Indian Economy-News & Updates

[Hindustani78]

Ministry of Railways
26-April, 2018 19:36 IST
Shri Piyush Goyal Reviews A Mission Mode Plan For Elimination Of Unmanned Level Crossings In Indian Railways

The Union Minister of Railways and Coal, Shri PiyushGoyal chaired a detailed meeting with Chairman Railway Board and Members, Chief Commissioner of Railway Safety, GMs of 5 Railway zones and other senior officials in New Delhi today. During the meeting, he reviewed the plan to completely eliminate Unmanned Level Crossings (UMLCs) from Indian Railways. The meeting started with a 2 minute silence in the memory of the victims of Kushinagar accident.

The very first meeting held by Shri PiyushGoyal after taking charge as Railway Minister was on Safety Issues on 7th September 2017. He had directed that all UMLCs should be eliminated in the next one year. Significant progress has been achieved in this regard with only 58 UMLCs remaining on the A, B and C routes which account for more than 80% of the Indian Railways traffic.

Indian Railways has taken many steps towards reducing accidents at UMLCs with 79% reduction in UMLC accidents in the last 4 years (47 accidents in 2013-14 reduced to 10 in 2017-18). The average rate of elimination of UMLCs has also increased by nearly two thirds over the last four years. Now only 3,479 UMLCs remain on the Broad Gauge network.

A multipronged strategy is now planned to eliminate the remaining UMLCs which will include manning of UMLCs, construction of Railway Under Bridges (RUBs), Railway OverBridges, diversion, etc. This will be done through simultaneous execution of work on track sections. A detailed review was done with the GMs of five critical zones (NR, WR,NER, NWR, ECR) with significant number of UMLCs.

Progress of elimination of UMLCs will also be shared transparently online through a website to increase accountability and public monitoring.

Target for eliminating UMLCs in 11 zones will be September 2018. For the remaining 5 zones targets will be set shortly.

Shri PiyushGoyal reiterated the aim of Safety First for Indian railways and emphasized that every life saved is worth its weight in gold.

***

Ministry of Railways
26-April, 2018 11:53 IST
Statement by Minister of Railways, Shri Piyush Goyal on Kushinagar Accident

Ministry of Railways announces Ex gratia amount to Kushinagar victims

An unfortunate accident on unmanned level crossing (UMLC) between Tamkuhi Road and Dudahi station was reported at 06:45 AM today i.e. 26.04.2018. 13 school children unfortunately lost their lives and 7 injured children were taken to Padrauna Civil Hospital. Administrative inquiry has been ordered into the accident.


Following is the text of Union Minister of Railways & Coal, Shri Piyush Goyal on the Khushinagar accident:-


“I am deeply anguished and pained by the loss of lives of young school children at an unmanned level crossing (UMLC) in Kushinagar, UP. My thoughts are with families of the deceased and I pray for the early recovery of the injured.



Ministry of Railways will provide an ex gratia amount of Rs 2 lakh for kin of the deceased, Rs 1 lakh for those with serious injuries and Rs 50,000 for those with simple injuries.



I have ordered a senior level enquiry into the incident.



We stand committed to take all possible steps to avoid such accidents in future”.



Following are the Helpline numbers for Khushinagar Accident:-


1-Commercial Control Varanasi - 05422224742 ,

2-Station Supdt./Siwan - 09771443944 ,

3-Station Supdt./ Kaptanganj- 9559715398 ,

4-Station Supdt./Deoria Sadar - 9794843924 ,

5-Station Supdt./Padrauna - 9838784742


*****

 

[Hindustani78]

Ministry of Railways
27-April, 2018 19:12 IST
Ms. Meerabai Chanu, a Padam Shri Awardee, promoted as OSD (Sports) in Officer Category in North East Frontier Railway

In recognition of the outstanding performance of Ms Meerabai Chanu in recently concluded Commonwealth Games, Ministry of Railways has promoted her as officer. Mirabai Chanu won the first gold for India at the 21st edition of the Commonwealth Games 2018 with a power-packed performance in the women's 48 kilogram category in Gold Coast, Australia.

It is noteworthy that on 25th April, 2018, during felicitation of Indian Railway contingent which participated in Commonwealth Games 2018, Minister of Railways & Coal, Shri Piyush Goyal announced an immediate promotion to the officer rank for weightlifter Mirabai Chanu, a Padam Shri Awardee, who has bagged the gold in 48kg category in Gold Coast. He also directed that a new promotion policy shall be drafted to recognize the contribution of all and not just the medal winners.

Ms Meerabai Chanu is promoted as OSD (Sports) in Level 8 in pay matrix (7th CPC) on North East Frontier Railway. It is to be noted that Ms Meerabai Chanu was working as Chief Ticket Inspector, North East Frontier Railways.

