The Union Home Ministry issued an office memorandum on January 2 under the Delegation of Financial Powers Rules (DFPRs), 2024. The order applies to Union Territories without legislatures, including Chandigarh, Ladakh, Lakshadweep, Andaman and Nicobar Islands, and Dadra and Nagar Haveli and Daman and Diu.

Earlier, in September 2025, the Centre had restricted financial powers of senior UT officials. As a result, many routine and high-value development works faced delays due to mandatory approvals from New Delhi. However, the latest decision reverses those curbs and restores local authority.

Under the revised framework, the Administrator can approve projects from the initial stage to final sanction, up to ₹100 crore, after consulting the Finance Secretary or Financial Advisor. The rule applies only when adequate budget provisions exist.

At the same time, the Centre has placed safeguards. The Administrator cannot sub-delegate these powers, and officials must submit quarterly approval reports to the Department of Expenditure through the Home Ministry.

Officials believe the move will revive stalled projects and improve governance efficiency in Chandigarh.

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Under the revised arrangement, Administrators and LGs can now approve development projects worth up to Rs. 100 crore without seeking prior clearance from the central government. The move aims to speed up decision-making and improve administrative efficiency in Union Territories.

The Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) issued formal orders on Friday to implement the decision. Officials said the step would help clear pending projects and reduce procedural delays.

Moreover, the restored powers will apply not only to Chandigarh but also to Andaman and Nicobar Islands, Dadra and Nagar Haveli, Daman and Diu, and Lakshadweep. The Centre expects the decision to strengthen local governance and ensure smoother execution of infrastructure and public welfare projects.

Earlier, the withdrawal of financial powers had slowed approvals for several development works. As a result, UT administrations had raised concerns about delays in essential projects related to urban infrastructure, public utilities, and social services.

Therefore, the Centre’s decision comes as a relief to UT administrations. Officials believe it will improve coordination between local authorities and the central government.

Meanwhile, sources in the administration said the move reflects the Centre’s trust in UT leadership and its commitment to faster development. The restored authority will also help administrators respond quickly to local needs and emerging challenges.

Overall, the decision marks a significant step toward empowering UT administrations while maintaining oversight at the national level.

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He said Chandigarh is “dearer than life” to every Punjabi and assured that no move, now or in the future, will harm Punjab’s rights. His statement came soon after the Ministry of Home Affairs clarified that it was only studying a proposal to simplify the Union Territory’s law-making process. The MHA also said that no final decision had been taken.

Bittu added that the opposition created panic without understanding Article 240. He stressed that the Article does not define state capitals or boundaries, so it does not affect Punjab in any way.

Rejecting rumours about appointing a Lieutenant Governor or restructuring the administration, he said the Punjab Governor continues as Chandigarh’s Administrator. He also highlighted how new service rules benefited thousands of employees. Bittu urged Punjabis to stay calm and trust that the Centre will always protect Punjab’s interests.

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During the discussion, LG Gupta thanked the Union Government for its continued support. He updated JP Nadda on the progress of Ladakh’s first Medical College and the proposed Nursing College in Leh. Land allotment, central funding and proposal submissions are already complete. He requested faster administrative approvals so both institutions can start soon.

The upgrade of District Hospital Kargil from 100 to 200 beds also came up. Construction work is moving ahead, but the approval of essential medical posts still needs urgency.

LG Gupta further called for a CGHS wellness centre in Leh to support central employees and pensioners living in Ladakh. He also sought full PMJAY coverage for the ST population due to higher treatment costs in the region.

Other proposals included a dedicated AYUSH Hospital and an AIIMS campus in Leh to improve tertiary care and medical research. JP Nadda welcomed the ideas and assured full cooperation from the Ministry.

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The Minister shared this update after opening a new e-library at Kanchi Mamunivar Government Institute for Postgraduate Studies and Research. He said that better facilities in schools and colleges will support students and help teachers work more effectively.

Along with filling new vacancies, the government will also regularise 292 contract teachers. This step will give these teachers job security and help maintain stability in classrooms. The Minister said that a strong and steady teaching workforce is important for improving learning outcomes.

He also stressed that Puducherry needs better infrastructure, updated resources, and timely recruitment to build a strong academic environment. The government plans to speed up development work in schools and give more support to teachers.

With these measures, Puducherry is preparing for major progress in its education sector. The new recruitment drive is expected to create stronger learning conditions for students and a more reliable system for educators.

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