From convoy cuts to cancelled foreign trips, states act after PM Modi’s fuel-saving appeal

Several states have started introducing austerity measures after Prime Minister Narendra Modi appealed to citizens and governments to conserve fuel and reduce non-essential expenditure amid rising global energy prices linked to the ongoing West Asia crisis.

Measures announced across states include reducing official convoys, limiting foreign travel, shifting to virtual meetings and encouraging the use of public transport.

Maharashtra ministers shift to virtual meetings

In Maharashtra, Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis directed ministers not to use government aircraft except for urgent official work. Any such request would require his approval, per a report by Hindustan Times.

Also Read | PM Modi orders 50% cut in convoy vehicles amid austerity push

A senior BJP minister was quoted as saying by HT, “The chief minister may issue official directives on Thursday when a Cabinet meeting is scheduled.”

State chief secretary Rajesh Aggarwal stated that Maharashtra was waiting for detailed directives from the Centre on austerity measures.

Cultural affairs minister Ashish Shelar also reportedly cancelled his visit to France for the Cannes Film Festival and said he would attend virtually. “The relevant people will remain present as per the plan for coordination and support relating to the Marathi films participating in the festival,” Shelar was quoted as saying by HT.

Revenue minister Chandrashekhar Bawankule and Fisheries minister Nitesh Rane have also switched to conducting official meetings online. Meanwhile, Tourism minister Shambhuraj Desai cancelled a planned family trip to Europe.

UP, MP and Delhi announce cuts in convoys

Per the HT report, Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath ordered a 50 per cent reduction in the number of vehicles accompanying ministers and officials in convoys. He also directed departments to increase virtual meetings and promote work-from-home arrangements.

“The world is witnessing instability and everyone must exercise caution. States should be prepared to follow PM’s appeal,” Adityanath said during a meeting.

In Madhya Pradesh, Chief Minister Mohan Yadav reduced his convoy from thirteen vehicles to eight and imposed a ban on political vehicle rallies.

Also Read | 'Developed technical snag': Training aircraft crashes after take-off near Baramati airport, no casualties reported

“Until further orders, my convoy will consist of the bare minimum number of vehicles for security reasons, and there will be no vehicle rallies during my tours,” he posted on X.

Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta also announced similar measures. “I and all my cabinet colleagues will also use the minimum number of vehicles as per requirement and prioritise carpooling and public transport,” she wrote on X.

Delhi minister Ashish Sood was also seen travelling by Metro between INA and Karkardooma Court.