Agartala, May 14, 2026: In a symbolic move promoting fuel conservation and simple living, two ministers of the Tripura government have announced major cuts in the use of official vehicles in response to Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s appeal to address the global energy crisis and save fuel.
Tripura Power Minister Ratan Lal Nath, in a social media post, announced that he had bid farewell to his official escort vehicle and would henceforth prefer using a bicycle whenever possible for short-distance travel and public outreach programmes.
“The path of nation-building is never paved solely by grand declarations; rather, it often begins with the turning of a wheel—with a simple resolve,” the minister wrote. Referring to the Prime Minister’s call for fuel conservation, he stated that cycling once again reminded him of his childhood and brought him closer to nature and the people.
Emphasizing environmental awareness and responsible citizenship, Nath further wrote that patriotism should not remain confined to words alone but should be reflected in everyday habits. He appealed to citizens to become more conscious about saving fuel, protecting nature, and securing a better future for coming generations.
Meanwhile, State Minister Sushanta Chowdhury also announced a similar step in a separate social media post. Responding to the Prime Minister’s appeal amid the ongoing global energy crisis, Chowdhury declared that he would discontinue the use of the two escort vehicles assigned to his security from Wednesday onwards.
“Responding to the call of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi—and until the global energy crisis is brought under control—I have decided, effective today, to discontinue the use of the two escort vehicles assigned to my security,” the minister stated.
He further stressed that every citizen must act responsibly in the national interest and adopt measures that contribute towards fuel conservation and sustainability.
The decisions taken by both ministers have drawn public attention across the state, with many viewing the initiatives as a message promoting austerity, environmental consciousness, and a simpler lifestyle in public life.