***

Ministry of Railways
27-April, 2018 15:25 IST
Railways emerges as the Preferred Carrier of Automobile in the Country

During 2017-18, the loading from automobiles traffic has increased by 16% and earning from automobile traffic has increased by 18% as compared to 2016-17 Indian Railways is working closely with automobile industry to develop policies which are mutually beneficial

Indian Railways has emerged as the most preferred mode of transportation given the low cost of transportation, faster service, reliability and safety offered by railway system. Needless to mention that railways are the green mode of transportation. In 2017-18, around 29 million vehicles were produced in country registering a growth of 14.78 percent over the same period last year. Given the current low car penetration, rising prosperity and the increasing affordability of private vehicles, the automobile industry is poised to grow even faster in India. These vehicles need to be transported to the far flung areas of the country. Indian Railways in recent time have undertaken a number of initiatives to capture automobile traffic.

Member Traffic, Shri Mohd Jamhsed stated that “Year 2017-18 has witnessed a paradigm shift in the marketing efforts of Indian Railways to attract automobile traffic and enhance our freight basket. Specially in the later half of 2017-18, under the guidance of Minister of Railways, Shri Piyush Goyal, we decided to liberalise Automobile Freight Train Operator (AFTO) policy to encourage more private investment in special wagons, procurement of our own BCACBM (high-capacity railway wagons) and NMG wagons. In April, 2018, we have taken two game changing decisions to allow handling of automobile from all container terminals and to allow loading automobile and auto spares in privately owned wagons in different directions for optimal utilisation of stock”.

Indian Railways is working closely with automobile industry to develop policies which are mutually beneficial to industry as well as Railways. The following noteworthy steps have been taken in 2017-18 to attract automobile traffic by Indian Railways:

• Meeting has been conducted with all stake holders in automobile business including Society for Indian Automobiles Manufactures (SIAM), M/s Maruti Suzuki, M/s Hyundai Motors, M/s Tata Motors and automotive logistics providers on 28.09.2017 in Rail Bhawan.
• In view of the issues raised by the stakeholders the AFTO policy has been liberalized viz. registration fees for the AFTO scheme has been reduced from Rs. 5 crore to Rs. 3 crore; and condition of minimum procurement of 3 rakes under the scheme has been relaxed to one rake. The revision was issued on 13.10.2017.
• So far 28 routes have been notified for operation of BCACBM rakes.
• Now, Auto Hubs are already functional at Walajabad (Southern Railway) and Farukhnagar (Northern Railway). Works are underway for up-gradation of facilities at these auto hubs. Further General Manager’s of all Zonal Railways have been asked to identify terminals to be developed as Rail Auto Hubs.
• Conversion of 17 additional NMG rakes has been approved out of which 4 rakes have already been inducted.
• 10 BCACBM rakes have been included in Railway's RSP for 2018-19.
• The agreement for licensing of commercial plots at Detroj of Ahmedabad division duly agreed by M/s Maruti Suzuki India Ltd finalized and loading started in March 2018.

The positive results of these initiatives are visible in the enhancement of automobile loading in 2017-18. During 2017-18, the loading from automobiles traffic has increased by 16% and earning from automobile traffic has increased by 18% as compared to 2016-17.

In April, 2018 Indian Railways has liberalised AFTO Policy. Earlier, the transportation of automobile and auto spare by AFTOs was permitted only in one direction. With the coming up of auto-hubs across the country, this restriction has now been lifted. AFTOs will be able to utilize their rakes for loading in different directions and will be able to optimize the utilization of their rakes.

The loading of automobile loading was permitted only from auto hubs, Private Freight Terminals’ (PFT) and Railway good sheds with automobile handling facility. This condition has severely restricted automobile loading on account of limited availability and capacity of such terminals. It has been decided that the automobile loading/unloading shall be permitted from all Inland Container Depots (ICDs), Container terminals managed by Container Train Operators. This shall result in availability of additional 86 locations in addition to the earlier auto hubs, PFTs and Railway good shed with automobile handling facility.

Automobile Industry is quite ecstatic with these reforms and committed to increase market share of Indian Railways in automobile transportation. Railways would certainly emerge as most preferred carrier of automobiles in the country.

*****

 

[Hindustani78]

Ministry of Textiles
27-April, 2018 10:53 IST
Collaboration between Centre and States to boost Handloom and Handicraft sectors

Union Minister of Textiles Chairs meeting of State Textiles ministers

Union Minister for Textiles and Information & Broadcasting, Smt. Smriti Zubin Irani presiding over the Meeting of the State Textiles Ministers, in New Delhi.



A meeting of State Textiles Ministers was held on 26th April, 2018 in New Delhi for taking comprehensive view on the schemes of Government of India for Handloom and Handicraft sectors. Minister of Textiles and Information & Broadcasting Smt. Smriti Zubin Irani presided over the meeting with Minister of State for Textiles Shri Ajay Tamta and Secretary Textiles, Anant Kumar Singh.



Secretary, Textiles, initiated the meeting by highlighting the crucial role of State Governments in identification of weavers and artisans and their active participation in implementation of the Government of India schemes. A detailed presentation on schemes of Government of India for development of Handloom and Handicraft sectors was made by the concerned Development Commissioners.



