The nationwide fuel conservation and energy efficiency campaign, SAKSHAM-2026, concluded on a high note in Chandigarh, reinforcing a strong and collective commitment toward sustainable energy practices, environmental protection, and national energy security.
The fortnight-long initiative witnessed enthusiastic participation from students, industries, transporters, farmers, resident welfare associations, and the general public across Punjab and Chandigarh. Organized under the aegis of the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas and implemented by Oil and Gas Public Sector Undertakings including Indian Oil Corporation Limited, GAIL (India) Limited and Bharat Petroleum Corporation Limited, the campaign focused on creating mass awareness about responsible fuel consumption and energy efficiency.
Addressing the valedictory function held at Rani Laxmi Bai Bhawan here, Ashutosh Gupta, State Level Coordinator (Punjab) and Executive Director and State Head, Indian Oil, emphasized that fuel conservation must become a continuous way of life rather than remaining confined to a two-week campaign. He underlined that India’s rapidly rising energy demand and heavy dependence on crude oil imports make efficient fuel usage crucial for strengthening national energy security and minimizing environmental damage.
Sushant Goyal, Chief Regional Manager (Retail), Chandigarh Retail Regional Office, urged students, industry representatives, and media professionals to act as ambassadors of change and continue spreading awareness about energy conservation. He stressed that adopting energy-efficient habits in daily life can significantly reduce fuel consumption and emissions.
SAKSHAM-2026 featured a wide array of impactful activities designed to engage diverse sections of society. These included walkathons and cyclothons promoting green mobility, fuel-efficient driving training programs for drivers and mechanics, awareness sessions at fuel stations and CNG outlets, LPG safety demonstrations, clean cooking awareness programs, industrial workshops and competitions in schools and colleges.
One of the key highlights of the closing ceremony was the fuel conservation pledge administered to students and attendees, symbolizing a collective commitment toward sustainable living. A felicitation ceremony was also organized to honour students for their active participation and outstanding contributions to conservation activities.
Adding a creative dimension to the event, the ‘Samvaad Theatre Group’ presented a thematic play on oil and gas conservation, delivering a powerful message on the importance of fuel efficiency and environmental responsibility through engaging storytelling.
Experts and stakeholders reiterated that simple behavioural changes such as avoiding unnecessary vehicle idling, adopting carpooling and public transport, maintaining vehicles regularly, using energy-efficient appliances, and opting for cleaner mobility solutions can collectively make a substantial difference in reducing fuel consumption and carbon emissions.
The organizers expressed sincere gratitude to educational institutions, government departments, media partners, and community groups for their wholehearted support and participation, which played a crucial role in the campaign’s success. The campaign concluded with a renewed pledge to carry forward its mission throughout the year, echoing its core message: “Conserve Oil and Gas, Go Green.”