Now LG Manoj Sinha halves convoy size following PM Modi’s austerity appeal amid West Asia crisis

Alfaaz – The Words Desk

Srinagar, May 13: Lieutenant Governor Jammu and Kashmir Manoj Sinha has decided to reduce the size of his official convoy by half following Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s appeal for austerity and fuel conservation measures amid the ongoing West Asia crisis.

Officials at Lok Bhavan said the decision was taken to promote austerity, minimise fuel consumption and ensure responsible use of government resources in official functioning across Jammu and Kashmir.

The move comes as several senior BJP leaders and Union ministers have begun adopting similar measures after the Prime Minister called for restraint in government expenditure and efficient utilisation of resources.

Earlier, Union Home Minister Amit Shah reduced his convoy to less than half of its earlier size, while Union Health Minister Jagat Prakash Nadda also downsized his convoy by nearly 50 percent following the Prime Minister’s appeal.

Officials said the Lieutenant Governor’s decision is aimed at setting an example for efficient governance and encouraging sustainable administrative practices in Jammu and Kashmir at a time when the Centre has been emphasising fuel conservation and reduction in avoidable expenditure.

The Centre’s austerity push has also seen other leaders taking symbolic and administrative measures. Reports said Union Minister Ramdas Athawale, Jitendra Singh and BJP leader Kapil Mishra travelled by metro in support of fuel-saving efforts, while Maharashtra minister Ashish Shelar reportedly cancelled his planned visit to France for the Cannes Film Festival as part of the austerity drive.

Prime Minister Modi had earlier this week urged citizens and officials alike to adopt “collective sacrifice” by reducing fuel consumption, avoiding unnecessary travel and promoting efficient use of resources, triggering administrative action across several states and government departments. (with inputs from agencies)