Speaking on this occasion, the Minister of Textiles and Information & Broadcasting reiterated the belief in cooperative federalism and appealed to State Ministers and representatives to play a pivotal role in decision making for the growth of the textiles sector. Underlining the need for all-round development of weavers and artisans, the Minister requested officials at the Centre and the States to ensure that the benefits of all Government of India schemes, like Ujjwala Yojana, Swachhta Abhiyan, reach the beneficiaries along with Textiles Ministry initiatives. She said that India Handloom Brand launched by the Prime Minister, Narendra Modi, is a bridge between weavers, manufacturers and consumers, ensuring increased earnings for weavers and quality products for consumers. The Minister urged everyone present at the meeting to encourage stakeholders to register their products with India Handloom Brand. She also requested State Ministers to set targets and regularly review activities at Handloom and Handicraft clusters. She emphasized the need for educating weavers and artisans and their families by encouraging them to enroll with NIOS and IGNOU through initiatives taken by the Ministry of Textiles.

State Ministers of Arunachal Pradesh, Jharkhand, Madhya Pradesh, Telangana, Uttar Pradesh and Uttarakhand were present at the meeting along with senior officials of the Ministry of Textiles and Development Commissioners for Handloom and Handicrafts.

***

 

[Hindustani78]

The Union Minister for Commerce & Industry and Civil Aviation, Shri Suresh Prabhakar Prabhu addressing at inaugural session of the Indian Economic Summit – 2018, in Mumbai on April 27, 2018.

The Minister of State for Civil Aviation, Shri Jayant Sinha addressing at inaugural session of the Indian Economic Summit – 2018, in Mumbai on April 27, 2018.

 

[Hindustani78]

Ministry of Commerce & Industry
01-May, 2018 17:16 IST
Index of Eight Core Industries (Base: 2011-12=100) March, 2018

The summary of the Index of Eight Core Industries (base: 2011-12) is given at the Annexure.

The Eight Core Industries comprise 40.27 per cent of the weight of items included in the Index of Industrial Production (IIP). The combined Index of Eight Core Industries stands at 138.0 in March, 2018, which was 4.1 per cent higher as compared to the index of March, 2017. Its cumulative growth during April to March, 2017-18 was 4.2 per cent.

Coal

Coal production (weight: 10.33 per cent) increased by 9.1 per cent in March, 2018 over March, 2017. Its cumulative index increased by 2.5 per cent during April to March, 2017-18 over corresponding period of the previous year.

Crude Oil

Crude Oil production (weight: 8.98 per cent) declined by 1.6 per cent in March, 2018 over March, 2017. Its cumulative index declined by 0.9 per cent during April to March, 2017-18 over the corresponding period of previous year.

Natural Gas

The Natural Gas production (weight: 6.88 per cent) increased by 1.3 per cent in March, 2018 over March, 2017. Its cumulative index increased by 2.9 per cent during April to March, 2017-18 over the corresponding period of previous year.



Refinery Products

Petroleum Refinery production (weight: 28.04 per cent) increased by 1.0 per cent in March, 2018 over March, 2017. Its cumulative index increased by 4.6 per cent during April to March, 2017-18 over the corresponding period of previous year.

Fertilizers

Fertilizers production (weight: 2.63 per cent) increased by 3.2 per cent in March, 2018 over March, 2017. Its cumulative index increased by 0.03 per cent during April to March, 2017-18 over the corresponding period of previous year.

Steel

Steel production (weight: 17.92 per cent) increased by 4.7 per cent in March, 2018 over March, 2017. Its cumulative index increased by 5.6 per cent during April to March, 2017-18 over the corresponding period of previous year.

Cement

Cement production (weight: 5.37 per cent) increased by 13.0 per cent in March, 2018 over March, 2017. Its cumulative index increased by 6.3 per cent during April to March, 2017-18 over the corresponding period of previous year.

Electricity

Electricity generation (weight: 19.85 per cent) increased by 4.5 per cent in March, 2018 over March, 2017. Its cumulative index increased by 5.2 per cent during April to March, 2017-18 over the corresponding period of previous year.

Note 1: Data for January, 2018, February, 2018 and March, 2018 are provisional.

Note 2: Since April, 2014, Electricity generation data from Renewable sources are also included.

Note 3: The industry-wise weights indicated above are individual industry weight derived from IIP and blown up on pro rata basis to a combined weight of ICI equal to 100.

Note 4: Release of the index for April, 2018 will be on Thursday, 31st May, 2018.



Annexure



Performance of Eight Core Industries

Yearly Index & Growth Rate
Base Year: 2011-12=100

Index

Sector

Weight

2012-13

2013-14

2014-15

2015-16

2016-17

Apr-Mar 2016-17

Apr-Mar 2017-18

Coal

10.3335

103.2

104.2

112.6

118.0

121.8

121.8

124.8

Crude Oil

8.9833

99.4

99.2

98.4

97.0

94.5

94.5

93.7

Natural Gas

6.8768

85.6

74.5

70.5

67.2

66.5

66.5

68.5

Refinery Products

28.0376

107.2

108.6

108.8

114.1

119.7

119.7

125.2

Fertilizers

2.6276

96.7

98.1

99.4

106.4

106.6

106.6

106.6

Steel

17.9166

107.9

115.8

121.7

120.2

133.1

133.1

140.5

Cement

5.3720

107.5

111.5

118.1

123.5

122.0

122.0

129.7

Electricity

19.8530

104.0

110.3

126.6

133.8

141.6

141.6

149.0

Overall Index

100.0000

103.8

106.5

111.7

115.1

120.5

120.5

125.6



Growth Rates (in per cent)

