Indian Economy-News & Updates

[lemurian]

https://www.deccanherald.com/state/bengaluru-get-boeing-s-2nd-694440.html

BENGALURU TO GET BOEINGS SECOND LARGEST UNIT

SEP 25 2018, 00:47AM IST UPDATED: SEP 25 2018, 10:12AM IST

Boeing will invest Rs 1,152 crore on the facility, which is touted to be its second largest outside its headquarters in Seattle.

The Karnataka government has approved the setting up of US aerospace major Boeing’s new engineering and product development facility near Bengaluru, a top government official said.

Boeing will invest Rs 1,152 crore on the facility, which is touted to be its second largest outside its headquarters in Seattle.

The terms and conditions of the company’s investment proposal were finalised and approved by the government during the last Cabinet meeting two weeks ago, the official said. A high-level delegation of Boeing officials met Chief Minister H D Kumaraswamy on Monday and discussed the investment proposal.

The Boeing facility, spanning over 36 acres, will be located at the Aerospace Park near Kempegowda International Airport. Once completed, the project is expected to generate around 3,000 jobs.

“The recent approval is with regard to lease conditions. There were certain relaxations made in some categories which were considered critical and prestigious for the project,” a high-ranking official in the industries department told DH.

The State High-Level Clearance Committee (SHLCC), headed by the then chief minister Siddaramaiah, had in December, accorded an in-principle approval to the Boeing proposal.

However, if sources are to be believed, there was a stalemate between the government and the Seattle-based commercial aircraft major over the lease agreement.

The company is expected to start work on its Devanahalli facility by the end of this year. “They want to have a function in December. Given the urgency they have shown in the project, I believe they want to start at the earliest,” the official said.

According to the official, the company would work on new product development, develop new technologies, components and assemblies of control equipment at the proposed facility.

“It will develop a wide variety of products. It will focus on all categories including passenger aircraft, military aircraft of different sizes as well as unmanned aerial vehicles,” the official said.

In July last year, Boeing had said that it expects Indian airlines to order up to 2,100 new aircraft worth $290 billion over the next 20 years which, according to the plane maker, is the highest-ever forecast for the country.

It also had said it expects single-aisle planes like the next generation 737 and 737 Max to account for most of the deliveries.

 

[lemurian]

https://www.financialexpress.com/in...egular-commercial-weekly-steam-train/1324465/

Indian Railways introduces world’s 1st heritage broad-gauge regular commercial weekly steam train

For the first time in Indian Railways, a time-tabled weekly commercial steam train service has been started between Garhi Harsaru and Farukhnagar section of Northern Railway zone, after steam traction phased out nearly 25 years back. On 15 September 2018, the day ‘Swachhta Hi Sewa’ Pakhwara (Mission Clean India) had commenced, Chairman of Railway Board Ashwani Lohani during his visit to Farukhnagar had announced the train service to fulfill the long-standing demand of the public to have a train service on Sunday. It has been done to boost tourism-related activities in the region, attracting tourists and steam enthusiasts from all over the world to visit these places for a ride on steam engine hauled train.

Currently, the steam train is being hauled by “WP7200 AZAD”, a broad gauge 1947, “M/s. Baldwin Locomotive Works U.S.A.” make. It was brought to India in the year 1947, which was also the year of independence, hence, the locomotive was named “AZAD”. It has been restored to its pristine beauty as well as mechanical engineering perfections. The revival of the locomotive has been carried out at Heritage Steam Shed, Rewari of Northern Railway zone.

As per the timings for the steam train service, train number 04445 Garhi Harsaru- Farrukhnagar Steam Special train service departs from Garhi Harsaru at 9:30 AM to reach Farrukh Nagar at 10:15 AM. While on its return journey, i.e. train number 04446 Farrukh Nagar- Garhi Harsaru Steam Special train service departs from Farrukh Nagar at 11:15 AM to reach Garhi Harsaru at 12:00 PM. En route, in both directions, this steam special train service has a stoppage at Sultanpur Kaliawas Halt. The introduction of this steam train service has been a big achievement for the national transporter in terms of heritage preservation as now its display and ride has been opened to the public at a nominal fare of Rs 10 only.

 

[RPK]

https://www.sciencealert.com/first-hydrogen-powered-train-now-taking-passengers-in-germany
We need this one ASAP

 

[Hindustani78]

Ministry of Commerce & Industry
25-September, 2018 15:39 IST
More than Rs. 12,000 crore business recorded on GeM

The National Mission on Government e Marketplace (GeM),waslaunched by the Minister of Commerce and Industry, Suresh Prabhu, on 5th of September 2018. This was followed by the launch of the Mission in 19 States and Union Territories.

The Government of India decided to launch a six week long National Mission on GeM from 6th Sept. to 17thOct 2018in order to increase awareness, accelerate the use of GeM andto further augment the proven benefits of procurement through GeM for all government departments and organisations.

It covers all central government departments, states and public sector undertakings in a mission mode by organising workshops, roadshow, trainings, events and other information, education and communication activities, including buyer and seller registration.

During the awareness period, a buyer registration drive has been launched for on-boarding and increasing procurement by Central, State and local agencies on GeM. A vendor registration drive has also been initiated for on-boarding additional categories and populating the available ones on GeM with more vendors. Central Ministries, States and their agencies, including local offices, have been tasked with sharing a list of key vendors for on-boarding on GeM.

Widespread training initiatives are being undertaken across the country, ensuring on-boarded buyers and sellers are aware of all GeM features, thereby fully utilising the offerings for achieving greater efficiency. Moreover, GeM has committed to work with all entities in providing operational support for facilitating seamless transactions on GeM and resolving any issues in online procurement.

In two years of its operations, GeM has recorded till date more than 8 lakh transactions worth over Rs.12,239crore.GeM has established itself as an open, transparent, efficient and inclusive platform providing huge savings to the Government. GeM has nearly 27.9 thousand buyer organisations registered and about 1.43 lakh sellers and service providers offering more than 4.86 lakh products and services for online purchase. GeM contributes to approximately 20-25% average overall savings to the Government.

Government e Marketplace is the National Public Procurement Portal offering an online, end-to-end solution for procurement of common use goods and services by government departments. It is used by Central and State Government Ministries and Departments, Central and State Public Sector Undertakings (CPSUs & SPSUs), autonomous institutions and local bodies. GeM provides an open, inclusive, transparent and efficient online marketplace.

