In a powerful display of “walk the talk,” Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi has reduced the number of vehicles in his official convoy by half, responding directly to Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s nationwide appeal for citizens to curb unnecessary fuel consumption amid the escalating global oil crisis.
The decision comes as tensions in West Asia have triggered a sharp spike in international crude prices, threatening India’s energy security. Prime Minister Modi had urged every Indian to rethink daily expenses—especially petrol and diesel use—and adopt simpler, greener habits.
Chief Minister Majhi wasted no time translating words into action. According to an official release from his office, the CM personally ordered the immediate downsizing of his security and escort vehicles, cutting the fleet exactly in half. The move is expected to save significant quantities of fuel every month while sending a crystal-clear message: austerity must begin at the top.
But Majhi didn’t stop there. In a passionate appeal to the people of Odisha, he urged residents to join the national effort. “Use your personal cars only when absolutely necessary. Switch to public transport as much as possible. Avoid unnecessary travel, stop buying gold for now, and postpone non-essential foreign trips,” the Chief Minister said.
The CM’s office described the step as a mark of respect for the Prime Minister’s call and a commitment to collective sacrifice during tough times. By choosing to travel with a leaner motorcade, Majhi has positioned himself as a role model for ministers, MLAs, and senior officials across the state.
With fuel prices continuing to fluctuate and the West Asia situation remaining volatile, Majhi’s swift and visible action has struck a chord far beyond Odisha’s borders. It has turned the spotlight on how individual and collective discipline can help the nation weather an energy storm.
