Union Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal traveled in an auto-rickshaw in Mumbai on May 16, 2026 [2].

The gesture follows a public appeal by Prime Minister Narendra Modi urging Indian citizens to conserve fuel amid ongoing global energy challenges [1]. By opting for a smaller, more fuel-efficient vehicle, Goyal signaled government alignment with the Prime Minister's directive to reduce national energy consumption.

Goyal was seen using the rickshaw after visiting Shatabdi Hospital in Kandivali [1]. The ride occurred as part of a wider effort to promote sustainable transit, and support local transport workers during the current energy crisis [1].

Beyond the fuel-saving initiative, the event coincided with the promotion of the Bharat Taxi app. The government-backed platform aims to provide a domestic alternative to international ride-hailing services. The app operates on a zero percent commission basis for drivers [3].

"We want to reduce the dependence on foreign apps and empower our auto-rickshaw and taxi drivers," Goyal said [4].

The use of the app is intended to increase the earnings of drivers by removing the fees typically charged by private companies. This move combines the immediate goal of fuel conservation with a long-term strategy for digital sovereignty, and economic support for the transport sector [3].

Reporters from ANI observed the minister during the transit, noting the rare sight of a high-ranking union minister utilizing a public auto-rickshaw for official movement [2].

“"We want to reduce the dependence on foreign apps and empower our auto-rickshaw and taxi drivers."”

This incident serves as a symbolic demonstration of leadership by example, linking personal behavior to national policy goals. By combining a fuel-saving gesture with the launch of a zero-commission app, the Indian government is attempting to address two crises simultaneously: the volatility of global energy markets and the economic vulnerability of gig workers facing high commissions from foreign tech platforms.