NEW DELHI, May 13: Narendra Modi has significantly reduced the size of his official convoy following his appeal for reduced fuel consumption and more efficient government spending, prompting a wider ripple effect among BJP-led state governments and other political leaders across India.
According to official sources, the reduction in convoy size was implemented during Modi’s recent domestic visits, including trips to Gujarat and Assam.
The changes were carried out while maintaining essential security under SPG protocol. The Prime Minister has also reportedly encouraged the inclusion of electric vehicles in official convoys where possible, without additional new procurement.
The move follows Modi’s broader message that India should focus on “spending more wisely” by reducing fuel consumption, cutting avoidable imports, and limiting foreign-currency-intensive services.
Officials clarified that this is not an austerity drive involving cuts to capital expenditure, welfare schemes, or subsidies, but rather an efficiency and conservation initiative.
Modi has also urged ministers to reduce foreign travel and unnecessary expenditure, particularly in light of global uncertainties linked to the West Asia crisis.
Following the Prime Minister’s appeal, several chief ministers and senior leaders have announced similar measures.
In Uttar Pradesh, Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath ordered a 50% reduction in convoy vehicles and encouraged public adoption of the same principles.
Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Mohan Yadav directed ministers to minimise convoy size and promote public transport usage.
Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta introduced restrictions on official vehicle usage for ministers and public representatives, while also promoting carpooling and public transport.
Rajasthan Chief Minister Bhajan Lal Sharma issued similar directives to reduce convoy size and promote efficiency in government travel.
In Maharashtra, Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis instructed ministers to seek prior approval for official air travel, while Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde switched to an electric vehicle as part of energy conservation efforts.
Shiv Sena ministers were also advised to limit non-essential travel and reduce vehicle usage.
Other states followed suit with various initiatives: Gujarat Governor Acharya Devvrat announced use of trains and public transport instead of helicopters for official travel; Bihar Deputy Chief Minister Vijay Kumar Chaudhary halved his convoy size; and Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai reduced convoy usage while emphasising electric vehicle adoption.
Himachal Pradesh Governor Kavinder Gupta even declared Lok Bhavan a “fuel conservation zone.”
The broader initiative also includes recommendations from Modi to promote metro rail use, carpooling, electric vehicles, railway freight transport, and work-from-home practices.
Officials say the goal is to reduce fuel dependency and foreign exchange outflows while encouraging sustainable governance practices across the country. (PTI)
