Rajeev Sharma :- Prime Minister Narendra Modi has initiated a major austerity measure by directing a significant reduction in the size of his official convoy, aiming to encourage fiscal discipline and curb unnecessary government expenditure. The move is being seen as a symbolic as well as practical step towards promoting restraint within the administrative machinery.
According to sources, the Prime Minister has instructed the Special Protection Group (SPG) to cut the number of vehicles in his convoy by nearly half. At the same time, he has also expressed a preference for increasing the use of electric vehicles in the convoy. However, officials have reportedly been told not to purchase new vehicles in order to avoid additional financial burden on the exchequer.
The SPG has already begun implementing the directions. During the Prime Minister’s recent visits outside Delhi, noticeably smaller convoys were seen accompanying him. Security agencies are ensuring that the revised arrangements remain fully compliant with the protocols laid down in the official “Blue Book” governing VVIP security.
The development comes shortly after Modi, during his Hyderabad visit on Sunday, appealed to citizens to reduce fuel consumption and avoid excessive spending on gold purchases. Sources said the Prime Minister’s decision to begin austerity measures with his own office sends a strong message to ministers and government departments about adopting restraint in public spending.
Government departments have also been asked to explore ways to reduce avoidable expenditure. Officials believe the move could trigger a wider review of operational costs across ministries and public institutions in the coming months.
The decision assumes significance at a time when the Centre is focusing on economic discipline, energy conservation and self-reliance amid global uncertainties. Political and administrative circles view the Prime Minister’s move as an attempt to reinforce the message that leadership must lead by example.
