the Government of India,” the circular stated.

The directive, approved by the Secretary (Expenditure), comes into immediate effect.