Assam CM Initiates Reforms to End VIP Culture and Promote Energy Conservation
Guwahati, 17th June. Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma announced a significant policy shift on Sunday aimed at curbing VIP culture by mandating that ministers and government officials will begin paying for their own electricity consumption starting July 1. In a statement posted on social media platform X, Chief Minister Sarma underscored the move as part of efforts to ensure accountability and fiscal responsibility.
“We are ending the VIP Culture rule of paying electricity bills of Government officials using tax payer money. Myself and the Chief Secretary will set an example and start paying our power bills from July 1 onwards. Beginning July 2024, all public servants will have to pay for their own electricity consumption,” the Chief Minister affirmed.
Highlighting the state’s commitment to energy conservation, Chief Minister Sarma detailed additional measures, including an automatic electricity disconnection program at government offices after 8 PM, except for essential departments such as the Chief Minister’s Secretariat, Home, and Finance.
This initiative has already been implemented across 8,000 government establishments, schools, and other institutions statewide, aiming to reduce overall electricity usage. “Our aim is to gradually move all Govt establishments to solar power and we are exploring beginning this work from our Medical Colleges and Universities across the State,” Chief Minister Sarma emphasized.
During a ceremony at the state Secretariat Complex, Chief Minister Sarma launched the Janata Bhawan Solar Project, marking a milestone in Assam’s journey towards renewable energy. The project features a 2.5-MW grid-connected solar PV system installed on rooftops and ground surfaces, expected to generate an average of 3 lakh units of electricity monthly. The project, with an investment of ₹12.56 crore, is projected to achieve full cost recovery within four years, with estimated monthly savings of ₹30 lakh.
“With today’s launch, the Assam Secretariat Complex becomes the first-ever civil secretariat in the country to operate solely on solar-generated electricity for its daily needs,” Chief Minister Sarma proudly declared, highlighting the state’s pioneering role in sustainable energy practices.
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