***

 

[Hindustani78]

Ministry of Labour & Employment
26-September, 2018 13:59 IST
Newly Launched Atal Bimit Vyakti Kalyan Yojna to Benefit More Than 3 Crore Insured Persons

Around 3.2 crore Insured Persons (IPs) will benefit from newly launched scheme of ESIC ‘Atal Bimit Vyakti Kalyan Yojna’. The ESI Corporation has approved ‘ATAL BIMIT VYAKTI KALYAN YOJNA’ for Insured Persons (IP) covered under the Employees’ State Insurance Act, 1948. This scheme is a relief payable in cash directly to the Bank Account in case of unemployment and while they search for new engagement. The cash benefit given to the unemployed persons searching for new employment will be 25 percent of his average earning of 90 days. Shri Gangwar was addressing on the occasion of 7th National Conference on Security and Safety at Workplace and distribution of Safety Systems Excellence Awards in New Delhi today.


Addressing the function, the Minister added that there are around six crores of workers in organized sector who are getting benefits of EPFO, ESIC and Social Security Schemes. The Union Government has taken many steps to enhance their working conditions, safety and social security in order to improve their standard of living. Present government is continuously making efforts to improve life conditions of around 40 crore workers of the unorganized sector also. In last two years nearly one crore workers have been linked with ESIC benefits and more than one crore have been brought in the fold of EPFO. Pradhan Mantri Jeewan Jyoti Beema Yojna and Pradhan Mantri Suraksha Beema Yojna are totally free for unorganized workers. He further said that nearly 3 crore workers are benefitting from these Social Security Schemes.

The honorarium of 14 Lakh Aanganwadi workers have been increased from Rs. 3,000 per month to Rs. 4,500 per month. Likewise, honorarium of Aanganwadi helpers has also been increased from Rs. 1,500 to Rs. 2,250 per month. The incentive of AASHA workers has also been doubled, he added.

Shri Gangwar further said that the Ministry is making efforts to increase employment opportunities through Pradhan Manrti Rojgar Protsahan Yojana. Twelve per cent of the Employees’ Provident Fund (EPF) contribution of new employees is being given by government so that employers may not have to bear this cost. The government has spent Rs. 1,744 crores for this EPF contribution for around 72 Lakh employees of nearly 87,000 organizations in last two years.

The Minister congratulated all the winners of Safety Systems Excellence Awards and expressed hope that all the participants of this conference will gain from the ideas discussed on this forum.





****

Ministry of Labour & Employment
26-September, 2018 11:31 IST
Online filing of registration and licensing applications by employers now mandatory

Fee and Security deposit now to be made by E-Payment

Taking cognizance of the Government’s focus on making India “Digital India” by ensuring that various Government Services are made available to the citizens electronically and to provide trust based efficient public service delivery by bringing transparency and accountability in the system, Ministry of Labour and Employment has initiated the process for providing the facilities of registration and licensing mandatorily online on the Shram Suvidha Portal under i) The Contract Labour (Regulation and Abolition) Act, 1970 (37 of 1970), ii) The Inter-State Migrant Workmen (Regulation of Employment and Conditions of Service) Act, 1979 (30 of 1979), iii) The Building and Other Construction Workers (Regulation of Employment and Conditions of Service) Act, 1996 (27 of 1996).



Now, as per the newly amended “The Building and Other Construction Workers (Regulation of Employment and Conditions of Service) Central (Amendment) Rules, 2018” vide notification number G.S.R. 830(E) dated 4th September, 2018, the Employers have to file applications for registration of establishments mandatorily online on the Shram Suvidha Portal for granting of certificate of registration that shall be made available to the employers through the said Portal.



The Draft rules to amend the Contract Labour (Regulation and Abolition) Central Rules, 1971 and the Inter-State Migrant Workmen (Regulation of Employment and Conditions of Service) Central Rules, 1980 for filing of applications and granting of certificate of registration/license online on the Shram Suvidha Portal have been notified in the Gazette of India vide notification number G.S.R. 829(E) and G.S.R. 830(E) dated 4th September, 2018. Further, the notification number(s) S.O. 4259(E) and S.O. 4260(E) published in the official gazette of India on 4th September, 2018 provides for making applications regarding registration and licensing online on the Shram Suvidha Portal till the said draft rules are finalized.



Moreover, the recently published notifications provide for payment of registration/licensing fee and security deposit as required under the above three Acts through e-payment only.



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[Hindustani78]

Vice President's Secretariat
27-September, 2018 20:49 IST
Youth must understand the culture, heritage and traditions of our great nation: Vice President

Tolerance, celebration of diversity and the ability to live together are the Hallmarks of Indian culture; Discuss Debate and Decide should be a three line mantra; Addresses Second Edition of Lok Manthan 2018

The Vice President of India, Shri M. Venkaiah Naidu has said that youth must understand the culture, heritage and traditions of our great nation and cherish our rich heritage and diversity. He was addressing the gathering after inaugurating the Second Edition of the four-day Lok Manthan 2018 by the Colloquium of 'Nation First' Thinkers and Practitioners to discuss on building of Ek Bharat Shresth Bharat, in Ranchi, Jharkand today.

The Vice President said that a nation that is formed by its people, sentiments, and demographics must discuss and analyze itself from time to time. He further said that such practices are essential to keep the national life alive. Discuss Debate and Decide should be a three line mantra, he added.

Stressing the need to study the social evils that are hampering the growth of our country, the Vice President said that serious study of the impact of the economic exploitation of the society due to the long colonial occupation of social and ethnic structures and relations must be analyzed. The colonial mindset has to go, he added.

The Vice President said that social awareness and collective responsibility of communities helped India's fight for freedom. He further said that our independence struggle was broad and all-encompassing. It incorporated the acceptance of all sections of the society and our independence struggle was not only political independence, but also a society reform movement, he added.



