Mumbai, May 22 (PTI) 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. PTI SM BNM

Foreign travel curbs and domestic tourism push aim to conserve fuel, foreign exchange, and support local economy. The Maharashtra government has cancelled all proposed foreign tours of its tourism department and affiliated delegations with immediate effect to conserve fuel and foreign exchange reserves. The measure follows the Prime Minister's austerity appeal and the Chief Minister's directions, with an official order issued to the department. The ministry also urged citizens to prioritise domestic tourism, conserve foreign exchange, reduce energy and resource wastage, and use public transport or eco-friendly vehicles wherever possible.