New Delhi: In a strong message on austerity and economic discipline, Prime Minister Narendra Modi has reportedly ordered a 50% cut in the number of vehicles in his official convoy amid rising concerns over the ongoing West Asia conflict and its possible impact on India’s economy.
The Prime Minister has also directed the Special Protection Group (SPG) to maximise the use of electric vehicles in his security fleet without purchasing new cars, signalling a push towards fuel conservation and cost control at the highest level of government.
BIG NEWS – PM Modi orders SPG to halve his convoy size and maximise EV use without new purchases while maintaining full security protocols. pic.twitter.com/rg3T2WFQBF
— News Algebra (@NewsAlgebraIND) May 13, 2026
The move comes shortly after Modi’s nationwide appeal urging citizens to adopt “economic patriotism” as global tensions threaten to trigger a spike in crude oil prices and strain India’s foreign exchange reserves.
Following the Prime Minister’s call, several BJP chief ministers have also begun downsizing their convoys. Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta, Madhya Pradesh CM Mohan Yadav and Rajasthan CM Bhajan Lal Sharma are among those who have reportedly ordered reductions in official vehicle usage.
Addressing a rally in Hyderabad recently, Modi warned that the worsening conflict in West Asia could directly hit India’s economy due to the country’s heavy dependence on imported crude oil and gold.
He urged people to avoid unnecessary foreign travel for the next year, reduce petrol and diesel consumption, and postpone gold purchases during weddings and festivals. The Prime Minister also encouraged work-from-home practices, greater use of public transport and carpooling to cut fuel demand.
Calling the current situation a test of national responsibility, Modi said every citizen must contribute towards protecting India’s economic stability during uncertain global conditions.
The government’s latest austerity push is being seen as both a symbolic and strategic step as fears grow over disruptions in global oil supply chains and a possible surge in fuel prices worldwide.