Following is the text of Vice President's address in Hindi:



" द्विवार्षिक लोकमंथन की श्रृंखला में, इस दूसरे लोकमंथन के प्रज्ञा प्रवाह में आपके साथ भारतबोध-जन, गण, मन; जैसे महत्वपूर्ण विषय पर विचार मंथन करने का सुअवसर, प्रदान करने के लिये, आयोजकों के प्रति आभार प्रकट करता हूँ।

बहनों और भाइयों,

कोई भी राष्ट्र- उसकी जनता, जन संस्कारों और जनांकांक्षाओं से बनता है। अत: समय-समय पर जन संस्कारों और आकांक्षाओं का विमर्श और विश्लेषण राष्ट्रीय जीवन को जीवंत बनाये रखने के लिये आवश्यक है। इस संदर्भ में यह लोकमंथन एक महत्वपूर्ण और आवश्यक कदम है।

बहनों और भाइयों,

भारत में संवाद और विमर्श की प्राचीन परंपरा रही है। हमारे प्राचीन ग्रंथों में तर्क, वाद, युक्ति, प्रमेय, प्रमाण, निर्णय जैसे शब्दों का संदर्भ, हमारी परंपरा में विमर्श की स्वस्थ परंपरा की ओर संकेत करता है। ज्ञान की प्रामाणिकता और सत्यान्वेषण के लिए संवाद एक सभ्य स्वीकार्य पद्धति है। भारतीय परंपरा में ऐसे कई संवादों का प्रसंग मिलता है जैसे कृष्ण अर्जुन संवाद से गीता का उदय हुआ, याज्ञवल्क्य-गार्गी संवाद से वृहद्वारण्यक उपनिषद का निर्माण हुआ। इसी प्रकार याज्ञवल्क्य-मैत्रयी संवाद में नैतिक और आध्यात्मिक तत्वों का गहन चिन्तन है। यह ध्यान देने योग्य है कि गूढ प्रश्नों के विमर्श में महिलाऐं भी भाग लेती थीं। कठोपनिषद के यम और बालक नचिकेता संवाद में मृत्यु जैसे गूढ सत्य पर चिंतन है। लोक मंथन के माध्यम से आप समाज में प्रबुद्ध विमर्श की संस्कृति को पुनर्स्थापित कर रहे हैं। इसके लिए मेरी शुभकामनाऐं। इस मंथन से न केवल नये विचारों का सर्जन होगा – कुछ पुरानी भ्रांतियां भी टूटेंगी।

बहनों और भाइयों,

यह विषय प्राय: उठा है कि आखिर भारत है क्या? 19 वीं सदी के उत्तरार्ध में 1857 के प्रथम स्वतंत्रता संग्राम के बाद जान स्ट्रैची जैसे कुछ नौकरशाहों ने भारत में अंग्रेजी शासन की सार्थकता गढ़ने का प्रयास किया। ऐसे इतिहासकारों का मत था कि भारत कभी एक देश के रूप में था ही नहीं, बल्कि अनेक रियासतों का संग्रह था जो इस भू-भाग पर राज करती थी, जिनमें प्राय: सांस्कृतिक या भाषाई एकता या संवाद भी नहीं था।

बहनों और भाइयों,

लंबे समय तक औपनिवेशिक गुलामी न सिर्फ हमारी राजनीतिक आदर्शों और संस्थाओं को समाप्त करती है बल्कि उनके नैसर्गिक विकास को भी विकृत कर देती है। लंबी गुलामी समाज के अपने इतिहास बोध को समाप्त कर देती है और सामुदायिक रचनात्मक मेधा को नष्ट कर देती है। अत: आवश्यक है कि समाज स्वयं अपना इतिहास बोध विकसित करे जिसमें मौखिक इतिहास, लोक परंपराओं, स्थानीय परंपराओं, भाषा-साहित्य, लोक कलाओं को प्रमाणिक ऐतिहासिक स्रोत के रूप में महत्व दिया जाय।

बहनों और भाइयों,

आजाद भारत आज भी भारतीयता के सच्चे स्वरुप को खोज कर रहा है। लोक मंथन जैसे आयोजन, हमारे इतिहासबोध को पुनर्जीवित करने में और भारत बोध को हमारी सांस्कृतिक पृष्ठभूमि में देखने का एक अभिनंदनीय प्रयास हैं।

बहनों और भाइयों,

मुझे हाल ही में, स्वामी विवेकानंद द्वारा 1893 में विश्व धर्म संसद, शिकागों मे दिये भाषण के 125वें स्मारकोत्सव के अवसर पर वहाँ जाने का अवसर प्राप्त हुआ। यह अवसर मेरे लिए एक तीर्थयात्रा के समान था। अपने भाषण में स्वामी जी ने कहा था “जब भी भारत का सच्चा इतिहास लिखा जायेगा यह सिद्ध हो जायेगा कि धर्म के विषयों में या ललित कलाओं में भारत सदैव विश्व गुरू रहा है।” इस अवसर पर मुझे श्री अरविन्द के शब्द स्मरण हो आये जो उन्होंने स्वामी विवेकानंद के वक्तव्य पर दिये थे- “विवेकानंद का पश्चिम में जाना पहला संकेत था कि भारत अभी भी सजग, सचेत है---वह मात्र जीवित ही नहीं बल्कि विश्व विजय के लिये तत्पर भी है।”

वास्तव में ये शब्द भविष्यवाणी ही थे। अगली एक शताब्दी, भारत ने विश्व की सबसे बड़ी उपनिवेशवादी ताकत के खिलाफ एक रचनात्मक और अहिंसक राजनैतिक आंदोलन खड़ा किया। इस आंदोलन में, भारतीय की प्राचीन संस्कृति के संस्कारों का आहृवान किया गया। सत्य, अहिंसा, सेवा, सामुदायिक सौहार्द, समानता, स्वावलंबन जैसे मानवीय मूल्यों को समाज में पुनर्स्थापित किया गया। यह एक रचनात्मक सौहार्द पूर्ण और व्यापक आंदोलन था।

गांधी जी का मानना था कि मैं सभी संस्कृतियों का प्रतिनिधित्व करता हूं, क्योंकि मेरा धर्म, हर संस्कृति के उत्कर्ष को स्वीकार करता है। उन्होंने कहा कि “मैं नहीं चाहता कि मेरा घर दीवारों से घेर दिया जाये और खिडकियां बंद कर दी जायें। मैं हर संस्कृति से परिचित होना चाहता हूं पर वे मुझे मेरे स्थान से डिगा सकें, यह मैं स्वीकार नहीं करूंगा।”

बहनों और भाइयों,

सदियों के राजनैतिक विप्लव और आर्थिक दोहन के कारण सामाजिक विपन्नता दुर्दशा के बावजूद, सांस्कृतिक, आध्यात्मिक और वैचारिक सुधार और सौहार्द की प्रक्रिया सतत चलती रही। शंकराचार्य से विवेकानंद तक दार्शनिक समाज सुधारकों की लंबी श्रृखंला रही है जिन्होंने राजनैतिक और आर्थिक चुनौतियों में भारतीय समाज को आध्यात्मिक पुनर्जागरण और सामाजिक सौहार्द के लिए प्रेरित किया। स्वामी विवेकानंद ने कहा – “समस्त मानवता के प्रति प्रेम और सद्भाव ही सच्ची धार्मिकता है। आत्मबोध ही धर्म है … धर्म वह है जो आप हैं या हो सकते हैं न कि वह जो आप सुनते या स्वीकारते हैं।”

