In response to PM's austerity appeal, Maharashtra tourism dept cancels foreign tours

The Maharashtra government has cancelled all foreign tours of its tourism department to conserve fuel and safeguard foreign exchange reserves, in line with a nationwide appeal by Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

The Maharashtra government has cancelled all proposed foreign tours of its tourism department and affiliated delegations with immediate effect as part of measures aimed at conserving fuel and safeguarding foreign exchange reserves.

In response to the nationwide appeal made by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, and in keeping with the directives of Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, this important step has been taken, state tourism minister Shambhuraj Desai said in a statement issued on Friday.

''We urge not just the government machinery, but citizens across the state to join this movement of fuel and foreign exchange conservation, for the holistic economic progress of our nation,'' he added.

The ministry has issued an official order in this regard to the tourism department's additional chief secretary.

The Maharashtra tourism department also urged citizens to prioritise domestic tourism over foreign travel to support the local economy, explore the state's rich heritage and destinations, conserve foreign exchange, reduce energy and resource wastage.

It asked them to opt for public transport or eco-friendly vehicles wherever possible.