Hyderabad, May 14 (RAHNUMA): Telangana Governor Shiv Pratap Shukla has appealed to the people to actively participate in conserving fuel and safeguarding foreign exchange, in line with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s call to the nation.
In a video message released by Lok Bhavan on Thursday, the Governor said that the Prime Minister had set an example by reducing the number of vehicles in his own convoy despite security concerns. He noted that since assuming office as Governor of Telangana, he too had curtailed the vehicle usage and had now directed that vehicle usage at Lok Bhavan be cut by 50 per cent.
Pointing to the global energy crisis triggered by the ongoing conflict between the United States and Iran, Shukla stressed the need to reduce dependence on petro-dollars and conserve foreign exchange. He urged every citizen to act responsibly to protect the value of the national currency.
The Governor said he would request the Chief Minister to instruct Ministers and officials to minimise vehicle usage in government departments. Political leaders, he said, should also avoid excessive convoys.
“Just as the Prime Minister, the Union Home Minister and the Defence Minister have set an example, public representatives too must follow suit. Only then will awareness spread among the people,” Shukla observed. He emphasised that every effort must be made to prevent foreign exchange from flowing out of the country.
The Governor also underscored the need to intensify the fight against narcotics. Recalling his anti-drug campaign in Himachal Pradesh, which had reached the grassroots level, he said a similar initiative — Nasha Mukt Telangana — must be launched in the State.
He suggested that schools, colleges and universities include a pledge in admission forms, wherein students commit to staying away from drugs and encouraging others to do the same. “Through the youth, a powerful message can be conveyed to society,” he said.
Highlighting the crucial role of the media, Shukla said the campaign in Himachal Pradesh had succeeded with media support. He expressed confidence that similar cooperation in Telangana would yield positive results.