सामाजिक नवजागरण के ये अंकुर हर क्षेत्र में फूटे - चाहे असम के शंकरदेव या उड़ीसा के चैतन्य महाप्रभु, कर्नाटक के बसवाचार्य, काशी के कबीर या रैदास या सौराष्ट्र के नरसी मेहता या पंजाब के नानकदेव या आर्य समाजी संत, महाराष्ट्र के ज्योतिबा फूले, पंडिता रमाबाई या स्वयं डॉ. अंबेडकर, सभी ने भारतीय समाज में नवचेतना का संचार किया।

बहनों और भाइयों,

यह आवश्यक है कि दीर्घकालीन राजनैतिक आधिपत्य के कारण आयी सामाजिक कुरीतियों का अध्ययन किया जाये और उनका प्रतिकार किया जाय। लंबे औपनिवेशिक आधिपत्य के कारण हुए समाज के आर्थिक दोहन का सामाजिक और जातीय संरचना और संबंधों पर क्या प्रभाव पड़ा, इसका गंभीर अध्ययन होना चाहिए।

सतत सामाजिक चेतना और सुधार के कारण ही हमारा स्वाधीनता संग्राम इतना व्यापक और सर्वस्पर्शी बन सका जिसमें समाज के सभी वर्गों, क्षेत्रों की स्वीकृति थी।

हमारा स्वाधीनता संग्राम, राजनैतिक स्वतंत्रता ही नहीं अपितु समाज सुधार का आंदोलन भी था।

इसमें अस्पृश्यता का विरोध, जातिवाद की कुरीतियों का विरोध, सामुदायिक स्वच्छता, आर्थिक स्वावलंबन, जमींदारी का विरोध, शिक्षा सुधार, महिला सशक्तिकरण, अहिंसा आदि प्रगतिशील मुद्‌दों पर जन समर्थन और जन जागरण का आहृवाहन था। जिसने दीनदयाल उपाध्याय जी के एकात्म मानवता को भी प्रेरित किया।

जनमानस स्वाधीन भारत के प्रति आशान्वित था।

हमारे संविधान ने इस आशा को मुखरित स्वर दिया और इसे राष्ट्रीय संकल्प के रूप में संकल्पबद्ध किया।

13 दिसंबर 1946 को पं. नेहरू द्वारा संविधान सभा में लाये गये उद्देश्य प्रस्ताव में कहा गया कि “यह संविधान सभा ऐसा संविधान बनायेगी जिसमें भारत के सभी नागरिकों के लिये सामाजिक, आर्थिक और राजनैतिक न्याय सुरक्षित और सुनिश्चित किया जायेगा, अवसरों और स्तर की समानता होगी, विचारों, अभिव्यक्ति, आस्था एवं विश्वास, व्यवसाय की स्वतंत्रता होगी। जिसमें, अल्पसंख्यकों, पिछड़े तथा जनजातीय क्षेत्रों, पिछड़े और वंचित वर्गों के लिये विशेष प्रावधान होंगे।”

हमारा संविधान मूलत: सामाजिक सौहार्द और विकास का दस्तावेज है जो राजनीति को सामाजिक अपेक्षाओं की पूर्ति साधन बनाता है।

समाज का सर्वस्पर्शी विकास और एकता हमारी संवैधानिक प्रतिबद्धता है।

18 दिसंबर 1946 को संविधान के Aims and Objectives Resolution पर हुई चर्चा में भाग लेते हुए डॉ. अंबेडकर ने इसी सर्वस्पर्शी विकास और सामाजिक एकता की आवश्यकता पर बल दिया।

उन्होंने कहा “मैं जानता हूं आज हम राजनैतिक, सामाजिक और आर्थिक रूप से बंटे हुए हैं। और एक दूसरे के कटु विरोधी हैं संभवत: मैं स्वयं उनमें से एक दल का नेतृत्व कर रहा हूं। लेकिन यदि समय और परिस्थितियां साथ दें तो संसार की कोई शक्ति इस देश को एक होने से नहीं रोक सकती।”

उन्होंने आगे कहा कि “मैं हमारे भावी भविष्य के प्रति आशान्वित हूं लेकिन हमारी समस्या वर्तमान की विविधताऐं और सामाजिक विषमताएं हैं। हमें अंत की नहीं बल्कि प्रारंभ की चिंता है।”

इसी प्रकार नये भारत के निर्माता, सरदार पटेल को भी भारत की एकता और विकास को लेकर चिंता थी।

देशी रियासतों को भारतीय संघ में सम्मिलित करने के बावजूद वे इस प्रयोग की सफलता के प्रति सशंकित थे-“हमने रातोंरात इन रियासतों में आधुनिक शासन प्रणाली लागू कर तो दी है लेकिन यह प्रणाली ऊपर से थोपी गई है, न कि इसके लिए जनता ने मांग की थी। जब तक यह थोपी गई शासन प्रणाली जनमानस में जड़ न जमा ले, तब तक विप्लव और अशांति का खतरा बना हुआ है।”

बहनों और भाइयों,

हमारे संविधान निर्माताओं की देश के प्रति निष्ठा और उसके भविष्य के प्रति आस्था, अभिनंदनीय है, स्तुत्य है। वे देश की समस्याओं से अवगत थे। क्या नया राज्य, प्राचीन राष्ट्र की सदियों संचित अपेक्षाओं को पूर्ण कर सकेगा?

