Historical Milestone:
The Indian Railways began operations on April 16, 1853, with the first passenger train running between Bombay (now Mumbai) and Thane. This marked the beginning of rail transport in India and played a crucial role in the country’s economic and social development.
Recent Milestone:
- On March 8, 2021, Surekha Yadav became the first woman driver in Indian Railways to drive an all-women-staffed train. This train was the Mumbai-Lucknow Special, and the event was commemorated on International Women’s Day, highlighting the significant progress towards gender equality in the railway sector.
Budget Allocation:
- For the fiscal year 2020-21, the Ministry of Railways was allocated Rs 72,216 crore. This funding reflects the importance of railways in India’s infrastructure and economic planning, and supports various projects including modernization, safety improvements, and expansion of services.
These highlights not only reflect the historical and contemporary significance of the Indian Railways but also its ongoing role in shaping India’s transportation infrastructure and societal progress.
