National

Rail Accidents Reduced by 90% Since 2005-2006, Reports Minister Vaishnaw

Published

1 year ago

March 17, 2025

On Monday, Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw reported to the Rajya Sabha that rail accidents have plummeted by 90% since the 2005-2006 period, emphasizing the government’s dedication to addressing the fundamental causes of such incidents.
In his response to the discussion on the Railway Ministry’s operations, he highlighted that railways are a more environmentally sustainable mode of transportation, generating 90% fewer emissions compared to road transport, even with diesel engines in operation. He noted that the use of electric traction completely eradicates emissions.

By the end of this fiscal year on March 31, Indian Railways is expected to rank among the top three countries globally in cargo carrying capacity, handling an impressive 1.6 billion tonnes, trailing only behind China and the United States.

The minister elaborated on the benefits of electrification, revealing that diesel savings since 2018-19 have reached ₹29,000 crore. He pointed out that the national transporter has adeptly navigated the challenges posed by the pandemic, with a resurgence in passenger travel alongside growth in both passenger and cargo traffic.

Vaishnaw stated that the Railways is managing its expenditures effectively through its own revenue, remarking, “Overall, the financial situation is good, and we continually strive for improvement.” He also underscored that Indian train fares are the lowest in comparison to neighboring countries, citing that a 350 km journey costs ₹121 in India, whereas it is ₹400 in Pakistan and ₹413 in Sri Lanka, with fares remaining unchanged since 2020.

The Minister announced plans to manufacture around 1,400 locomotives this year and shared that India has commenced exporting metro coaches.

Earlier, opposition parties, including Congress and the TMC, staged a walkout from the House after their request for a discussion on the Election Commission’s alleged issuance of duplicate voter ID cards was denied.

Leader of the House JP Nadda welcomed Rajya Sabha Speaker Jagdeep Dhankhar back following his recovery. “On behalf of the entire House, I extend my warm regards and best wishes for your health as you return to your duties,” he expressed.

Dhankhar had been discharged from AIIMS, Delhi on March 12 after hospitalization due to discomfort and chest pain on March 9.

The Lok Sabha engaged in discussions on significant legislative issues, including the presentation of various standing committee reports and the Demands for Grants under the Ministry of Railways for the 2025-26 fiscal year.

The Parliament’s Budget Session resumed today after the Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha were adjourned the previous Wednesday in observance of Holi. Before the break, both Houses had intense discussions regarding the Manipur budget and the National Education Policy 2020, along with protests from the Opposition demanding a discourse on the alleged voter ID manipulation.

A controversy also arose following Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan’s address in the House, with accusations from the DMK regarding attempts to impose the Hindi language in Tamil Nadu.

The second phase of the Budget Session commenced on March 10 and is scheduled to continue until April 4.

National

Social Media Influencer-Turned Gangster Held Abroad

Published

4 days ago

April 9, 2026

Namma Kudla

New Delhi: Rao Inderjeet Yadav has been arrested in Dubai. He is wanted in a murder case from Haryana.

He fled India in 2024 after a businessman was killed in Rohtak. Police had been searching for him since then. Officials said Dubai authorities have asked for documents. He is likely to be brought back to India soon.

Yadav faces more than 15 criminal cases. These include extortion, fraud, and illegal land deals. The Enforcement Directorate also investigated him for money laundering. Raids led to the seizure of cash, cars, and documents.

He also ran a music company called Gems Tunes. It produced regional songs.

Yadav had a large social media following. He often showed his rich lifestyle online. He has denied all charges. He claims he is being framed.

Police are now preparing for further action.

National

Man Killed by Wife’s Lover in Andhra Pradesh, Son Raises Alarm

Published

5 days ago

April 8, 2026

Namma Kudla

Andhra Pradesh: A 45-year-old man was killed by his wife’s lover in Annamayya district of Andhra Pradesh. The incident happened on Monday night in a forest area near Chowdepalli.

The victim, Gandhi from Tamil Nadu, had come with his five-year-old son to search for his wife. Police said the wife was in a relationship with another man named Narasimhulu.

Narasimhulu allegedly took Gandhi and the child into the forest. He and his aides then attacked Gandhi with a stone and killed him in front of the boy.

The frightened child hid in nearby bushes. After the attackers left, he stayed beside his father’s body the whole night.

At sunrise, the boy walked to a nearby village and informed locals. The police were alerted and started an investigation.

Police have taken the accused and his two aides into custody. The child has been placed in a care centre.

National

Woman Delivers Baby Girl on Train in Andhra Pradesh

Published

5 days ago

April 8, 2026

Namma Kudla

Andhra Pradesh : A pregnant woman gave birth to a baby girl on a moving train in Andhra Pradesh. The incident ended safely with the help of railway staff.

The woman was eight months pregnant. She boarded the train with her family, believing she still had one month left for delivery. She was travelling from Chennai to Dhanbad on Train No. 13352.

After the train crossed Annavaram station, she began to feel labour pain. Her family members became worried and immediately informed the ticket examiner.

Railway staff member G. Jyothi responded quickly and helped the woman. Understanding the emergency, the train was given a special halt at Elamanchili station. An ambulance was also arranged.

The woman delivered a healthy baby girl on the train. After the delivery, both the mother and the newborn were shifted to Elamanchili Government Hospital in a 108 ambulance.

Officials confirmed that both the mother and baby are safe and healthy. The train was halted at the station for about 40 minutes to manage the situation.

Railway staff ensured privacy by asking male passengers to leave the coach. Their timely action helped ensure a safe delivery.

This incident highlights the importance of quick response and human support during emergencies.