New Delhi, May 14 (UNI) In a move aimed at promoting fuel conservation and setting an example for public representatives, Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla has reduced the number of vehicles used in his official convoy, aligning with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s recent appeal for responsible energy consumption amid rising concerns over fuel usage and imports.
Sources Thursday said the decision was taken in response to the Prime Minister’s broader call for adopting sustainable practices and reducing avoidable fuel consumption as part of a national effort towards energy efficiency and self-reliance. The reduction in the Speaker’s convoy is being viewed within parliamentary circles as a symbolic but significant gesture meant to encourage austerity and conservation measures among public officials.
Prime Minister Modi, in recent interactions and public addresses, has stressed the importance of fuel conservation and reducing India’s dependence on imported crude oil. Referring to the country’s large energy import bill, Modi had urged citizens to contribute through small behavioural changes such as using public transport where possible, avoiding unnecessary vehicle usage and adopting energy-saving habits.
“Every drop of fuel saved strengthens the nation,” the Prime Minister had said while emphasising that energy conservation was not merely an economic necessity but also a national responsibility linked to environmental protection and long-term sustainability.
Government officials said Birla’s move reflects an attempt by constitutional authorities to translate the Prime Minister’s appeal into visible administrative action. According to sources, the Speaker has instructed officials to rationalise the use of escort and support vehicles in his movement without compromising essential security arrangements.
The development comes at a time when the Centre has been actively promoting campaigns linked to energy efficiency, ethanol blending, electric mobility and reduced fossil fuel dependence. Over the past few years, the government has also highlighted initiatives such as “Mission LiFE” — Lifestyle for Environment — under which citizens are encouraged to adopt environmentally conscious lifestyles.
Officials in the Lok Sabha secretariat noted that symbolic decisions taken by senior constitutional functionaries often carry wider messaging value within the bureaucracy and political establishment. “When leaders themselves adopt conservation measures, it sends a strong signal that such efforts should become part of everyday governance culture,” an official said.
Birla, who has frequently spoken about sustainable practices and efficient public administration, has in the past also encouraged paperless functioning and environmentally conscious measures within parliamentary operations.
The Speaker’s decision is expected to resonate politically as well, particularly at a time when the government is seeking greater public participation in campaigns related to sustainability, climate responsibility and energy conservation. UNI SKA AAB