Sector

Weight

2012-13

2013-14

2014-15

2015-16

2016-17

Apr-Mar 2016-17

Apr-Mar 2017-18

Coal

10.3335

3.2

1.0

8.0

4.8

3.2

3.2

2.5

Crude Oil

8.9833

-0.6

-0.2

-0.9

-1.4

-2.5

-2.5

-0.9

Natural Gas

6.8768

-14.4

-12.9

-5.3

-4.7

-1.0

-1.0

2.9

Refinery Products

28.0376

7.2

1.4

0.2

4.9

4.9

4.9

4.6

Fertilizers

2.6276

-3.3

1.5

1.3

7.0

0.2

0.2

0.03

Steel

17.9166

7.9

7.3

5.1

-1.3

10.7

10.7

5.6

Cement

5.3720

7.5

3.7

5.9

4.6

-1.2

-1.2

6.3

Electricity

19.8530

4.0

6.1

14.8

5.7

5.8

5.8

5.2

Overall Index

100.0000

3.8

2.6

4.9

3.0

4.8

4.8

4.2



Performance of Eight Core Industries

Monthly Index & Growth Rate
Base Year: 2011-12=100



Index

Sector

Coal

Crude Oil

Natural Gas

Refinery Products

Fertilizers

Steel

Cement

Electricity

Overall Index

Weight

10.3335

8.9833

6.8768

28.0376

2.6276

17.9166

5.3720

19.8530

100.0000

Mar-17

169.5

97.4

69.1

128.9

103.6

146.2

131.8

147.9

132.5

Apr-17

103.1

92.6

63.5

116.0

89.0

134.1

122.3

150.6

118.7

May-17

111.8

97.6

69.7

125.4

98.3

142.9

128.6

158.1

126.8

Jun-17

107.6

94.1

69.3

119.4

107.3

138.0

132.0

147.4

121.7

Jul-17

98.5

96.4

72.2

119.4

108.6

131.3

122.4

151.9

120.4

Aug-17

101.3

95.1

69.5

121.6

115.4

139.0

117.3

155.4

123.0

Sep-17

103.1

92.0

68.8

122.7

105.3

138.7

119.8

150.5

122.0

Oct-17

119.4

95.7

71.0

132.1

116.8

146.7

125.2

149.8

128.7

Nov-17

133.5

90.8

68.5

126.0

111.8

137.5

125.4

140.1

124.1

Dec-17

142.6

94.2

69.2

133.1

112.1

138.0

135.3

143.9

128.8

Jan-18

148.7

93.8

67.7

135.4

105.5

145.0

140.6

149.5

132.4

Feb-18

143.3

86.1

62.3

120.9

102.2

141.7

138.0

136.1

123.2

Mar-18

185.0

95.8

70.0

130.2

107.0

153.2

148.9

154.6

138.0





Growth Rates (in per cent)

Sector

Coal

Crude Oil

Natural Gas

Refinery Products

Fertilizers

Steel

Cement

Electricity

Overall Index

Weight

10.3335

8.9833

6.8768

28.0376

2.6276

17.9166

5.3720

19.8530

100.0000

Mar-17

10.6

0.9

9.6

2.0

-3.0

11.0

-6.8

6.2

5.2

Apr-17

-3.3

-0.6

2.0

0.2

6.2

9.0

-5.2

5.3

2.6

May-17

-3.2

0.7

4.5

5.4

-5.9

3.8

-1.4

8.2

3.9

Jun-17

-6.7

0.6

6.4

-0.2

-2.7

6.0

-3.3

2.2

1.0

Jul-17

0.6

-0.5

6.6

-2.7

0.2

9.4

1.0

6.6

2.9

Aug-17

15.4

-1.6

4.2

2.4

-0.6

2.2

0.7

8.3

4.4

Sep-17

10.4

0.1

6.3

8.1

-7.7

3.7

0.1

3.4

4.7

Oct-17

3.9

-0.4

2.8

7.5

3.0

8.6

-1.3

3.2

5.0

Nov-17

0.7

0.2

2.4

8.2

0.3

14.5

16.9

3.9

6.9

Dec-17

0.4

-2.1

1.1

6.6

3.0

0.4

17.7

4.4

3.8

Jan-18

3.2

-3.2

-1.0

11.0

-1.6

1.7

19.6

7.7

6.1

Feb-18

1.3

-2.4

-1.5

7.8

5.2

5.0

23.0

4.6

5.4

Mar-18

9.1

-1.6

1.3

1.0

3.2

4.7

13.0

4.5

4.1



*****

 

[Hindustani78]

Ministry of Railways
02-May, 2018 16:20 IST
Shri Rajen Gohain, Minister of State of Railways, & Dr. Raman Singh, Chief Minister, Chattisgarh inaugurates Durg- Ferozpur New Antyodaya Express

A new weekly train no 22895/22896 Durg-Ferozpur-Durg Antyodaya Express was inaugurated by Shri Rajen Gohain, Minister of State for Railways & Dr. Raman Singh, Chief Minister, Chattisgarh.

