Nashik: In recent discussions surrounding the future of Indian Railways, Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnav has vehemently denied allegations of impending privatization, labeling the notion as an “illusion.” Speaking at an event in Nashik, Vaishnav addressed the concerns raised by the opposition regarding the central government’s plans for the railways, stating, “The issue of railways and defense should never come into politics. I say it will never happen. I have made this clear in Parliament as well.”
Vaishnav emphasized that substantial investments and development initiatives are underway within Indian Railways, asserting that over ₹12,500 crore is being allocated for the creation of general coaches. He remarked on the previous government’s performance, saying, “In the 40 years of the previous government in the country, the situation in the railways did not change to the desired extent. But from 2014, changes started in railways.”
Highlighting the achievements of the current administration, he stated that the Modi government has funded ₹2.5 lakh crore for railway projects, resulting in the expansion of 40,000 kilometers of railway lines over the past decade. “Prime Minister Narendra Modi insists that new technology should come in the railways,” he added, noting advancements in safety and modernization, particularly in Jammu and Kashmir.
The minister also pointed out the introduction of new trains, such as Vande Bharat and Vande Metro, and the ongoing work on the bullet train project. He assured that necessary provisions are being made to meet the demands of railway personnel, including funding of ₹35 crore for the Railway Protection Force (RPF) and improvements to facilities such as the RPF Dog Training Center.
As debates around the privatization of railways continue, Ashwini Vaishnav’s remarks aim to quell fears and clarify the government’s commitment to developing and modernizing Indian Railways without transitioning to privatization.
