Fuel Conservation Initiative SAKSHAM 2025 Concludes

Chandigarh, 28th February 2025: The SAKSHAM 2025 (Sanrakshan Kshamata Mahotsav), a fortnight-long initiative by Oil Industries of Punjab and Chandigarh U.T. to promote fuel conservation, energy efficiency, and environmental sustainability, concluded with a successful valedictory event. The event, held at the National Institute of Technical Teachers Training and Research (NITTTR), Chandigarh, was attended by dignitaries, students, industry leaders, and environmental advocates.

The Chief Guest, Sh. Ashutosh Gupta, State Level Coordinator for Oil Industry Punjab and Executive Director & State Head (Punjab, J&K, HP & Chandigarh), Indian Oil Corporation Ltd(IOCL). led the audience in taking the Conservation Pledge. The program also witnessed a play staged by a theatre group on oil and gas conservation, reinforcing the importance of sustainable energy practices.

Speaking at the valedictory event, Sh. Ashutosh Gupta, emphasized the need to continue the momentum of the campaign beyond the two-week period. "SAKSHAM 2025 is not just a campaign—it's a daily commitment to energy conservation. Every small effort contributes to a larger impact on our environment, economy, and national energy security. There is an urgent need for sustainable energy conservation " he stated.

The event also featured an address by Sh. Sushant Goyal, State Level Coordinator, Oil Industry, Chandigarh U.T. & Chief Regional Manager, Chandigarh Retail RO, Hindustan Petroleum Corporation Ltd(HPCL), and Sh. Sanjay Arora, GM & HOD –Chandigarh Zonal Office, Gas Authority of India Ltd(GAIL).

Stakeholders at the event urged the public to adopt simple yet impactful measures to reduce fuel consumption and carbon emissions, such as carpooling, using public transport, switching to energy-efficient appliances, and turning off idling engines.

Notably, with active participation from schools, colleges, industries, transport associations, and the general public, SAKSHAM 2025 successfully engaged various sectors, including transport, agriculture, industry, and domestic consumers across Punjab and Chandigarh U.T. The initiative included a range of activities like debates, group talks, & talent Shows in schools and colleges, inspiring young minds towards sustainability. The fortnight also saw organisation of fuel efficient driving contests for cars and commercial vehicles.

Wall Painting and Graffiti Competitions focusing on conservation themes, LPG Panchayats and other grassroots awareness programmes were also held. SAKSHAM Cyclothon and Walkathon too were organised to promote fitness and energy conservation.

A vote of thanks was given by Sh. Arun Kumar Sonvani, State Head(LPG), Punjab, J&K, HP & Chandigarh, Bharat Petroleum Corporation Ltd.(BPCL). The organizers also expressed their gratitude to the Ministry of Petroleum & Natural Gas, Oil & Gas PSUs, educational institutions, media, and the general public for their active participation, which contributed to the resounding success of SAKSHAM 2025.

Activities like SAKSHAM assume significance because as India is one of the fastest-growing economies, it faces the dual challenge of meeting rising energy demands while ensuring sustainability. With 85% of its crude oil needs met through imports, fuel conservation is vital to national energy security. Moreover, fuel combustion contributes to significant air pollution and climate change, making responsible energy use crucial.