The second category of gifts would be those which are not of symbolic nature. If its value is less than Rs 5,000 it can be retained by the Minister.
If, however, there is any doubt about the estimated value of the gift, the matter should be referred to the Toshakhana for valuation. If the value of the gift, on assessment is found to be within the prescribed limit of Rs 5,000 the gift will be returned to the Minister.
If it exceeds Rs 5,000 the recipient will have the option to purchase it from the Toshakhana by paying the difference between the value as assessed by the Toshakhana and Rs 5,000.
Only gifts of household goods which are retained by the Toshakhana, such as carpets, paintings, furniture etc. exceeding Rs 5,000 in value, will be kept in Rashtrapati Bhavan, Prime Minister's House or Raj Bhavan as State property.
A Minister should, while on official tour, as far as practicable stay in accommodation belonging to himself or maintained by government, government undertakings, public bodies or institutions (such as circuit houses, dak bungalows etc.) or in recognised hotels; and avoid attending, as far as possible, ostentatious or lavish parties given in his honour.
It said authority would follow such procedure as it might deem fit, according to the facts and circumstances of each case, for dealing with or determining any alleged or suspected breach of this Code.
