Daijiworld Media Network- Mumbai

Mumbai, Apr 8: In a bid to maintain fiscal discipline and transparency, the Maharashtra Finance Department has issued a directive to all government departments and subordinate offices, advising against last-minute “rush expenditure” in the closing month of the financial year.

The advisory, released in the form of an official circular, highlights concern over the tendency of various departments to clear a flurry of payments and initiate new procurements in March — the final month of the financial cycle — which often leads to questionable spending patterns and improper budgetary utilisation.

Officials have been reminded that such rushed spending compromises the quality of expenditure and increases the risk of procedural lapses. The Finance Department has cautioned that all purchases and works must strictly adhere to the prescribed rules and financial norms, regardless of the time of year.

“Departments must ensure that no unnecessary or hasty procurement or expenditure is undertaken merely to exhaust budget allocations before the fiscal year ends. Every rupee spent should serve a defined public purpose,” the directive reads.

Further, the circular mandates that all bills and claims submitted in March undergo meticulous scrutiny and must not bypass checks under the pretext of urgency.

The move comes in line with the broader financial management efforts by the state government to ensure accountability and efficient utilisation of public funds.

The Finance Department has also directed drawing and disbursing officers (DDOs) to review pending bills and clear genuine liabilities within the appropriate time frame while avoiding any backdated or fictitious claims.

Senior officials have warned that violations of the directive may invite disciplinary action and audit scrutiny.

The advisory is being seen as a significant step towards improving fiscal responsibility, ensuring that public money is utilised wisely and not wasted in year-end expenditure rushes.