One Officer, One Official Car Policy: Centre Ends Multiple Government Vehicles for Bureaucrats

Why in News?

The Ministry of Finance, through the Department of Expenditure, has introduced a "One Officer, One Official Car" policy to reduce unnecessary government expenditure, prevent misuse of official vehicles, and improve accountability in the use of public resources.

Important Point

• No PSU Vehicles: Officers are prohibited from using vehicles of PSUs, autonomous bodies, or quasi-government organisations, except for authorised official duties.
• Better Resource Management: Ministries must keep unused or surplus vehicles in safe custody to prevent unofficial or personal use.
• Fiscal Discipline: The policy aims to reduce government expenditure, eliminate duplication of resources, and strengthen transparency and administrative efficiency.

What is the 'One Officer, One Official Car' Policy?

Under the new policy, an eligible Central Government officer can be allotted only one official staff car, even if the officer holds additional charge in another ministry, department, Public Sector Undertaking (PSU), autonomous body, or other government organisation. No additional government vehicle will be sanctioned for such officers.

Key Provisions

1. One Officer, One Government Vehicle

• Officers already entitled to an official staff car will continue using the same vehicle.
• No second official vehicle will be allotted for additional responsibilities.

2. Restriction on Using PSU Vehicles

• Central Government officers cannot use vehicles belonging to PSUs, autonomous bodies, or quasi-government organisations.
• Exception: Use is permitted only during authorised official tours or official duties.

3. Safe Custody of Surplus Vehicles

• Ministries and departments must keep unused or surplus vehicles in safe custody.
• Such vehicles must not be used unofficially or for personal purposes.

4. Mandatory Compliance

• All ministries and departments have been instructed to strictly implement the revised guidelines.

Objectives of the Policy

• Reduce avoidable government expenditure.
• Prevent duplication of official resources.
• Improve administrative efficiency.
• Strengthen fiscal discipline.
• Ensure responsible use of taxpayer-funded assets.
• Enhance transparency and accountability in government administration.

How is this Different from Earlier Rules?

The latest order supplements the Staff Car Guidelines issued in September 2022 by introducing stricter compliance measures. It specifically clarifies that officers holding multiple assignments cannot claim multiple official vehicles.

Significance for UPSC/PCS

Governance

• Promotes efficient public resource management.
• Strengthens accountability in public administration.

Public Finance

• Supports fiscal prudence by reducing avoidable expenditure.
• Ensures optimum utilisation of government assets.

Administrative Reforms

• Prevents misuse of official vehicles.
• Encourages transparent and efficient governance.

Key Facts at a Glance

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