Prime Minister Narendra Modi has ordered a significant reduction in the size of his official convoy while promoting the use of electric vehicles as part of a broader austerity and fuel-saving initiative, according to a PTI report. The Prime Minister's convoy strength was reduced by nearly 50 percent during his recent visits to Gujarat and Assam, shortly after his address in Hyderabad where he urged citizens to reduce fuel consumption.
Security maintained despite downsizing
Sources said the downsizing was carried out without compromising essential security arrangements mandated under the Special Protection Group (SPG) protocol. The Prime Minister has also reportedly asked officials to include electric vehicles in the convoy wherever possible, although no fresh vehicle purchases are expected for this move.
Hyderabad rally call for austerity
During a recent speech at a rally organized by the Telangana BJP in Hyderabad, PM Modi stressed the need for austerity measures amid the ongoing crisis in West Asia. He appealed to citizens to reduce petrol and diesel usage, use metro services more frequently, adopt carpooling, increase the use of electric vehicles, and rely more on railways for parcel transportation. He also encouraged work-from-home practices wherever feasible to help conserve foreign exchange.
Benefits of electric vehicles
Electric vehicles are increasingly seen as an important step towards reducing fuel dependency and lowering running costs. EVs produce zero tailpipe emissions, helping reduce air pollution in urban areas. In addition, lower operating and maintenance costs make them more efficient for daily use compared to conventional petrol and diesel vehicles.
Other ministers follow suit
Several Union ministers are also understood to be adopting similar measures. Home Minister Amit Shah and other senior leaders have reportedly started increasing the use of electric vehicles in official movements.