हमारे सर्वस्पर्शी संविधान ने हमें दिशा दी है। एक देश के रूप में हमारे प्रयासों को संकल्पबद्ध किया है। कालान्तर में नयी चुनौतियां भी आयी हैं। हम अपनी संवैधानिक चेतना से इन चुनौतियों को अवसरों में बदल सकेंगे।

मुझे आशा है कि लोक मंथन का यह संस्करण, हमारे संविधान निर्माताओं के प्रश्नों और शंकाओं पर गंभीर विमर्श करेगा और स्वीकार्य समाधानों और निष्कर्षों तक पहुंच सकेगा। सार्थक संवाद और विमर्श की यह स्वस्थ परंपरा आप समाज के हर स्तर तक ले जाने में सफल होंगे, यह मेरी शुभकामना है। इस लोक मंथन से आलोकामृत निकले और पूरे विश्व को भारत भारती की विचारधारा से आनन्दमय बनाए। यह मेरी शुभेच्छा है।

जय हिन्द।"

***

 

[Hindustani78]

Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship
27-September, 2018 19:42 IST
Inauguration of Pradhan Mantri Kaushal Kendra and launch of other initiatives at Kalahandi, Odisha by Shri Dharmendra Pradhan and Sri Sri Ravi Shankar

Minister of Petroleum and Natural Gas & Skill Development and Entrepreneurship Shri Dharmendra Pradhan along with spiritual leader Sri Sri Ravi Shankar today inaugurated Pradhan Mantri Kaushal Kendra at Dharmagarh, Kalahandi, Odisha. This centre will deliver skills development courses in five job roles like organic grower, plumber, sewing machine operator, home health aide and electrician domestic solutions. It aims to train 1000 candidates annually

Pradhan Mantri Kaushal Kendra is Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship’s initiative towards creation of standardized infrastructure for delivery of skill training which are equipped to run industry-driven courses of high quality with focus on employability and create an aspirational value for skill development training.

An MoU was signed between National Skill Development Corporation and Sri Sri Rural Development Program Trust. Under the partnership, skill centres will be set up in 16 jails across 7 states (Assam, J&K, Arunachal Pradesh, Maharashtra, Jharkhand, Haryana and Manipur) for skill training of inmates. The training is under the Pradhan Mantri Kaushal Vikas Yojana scheme.

An MoU was also exchanged between Beauty and Wellness Sector Skill Council and Sri Sri Rural Development Program Trust for executing Recognition of Prior Learning Certification on Yoga for 20,000 Art of Living volunteers and Yuvacharyas

Odisha Kaushal Gram term sheet was also exchanged under which Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) in 6 job roles for 20,000 people will be carried out in Odisha. This project under RPL will certify 20,000 unrecognized skilled workers from villages and create model skill villages called Kaushal Grams in Odisha

Shri Dharmendra Pradhan, speaking at the event said that as the demand for skilled labour is growing, Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship is making continuous efforts to skill and upskill the workforce. The Government is working with a vision to take full advantage of our demographic dividend and establish India as the ‘Skill Capital of the World’. He said that the objective behind Pradhan Mantri Kaushal Kendras is to empower the youth by providing market relevant skill training and develop entrepreneurship. Efforts are being made to set up Pradhan Mantri Kaushal Kendras in all the districts of India. He thanked Gurudev Sri Sri ji for collaborating with Skill India.

The Minister said that the Government has initiated the establishment of a Pradhan Mantri Kaushal Kendra in every district of the country, ensuring last mile delivery of skill development. More than 490 centres have already been established and work is going on to establish the rest.

Sri Sri Ravi Shankar speaking at the occasion said that everyone needs to come together and align energies to pursue the higher agenda of development. Service to the country is service to God. He stated that Pradhan Mantri Kaushal Vikas Yojana is laudable initiative by Central Government to ensure skill development of our youth.

 

[Hindustani78]

Ministry of Finance
28-September, 2018 18:47 IST
Change in Tariff Value of Crude Palm Oil, RBD Palm Oil, Others – Palm Oil, Crude Palmolein, RBD Palmolein, Others – Palmolein, Crude Soyabean Oil, Brass Scrap (All Grades), Poppy Seeds, Areca Nuts, Gold and Silver Notified.

In exercise of the powers conferred by sub-section (2) of Section 14 of the Customs Act, 1962 (52 of 1962), the Central Board of Indirect Taxes & Customs (), being satisfied that it is necessary and expedient so to do, hereby makes the following amendments in the notification of the Government of India in the Ministry of Finance (Department of Revenue), No. 36/2001-Customs (N.T.), dated the 3rd August, 2001, published in the Gazette of India, Extraordinary, Part-II, Section-3, Sub-section (ii), vide number S. O. 748 (E), dated the 3rd August, 2001, namely:-

In the said notification, for TABLE-1, TABLE-2 and TABLE-3, the following Tables shall be substituted, namely: -

TABLE-1
Sl. No.

Chapter/ heading/ sub-heading/tariff item

Description of goods

Tariff value

(US $Per Metric Tonne)

(1)

(2)

(3)

(4)

1

1511 10 00

Crude Palm Oil

549

2

1511 90 10

RBD Palm Oil

584

3

1511 90 90

Others – Palm Oil

567

4

1511 10 00

Crude Palmolein

594

5

1511 90 20

RBD Palmolein

597

6

1511 90 90

Others – Palmolein

596

7

1507 10 00

Crude Soya bean Oil

701

8

7404 00 22

Brass Scrap (all grades)

3626

9

1207 91 00

Poppy seeds

1894



TABLE-2

Sl. No.

Chapter/ heading/ sub-heading/tariff item

Description of goods

Tariff value

(US $)

(1)

(2)

(3)

(4)

1

71 or 98

Gold, in any form, in respect of which the benefit of entries at serial number 356 and 358 of the Notification No. 50/2017-Customs dated 30.06.2017 is availed

381 per 10 grams

2

71 or 98

Silver, in any form, in respect of which the benefit of entries at serial number 357 and 359 of the Notification No. 50/2017-Customs dated 30.06.2017 is availed

465 per kilogram



TABLE-3

Sl. No.

Chapter/ heading/ sub-heading/tariff item

Description of goods

Tariff value

(US $ Per Metric Tonne)

(1)

(2)

(3)

(4)

1

080280

Areca nuts

3947”



*****************

Ministry of Housing and Urban Poverty Alleviation
28-September, 2018 14:11 IST
Shri Hardeep Puri Calls for Self-Regulation for Industry & Society to Bring About Behavioural Change

Solid Waste Management & Recycling Must for Sustainable Growth: Hardeep Puri Emphasises that India’s Urban Rejuvenation Must be Green & Resilient

Shri Hardeep Puri, Minister of State (I/C) for Housing and Urban Affairs has called upon the Industry and the society to self-regulate to bring about behavioural change for a greener and sustainable growth. He was delivering the inaugural address at a Conference on “Plastic Recycling & Waste Management – Opportunities and Challenges” here today. In this context, he pointed out that “India’s gigantic urban initiative is not a mindless thrust of infrastructure investment but combining the attainment of social indices and environmental objectives along the way”.

