Hyderabad: Telangana Governor Shiv Pratap Shukla on Thursday appealed to citizens to support the fuel conservation appeal by reducing vehicle usage and helping protect the country’s foreign exchange reserves amid the global energy crisis.
In a video message released by Lok Bhavan, the Governor said Prime Minister Narendra Modi had already set an example by reducing the number of vehicles in his convoy despite security concerns. He said he had also reduced vehicle usage since assuming office as Telangana Governor and recently ordered a 50 per cent cut in vehicle usage at Lok Bhavan.
Shukla linked the fuel conservation appeal to the ongoing conflict between the United States and Iran, which he said had triggered a global energy crisis. He stressed the need to reduce dependence on petro-dollars and urged citizens to act responsibly to safeguard the value of the national currency.
The Governor said he would request the Chief Minister to direct Ministers and officials to minimise vehicle usage in government departments. He also advised political leaders to avoid large convoys and follow the example set by national leaders.
Fuel conservation appeal linked to anti-drug campaign
Shukla said public representatives must take the lead in spreading awareness among citizens by practising restraint in official travel and fuel consumption. He added that every effort should be made to prevent foreign exchange from flowing out of the country.
The Governor also called for stronger action against narcotics and proposed the launch of a “Nasha Mukt Telangana” campaign in the State. Recalling his anti-drug initiative in Himachal Pradesh, he said the programme had successfully reached grassroots communities with media support.
He suggested that schools, colleges and universities include a pledge in admission forms, asking students to stay away from drugs and encourage others to do the same. According to him, young people could play a major role in spreading awareness across society.
Shukla further highlighted the role of the media in strengthening public campaigns and expressed confidence that similar cooperation in Telangana would help make the anti-drug initiative successful.