New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi is likely to hold a virtual meeting with Chief Secretaries of states to discuss austerity measures, more use of online
meetings and possible work-from-home mechanisms, Business Today reported, citing government sources. The talks come at a time when India is looking at ways to cut non-essential fuel use amid global economic uncertainty and pressure on fuel imports.
The move has again brought back one big question for office-goers: can work from home return in some form? For now, there is no formal advisory or directive from the Centre to states on mandatory work-from-home rules. So yes, the laptop-on-bed life is not officially back yet. But the discussion has clearly started.
PM Modi’s austerity push gathers pace
According to Business Today, the proposed virtual meeting is expected to focus on reducing avoidable spending, encouraging virtual governance and cutting fuel consumption through administrative steps.
The Prime Minister has repeatedly stressed conservation, responsible energy use and lower non-essential travel over the past two days. The idea is simple. Save fuel where possible. Shift meetings online where it makes sense. Cut avoidable expenses.
Sources cited in the report said state governments have already begun internal discussions after PM Modi’s appeal. Chief Ministers of Delhi, Madhya Pradesh, Haryana and Uttar Pradesh have taken cognisance of the remarks and held talks with senior officials and cabinet ministers.
What could change for offices and schools?
The discussions may not mean a full pandemic-style shutdown. The focus appears to be more targeted and practical.
Possible areas under discussion include:
- More virtual meetings in government departments
- Work-from-home mechanisms where possible
- Reduced official travel
- Lower fuel use through better planning
- Temporary online classes for schoolchildren
PM Modi has also appealed to people to avoid destination weddings abroad, reduce edible oil consumption, use public transport and electric vehicles, limit foreign travel and defer gold purchases for a year amid the West Asia crisis.
No official WFH order yet
The key point for employees is this: no mandatory work-from-home rule has been issued so far. Business Today reported that there is no formal advisory yet from the Centre to states.
Still, the expected meeting with Chief Secretaries signals that the government may be exploring softer administrative steps first. If fuel pressure continues, some offices may see more online meetings and selective work-from-home options.