Stating that India’s Urban rejuvenation must be greener and resilient, Shri Puri said all these are being achieved without compromising on environmental concerns. “We have adopted a conscious approach that places a premium on building green and resilient structures. Use of new and alternate construction technologies in the construction of houses, locally available eco- friendly materials suited to local climatic conditions are being encouraged, reducing not only the cost of construction but also the resultant carbon footprint”, he added.

Addressing the participants, the minister said that India’s capacity to treat its waste scientifically, will increase in future as waste management in India is still majorly restricted to traditional methods of waste collecting and disposing it in landfills with minimal segregation. “The launch of the Swachh Bharat Abhiyan in 2014 has led to some degree of sensitisation and awareness campaigns on waste management, resulting in segregation and recycling being adopted across several cities and towns in India”, he said. Stating that the volume of plastic waste has also grown over the years, not just in India, but globally, Shri Puri said that India has a good record or recycling of plastic waste, bulk of which is carried out in the informal sector. “For example, we recycle over 80% of PET bottle waste into fibre, which is one of the highest rate of recycling in the world. For a sustainable growth, it is also necessary to reduce use of non-essential “single use” plastic products. All solid wastes, including various plastic wastes, can be recycled or the inherent energy recovered. The Plastic Waste Management Rules 2016 is a good frame-work to address the challenges posed by plastic waste” Shri Puri added.

Elaborating on the challenges and opportunities in terms of collection, segregation and recycling of plastic waste in order to waste proof the future, the Minister said we must also look into the alternatives to plastic products available that can be scaled up commercially for both large scale and small scale applications. He said that even though plastic waste forms 4% -7% of MSW in India, it is the most visible part and poses a major challenge. “While civic bodies are entrusted with the primary responsibilities of handling waste, other stakeholders need to join-in in this endeavour” he suggested. Shri Puri said that advanced economies in the world have managed plastic waste well through building robust infrastructure and public awareness for management of all solid waste.

Highlighting that India’s development trajectory will be ‘green’, and in consonance with the ethos of the 2030 development agenda, the Minister pointed out that almost a year before the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) were formalized by the United Nations, India officially launched the world largest cleanliness drive -- Swachh Bharat Mission. Stressing on the role of newer technologies, the Minister said, “they have allowed us to do more with less, and increase the efficacy and efficiency in delivering urban services”.

The day-long Conference will deliberate not only on innovations in plastic waste management and technology but also to look for alternative to the use of single-use plastic products.

***

 

[Hindustani78]

Ministry of Railways
28-September, 2018 16:56 IST
Shri Piyush Goyal Launches Rail Heritage Digitisation Project of Indian Railways in collaboration with Google Arts & Culture

The project is a landmark effort, first of its kind in this part of the globe, to showcase country’s Rail Heritage to National and International audience Whenever we look at the evolution of the transport system in India, all these rich traditions, history and culture will play an important role in understanding how the Indian Railways has evolved: Shri Goyal This project is a gift from the 13 Lakh Railways employees to the 130 crore citizens of India: Shri Goyal We will be setting up 22 digital screens across different locations in India for showcasing this historic project: Shri Goyal

Minister of Railways and Coal, Shri Piyush Goyal has launched “Rail Heritage Digitisation Project” of Indian Railways in collaboration with Google Arts & Culture here today through video-conferencing. The project can be accessed through link: “https://artsandculture.google.com/project/indian-railways”. The project is a landmark effort, first of its kind in this part of the globe, to showcase country’s Rail Heritage to National and International audience in an online story-telling platform. Chairman, Railway Board, Shri Ashwani Lohani, other Railway Board Members, Vice President, South East Asia and India, Google, Shri Rajan Anandan, Director, Google Cultural Institute, Shri Amit Sood, other Railway Board Officials, Dignitaries from Google, UNESCO representatives and Railway Enthusiasts were among those present on the occasion.

Speaking on the occasion, Shri Piyush Goyal said “At the outset, let me congratulate the Indian Railways and the Google Arts and Culture Association for this wonderful initiative, which has taken over 2 years of hard work, research, inquiry and execution. It is often said that civilisation is built over millenia by countless generations, with each generation leaving its footprints in the sands of time. A culture must reserve these footprints to remember what it was and where it came from. Whenever we look at the evolution of the transport system in India, all these rich traditions, history and culture will play an important role in understanding how the Indian Railways has evolved. Being a 165 year old organisation, the Railways has a lot of material which we need to preserve and leave behind for posterity. Mark Twain had once said, "Our most valuable and instructive materials in the history of mankind are treasured in India". The Indian Railways has a lot of treasured moments for the world to see how technologies evolved over time: Mumbai has a special place in the Railways, being the first Railway line to be set up in India. It was way back on 16th April, 1853 when the first train ran between Bori Bunder and Thane. We will be setting up 22 digital screens across different locations in India for showcasing this historic project”.

The Minister further added, “This partnership between the Railways and Google also has the dimension of the Wi-Fi, which we have proliferated to over 400 stations in India. This shows the potential of collaborations to serve people. The Wi-Fi that has been set up in 711 stations now, have faster Wi-Fi access than any other system in the nation. I would like to compliment the Google and RailTel team for this feat. When I was in Raipur Station, I found loads of people particularly the youth who flock to stations to enjoy the service provided. This confirms my desire that we should take Wi-Fi to over 6,000 stations to provide it to people who cannot afford Wi-Fi. We have already offered around 5,000 odd stations for public-private partnership through “Rail Sahyog” (http://RailSahyog.in) where we have invited people to come and make offers to pick up stations so as to expand it throughout the Railways”.

Shri Goyal further said that this project is the largest cultural heritage digitization project not only in India but possibly the Asia Pacific Region. He expressed the hope that collaborative efforts will continue to expand the project further and possibly make it the largest such endeavour to preserve Railway Heritage in the world. Shri Goyal described this project as the gift from the 13 Lakh Railways employees to the 130 crore citizens of India”.

Chairman, Railway Board, Shri Ashwani Lohani said that collaboration with Google Art & Culture, has enabled Indian Railways to digitize National Rail Museum, Rewari Steam Centre, three World Heritage Railways, CSMT Mumbai building and other prominent aspects of country’s rail heritage. He appreciated the monumental efforts which went into this project of digitising the invaluable railway heritage. During the event, Shri Lohani also felicitated few of the railway heroes associated with the conservation of World Heritage Railways and said that Railway is a human centric organisation and it is the railway heroes who make it run.

