Madhya Pradesh Energy Minister Pradyuman Singh Tomar has stirred controversy and sparked lively debates with his latest unconventional vow. During a public event in Gwalior, Tomar announced he would not wear ironed clothes for an entire year—except on the day of his daughter’s wedding—to conserve electricity.
A Sustainable Commitment
Tomar explained that by skipping ironing, he expects to save about half a unit of electricity every day. He presented his decision as part of a broader commitment to sustainability, aiming to ensure that future generations are not burdened with energy crises. “It’s a small sacrifice for a sustainable future,” he asserted during his statement, urging the public to consider simple lifestyle changes that could collectively contribute to energy conservation.
Political and Public Reaction
The minister’s pledge has ignited a political firestorm. Opposition voices, particularly from the Congress party, dismissed the initiative as a mere publicity stunt. Congress state vice-president R.P. Singh derided the move, calling it “the next episode in the minister’s web series of gimmicks,” and suggested that if energy conservation were his true priority, Tomar should give up his fleet of official vehicles and consider cycling instead.
Public response has been mixed. While some citizens appreciate the call for sustainability, many have criticised the idea, arguing that ironing clothes is a basic necessity for maintaining a professional appearance, particularly at formal events. Skeptics question the overall impact of such a personal measure on the state’s electricity consumption.
The Road Ahead
As debates continue over the practicality and impact of the minister’s unusual promise, only time will reveal how much electricity will actually be saved. Nonetheless, Tomar’s pledge has successfully captured public attention and sparked a broader conversation about energy conservation in everyday life. Whether seen as an innovative step towards sustainability or dismissed as a gimmick, his bold move remains a talking point in Madhya Pradesh’s political and social circles.