Speaking on the occasion, Shri Rajen Gohain said that the Antyodaya Express has been launched to ensure a facilities equipped journey to all the sections of the society as envisioned by Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi. This train and all other Antyodaya Express trains running from different parts of the country have multiple facilities at affordable rates. He also expressed satisfaction that the Indian Railways has been working on several projects that will take care of all the sections of the society.

Speaking on the occasion, Dr Raman Singh said that the people of Chattisgarh will be immensely benefitted by this new Antyodaya train. Indian Railways & State Government have been fast tracking development of Infrastructure creation project through PPP mode. Passenger amenities in Chattisgarh major stations have been increased significantly.



Details of New Train : 22895/22896 Durg- Ferozpur Antoyodaya Express

Composition: 16 General Coaches + 2 Power Car

Days of Run: 22895 Dep: 7:10 Durg (Sunday) Arr: 13:00 Ferozpur (Mon)

22896 Dep: 00.20 Ferozpur (Tues) Arr: 6.30 Durg (Wed)

Features of Antyodaya Express:

1. Rake consists of LHB coaches which have better interior aesthetics and more safer.

2. Vinyl coating on exterior for better look

3. Berths are more comfortable

4. Provision of LED lights, mobile charging points

5. Water purifier also provided for drinking water

6. Modular design of lavatories fitted with bio-toilets Antyodaya trains have been envisioned to provide superfast unreserved service to the common man on high dense routes.

*****

SBS/ENS

The Chief Minister of Chhattisgarh, Dr. Raman Singh and the Minister of State for Railways, Shri Rajen Gohain flagging off the Durg-Ferozepur-Durg Antyodaya Weekly Express, at Raipur Railway Station, Chhattisgarh on May 01, 2018.

The Minister of State for Railways, Shri Rajen Gohain addressing at the flag-off ceremony of the Durg-Ferozepur-Durg Antyodaya Weekly Express, at Raipur Railway Station, Chhattisgarh on May 01, 2018. The Chief Minister of Chhattisgarh, Dr. Raman Singh and other dignitaries are also seen.

 

[Hindustani78]

Ministry of Railways
03-May, 2018 17:29 IST
Shri Piyush Goyal discusses Rail Connectivity Issues with Chief Minister of Himachal Pradesh, Shri Jai Ram Thakur

Chief Minister of Himachal Pradesh Shri Jai Ram Thakur called on the Union Minister of Railway & Coal, Shri Piyush Goyal in New Delhi. Rail Connectivity projects between Manali-Leh-Ladakh, expansion of rail network in Himachal Pradesh, enhancement of parking facility at Shimla station were discussed among other issues. Shri Jai Ram Thakur also requested to increase speed and frequency of trains on Kalka-Shimla Railway line.

Shri Piyush Goyal while assuring all possible support to the State, said that speed and frequency of trains running on Kalka- Shimla railway line will be increased. He also assured about efforts to decrease the duration of journey from existing five hours to merely three hours. Shri Piyush Goyal informed that speed of the Joginder nagar-Pathankot train would also be increased in a similar manner. As regards parking facility, it was noted that RLDA is planning to provide multi-storey parking facility at Shimla Railway station.

***

Ministry of Railways
03-May, 2018 13:39 IST
Action Taken wrt Video in circulation in Social Media on Vendor seen coming out of train toilet with tea/coffee cans

It has come to notice that a video has been in circulation in Social Media in the last few days of a Vendor seen coming out of train toilet with tea/coffee cans, conveying that water is being mixed in the cans inside the toilet. With regard to the same, the following action taken update is issued.

“The incident has occurred in Train No. 12759 Chennai Central – Hyderabad Charminar Express at Secunderabad Railway Station in the month of December 2017. An Inquiry has been held to identify the wrong doers and initiate appropriate action.

On the basis of the Inquiry, stringent action has been taken up against the Train Side Vending contractor for the section between Secunderabad and Kazipet, P. Siva Prasad, with whom the identified vendor in the video was employed. A penalty of Rs. 1,00,000/- (Rupees One Lakh) has been levied on the licensee, through IRCTC, the contracting agency.

A show cause note has also been issued to M/s P Siva Prasad, Licensee, Train Side Vending as to why his contract for train vending, Section-4, SC-KZJ, SC-NDKD-GNT section, should not be terminated. An explanation has been called within 15 days from the issue of Show Cause Notice done on 02.05.2018.

Two other persons seen in the video are unauthorized hawkers. The Commercial Department of South Central Railway has been carrying on extensive drives against unauthorized hawking at Secunderabad Railway Station in the last few months, during which all the unauthorized hawkers including the two involved in the incident have been removed.

A strict vigil is continuously being kept at various level to ensure that no such incidents recur.”



****

The Chief Minister of Himachal Pradesh, Shri Jai Ram Thakur calling the Union Minister for Railways and Coal, Shri Piyush Goyal, in New Delhi on May 02, 2018.

