Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw has said that Indian Railways is well-positioned to set global benchmark and play a key role in India’s journey towards becoming a developed nation by 2047. Mr Vaishnaw was speaking after presenting the 70th Ati Vishisht Rail Seva Puraskar 2025 to 100 railway officials and awarding 26 shields to the best-performing railway zones in New Delhi yesterday.
Mr Vaishnaw said Indian Railways has set six new resolutions for 2026. These include carrying out systemic reforms in 52 weeks, using technology and artificial intelligence to improve reliability and productivity, upgrading maintenance standards, strengthening safety, and moving away from a colonial mindset. He added that a new innovation portal will link Indian Railways with startups and innovators and that AI will be widely used for maintenance work.
The Minister also pointed to improvements in operations, including coal transportation and fuel supply to power plants, and said that the number of rail accidents has reduced from an average of about 170 in earlier years to 12.
The Ati Vishisht Rail Seva Puraskar is among the highest honours in Indian Railways, recognising dedication, innovation, and excellence in service.
Talking exclusively to Akashvani News, awardee Uchit Singhal, Senior Divisional Commercial Manager of Jammu Division, said tourism in Jammu and Kashmir has benefited greatly since the launch of the Vande Bharat train and dedicated the award to his team.
Another awardee, Senior Assistant Loco Pilot Sushmita, said that such recognition motivates employees and helps them face future challenges effectively.
