Tripura Chief Minister Dr Manik Saha on Wednesday said the state government may reduce the size of his security convoy following Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s appeal for fuel-saving and controlled public expenditure.
The proposal will be reviewed with security agencies before any final decision.
Quick Glance
- Tripura CM supports reducing convoy vehicles if security remains unaffected.
- Decision likely after discussions with DGP Anurag.
- PM Modi recently urged citizens and officials to save fuel and adopt EVs.
- BJP leaders later visited Tripura Sundari Temple after arriving in Agartala.
Fuel-saving: Tripura CM Signals Support for Smaller Security Convoys
Agartala: Tripura Chief Minister Manik Saha has indicated that the state government may cut down the number of vehicles in his official security convoy. The move comes after Prime Minister Narendra Modi appealed for fuel conservation and responsible spending.
The Chief Minister spoke to reporters at Maharaja Bir Bikram Airport after returning from Guwahati on Wednesday. He said he personally supports using fewer vehicles during official movements. However, he clarified that security concerns would remain the top priority.
Saha explained that he had earlier expressed a desire to travel with fewer vehicles and security personnel. Yet, police officials advised against reducing the convoy due to security protocols. He added that any change would happen only after consultations with Director General of Police Anurag.
The Chief Minister also pointed out that reducing unnecessary government expenses has become important in the present economic and global situation. According to him, if security agencies find no major risk, the convoy size can be reduced without difficulty.
PM Modi Pushes Fuel Conservation Measures
The discussion gained momentum after Prime Minister Narendra Modi recently appealed to citizens and government officials to reduce fuel consumption. During his Hyderabad visit last week, Modi encouraged people to rely more on public transport and carpooling.
He also promoted the use of electric vehicles across the country. The Prime Minister further advised citizens to prioritise domestic tourism instead of foreign travel because of the growing tensions in West Asia and their possible impact on fuel prices.
Sources said the Prime Minister has also proposed adding electric vehicles to his own convoy. The idea supports the Centre’s broader strategy to reduce dependence on petrol and diesel imports while promoting cleaner mobility solutions.
Govt Depts Likely to Adopt Cost-Cutting Measures
Several state governments have already started reviewing official spending patterns. Security arrangements, ceremonial events and foreign visits are now under scrutiny as governments attempt to lower expenses.
Officials indicated that ministries and departments may soon introduce additional fuel-saving measures. These could include:
| Proposed Measure | Expected Objective |
|---|---|
| Carpooling during official travel | Reduce fuel consumption |
| Greater use of Metro services | Lower transport costs |
| Inclusion of electric vehicles | Promote clean energy |
| Smaller official celebrations | Cut public expenditure |
Analysts believe these steps may gradually become part of a nationwide administrative policy aimed at improving energy efficiency and reducing unnecessary government expenditure.
Assam Oath Ceremony Brings Regional Leaders Together
Earlier this week, Chief Minister Saha attended the swearing-in ceremony of Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma in Guwahati. Several political leaders from BJP-ruled states also participated in the event.
On Wednesday, Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta and Uttar Pradesh Deputy Chief Minister Brajesh Pathak arrived in Agartala along with Manik Saha after attending the ceremony.
Senior BJP leaders welcomed them at the airport with flower bouquets and traditional Risha scarves. The leaders later travelled to the historic Tripura Sundari Temple in Gomati district to offer prayers.
The visit highlighted the BJP’s continued focus on regional political coordination in the Northeast.
Focus on Sustainable Governance
The proposed reduction in security convoy vehicles reflects a broader national discussion on sustainable governance. Rising fuel costs and environmental concerns are pushing governments to reconsider traditional VIP movement systems.
Political observers believe Tripura’s move could encourage other northeastern states to explore similar measures. At the same time, officials maintain that security arrangements for constitutional authorities cannot be compromised.
The coming weeks may determine whether Tripura formally adopts a reduced convoy system or introduces electric vehicles in official transport operations.
People Also Ask (FAQ)
Why does Tripura CM want to reduce his security convoy?
Tripura Chief Minister Manik Saha said reducing convoy vehicles could help save fuel and lower public expenditure if security conditions permit.
What did PM Narendra Modi say about fuel conservation?
Prime Minister Narendra Modi urged citizens and government officials to use public transport, adopt EVs, carpool and reduce unnecessary fuel consumption.
Will electric vehicles be added to government convoys?
Sources suggest the Centre is considering adding electric vehicles to official convoys as part of India’s clean mobility push. (Edited).