PwC India asks employees to reassess travel plans amid PM Modi’s austerity call

PwC India, one of the big four companies, has asked its employees to reassess both domestic and international travel plans and undertake trips only when there is a ‘clear business need’”

The move comes shortly afterPrime Minister Narendra Modi urged citizens and businesses to exercise restraint in fuel usage, overseas spending and non-essential foreign travel amid the continuing tensions in West Asia.

“We remain aligned with the spirit of this appeal, while continuing to support clients, businesses and the wider economy with discipline and responsibility,” said Sanjeev Krishan, Chairperson, PwC in India.

“India’s medium-to-long-term growth outlook remains resilient, supported by steady fiscal consolidation and structural reforms that continue to strengthen the country’s macroeconomic fundamentals despite external uncertainties,” he added.

According to the company, employees have been advised to carefully evaluate all travel requirements before making plans. The firm indicated that travel should take place only in situations where there is a clear and necessary business purpose.

PwC India also said the direction is an extension of its existing internal guidance around operational discipline and responsible resource management.

At the same time, the company clarified that its “flexible working framework remains in place, enabling teams to support client requirements effectively while maintaining productivity, collaboration, and personal responsibility.”

The firm added that the measures would continue to be reviewed depending on how global conditions evolve in the coming weeks and months.

What about the other big fours -

While PwC India has introduced the new travel advisory for employees, other Big Four firms - EY, Deloitte and KPMG - have not announced similar measures so far. These companies already have hybrid work models in place and will continue to follow the same, said their spokespersons as quoted by Firstpost.

Commenting on the Prime Minister’s appeal, Rajiv Memani, EY India chief executive officer, told Economic Times, “I don't view it as a crisis. I view this as a sensible and pragmatic ask to the country to ensure we are mindful of the current geopolitical challenges," he said.

During an event in Hyderabad few days ago, PM Modi had urged people to cut down on the use of imported fuel and encouraged greater use of public transport and carpooling in an effort to reduce pressure on foreign exchange reserves. He also asked citizens to reconsider discretionary foreign spending for the next year, including non-essential international travel and destination weddings abroad.

He also advised people to limit avoidable expenses involving imported goods and suggested moderation in gold purchase for a year. He also called for the return of work-from-home practices wherever possible to help reduce fuel consumption and unnecessary travel.

In addition, PM Modi appealed to citizens to reduce edible oil consumption and asked farmers to explore ways to lessen dependence on imported chemical fertilisers.