The Gujarat government has introduced an 11-point fuel conservation plan aimed at reducing fuel consumption, limiting unnecessary travel, and promoting digital alternatives for official work. The move comes in line with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s repeated appeal for energy conservation and efficient resource utilization amid global uncertainties affecting fuel markets. The circular, issued to all government departments and offices across the state, has directed officials and employees to strictly comply with the new measures with immediate effect.

According to the circular accessed by NDTV, the state government has instructed departments to minimize physical meetings and instead prioritize video conferencing and digital communication platforms. Officials have been advised to travel only when absolutely necessary for government work. The directive also discourages participation in foreign conferences, study tours, and training programs unless unavoidable circumstances require such visits. Authorities believe the shift toward virtual engagement could significantly reduce fuel consumption linked to official travel.

The government has also asked officers to avoid traveling outside their districts as far as possible and to seek prior approval from controlling authorities for essential movement. In cases where officials need to attend meetings in other states or at the central level, online participation has been encouraged wherever feasible. The circular further stated that senior officers traveling outside Gujarat should avoid taking additional staff members unless their presence is considered essential for official duties.

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A major component of the plan focuses on government vehicle management and the promotion of cleaner transport alternatives. Departments have been directed to review all government vehicles under their control and identify excess vehicles for decommissioning. Officials holding multiple administrative responsibilities have been instructed to retain only one primary government vehicle, while the remaining vehicles must be transferred to the government vehicle pool. The circular also strongly encourages officials to shift toward electric vehicles instead of petrol- or diesel-powered cars whenever possible.

The fuel-saving strategy additionally promotes the use of public transport services such as metro systems, buses, and railways for official commuting. Government canteens across the state have been directed to install piped natural gas connections within the next six months to reduce dependence on traditional fuels. The circular also calls for procurement policies favoring indigenous goods, local manufacturing, and services provided by micro, small, and medium enterprises as part of a broader push for self-reliance and sustainability.

The Gujarat government has further instructed departments to conduct public awareness campaigns discouraging panic buying and unnecessary hoarding in light of current global developments. Officials have also been told to organize government programs in a simpler and cost-effective manner, with inaugurations and ceremonial events encouraged to take place virtually wherever possible. The directives have come into immediate effect, and additional measures related to energy conservation and administrative efficiency are expected to be discussed during the Gujarat cabinet meeting scheduled later this week.

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