The Gujarat government has unveiled a series of initiatives to reduce fuel usage, government spending, and foreign currency outflow, while promoting virtual administration and public transport utilization. These measures were disclosed following a state cabinet meeting led by Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel and Deputy Chief Minister Harsh Sanghavi. The decisions come in response to Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s recent call for resource conservation.
State government spokesperson Jitu Vaghani, addressing the media post-meeting, highlighted the state’s commitment to environmental and fiscal preservation under Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel’s guidance. Notable changes include limiting government-related travel to essential purposes, encouraging virtual communication methods like video conferencing, and discouraging physical meetings unless imperative.
Officials have been advised to minimize physical travel, opting for virtual platforms for discussions and meetings. The government has also restricted foreign visits, training programs, and unnecessary staff accompaniment on official trips. Additionally, a review of official vehicle usage will be conducted, with an emphasis on electric or hybrid vehicles and public transport alternatives.
In a bid to support indigenous products and MSMEs, government procurement policies will prioritize locally made goods. Events and inaugurations will be conducted with simplicity, focusing on virtual methods. The government aims to extend Metro rail services for public convenience and promote energy-saving practices like mandatory piped natural gas in government canteens.
