Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi has directed a 50 percent reduction in the number of vehicles used in his official convoy as part of a broader national campaign promoting fuel conservation and austerity amid a worsening global energy crisis.
According to recent reports, Modi also instructed the Special Protection Group (SPG), the elite force responsible for his security, to increase the use of electric vehicles (EVs) within the convoy. However, he made it clear that no new vehicles should be purchased for this transition.
Officials said the SPG has already begun implementing the directive while ensuring that mandatory security protocols outlined in the official “Blue Book” remain unaffected.
The prime minister’s move is now being echoed in several Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP)-ruled states. Chief ministers in Delhi, Rajasthan, and Madhya Pradesh have reportedly decided to reduce the size of their own official vehicle fleets as part of similar cost-cutting and energy-saving efforts.
Analysts say the measures reflect India’s growing concern over rising global crude oil prices, which have surged following escalating tensions linked to the United States-Iran conflict.
Recently, Modi called on citizens to adopt a more frugal lifestyle and contribute to protecting national resources. He encouraged people to use domestically produced goods and questioned how the country could progress if it remained heavily dependent on imports.
The Indian premier also urged citizens to avoid unnecessary gold purchases for one year in order to ease pressure on foreign currency reserves. In addition, he advised against extravagant foreign travel and destination weddings abroad.
Modi said preserving foreign exchange reserves should be viewed as an act of patriotism and emphasized the importance of promoting domestic tourism and local celebrations
