Mumbai, April 3 (NationPress) The Maharashtra General Administration Department (GAD), operating under the Chief Minister's authority, has announced new restrictions on the extensive hiring of both Information Technology (IT) and non-IT consultants across various government bodies, including departments, corporations, and authorities.

According to the government resolution (GR), each department is now limited to appointing no more than two IT consultants. Additionally, the hiring of other types of consultants will only be permitted after the respective departments, corporations, and authorities adhere to a well-defined process.

It has been noted that many consultants have been appointed under the pretext of offering 'advisory services' within numerous government sectors, regional offices, and authorities. A concerning trend has emerged where numerous retired officials are being brought into these positions, as stated in the government resolution (GR).

“Every department is now mandated to limit itself to a maximum of two IT consultants. This regulation is binding for all departments, corporations, and authorities. Departments that currently employ more than two consultants will be allowed to continue their positions until April 30, 2026. However, the department has made it clear that starting May 1, 2026, no more than two IT consultants can be retained,” the GR articulated.

Furthermore, prior approval from the Directorate of Information Technology is now a prerequisite for the appointment of any consultant. The accountability for rigorous adherence to these guidelines rests with the heads of the respective departments and office leaders.

The GR clarifies that this limit on IT consultants does not extend to the Chief Minister's Office (CMO), the Deputy Chief Minister's Office, the Chief Secretary's Office, the Information Technology Department, or the Directorate of Information Technology.

This policy shift follows Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis's recent remarks emphasizing that all departments must operate on the three foundational principles of transparency, strict timelines, and accountability to guarantee that citizens can access the benefits of all schemes through a unified platform, thereby striving towards a 'Viksit Maharashtra.'

During a ceremony honoring exceptional performance under the '150-Day E-Governance Reform Program,' he noted that heads of departments and personnel who excelled in this initiative were awarded certificates by the Chief Minister.

CM Fadnavis instructed the Information Technology (IT) Department to realize the 'One State, One Portal' initiative. To resolve the confusion stemming from multiple government websites, the IT Department has been tasked with developing a single integrated portal to streamline all services. He emphasized that ensuring easy access to government services for citizens must be prioritized above all else.