The Chief Minister of Himachal Pradesh, Shri Jai Ram Thakur calling the Union Minister for Railways and Coal, Shri Piyush Goyal, in New Delhi on May 02, 2018.

 

[Hindustani78]

Ministry of Railways
08-May, 2018 20:00 IST
Artificial Intelligence to Monitor the Food Production in Base Kitchens

An artificial intelligence module has been developed by IRCTC to find anomalies in standard operating procedure using CCTV footage. With this module base Kitchens will be monitored pan India. The Artificial Intelligence module realises the value of their videos and photos with vision computing. It can detect an unexpected change or an event that does not conform to the expected pattern using their machine learning algorithms.



To begin with, 16 base kitchens of IRCTC have been installed with high definition cameras connected to huge monitors for AI vision detection. Live streaming of 16 base kitchens is played all the time. The system detects anomalies of head gear, uniforms, rodents and mopping across kitchens and raises issues to be dealt accordingly with by IRCTC.

The AI system will be used to improve upon catering units. The system is capable of tracking any anomaly in the entire operation of catering. Suppose if a chef or any kitchen supervisor is not wearing their uniform, including the mandatory cap, the AI system will track that and automatically raises a report to the concerned contractor immediately. If the matter is not addressed within certain time, it will further be reported to IRCTC authorities in charge.

Once an issue has been captured through Artificial intelligence, a ticket will be created automatically by the system. An alert for the same will be sent to all concerned via email as well as through portal for necessary action. Escalation matrix will be followed as per predefined procedure. Base-kitchens performance over a period of time can be viewed through reports given in the online platform provided.

The module has been developed in association with New Delhi based company called WOBOT.



*****


Ministry of Railways
08-May, 2018 12:10 IST
Alert Loco Pilot Saves Potential Disaster – displays exemplary devotion to duty Assistant Loco Pilot succumbs to his injuries while discharging his duties

The exemplary attitude, presence of mind & dedication and devotion to duty of every railwaymen time and again sets an example for other colleagues. On 06.05.2018 at 16.56 hrs, Shri D. L. Bramhe, Loco Pilot, Nagpur noticed smoke in Loco (SRC/WAP-4) of Train no. 12810 Howrah – Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus between Talni – Dhamangaon. Shri D. L. Bramhe, Loco Pilot, immediately applied emergency brakes and used the fire extinguisher to put off the fire, thereby saving a potential disaster of major scale and saving many lives. The train left for onward journey towards Mumbai with change in locomotive with no casualty or injury to any passengers. An inquiry at the highest level of Commissioner of Rail Safety (Central Circle) has been ordered in this case.

During the process, Assistant Loco Pilot Shri S. K. Vishwakarma as per normal protocol was inspecting the loco and in the process he accidentally fell down from train. He was rushed to hospital by Ambulance immediately but lost his life. Shri Vishwakarma succumbed to his injuries while discharging his duties while saving lives of hundreds of passengers of the train and averted a major disaster. A condolence prayer was held at Nagpur and every other Division of Central Railway on unfortunate demise of Assistant Loco Pilot, Nagpur Shri S. K. Vishwakarma.

We salute the spirit of every such Railwaymen for time and again proving this point, all for the cause of safety and secure transportation of our passengers. Indian Railways is truly the Lifeline of the Nation.

*****

 

[Hindustani78]

Ministry of Railways
09-May, 2018 19:22 IST
Ministry of Railways introduces new Humsafar Train viz. 22437/22438 Allahabad-AnandVihar (T) (Tri-weekly)

Shri Manoj Sinha flags off Train No. 22437 from Allahabad Station


Indian Railways has introduced a new Humsafar train viz. 22437/22438 Allahabad-AnandVihar (T) Humsafar Express (Tri-weekly). The train service was inaugurated by ShriManojSinha, Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Communications and Minister of State for Railways, from Allahabad station in North Central Railway today.

The abstract schedule including timings, composition, stoppages etc. of the train services introduced is as under:

22437/22438 Allahabad-AnandVihar(T) Humsafar Express (Tri-Weekly)

22437 Allahabad-AnandVihar(T) Humsafar Express

↓

Station

↑

22438 AnandVihar(T)-Allahabad Humsafar Express

Approved timings


Approved timings

Arr.

Dep.






Arr.

Dep.

-

22.20

(Mon, Wed, Sat)



Allahabad



06.10

(Wed, Fri, Mon)

-

00.40

00.45



Kanpur



03.40

03.45

06.15

(Tue, Thu, Sun)

-



AnandVihar(T)



-

22.40

(Tue, Thu, Sun)

• Days of run: Ex-ALD: Mon, Wed, Sat

Ex-ANVT: Tue, Thu, Sun

• Journey time:

From Allahabad to AnandVihar(T): 07 HR. 55 Min

From AnandVihar(T) to Allahabad: 07 HR. 30 Min

• Stoppages: Kanpur Central

• Composition of regular service: LWACCN-18, LWLRRM-2= 20 coaches

• Nature of Service: Humsafar Express

******

 

[Hindustani78]

Ministry of Commerce & Industry
15-May, 2018 15:58 IST
Live Social Media Session on Startups with Suresh Prabhu on 16th May

Union Minister of Commerce and Industry, Suresh Prabhuwill address the Start up community by answering questions on Startup India. The objective of the live session is to address concerns and elaborate on the support which they can seek from Startup India.

