Maharashtra CM Fadnavis Ditches Private Jet, Travels Economy After PM Modi’s Conserve Fuel Appeal

Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis was seen travelling on an IndiGo economy flight from Pune to Bengaluru amid Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s call for austerity and fuel conservation in view of the escalating West Asia conflict.

The development comes days after PM Modi, during an address in Vadodara on May 11, urged citizens to show “collective responsibility” to protect India’s economy from the impact of the crisis in West Asia. He appealed to people to reduce unnecessary petrol and diesel consumption, avoid non essential foreign travel, postpone gold purchases, use public transport wherever possible and revive practices such as work from home, online classes and virtual meetings.

Describing the conflict as “one of the biggest crises

of the decade,” Modi said India must conserve foreign exchange and reduce pressure on fuel imports as tensions around the Strait of Hormuz continue to impact global oil markets.

Following the appeal, the Centre and several sectors have begun signalling austerity measures. Reports also suggest that the Prime Minister has reduced the size of his convoy to save fuel and encouraged greater use of electric vehicles for official movement.

Government departments and India Inc are also discussing contingency measures, including fuel conservation mechanisms and curbs on non essential expenditure, amid fears of rising crude prices and possible supply disruptions.

The appeal has also triggered political reactions. Opposition leaders, including Sharad Pawar and members of Maharashtra’s Maha Vikas Aghadi, questioned the Centre over fuel price hikes and said austerity measures should begin with those in power.

In another development in line with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s recent call for austerity and efficient resource management, thePower Ministry is preparing to introduce a set of measures aimed at cutting fuel consumption and promoting sustainable travel among employees.

Sources said that from Monday, around 20 per cent of the ministry’s workforce will operate on a rotational work from home model to reduce daily commuting and limit avoidable vehicle use.