West Bengal Government Mandates Virtual Meetings and Remote Work Options to Minimise Expenses

MP, May 20, 2026, Kolkata: The state government has directed all departments to maximise the use of video conferencing, virtual meetings and digital platforms for official work and reviews, while also exploring work-from-home (WFH) arrangements wherever feasible without compromising efficiency, in a move aimed at reducing expenditure.

The move comes in the backdrop of Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari repeatedly emphasising the need for efficient utilisation of resources, reduction of avoidable fuel consumption, greater use of public transport and digital platforms, promotion of domestic products and adoption of sustainable practices.

A notice issued by the Chief Secretary’s department has advocated reducing non-essential travel and promoting the use of public transport, carpooling and electric mobility wherever feasible, along with suitable energy conservation measures in government offices and institutions.

The directive has also called for greater promotion of paperless functioning and e-office systems, minimisation of avoidable expenditure, and preference for domestically manufactured products through encouragement of “Swadeshi” initiatives.

It further stated that state government departments should encourage sustainable consumption practices, efficient logistics systems, waste reduction, recycling and responsible use of natural resources.

Departments have also been asked to promote awareness regarding healthy and sustainable lifestyle practices, including the use of locally produced edible oils and natural and eco-friendly farming practices.

Each state government department and district administration has been asked to prepare an Action Plan for 2026–27, indicating immediate, medium-term and long-term interventions, along with measurable outcomes and timelines, and submit it to the Office of the Chief Secretary by May 22.

Monthly reports will thereafter have to be submitted from July 1, 2026.

All Additional Chief Secretaries, Principal Secretaries, Secretaries and District Magistrates have been asked to accord top priority to the matter and ensure compliance by all subordinate offices and agencies under their administrative control.

The directive will also apply to directorates, state PSUs, boards, corporations, government-owned or government-funded societies, offices and parastatal bodies.