The live session will be held on Wednesday, 16th May at 4.30 pm on Suresh Prabhu’s social handles – Twitter and Facebook, along with Startup India’s social handles – Twitter, Facebook and YouTube.

Participants need to use the hash tag #AskPrabhu and put their questions across before the live session. Select questions will be answered by Shri Suresh Prabhu.

***

 

[Hindustani78]

Ministry of Railways
15-May, 2018 15:25 IST
Shri Manoj Sinha flags off Darbhanga-Jalandhar City Antyodaya Express

Minister of State (Independent Charge) of Communications and Minister of State of Railways, Shri Manoj Sinha flagged off Antyodaya train viz. 22551/22552 Darbhanga-Jalandhar City Antyodaya Express (Weekly) today through video conferencing from Rail Bhawan. Member Traffic, Railway Board, Shri Mohd. Jamshed, Member Traction, Railway Board, Shri Ghanshyam Singh and other Senior Officials of Railways were present at the occasion.

Speaking on occasion, Shri Manoj Sinha said Indian Railways has been making many efforts for providing connectivity all over the country and giving access to the countrymen along with making travel easy and comfortable. This Antyodaya Train will make it easy to commute to those travelling from Bihar to Punjab thus providing connectivity to the people of Bihar. The train is fully equipped with good facilities like Bio-toilets, mobile charging etc. making travel pleasant. He further said that, the Indian Railways will continue their efforts to provide safe and comfortable journey to their passengers.

The abstract schedule including timings, composition, stoppages etc. of the train services is as under:

1. 22551/22552 Darbhanga-Jalandhar City Antyodaya Express (Weekly)

Darbhanga-Jalandhar City Antyodaya Express (Weekly)

↓

Station

↑

Jalandhar City-Darbhanga Antyodaya Express (Weekly)

Arr.

Dep.






Arr.

Dep.

-

03.40 (Sat)



Darbhanga



11.30 (Mon)



05.10 (Sun)

-



Jalandhar City



-

10.00 (Sun)

• Days of run: Ex-DBG: Sat

Ex-JUC: Sun

• One way distance: 1404 Kms.

• Journey time:

From Darbhanga to Jalandhar City: 25 HR. 30 Min

From Jalandhar City to Darbhanga: 25 HR. 30 Min

• Average Speed:

From Darbhanga to Jalandhar City: 55.05 KMPH

From Jalandhar City to Darbhanga: 55.05 KMPH

• Stoppages: Sitamarhi, Raxaul, Sagauli, Bettiah, Narkatiaganj Jn., Gorakhpur, Sitapur Cantt., Bareilly, Moradabad, Laksar Jn., Saharanpur, Ambala, Sanahwal, Ludhiana

• Composition of regular service: General Coach (LS)-16, Power Car (LWLRRM)-2 = 18 coaches

• Primary Maintenance: Darbhanga (ECR)

• Nature of Service: Antyodaya Express

******

 

[Hindustani78]

Ministry of Railways
11-May, 2018 18:21 IST
ICF Gives a Fresh Look to LHB Air-Conditioned Coaches

As part of its plans to innovate coach designs, now, ICF (Integral Coach Factory, a production unit under Ministry of Railways) has turned out one LACCN (LHB 3 Tier AC) Coach with continuous windows, by providing additional glasses on vertical pillars. This will provide the Air-conditioned coach an aesthetically pleasing and very good appearance from outside. It has been planned to provide such continuous windows in all AC coaches in a phased manner.

The LHB Coaches made by ICF at present have been provided with split windows of size 1100 mm (L) x 680 mm (H).

However, there will be no change in the interior of the coaches that will be maintained as before.

*****

 

[Hindustani78]

Prime Minister's Office
15-May, 2018 19:39 IST
PM expresses sadness over the loss of lives due to collapse ofan under-construction flyover in Varanasi

The Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi has expressed sadness over the loss of lives due to the collapse ofan under-construction flyover in Varanasi.

“Extremely saddened by the loss of lives due to the collapse of an under-construction flyover in Varanasi. I pray that the injured recover soon. Spoke to officials and asked them to ensure all possible support to those affected.

I spoke to UP CM Yogi Adityanath Ji regarding the situation due to the collapse of an under-construction flyover in Varanasi. The UP Government is monitoring the situation very closely and is working on the ground to assist the affected”, the Prime Minister said.



***

 

[Hindustani78]

Ministry of Railways
16-May, 2018 12:42 IST
International Rail Coach Expo to be hosted by Integral Coach FactoryChennai

For the first time an International Rail Coach Expo (IRCE) to focus on Rail Coaches and train sets, is being held in Chennai, Tamil Nadu, from 17th to 19th May, 2018, in the ICF RPF Parade Grounds, Chennai.Many reputed rail car and equipment builders will be showcasing their technology and products. It will be a unique platform to bring different suppliers under one roof and create synergy for “Make in India”.

