UPSC CURRENT AFFAIRS – 23th May 2025

Home UPSC Current Affairs PM inaugurates 103 Amrit Bharat railway stations

PM inaugurates 103 Amrit Bharat railway stations

Why in News?

Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated 103 Amrit Bharat railway stations across 18 States/UTs to promote modern infrastructure and regional heritage under the Amrit Bharat Station Scheme (ABSS).

Background

103 Amrit Bharat railway stations located in 86 districts across 18 States and Union Territories, have been redeveloped at a cost of over ₹1,100 crore under the Amrit Bharat Station Scheme (ABSS), aimed at transforming Indian Railways’ station infrastructure to enhance passenger experience.

Key Highlights

Amrit Bharat Station Scheme (ABSS):

- Part of Indian Railways’ long-term vision to modernise over 1,300 stations.
- Emphasises blending modern infrastructure with local heritage and art.

Examples:

- Mandalgarh (Rajasthan): Showcases Rajput architectural traditions.
- Thawe (Bihar): Displays Madhubani art and devotion to Maa Thawewali.
- Orchha (Madhya Pradesh): Embodies the divinity of Lord Ram.
- Srirangam (Tamil Nadu): Inspired by Dravidian temple architecture.
- Dakor (Gujarat): Reflects reverence to Ranchhodrai ji.
- Tiruvannamalai (Tamil Nadu) and Begumpet (Telangana): Highlight regional architectural heritage.

Railway Development in Rajasthan:

- PM Modi inaugurated projects worth ₹26,000 crore in Rajasthan and flagged off a new train service from Bikaner to Mumbai.
- The Central government plans to invest nearly ₹10,000 crore in Rajasthan’s railway development in FY 2025–26, a 15-fold increase over pre-2014 levels.

Employment and Tourism Boost:

- Redeveloped stations serve as catalysts for tourism and employment generation, especially in heritage-rich locations.
- The PM urged citizens to ensure cleanliness and safety at the newly upgraded stations.

Broader Railway Modernisation Efforts

Vande Bharat, Amrit Bharat & Namo Bharat Trains:

- Introduction of modern, semi-high-speed trains to enhance rail travel quality and regional connectivity.
- 70 Vande Bharat routes are currently operational, connecting remote areas with faster, efficient transport.

Infrastructure Achievements (2014–2025):

- Over 34,000 km of new railway tracks were laid.
- Unmanned level crossings on broad gauge lines eliminated.
- Construction of hundreds of road overbridges and underbridges for improved safety and mobility.
- Dedicated Freight Corridors (DFCs) under development for seamless cargo movement.
- Ongoing work on India’s first bullet train project between Mumbai and Ahmedabad.

Significance and Implications

Modernisation of railway stations under the Amrit Bharat Station Scheme (ABSS) is a key step toward building world-class infrastructure in India. Reflects a shift from routine maintenance to comprehensive redevelopment, improving functionality, aesthetics, and efficiency.
Boost to Local Economies and Tourism- Stations are designed to reflect local art, architecture, and culture, creating regional identity and attracting tourists.
- Enhances the potential of heritage tourism
- Redevelopment projects are labour-intensive, providing short-term employment during construction and long-term jobs in hospitality, tourism, and maintenance sectors.
Upgraded stations will offer better amenities such as clean waiting areas, improved lighting, digital displays, and enhanced safety features. Facilities will cater to the elderly, differently-abled, and women, improving inclusivity in public infrastructure.

Conclusion

The inauguration of Amrit Bharat stations and related railway development projects signify a paradigm shift in Indian Railways—from transport utility to economic catalyst and cultural symbol. These projects reflect India’s vision of building a modern, inclusive, and sustainable railway ecosystem that supports economic growth, social mobility, and national integration.