Bhubaneswar, May 13 (IANS) Odisha Governor Hari Babu Kambhampati on Wednesday extended support to Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s appeal for “economic self-defence” to strengthen country’s economic stability and security.

Extending wholehearted support to the Prime Minister’s appeal, the Governor said that economic resilience and self-reliance are essential for safeguarding the country’s long-term prosperity and strategic interests.

He noted that conscious public participation and responsible consumption can significantly contribute to strengthening the nation’s economy.

Highlighting Odisha Lok Bhavan’s commitment to sustainability, Governor Kambhampati noted that all vehicles in his convoy are electric vehicles, while Lok Bhavan operates entirely on solar energy and has emerged as a model net-zero campus.

Lok Bhavan also encourages the staff of the Lok Bhavan to shift from petrol diesel vehicles to Electric Vehicles, he said.

“They charge their vehicle free of cost in Lok Bhavan. That is one of the incentives being given to the officials and staff here,” he added.

Taking the initiative further, the Governor said steps are being taken to write to the Vice-Chancellors of all state universities to observe at least one “Combustion Engine-Free Day” every week.

He also encouraged students and youth to increasingly embrace bicycles, electric vehicles and public transport in their daily lives.

Governor Kambhampati appealed to officers and employees across the administration to minimise the unnecessary use of official vehicles and actively contribute to fuel conservation efforts.

Referring to the Prime Minister’s appeal to the citizens to postpone the purchases of gold by at least one year and reduce the use of edible oil, the Governor said, “Saving fuel, promoting indigenous products, encouraging natural farming and reducing the consumption of edible oil are not merely acts of conservation; they are essential steps towards strengthening and safeguarding the nation.”

Calling for collective participation, Governor Kambhampati urged citizens from all walks of life to follow the advice of Prime Minister Modi and join the national mission with a spirit of responsibility and patriotism.

“Every conscious step towards conserving fuel and reducing unnecessary consumption strengthens the nation’s economic resilience and collective future. By embracing responsible and sustainable practices today, we can contribute to building a self-reliant, secure and prosperous India for generations to come,” he said.

–IANS

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