Key Facts
The Odisha government has issued a memorandum restricting the use of independent official vehicles for senior officers, citing fuel and energy challenges arising from the recent West Asia crisis. The new rules, effective from June 1, aim to conserve resources and promote shared mobility.
Details of the New Vehicle Policy
According to a Finance Department memorandum released on Thursday, only officers holding the rank of special secretary are now entitled to an independent vehicle for official purposes. Officers promoted to the rank of additional secretary on or after June 1 must use official vehicles on a pool basis. They will become eligible for an independent vehicle only after completing three years of service in that rank.
However, the restriction does not apply to additional secretaries who were already allotted an independent vehicle for official use on or before May 31, even if they have not completed three years in the rank.
Pool Vehicle Sharing and Deductions
Officers from the rank of under secretary to joint secretary working in administrative departments, as well as officers of equivalent rank serving as heads of departments, may be provided with pool vehicles. At least two to three officers are required to share one pool vehicle.
The monthly deduction for using an official pool vehicle has been fixed at ₹1,680, irrespective of the officer's rank, as per the Finance Department memorandum.
Impact and Applicability
The government has advised officers to use buses or trains for official visits to distant locations within the state, instead of using official vehicles, wherever practicable. These instructions apply to all state government undertakings, autonomous institutions, universities, and societies across Odisha.
The move is seen as a cost-saving measure in response to rising fuel prices and supply concerns due to the West Asia crisis.
What Readers Should Know
- The new rules are effective from June 1, 2026.
- Only special secretaries get independent vehicles; additional secretaries must wait three years.
- Pool vehicles are to be shared by two to three officers.
- Monthly deduction for pool vehicle use is ₹1,680.
- Officers are encouraged to use public transport for long-distance travel.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which officers are eligible for independent official vehicles in Odisha now?
Only officers in the rank of special secretary are entitled to an independent vehicle for official purposes.
What is the rule for additional secretaries regarding official vehicles?
Additional secretaries promoted on or after June 1 must use pool vehicles and become eligible for an independent vehicle only after completing three years in the rank.
How much is the monthly deduction for using a pool vehicle?
The monthly deduction for using an official pool vehicle is ₹1,680, irrespective of the officer's rank.
Source: www.hindustantimes.com