Prime Minister Narendra Modi has, of late, been speaking about the need for austerity and responsible spending in difficult times. What distinguishes his latest move is that he has chosen to practise what he preaches. His decision to travel in a car accompanied by just one security vehicle, though within the high-security Parliament-Rashtrapati Bhavan area, carries symbolic value.

More significant is his direction to the Special Protection Group to cut by half the number of vehicles in his convoy. In a political culture where power is frequently measured by the length of a motorcade and the blare of sirens, such a step sends a powerful message.

Austerity message must reach all levels

Home Minister Amit Shah and Defence Minister Rajnath Singh have reportedly followed suit by instructing their........

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