Call for Train Services on Agartala-Kolkata Route

25 Jun 2024 CW Team

There are growing calls for the Railway Ministry to introduce train services on the Agartala-Kolkata route, aimed at improving connectivity between the two cities. Various stakeholders have emphasised the importance of this initiative in facilitating easier travel and promoting economic development in the region.

The proposal comes amidst increasing demand for improved transportation links between Agartala, the capital city of Tripura, and Kolkata, a major economic hub in eastern India. Currently, passengers travelling between these two cities rely on air travel or long-distance buses, which can be inconvenient and expensive for many.

Introducing train services on the Agartala-Kolkata route is seen as a viable solution to address the transportation needs of passengers and promote tourism and trade between Tripura and West Bengal. It is expected to benefit not only commuters but also businesses and industries seeking efficient freight transportation options.

Advocates of the proposal highlight the potential socio-economic benefits of enhanced connectivity, including job creation, tourism growth, and increased investment opportunities in both Agartala and Kolkata. Additionally, improved transportation infrastructure is crucial for fostering regional integration and balanced development across states.

While the initiative awaits further consideration by the Railway Ministry, stakeholders remain hopeful that the introduction of train services on the Agartala-Kolkata route will soon become a reality. They underscore the significance of prioritising infrastructure projects that contribute to inclusive growth and connectivity enhancement in India's northeastern region.

Infrastructure Urban

03 Apr 2026

Centre Disburses Over Rs 24,610 mn in XV Finance Commission Grants

The Union Government has released XV Finance Commission tied grants during the financial year 2025–26 to rural local bodies in Chhattisgarh, Gujarat, Madhya Pradesh, Punjab and Sikkim and has released withheld portions of tied and untied grants to Himachal Pradesh, Odisha and Tripura. The total disbursal exceeded Rs 24,610 mn, with figures expressed in million (mn) thereafter. The releases cover allocations pertaining to different financial years and aim to strengthen rural local governance. State-wise disbursements included Rs 3,324.6 mn for Punjab, Rs 9,432.7 mn for Madhya Pradesh, Rs 3,47..

Centre Releases Over Rs 15 bn as XV FC Grants to Rural Bodies

The Union Government has released over Rs 15 bn in grants recommended by the Fifteenth Finance Commission (XV FC) to strengthen Panchayati Raj Institutions (PRIs) and Rural Local Bodies (RLBs) in six states. The funds comprise tied and untied grants disbursed in FY 2025–26. Telangana received Rs 2.48 bn as the first instalment of untied grants for FY 2025–26, benefitting 12600 Gram Panchayats (GPs). Uttarakhand received Rs 913.1 mn as the second instalment and an additional Rs 18.4 mn of a withheld first instalment was released to a further 216 GPs. Mizoram is included among beneficiary st..

Government Assures Fuel Supplies And Seafarer Safety Amid West Asia Developments

The Government of India has stepped up coordinated measures to maintain stability in critical sectors as developments in West Asia continue to unfold. It has prioritised uninterrupted energy supplies, safeguarded maritime operations and extended consular assistance to nationals. Central authorities are working with State and Union territory administrations to ensure timely information dissemination and operational continuity. Refineries are reported to be operating at high capacity with adequate inventories of petrol and diesel, and domestic LPG production has been increased to support consump..