Prime Minister Narendra Modi has reportedly directed a reduction in the size of his official carcade, in what is being seen as a push towards austerity measures across the government.
According to Times of India's Raj Skhekhar Jha and Dipak K Dash, Modi is said to have asked the Special Protection Group (SPG), the elite force responsible for his security, to cut the number of vehicles in his convoy by nearly 50%. Citing sources, the report added that the Prime Minister has also asked officials to encourage the use of electric vehicles in the fleet, though without purchasing new vehicles to avoid additional expenditure.
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The report added that the SPG has already begun implementing the directive while ensuring compliance with mandatory security protocols laid out in the “Blue Book”. Sources told TOI that the PM’s convoy appeared visibly smaller during his recent visits outside Delhi.
The move comes days after Modi, during a visit to Hyderabad on Sunday, urged people to reduce fuel and gold consumption.
According to the report, the PM’s decision is expected to serve as a signal for ministries and departments to adopt similar austerity measures. Officials across departments are reportedly discussing steps to cut fuel consumption, including encouraging metro travel, carpooling, and reducing large official banquets.
“There are talks across departments for identifying all steps that can reduce fuel consumption. The message of the PM is for all, including us,” an official quoted by TOI said.
The issue of reducing fuel usage by cutting down unnecessary travel was also discussed during an informal Group of Ministers meeting chaired by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Monday.
