Govt officers entitled to mobile, laptop costing up to Rs 1.3 lakh; can retain after 4 years

In today's digital age, technology has become an integral part of everyone's lives, and all sectors are embracing it to enhance their efficiency.

As per the PTI report, in India, central government officers have been given the authority to purchase mobile phones, laptops, or similar devices with a budget of up to Rs 1.3 lakh.

After four years of official use, they will also be allowed to use these devices for personal purposes.

The Expenditure Department of the Finance Ministry recently released an office memorandum outlining the guidelines for the issuance of electronic gadgets like mobile phones, laptops, tablets, phablets, notebooks, notepads, ultra-books, net-books, or similar devices to eligible officers for official use, as per the report.

The cost of the device can be up to Rs 1 lakh plus taxes, but if the device contains Make-in-India components, it can go up to Rs 1.3 lakh plus taxes.

After four years, these devices can be retained for personal use.

The guidelines state that all central government officers holding the rank of deputy secretary and above are eligible to receive such electronic devices.

Furthermore, half of the approved capacity for Section Officers and Under Secretaries can be allocated these devices.

This decision to increase the budget for mobile phones and laptops aims to modernise and equip central government officers with the latest technology for their official work.

By offering more choices in devices and raising the cost ceiling, the government intends to provide officers with efficient tools to carry out their duties effectively.