The Puducherry Legislative Assembly marked a significant milestone on Monday as it commenced its first-ever paperless session. The session began with an address by Lieutenant Governor K Kailashnathan, setting the stage for a new era of digital governance in the Union Territory.
Since this was the first session of the year, the Governor’s address was the focal point. Chief Minister N Rangasamy extended a formal welcome to the Governor upon his arrival at the Assembly.
The previous session, the 5th of the 15th Legislative Assembly, was held on February 12 under the chairmanship of Assembly Speaker R Selvam. During that session, approval was granted for additional expenditure, following which the meeting was adjourned indefinitely.
The 6th session of the 15th Legislative Assembly commenced with the Governor’s address, setting the agenda for the discussions that will follow. A debate on the address has been scheduled for Tuesday, March 11.
The next day, on Wednesday, March 12, Chief Minister Rangasamy, who also oversees the Finance Department, is set to present the Puducherry state budget for the financial year 2025-2026.
The move towards a paperless Assembly was facilitated with financial assistance from the Central Government.
To support this transition, portable computers have been installed at the seats of the Speaker, the Chief Minister, Ministers, and all Members of the Legislative Assembly.
This digital infrastructure will enable members to access budget reports, record their queries, and receive responses electronically. To ensure the smooth functioning of this initiative, a control room, a computer training centre for members, and a dedicated service centre have been set up within the Assembly premises.
This shift towards a digital format is expected to enhance efficiency and reduce dependency on paper, aligning with the broader national vision of digital transformation in governance.
The adoption of technology within the Assembly is seen as a step towards improving transparency and accessibility in legislative processes.
Earlier in February, Union Minister of State L Murugan dismissed concerns about a financial crisis in Puducherry. He reassured that the Central Government has allocated sufficient funds to support the Union Territory’s development.
He emphasised that the Union Budget for the upcoming financial year has been designed with a long-term vision, ensuring sustainable progress for all states and Union Territories.
He highlighted key financial allocations for Puducherry, which include ₹3,432 crore in total funding. Of this, ₹1,450 crore has been earmarked for the Jawaharlal Institute of Postgraduate Medical Education and Research (JIPMER), a premier medical institution in the region. Additionally, Rs 186 crore has been allocated for improving drinking water projects.
Further development initiatives have been planned, including the modernisation of railway stations in Puducherry, Karaikal, and Mahe. These projects aim to enhance infrastructure and public services, contributing to the overall growth of the region.
Murugan expressed confidence that the budget will play a crucial role in India's journey toward becoming a developed nation. He reiterated that Puducherry has received adequate financial support and does not face any economic distress.
The Union Government’s commitment to the Union Territory’s development remains strong, ensuring that necessary funds are made available to sustain growth and infrastructure improvements.
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