Prime Minister Narendra Modi has firmly denied media claims suggesting that the Centre was weighing the option of imposing a cess or surcharge on international travel.

Responding on social media platform X, the Prime Minister termed the report “entirely baseless,” asserting that there was no proposal under consideration to restrict or tax foreign trips. He emphasised that the government remains committed to enhancing both the ease of doing business and the quality of life for citizens.

The report, published by business news channel CNBC-TV18, had cited unnamed sources and claimed that discussions were underway at senior levels of the government about introducing a temporary levy on outbound travel. According to the report, the measure was being explored as a way to offset financial pressures arising from global geopolitical tensions, particularly the ongoing conflict involving Iran, which has driven up crude oil prices and import costs.

Shortly after the Prime Minister’s rebuttal, the news outlet issued a public clarification, acknowledging inaccuracies in its earlier story. It withdrew the report and expressed regret over the error.

Earlier in the week, PM Modi had appealed to citizens to exercise prudence in fuel usage and discretionary spending. Speaking at a public event in Telangana, he urged people to conserve petrol and diesel, avoid non-essential overseas trips, and postpone purchases such as gold that could strain foreign exchange reserves. He framed these measures as part of a broader call for economic responsibility during a period of global uncertainty.

The appeal came amid rising energy costs, with petrol and diesel prices increased by ₹3 per litre following a surge in international crude rates linked to tensions in West Asia. Government sources have maintained that the Prime Minister’s remarks were not directives or policy announcements, but a call for mindful consumption in challenging economic conditions.