No Flights, Smaller Convoy: Gujarat Governor Adopts Measures To Save Fuel After PM Modi’s Appeal

Gujarat Governor Acharya Devvrat announced “Gujarat Lok Bhavan Initiative,” to cut air travel and security convoy.

File photo of Gujarat Governor Acharya Devvrat. (Image: PTI)

Gujarat Governor Acharya Devvrat on Tuesday announced a set of austerity measures aimed at conserving fuel and reducing unnecessary expenditure, two days after Prime Minister Narendra Modi urged citizens to adopt “economic self-defence” while addressing a gathering in Hyderabad.

Under the initiative, dubbed the “Gujarat Lok Bhavan Initiative,” the Governor said he would stop using helicopters and flights for travel within the state until the global fuel situation improves. For official visits across the state, he will instead use state transport buses and trains. He made the announcement in a post on X.

“Today, the need of the hour is that we unite for the economic security of the nation. Internalizing the seven appeals of the Prime Minister, I myself have initiated some small changes. Our small sacrifice for the country will give India the strength to fight global challenges. Let us come together to make India empowered and self-reliant,” he tweeted.

Governor Calls For Weekly ‘Combustion Engine-Free’ Day

The Governor has also ordered a reduction in his Z+ security convoy to the minimum number of vehicles required in an effort to save fuel. In addition, all Vice-Chancellors of state universities have been instructed to observe one “Combustion Engine-Free” day every week, encouraging students and faculty members to use bicycles, electric vehicles, or public transport.

The initiative also includes a call to reduce edible oil consumption by 10 per cent and discourage unnecessary use of official vehicles for government work.

During a meeting with senior officials, including Principal Secretary Ashok Sharma and Home Director AK Joshi, Devvrat stressed the importance of economic discipline amid global uncertainty due to the West Asia crisis. “Every drop of fuel and every rupee saved is a contribution to India’s self-reliance,” he said.

The Governor described these measures as part of a broader effort to strengthen India’s economic resilience and protect foreign exchange reserves. By giving up certain official privileges and reducing personal comfort, Devvrat said he hoped to encourage people across Gujarat to place “Nation First” and participate in the campaign to strengthen economic resilience.

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