Cost-Cutting Pledges by Agriculture Ministry Following PM Modi's Appeal

Union Agriculture Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan announced cost-saving and resource conservation measures after aligning with Prime Minister Modi's call for frugality and self-reliance. Measures include a voluntary gold purchase ban, virtual meetings, electricity conservation, work-from-home rotations, carpooling, and a campaign for balanced edible-oil consumption and sustainable farming.

In a decisive move aimed at aligning with Prime Minister Narendra Modi's call for national frugality and resource efficiency, Union Agriculture Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan on Monday unveiled a series of austerity measures following a strategic review meeting with various government officials and departments.

Key resolutions include a collective vow by officials to abstain from purchasing gold except for unavoidable personal instances, a shift to virtual conferences to cut down on logistical expenses, and directives for meticulous electricity use in government offices. Additionally, a work-from-home strategy has been introduced for 20% of the staff, maintaining operational efficiency through digital connectivity.

The ministry also announced a carpooling initiative to minimize fuel use, and a targeted campaign to educate the public on moderate edible-oil consumption. Emphasis has been placed on promoting natural farming and efficient fertilizer use through 'Khet Bachao Abhiyan', an initiative to curb unnecessary fertilizer application and boost soil health.