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Bengal Govt proposes to increase non-tax revenue

Our Bureau

CALCUTTA, Dec. 14

IN a belt-tightening measure before the close of fiscal 2000-01, the West Bengal Government is planning a slew of measures aimed at increasing non-tax revenue through hikes in mineral concession fees, royalties and stamping of weights and measures. The S tate Government has also announced some economy measures.

According to a memorandum issued by the Budget Branch of the State finance department and signed by the Chief Secretary, the measures were proposed to be taken to double the non-tax revenue base of various Government departments, corporations & undertaki ngs, statutory and autonomous bodies over the next three years.

It was felt that this was possible by increasing users' charges in some cases and minimising pilferages in others. The measures take effect from Friday (December 15).

On the cost-control side, the Government proposed to clamp down on purchase of new vehicles, restrict use of existing ones, stop casual appointments and re-employments.

All visits outside the State, except for attending meetings called by the Centre, have been banned by the State which has seen considerable erosion of its fiscal base on account of the floods in eight districts in September.

No purchase of equipment or consumables except for immediate requirement would be allowed in March of any year. Equipment purchase would be allowed only if the same was to be used within a reasonable period of time.

The Government also introduced some measures aimed at improving accountability and efficiency in administration.