The expo is being hosted by Integral Coach Factory, popularly known as ICF, under the Ministry of Railways, in coordination with CII (Confederation of Indian Industries) and RITES Ltd. a PSU under Ministry of Railways with the following features:-

• Exclusive Rail Coach and train sets for display for the first time in India
• 100+ exhibitors from 10+ countries
• Conferences/seminars on specialized subjects on Rail Coach and Train sets
• Key brands from rail coach and train sets will be displaying products focusing on innovation and future technologies
• Exclusive platform to meet and interact with the decision makers and senior officials of ICF and other Indian Railway production units
• Display of Rolling Stock designs viz. train sets for 160 kmph
• Display of Rolling stock designs including interiors, passenger amenities and other comfort features
• Development of Rolling Stock including emerging technologies in manufacture of train coaches with Stainless Steel, Aluminium Car body and others
• The development of High Speed Trains and the options available for Indian Railways

The IRCE will be inaugurated on 17th May, 2018, at 10.00 hrs and will be open from 10.00 hrs. to 18.00 hrs. for 3 days viz. 17th to 19th May, 2018. The inaugural function will be attended by Hon'ble Governor of Tamil Nadu, Minister of State of Railways, Minister for Industries Tamil Nadu, Chairman Railway Board, Railway Board Members, GMs and other HODs from all Indian Railways.

The expo will be of interest for train enthusiasts, railway suppliers, designers, developers, and general public. The Expo will be open for public viewing between 15.00 hrs. to 18.00 hrs. on 17th and 18th May, 2018.



*****

Ministry of Railways
15-May, 2018 15:25 IST
Shri Manoj Sinha flags off Darbhanga-Jalandhar City Antyodaya Express

Minister of State (Independent Charge) of Communications and Minister of State of Railways, Shri Manoj Sinha flagged off Antyodaya train viz. 22551/22552 Darbhanga-Jalandhar City Antyodaya Express (Weekly) today through video conferencing from Rail Bhawan. Member Traffic, Railway Board, Shri Mohd. Jamshed, Member Traction, Railway Board, Shri Ghanshyam Singh and other Senior Officials of Railways were present at the occasion.



Speaking on occasion, Shri Manoj Sinha said Indian Railways has been making many efforts for providing connectivity all over the country and giving access to the countrymen along with making travel easy and comfortable. This Antyodaya Train will make it easy to commute to those travelling from Bihar to Punjab thus providing connectivity to the people of Bihar. The train is fully equipped with good facilities like Bio-toilets, mobile charging etc. making travel pleasant. He further said that, the Indian Railways will continue their efforts to provide safe and comfortable journey to their passengers.



The abstract schedule including timings, composition, stoppages etc. of the train services is as under:

1. 22551/22552 Darbhanga-Jalandhar City Antyodaya Express (Weekly)

Darbhanga-Jalandhar City Antyodaya Express (Weekly)

↓

Station

↑

Jalandhar City-Darbhanga Antyodaya Express (Weekly)

Arr.

Dep.






Arr.

Dep.

-

03.40 (Sat)



Darbhanga



11.30 (Mon)



05.10 (Sun)

-



Jalandhar City



-

10.00 (Sun)

• Days of run: Ex-DBG: Sat

Ex-JUC: Sun

• One way distance: 1404 Kms.

• Journey time:

From Darbhanga to Jalandhar City: 25 HR. 30 Min

From Jalandhar City to Darbhanga: 25 HR. 30 Min

• Average Speed:

From Darbhanga to Jalandhar City: 55.05 KMPH

From Jalandhar City to Darbhanga: 55.05 KMPH

• Stoppages: Sitamarhi, Raxaul, Sagauli, Bettiah, Narkatiaganj Jn., Gorakhpur, Sitapur Cantt., Bareilly, Moradabad, Laksar Jn., Saharanpur, Ambala, Sanahwal, Ludhiana

• Composition of regular service: General Coach (LS)-16, Power Car (LWLRRM)-2 = 18 coaches

• Primary Maintenance: Darbhanga (ECR)

• Nature of Service: Antyodaya Express

******

The Minister of State for Communications (I/C) and Railways, Shri Manoj Sinha flagging off the Antyodaya train ‘Darbhanga-Jalandhar City Antyodaya Express’ (Weekly), through video conferencing from Rail Bhawan, in New Delhi on May 15, 2018. The Member (Traffic), Railway Board, Shri Mohd Jamshed and other dignitaries are also seen.

 

[Hindustani78]

Prime Minister's Office
16-May, 2018 21:11 IST
PM announces ex-gratia for the next of kin of those who lost their lives due to collapse of an under-construction flyover in Varanasi from PMNRF



The Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi has approved an ex- gratia of Rs. 2 lakh each from Prime Minister’s National Relief Fund for the next of kin of those who have lost their lives due to the collapse of an under-construction flyover in Varanasi on 15th May, 2018.

The Prime Minister has also approved Rs. 50,000 each for those seriously injured due to the collapse of an under-construction flyover in Varanasi.
***