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In a bid to promote responsible energy consumption and reduce pressure on natural resources, the oil industry has launched SAKSHAM 2026, a nationwide fuel conservation awareness campaign. The initiative reflects India’s broader strategy of combining energy security, environmental sustainability, and public participation.

What is SAKSHAM?

SAKSHAM (Samrakshan Kshamatha Mahotsav) is an annual public awareness campaign initiated under the guidance of the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas. It focuses on:

• Conservation of petroleum and natural gas
• Promotion of energy-efficient habits
• Encouragement of sustainable mobility and clean energy use

The programme is implemented by public sector oil and gas companies in collaboration with educational institutions, industries, civil society groups, and local authorities.

SAKSHAM 2026 Campaign Highlights

• Theme: “Conserve Oil and Gas, Go Green” (Tel aur Gas Bachao, Harit Urja Apnao)
• Objective: Promote behavioural change for efficient fuel use and transition toward cleaner energy sources

Major Activities

The campaign uses participatory outreach methods to engage diverse sections of society:

• Debates and seminars
• Workshops in schools and colleges
• Cyclothons and walkathons
• Wall paintings and street plays
• Awareness rallies and mobile exhibition vans
• LPG safety and fuel-saving demonstrations

Target Groups

SAKSHAM 2026 is designed to reach multiple segments of society:

• Schoolchildren and youth
• LPG consumers
• Fleet operators and drivers
• Farmers (fuel-efficient agricultural practices)
• Industrial stakeholders

This broad outreach reflects the understanding that energy conservation is a shared societal responsibility.

Regional Outreach Example

In regions such as Punjab and Chandigarh, the campaign included public events involving state authorities and oil industry representatives. Activities focused on:

• Reducing petroleum consumption
• Lowering import dependence
• Promoting energy-efficient technologies in transport and agriculture

Such state-level efforts demonstrate how national campaigns translate into localized behavioural change initiatives.

Significance of SAKSHAM

• Energy Security: India is a major importer of crude oil. Conservation reduces import bills and vulnerability to global price volatility.
• Environmental Sustainability: Efficient fuel use lowers carbon emissions and urban air pollution, supporting climate goals.
• Economic Savings: Fuel-efficient practices benefit households, industries, and transport operators through cost reduction.
• Behavioural Change: Unlike policy-only measures, SAKSHAM promotes citizen-led action, which is critical for long-term sustainability.