IndiaPrime Minister Narendra ModiEconomic PolicyForeign ExchangePublic Appeal
PM Modi Urges Citizens to Conserve Fuel, Avoid Foreign Travel Amid Global Crisis
Published: May 11, 2026
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Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday urged citizens to reduce fuel consumption and limit foreign exchange outflows by adopting austerity measures, citing economic risks from the ongoing Middle East crisis and disrupted supply chains. Speaking in Hyderabad on May 10, Modi linked national responsibility to daily choices, stating that patriotism now includes conserving energy and minimizing imports.
Modi called for greater use of public transport, including metros and buses, and encouraged car-pooling, rail-based freight, and electric vehicles to cut reliance on imported fuel. He urged businesses and employees to revive work-from-home and virtual meetings to reduce commuting and energy use, while also promoting Made-in-India goods over imported alternatives.
To protect foreign exchange reserves, Modi asked citizens to avoid non-essential foreign travel, including destination weddings abroad, and to refrain from purchasing gold for one year. He also appealed to farmers to cut chemical fertilizer use by 50% and switch to solar-powered irrigation pumps from diesel ones.
The appeals follow the blockade of the Strait of Hormuz amid regional conflict, which has driven global oil prices higher and disrupted shipping. The government is expected to monitor public response and may reinforce messaging through state channels in the coming weeks.