PM Modi Takes Major Steps to Cut Costs Amid Rising Oil Prices

In light of rising oil prices and global economic tensions, Prime Minister Narendra Modi has announced significant cost-cutting measures, including reducing the size of his convoy by 50% and prioritizing electric vehicles. This initiative follows his appeal to citizens to adopt spending cuts, such as postponing gold purchases and reducing fuel consumption. The Special Protection Group has begun implementing these directives while ensuring security protocols are maintained. PM Modi's actions aim to help India navigate the economic challenges posed by the Iran conflict and strengthen the nation's foreign exchange reserves. His recent rallies have showcased his commitment to leading by example in promoting sustainable practices and economic resilience.

By Narendra Chaudhary May 13, 2026, 10:33 IST

Significant Measures by PM Modi

In response to escalating global economic tensions and surging oil prices due to the conflict in Iran, Prime Minister Narendra Modi has initiated a significant move. Reports indicate that he has ordered a reduction of up to 50% in the size of his convoy. Additionally, he has emphasized prioritizing the use of electric vehicles (EVs) within the security fleet.

SPG Instructions and Implementation

Sources reveal that the Special Protection Group (SPG) has been instructed to decrease the number of vehicles in the Prime Minister's convoy while ensuring that essential security protocols remain intact. The SPG has already begun implementing these directives. Furthermore, PM Modi has advocated for increased use of electric vehicles in the convoy, clarifying that no new vehicles will be purchased for this transition.

Cost-Cutting Appeal

This initiative comes shortly after PM Modi urged citizens to adopt cost-cutting measures. His recommendations included refraining from purchasing gold for a year, postponing non-essential international travel, and reducing fuel consumption. As India braces for the economic repercussions of rising global oil prices, these measures are deemed crucial.

Leading by Example

Demonstrating his commitment to cost reduction, PM Modi has significantly minimized the size of his convoy during recent visits to states like Gujarat and Assam. Following his appeal for spending cuts at a rally in Hyderabad, smaller convoys were observed in Vadodara and Guwahati.

Maintaining Security Protocols

The reduction in vehicle numbers has been executed while fully adhering to the necessary security requirements outlined by SPG protocols. This cost-cutting initiative is also being mirrored across various government departments and ministries. Reports suggest that several central ministries are considering measures to conserve fuel. Additionally, Chief Ministers of BJP-ruled states like Madhya Pradesh and Rajasthan have issued directives to reduce their official convoys.

PM Modi's Call for Economic Resilience

During a rally in Hyderabad for the Telangana BJP, PM Modi urged the public to adopt cost-saving strategies. He stated that such actions could help the nation confront the economic impacts of the Iran conflict and preserve its foreign exchange reserves.

Encouraging Sustainable Practices

The Prime Minister called for reduced consumption of petrol and diesel, increased use of metro services, carpooling, electric vehicles, and railway parcel services. He also advocated for promoting 'work-from-home' practices wherever feasible. Emphasizing the need to conserve foreign exchange reserves, he urged citizens to delay gold purchases and non-essential foreign travel for a year. Additionally, he supported reducing reliance on chemical fertilizers, promoting natural farming, and increasing the use of indigenous products to strengthen self-reliance.

Strengthening the Economy

Highlighting the government's efforts to shield citizens from the adverse effects of the West Asia crisis, PM Modi stated that prudent fuel usage and cost-cutting measures would bolster the economy during this period of global uncertainty.