The spirit of Air India One

Plentiful liquor is served to all those who accompany the Prime Minister of India on his designated aircraft Air India One when flying abroad. Over the years, the rationale for serving liquor on board and at government expense has been justified by the presence of nearly three dozen journalists who needed to be "entertained". But a substantial number of security and sundry second-rung officials who travel with the PM used to partake of the alcohol as liberally, if not more. Unfortunately, for these officials, there is now a rethink on serving alcohol on the PM's aircraft. Sources say the Prime Minister's Office (PMO) under Modi mostly comprises teetotallers. Moreover, there is little rationale to serve alcohol on board with the Modi PMO likely to continue with its practice of not inviting journalists from private media houses for the PM's foreign visits. Only eight journalists, all from news agencies and public broadcasters, accompanied Modi on his visits to Bhutan and Brazil. Such a small number cannot justify the kind of expenditure incurred in the name of "entertainment," a source said. So, alcohol is likely to be off Air India One's menu during Modi's forthcoming visits to Nepal, Japan and the US. Officials are hoping the aircraft will continue to serve non-vegetarian food, at the very least.