Since mid-October, 2007, after the model code of conduct was imposed in the state prior to the Assembly polls, the administration and, consequently, development works, have been moving at a snail’s pace.

Going by the new directions, ministers in Dhumal’s Cabinet would now have to attend to people’s problems from Tuesday to Friday at the Secretariat in Shimla.

As compared to the previous Congress regime, when it was important for ministers to be in the Secretariat only on Tuesday, the new arrangement would mean four hectic days for the bureaucrats.

Adhering to strict work culture, as promised before the elections, Dhumal has drawn up another rule for the ministers when they visit their constituencies. A tour of the ministers to their constituency will be accounted for as “party strengthening activity” as it is now important for them to meet party workers for better coordination.

Since taking over, Dhumal has displayed phenomenal austerity by directing SPs and DCs of all districts not to run after the CM’s cavalcade till asked for.

Dhumal has also discouraged people from presenting him costly gifts and organisations from ostentatious functions to please him.