Introducing this collaborative digital project between Indian Railways and Google Arts & Culture, Shri Rajan Anandan, Vice President, South East Asia and India, Google described it as an extension of their partnership with Indian Railways of providing public with Wi-Fi at 400 railway stations. He described it as an endeavour to bring incredible Indian Rail Heritage online.

Director, Google Cultural Institute, Shri Amit Sood, said that Google is committed to preserving and breathing new life into artistic and cultural treasures around the world. He added that the extraordinary wealth of heritage, history and culture that Indian Railways inherits, is truly fascinating, and a treat for both the young and the old. This project is all about the iconic moments, the movements, and the making of Indian Railways, which today is the backbone of the country in many ways.



Backgrounder:

Railways in India started its journey on 16th April, 1853 between Bori bunder and Thane. Since then Railways India not only expanded to be one of the largest network in the world but also significantlycontributed to social, technological and economic development of this country.

Today we have three World Heritage Railways: DHR, NMR, KSRand two World Heritage Buildings (CSMT, Churchgate), still unique feat in this part of the Globe (The other two World HeritageRailways are in Europe). In collaboration with Google Art & Culture, IndianRailways have been able to digitize National Rail Museum, Rewari Steam Centre, three World Heritage Railways, CSMT Mumbai building and other prominent aspects of country’s rail heritage.

Indian Railways has also created one of the largest repositories of industrial heritage in the World. Glimpses of Railway history and evolution are captured in 33 Rail Museums & Heritage Galleries, four World Heritage Sites, hundreds of buildings, bridges, locomotives, coaches, other rolling stocks, artefacts etc.Conservation of these industrial relics also helps in promoting tourism, preserving traditional skills and communication with people.

Digitization of rail heritage provides immense opportunity to contextualize artefact and other heritage assets with the stories thus becoming more meaningful to next generation. Digital heritage also removes bottleneck of being physically there and thus providing universal access to the large repository of knowledge.

With over 151,000 kilometres of track, 7,000 stations, 1.3 million employees and 160 years of history, the Indian Railway is one of the most celebrated railway networks in the world. Bringing this journey to the forefront, Google Arts & Culture’s new online collection is a story-telling marvel, and will make India’s rich rail-heritage and legacy digitally accessible to people in India around the world. The 75 online exhibition, 3500+ images and 200 videos, will offer an in-depth exploration of the sights, sounds and significance of India’s railways. Heritage routes with a 360-degree panoramic view of iconic railway stations, including Kalka-Shimla, Nilgiri Mountain Railway Darjeeling Himalayan Railway, and Kangra Valley Railway. The exhibition will also bring alive the lost stories and heroic efforts of people like the track-man, station master, and workshop engineers, to celebrate their contribution.

*****

 

[Hindustani78]

Prime Minister's Office
29-September, 2018 14:56 IST
PM to visit Gujarat on September 30

The Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi, will visit Gujarat on September 30, 2018.

At Anand, the Prime Minister will inaugurate modern food processing facilities, including Amul’s ultra-modern Chocolate Plant. The Prime Minister will also inaugurate Anand Agricultural University’s Incubation Centre cum Centre of Excellence in Food Processing, and a Solar Cooperative Society at Mujhkuva village. The Prime Minister will lay the Foundation Stone for the expansion of Amul manufacturing facilities at Anand and Khatraj. He will address the gathering.

The Prime Minister will then travel to Anjar. He will inaugurate the Mundra LNG terminal, the Anjar-Mundra Pipeline Project and the Palanpur-Pali-Barmer pipeline project. He will address the gathering.

The Prime Minister shall then arrive in Rajkot. He will inaugurate the Mahatma Gandhi Museum. The Museum has been set up at the Alfred High School in Rajkot, which was an important part of the formative years of Mahatma Gandhi. It will help spread awareness about Gandhian culture, values and philosophy. The Prime Minister will also unveil a plaque to mark the inauguration of a public housing project of 624 houses. He will witness the e-Gruh Pravesh of 240 beneficiary families.

The Prime Minister will visit the Mahatma Gandhi Museum, before returning to New Delhi.

***

 

[Hindustani78]

Ministry of Corporate Affairs
30-September, 2018 12:27 IST
Government constitutes Competition Law Review Committee to review the Competition Act

In pursuance of its objective of ensuring that Legislation is in sync with the needs of strong economic fundamentals, the Government has constituted a Competition Law Review Committee to review the Competition Act.

The Competition Act was passed in the year 2002 and the Competition Commission of India was set up in pursuance of the same. The Commission started functioning in right earnest from 2009 and has contributed immensely towards the development of competition and fair play practices in the Indian market. During the past nine years the size of the Indian Economy has grown immensely and India is today amongst the top five Economies in the World and poised to forge ahead further. In this context, it is essential that Competition Law is strengthened, and re-calibrated to promote best practices which result in the citizens of this country achieving their aspirations and value for money.

The Review Committee comprises of the following:

1. Secretary, Ministry of Corporate Affairs - Chairperson
2. Chairperson, Competition Commission of India (CCI) - Member
3. Chairperson, Insolvency and Bankruptcy Board of India - Member
4. Shri Haigreve Khaitan, M/S Khaitan & Co. - Member
5. Shri Harsha Vardhana Singh, IKDHVAJ Advisers LLP - Member
6. Ms. Pallavi Shardul Shroff, Advocate, - Member

M/S Shardul Amarchand Mangaldas & Co.

1. Dr. S. Chakravarthy, IAS (Retd.), Hony. Visiting Prof. ASCII - Member
2. Shri Aditya Bhattacharjea, Professor of Economics, - Member

Delhi School of Economics

1. Joint Secretary (Competition), MCA Member Secretary

The Terms of References of the Committee are as follows:-

1. To review the Competition Act/ Rules/ Regulations, in view of changing business environment and bring necessary changes, if required;
2. To look into international best practices in the competition fields, especially anti-trust laws, merger guidelines and handling cross border competition issues;
3. To study other regulatory regimes/ institutional mechanisms/ government policies which overlap with the Competition Act;
4. Any other matters related to competition issue and considered necessary by the Committee.

The Committee shall complete its work and submit its report within three months of the date of its first meeting.

 

[Hindustani78]

Ministry of Railways
02-October, 2018 11:21 IST
Ministry of Railways observes ‘Swachhta Hi Sewa Pakhwada’ across Indian Railways network

During ‘Swachhta Hi Sewa Pakhwada’, various activities undertaken make it a Grand Success

Ministry of Railways is observing ‘Swachhta Hi Sewa Pakhwada’ across its entire network from 15th September to 2nd October 2018 to commemorate the 150th birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi, the father of the Nation.

