Saksham 2026 Sees Wide Participation; Concludes with Call for Energy Conservation

Why It Matters

The campaign targets India’s growing energy demand and reliance on imported oil, aiming to boost energy security while cutting emissions. Embedding conservation habits can deliver long‑term economic and environmental benefits.

Key Takeaways

• Nationwide campaign engaged Punjab, Chandigarh participants
• Focus on fuel conservation, energy‑efficient appliances
• Officials stress habit formation beyond campaign
• Activities included walk‑athons, cyclothons, driving sessions
• Emphasis on reducing imports, enhancing energy security

Pulse Analysis

India’s energy outlook is increasingly strained by rising consumption and a heavy dependence on crude‑oil imports, prompting the government to weave conservation into its policy fabric. Saksham 2026, orchestrated by the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas and state‑run oil majors, serves as a practical extension of national energy‑efficiency targets, aligning with the country’s commitments under the Paris Agreement and its own energy‑security roadmap. By spotlighting simple actions—such as avoiding vehicle idling and adopting efficient appliances—the campaign seeks to shift consumer behavior from occasional awareness to everyday practice.

The two‑week rollout combined high‑visibility events with grassroots outreach, leveraging walk‑athons, cyclothons, fuel‑efficient driving sessions, and school competitions to reach diverse audiences. Public‑sector giants like Indian Oil, GAIL and Bharat Petroleum provided expertise and resources, while retail outlets and CNG stations acted as local information hubs. Social‑media amplification further extended the message, encouraging participants to share tips on car‑pooling, regular vehicle maintenance, and public‑transport usage. This multi‑channel approach not only broadened participation but also created measurable touchpoints for tracking habit adoption.

Beyond immediate fuel savings, the initiative carries strategic implications for India’s energy security and environmental goals. Reducing domestic fuel consumption eases pressure on import bills, freeing fiscal space for renewable‑energy investments and infrastructure upgrades. Moreover, sustained public engagement can generate a cultural shift toward efficiency, supporting long‑term emissions reductions. As the government pledges year‑round advocacy, Saksham 2026 may become a template for future campaigns, reinforcing the role of public‑sector leadership in driving nationwide sustainability transitions.

Saksham 2026 sees wide participation; concludes with call for energy conservation

Source: PTI · Published on Feb 17, 2026 at 05:12 PM IST

The nationwide Saksham 2026 campaign, promoting fuel conservation and energy efficiency, concluded in Chandigarh.

Chandigarh – Adoption of energy‑efficient appliances was emphasised at the nationwide fuel‑conservation and energy‑efficiency campaign Saksham 2026, which was concluded on Monday.

The fortnight‑long campaign, organised under the aegis of the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas by oil‑and‑gas public‑sector undertakings, witnessed wide participation across Punjab and Chandigarh.

Addressing the valedictory function at Rani Laxmi Bai Bhawan, Ashutosh Gupta, Executive Director and State Head of Indian Oil Corporation, said energy conservation must become a regular habit and not remain limited to a campaign.

He added that with India’s growing energy demand and high dependence on crude‑oil imports, efficient fuel use is important for strengthening national energy security and reducing environmental impact.

Jaideep Jain of GAIL and Ramlal of Bharat Petroleum Corporation Limited also addressed the gathering and stressed collective responsibility towards fuel efficiency.

The campaign featured activities such as walk‑athons, cyclothons, fuel‑efficient driving sessions, awareness programmes at retail outlets and CNG stations, school and college competitions, LPG‑safety programmes, industry workshops and social‑media outreach.

At the closing ceremony, speakers highlighted that simple steps such as avoiding vehicle idling, using public transport and car‑pooling, regular vehicle maintenance and adopting energy‑efficient appliances can help reduce fuel consumption and emissions.

The organisers reiterated their commitment to promote fuel conservation and environmental protection throughout the year.