**Bhopal (Madhya Pradesh): State Government Sets Up Committee to Review Holidays**
The Madhya Pradesh government has established a committee to review and rearrange general, public, and optional holidays in the state. This initiative aims to streamline the holiday calendar for better clarity and organization.
The committee has been formed in coordination with the Additional Chief Secretary (General Administration Department) and includes the Additional Chief Secretary (Finance and Home) as well as the Principal Secretary (Revenue).
When Chief Minister Mohan Yadav announced Ganesh Chaturthi as a state holiday, he also mentioned that all holidays would be subject to a comprehensive review. Previously, Ganesh Chaturthi was observed as a local holiday.
Currently, there are 26 general holidays in Madhya Pradesh, in addition to several optional holidays. District collectors have the authority to declare up to three local holidays based on the significance of any festival.
The committee will also examine holidays observed under the Negotiable Instruments Act, which specifically apply to bank and treasury employees. The review will cover all categories, including general, optional, and local holidays.
It has been noted that some holidays which rightfully belong under general holidays are instead categorized as optional or local holidays. Festivals such as Makar Sankranti, Basant Panchami, and Mahashtami hold cultural and traditional importance but are presently designated only as local or optional holidays.
Following the review, the committee will prepare a report to be submitted to the government with recommendations for rearranging the holiday schedule.
**Chief Minister Changes New Year Holidays**
In addition to the holiday review, Chief Minister Mohan Yadav has modified the New Year holiday period. Previously observed from December 25 to 31, the New Year holidays will now be celebrated from December 31 to January 4.
This change replaces the earlier Christmas holidays, now officially recognized as New Year holidays under the revised calendar.
https://www.freepressjournal.in/bhopal/mp-news-government-sets-up-committee-to-review-holidays-four-ias-officers-will-mull-over-the-matter
