India, May 14 -- Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai on Wednesday backed Prime Minister Narendra Modi's call for fuel conservation and restrained use of resources, saying responsible consumption of petrol and diesel is a national duty amid growing global energy and environmental challenges.

Sai said the state government has initiated measures to reduce fuel consumption at the official level and promote prudent use of resources. As part of the move, only essential vehicles will be included in the Chief Minister's convoy during official tours. Ministers and heads of boards and corporations have also been urged to minimise the use of vehicles and other government resources.

The Chief Minister said the government would begin phased a...