By Mukesh 
In a decision aligned with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s appeal for austerity in the wake of the ongoing conflict in West Asia, Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu has directed the officials to ensure a 50 per cent reduction in the number of vehicles in his official convoy during his district tours.
Within hours after indicating it in his address to the public at a meeting during the stone-laying ceremony for the BISER Skill University in Amaravati on Wednesday, Mr. Naidu took the decision.
The decision was conveyed during a meeting with the senior police officials, including the Director General of Police and the Intelligence Chief.
The government views the measure as a step towards promoting responsible spending and minimising fuel consumption amid broader concerns over efficient resource utilisation.
Mr. Naidu also instructed the Ministers and other VVIPs to ensure the use of vehicles is kept to the minimum possible during official tours.
He stressed that the 50 per cent reduction in convoy vehicles should be implemented across all levels of government administration and among public representatives wherever feasible.
Apart from the convoy reduction, the Andhra Pradesh government is also examining additional austerity and resource-saving measures.
According to sources, discussions are underway on several policy initiatives, which are expected to be taken up during the State Cabinet meeting on Thursday.