On National Press Day, Indian Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw acknowledged the nation's extensive media presence, with over 35,000 registered newspapers, multiple news channels, and a rapidly growing digital infrastructure. This recognition highlights the crucial role of media in promoting democracy and disseminating information to the masses.
In a welcome move, the Indian government has announced a 3% increase in Dearness Allowance (DA) for central government employees and pensioners, effective from July 1. This decision comes just in time for the festive season, bringing joy to more than 1 crore households. Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw confirmed that this adjustment follows a previous 4% increase in March, aligning with the Seventh Central Pay Commission's recommendations. The estimated annual financial implication of this move is Rs 9,448 crore.
In a significant move towards preserving and promoting Indian languages, the Union Cabinet has approved the classical language status for five more languages - Marathi, Pali, Prakrit, Assamese, and Bengali. Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw announced the decision and highlighted the government's efforts to conserve and promote the classical languages. This decision has been welcomed by many, including Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma, who expressed gratitude to the Centre for including Assamese in the list. This move is aimed at honoring the historical significance of these languages and nurturing a deeper understanding among the younger generations.
After being announced as the recipient of India's highest award in cinema, Dadasaheb Phalke Award, veteran actor Mithun Chakraborty turned emotional and dedicated it to his family and fans. He shared his journey from a narrow lane in Kolkata to achieving success in the film industry and urged others to have dedication and resilience. The news was announced by Information & Broadcasting Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw and Prime Minister Narendra Modi also congratulated the iconic actor on social media. Chakraborty has won the National Film Award for Best Actor thrice and is hailed as a cultural icon.
Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw conducted a trial of the 'Kavach' Automatic Train Protection System in West Central Railway Zone successfully. The system was tested for seven different emergency scenarios and proved its effectiveness by automatically controlling the train's speed and braking function without any manual interference. The Kavach also responded to abnormalities during the trial, further showcasing its reliability in ensuring safety on the railways.
In a successful test, Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw reviewed the trial of the Automatic Train Protection System called 'Kavach' between Sawai Madhopur and Indargarh Railway stations in West Central Railway Zone. During the test, the Kavach system automatically stopped the train at various speed restrictions and also activated the whistle at a level crossing when the driver failed to do so. With this advanced safety system, train accidents due to human error can potentially be avoided.
On Sunday, Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw laid the foundation stone for a new hangar at BEML in Bengaluru, aimed at boosting the production capabilities of the company. As part of his visit, Vaishnaw also inspected the Vande Sleeper Coach and interacted with the media and staff at the Railway Training Centre. BEML Limited, a Public Sector Undertaking, was established in 1964 and is listed on both BSE and NSE.
Union Minister Chirag Paswan, the president of Lok Janshakti Party, has raised concerns about the Centre's decision to fill government jobs through lateral entry on a contract basis. He argues that such appointments should adhere to existing reservation provisions and vows to bring the issue to the attention of the Centre. Meanwhile, the BJP defends the move as a step towards introducing transparency in the recruitment process, while opposition parties accuse it of undermining reservations for marginalized communities. Information and Broadcasting Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw also criticizes the Congress' hypocrisy in opposing lateral entry, pointing out that the concept was first developed by the UPA government.
The initial probe into the derailment of Sabarmati Express near Kanpur has indicated a possible conspiracy after it was found that a boulder was placed on the track. Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw stated that the Intelligence Bureau and UP police are investigating the incident, while arrangements are being made for the stranded passengers. Seven trains have been cancelled and three diverted following the derailment, and investigations are ongoing as the police await a written complaint from the railways. The loco pilot of the train reported seeing something on the tracks before emergency braking, but details are still unclear.
A major train derailment occurred in Kanpur, Uttar Pradesh early on Saturday morning, causing the derailment of 22 coaches of the Sabarmati Express. Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw has confirmed that the engine hit an object on the tracks causing the accident. No injuries have been reported and alternate transportation arrangements have been made for passengers. The incident is currently being investigated by Indian and Uttar Pradesh authorities, with several train diversions and cancellations in place.