CM Fadnavis backs Modi’s austerity call with cost-cutting measures

Maharashtra CM Devendra Fadnavis. FILE PIC/ASHISH RAJE

Responding to Prime Minister Narendra Modi's austerity call to save fuel and cut the country's import bill, Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis on Wednesday announced a series of measures that will result in fewer ministerial convoy vehicles on the roads.

At two high-level meetings attended by the chief secretary, director general of police, and other senior officials, CM Fadnavis reviewed steps to reduce government spending and conserve fuel.

The new rules include halving the number of vehicles in ministers' convoys, avoiding foreign trips, using commercial flights instead of government aircraft and helicopters, and holding more meetings through video conferencing.

‘Measures are for nation-building'

Fadnavis on Wednesday said that PM Modi has appealed to citizens to adopt austerity measures during the current crisis as a contribution to nation-building, and many people have already begun following the call. Criticising the Opposition for questioning the move, Fadnavis said, "If the Opposition cannot contribute to nation-building, the least they can do is not criticise the appeal."

Measures announced

>> The number of vehicles in the convoys of the chief minister and other, ministers is to be cut by 50 per cent.
>> Ministers and government officials have been asked to avoid foreign trips.
>> Government aircraft and helicopters to be used only when necessary.
>> Ministers have been told to use regular commercial flights.
>> Ministers and officials are encouraged to use public transport.
>> Government meetings to be held through video conferencing