Prime Minister Narendra Modi has directed a 50 per cent reduction in the number of vehicles used in his official convoy as part of a broader austerity and fuel conservation push amid the ongoing global energy crisis triggered by the conflict between the United States and Iran.
According to reports, PM Modi has also instructed the Special Protection Group (SPG), which handles the Prime Minister’s security, to gradually increase the use of electric vehicles in his motorcade. However, he reportedly made it clear that no new vehicles should be purchased specifically for this purpose.
As per a report filed by NDTV, officials said the SPG has already begun implementing the changes while ensuring that all mandatory security protocols outlined in the official “Blue Book” continue to be followed without compromise.
The Prime Minister’s move is being viewed as a symbolic attempt to promote administrative restraint and responsible fuel consumption at a time of rising global crude oil prices and economic uncertainty linked to disruptions in international energy supply chains.
The austerity measures are also beginning to reflect across BJP-ruled states, with several chief ministers reportedly deciding to scale down their own official convoys. Among those following the move are Rekha Gupta, Bhajan Lal Sharma and Mohan Yadav, all of whom are said to have reduced the number of vehicles accompanying their official movements.
The developments come shortly after PM Modi appealed to citizens to adopt what he described as “nationally responsible” lifestyle choices in response to the ongoing global energy and economic crisis.
Addressing a public event on Sunday, the Prime Minister urged people to reduce unnecessary fuel consumption, avoid excessive dependence on imports and conserve national resources. “How can the nation progress if we depend on imports for everything?” Modi asked during his address. He also encouraged citizens to prioritise domestic products and support local economic activity as a way to strengthen India’s resilience against global market disruptions.
In one of his strongest appeals for economic restraint, Modi urged people to avoid non-essential gold purchases for the next year, arguing that reducing foreign exchange outflows was in the national interest. The Prime Minister also advised citizens to reconsider overseas holidays and destination weddings abroad and instead promote tourism and celebrations within India. “Conserving foreign exchange reserves is also an act of patriotism,” Modi said.
The remarks came amid heightened concerns over rising fuel prices, supply-chain instability and inflationary pressures caused by continued tensions in West Asia, particularly around the Strait of Hormuz, a critical global energy transit route. The Centre has increasingly emphasised public participation and lifestyle changes as part of a wider effort to manage the economic impact of the international crisis.
