The Railway Ministry launches INR 2 trillion budgetary push

The Modi government at the Centre linked the Rail Budget with the General Budget during its first term, which is now where the money for the Railways is allocated. The research indicates that the center will boost the Railway Budget this time by up to 20%. During the pre-budget meeting, it was a demand by the Railway Board to provide 25-30% additional fund from the Finance Ministry's allocation. In such a scenario, the government could allocate funds approximately upto INR 2 trillion to the Ministry of Railways during the budget, igniting excitement in industries connected to the railways. Additionally, there have been numerous requests from the passengers.

The central government may reveal a number of new passenger-oriented railroad facilities in this budget. The Rail Budget may prove to be an effective election budget this time around, particularly in the states where elections will be conducted. The center may make certain specific notifications for these states as a result. However, the Union Ministry of Railways has so far brought in INR 423.70 billion more money than it did the year before. In contrast to 2021, when there was a loss of INR 263.38 billion, which forced the government to reduce the subsidies offered to regular people, the Railways’ income has now increased by 71%.

People from all socioeconomic groups have called for the reinstatement of concessions, notably the one that allowed seniors over 60 to receive up to a 50% discount before the COVID-19 pandemic, but has since been removed, in light of the strong results of Railways earnings. The Railways claim that there is no provision in the budget to offer senior persons discounts on rail tickets. The modernisation of the railroads will get the bulk of the central government's investment. Railways have been concentrating on improving domestic infrastructure. Plans are also being undertaken to lessen reliance on foreign sources.

The creation of new Vande Bharat Express trains and Vande Bharat 2.0 with sleeper berth capability can be highlighted in this budget. Similar to the Rajdhani Express, this train will offer sleeper AC cars for its customers. A plan for INR 2.7 trillion for 500 Vande Bharat trains, 35 hydrogen trains, 5,000 LHB coaches, and 58,000 waggons can be announced in the Rail Budget 2023.