Odisha Government Imposes No-Gift Policy, Bans Festival Gift Purchases Using Public Funds

In a major move to curb unnecessary government expenditure, the Odisha government has imposed restrictions on purchasing gifts using public funds during festivals and other celebrations.

Following the Centre’s ‘No Gift Policy’, the state government has prohibited all government departments and offices from spending public money on purchasing gifts and other items for festival-related occasions.

Under the new directive, government departments and offices will no longer be allowed to use official funds to purchase gifts or other materials during Diwali or any other festival throughout the year.

The restrictions have been implemented with immediate effect, signalling the state government’s intention to bring greater financial discipline to government spending.

Decision Based on Centre’s No-Gift Policy

According to official sources, the Odisha government has introduced the policy based on an order issued by the Central Government last year.

The directive will apply to all government departments and offices across the state, preventing them from using public funds for festival-related gift purchases.

The move is aimed at curbing unnecessary expenditure from the state treasury in the name of festivals and celebrations.

Focus on Financial Discipline

With the implementation of the No-Gift Policy, government departments will no longer be permitted to purchase gifts at public expense during festive occasions.

The decision is being viewed as an important step towards ensuring responsible utilisation of public money and maintaining financial discipline across government offices.

The move is also expected to discourage avoidable spending from the state exchequer and promote greater accountability in government expenditure.