The Pakhwada commenced with the administration of Swachhta pledge to all Railway personnel. Then onwards, each date of the ‘Pakhwada’ was associated with a particular theme pertaining to cleanliness. Two days each were proposed to be devoted to Swachh Station, Swachh Train, Swachh Neer, Swachh Parisar, Swachh Samwad, Swachh Awareness across the entire network of Indian Railways.

Detailed guidelines for the ‘Pakhwada’ were formulated and circulated to each unit of Indian Railways and the entire network observed the ‘Pakhwada’ in the most effective manner.

During the Swachchta Pakhwada, tree plantation on over 100 kms on railway track was done. Cleaning of approaches to 43 stations associated with Mahatma Gandhi & 28 stations near iconic places & golden triangle Delhi, Agra, Jaipur was undertaken during this fortnight. Railway stations associated with Mahatma Gandhi were painted thematically. Swachhta Logo & National Flag was displayed on all coaches by 2nd October, 2018.

To make “Swachta Hi Seva” initiative a grand success, intensive awareness campaign were organised using social media, Nukkad Natak, audio/video clips to motivate and involve passengers, students, families, pensioners, SHGs and other stake holders to also participate in the various activities of the “Swachhta-Hi-Sewa Pakhwada”.

In Northern Railway, Minister of Railways & Coal, Shri Piyush Goyal launched Swachhta- Hi- Sewa Pakhwada at Old Delhi Railway Station on 15th September, 2018 by administering the Swachhta pledge to the Railway officials, staff and others present on the occasion. He also participated in Shramdan at the venue. Later, the Minister also visited Hazrat Nizamuddin Railway Station & New Delhi Railway Station and participated in the Swachhta Hi Sewa Program organised there. On the other days of Swachhta Pakhwada, Shramdaan and Cleanliness Drive in Railway Stations, Offices and premises of Northern Railway was also observed.

In Central Railway, teacher and students of KYN Railway School, Kalva Car Shed, had painted complete 12 coach EMU rake in tri color and theme of Mahatma Gandhi where quotes, messages and Swachhta logo has been displayed for Public awareness regarding cleanliness. Central Railway has also organized different competitions at Zonal and Divisional level to promote Swachhta and housekeeping awards for best maintained Workshops, Sheds, Coaching Depot, Hospitals, HQ offices, Mail/Express rakes, Control Offices and Railway Colonies etc.

In Western Railway, on 28th September, 2018 of the “Swachhta Hi Sewa” Pakhwada, the theme was “Swachh Neer” wherein intensive inspection of all water installations including filter plants, sources of water supply, water taps for drinking water, water vending machines, water coolers at stations and for availability of water in trains as well as in offices, railway colonies, hospitals, health units and schools were carried out. Efforts were made for setting up of rain harvesting plants and recycling plants were strengthened. Nukkad Natak was conducted and organized by volunteers and artists of Swachhta Band for spreading cleanliness awareness among the commuters. Paper soaps were distributed by railways at Churchgate & Mumbai Central stations to emphasize the importance of personal hygiene.

Western Railway also celebrated 'Swachh Aahar' day, a theme which aimed to provide clean and hygienic environment at catering units under the special drive on this theme. Intensive cleaning of all canteens and pantry cars of trains was suitably ensured. Samples of food were taken for checking and feedback of passengers were obtained on the quality of food served.

In Eastern Railway, a massive Swachhta Awareness campaign was organised at all the Railway stations, colonies, hospitals , health units etc., through the Prabhat Pheri , Nukkad Natak, Video Walls, Public Address Systems. Around 20,000 saplings were planted in the Eastern Railway during the entire period of Swachhta Pakhwara.

In South Central Railway, The cleanliness campaign, got a big boost with the use of an innovative publicity medium for the first time on Indian Railways, as a Mobile Digital Movie Theatre which will showcase railway films on social / public awareness for creating awareness among the public was inaugurated as part of the Pakhwada activities.

In Southern Railway, In a landmark achievement the heritage building of the iconic Chennai Central station, has been accredited with Green Railway Station Certification by Indian Green Building Council (IGBC). The certification was presented on evaluation of various parameters, mainly energy conservation and generation, water recycling and waste disposal.

In East Central Railway, At the commencement of the Swachhta Pakhwada, Plastic Bottle Crushing Machine was installed at Patna Jn. to get rid of empty bottles of water & soft drinks. Patna Jn, thus became the first station of Bihar where bottle crushing machine was installed. Further during Swachhta Pakhwada, this machine was also installed in Rajender Nagar, Patna Sahib, Mughalsarai and Darbhanga. A Wi-Fi based portal “Toilet Feedback System” has also been devised to get feedback from passengers on cleanliness on toilets at stations. Proper steps will be taken on feedback received from passengers.

Metro Railway, Kolkata, inaugurated toilets (one for Ladies and one for Gents) at Shahid Khudiram and Noapara Metro Stations as part of the observation of “Swachch Prasadhan Day”. This will be of great help to passengers in general and the aged commuters in particular. Toilets at other two stations viz. Belgachia, Sovabazar-Sutanuare are almost ready and will be opened for the commuters very soon.

Apart from this, Swachhta Pakhwada is being celebrated across Indian Railways network including all Zones, Divisions, Production Units & Workshops and Railway PSUs. ‘Swachh Bharat’ is a continuous mission focusing on strengthening efforts to bring systemic transformation in cleanliness. The campaign will progress with various activities aimed at improving cleanliness in trains, at railway stations, yards, workshops, office premises and railway colonies all over Indian Railway.

***

 

[AndrewJin]

Finally First Section of Western Dedicated freight Corridor becomes functional. First Regular Double stacked Container trains start operation. Initially these will be hauled by 4500 HP diesel locomotives, soon to be replaced by 9000 HP three phase electric locomotives under development by Siemens and CLW.

@Abingdonboy @AndrewJin @Vergennes @nair @AUSTERLITZ @Joe Shearer

 

[Peaceful Civilian]

I still think Pakistan should buy Railway engines from India , they are good in quality and performance wise excellent.
Sorry if I am posting offtopic.

 

[anant_s]

I still think Pakistan should buy Railway engines from India

I suppose an effort has been made in past but owing to political situation, the talks for 3300 HP Diesel Electric locos for 1676 mm gauge fell away.
In my view recent purchase of 4400 HP ES 43ACi by PR is a very smart move and these amazing locos will change course of freight transport in Pakistan if used properly by management.