Eluru MP Putta Mahesh Kumar has urged Union Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw to take action on several railway-related issues in the Eluru parliamentary constituency. These include the sanctioning of a new 96 km railway line connecting Andhra Pradesh and Telangana, modernization of Nuzvid railway station, and approval of a broad-gauge line via Sathupalli to connect Bhadrachalam and Kovvur. The MP highlighted the economic benefits of these projects, calling for their inclusion in the Union Budget 2025 and addressing rising construction costs due to delays. Additionally, he proposed halts for several express and passenger trains at various stations in the constituency to facilitate easy travel for pilgrims and boost the local economy.
The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs has approved the PAN 2.0 project, worth Rs 1,435 crore, to enhance the taxpayer experience. The new version aims to streamline businesses and citizen-centric operations by using technology-driven transformation and a QR code feature. Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw explains that there will be no need for individuals to modify their current PAN and the new card will be introduced as an upgrade. With over 78 crore PAN cards issued to date, this development is expected to benefit the majority of individuals and small businesses.
Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw has announced plans for PAN 2.0, an upgrade to India's existing PAN system. The upgraded system is expected to be a seamless, paperless and technology-driven experience, aligning with the Digital India initiative. The new PAN card will have a QR code for quick scans and will be implemented free of cost, without changing the existing PAN number. This move aims to improve transparency, user experience, and data security in the country's financial ecosystem.
The Union Cabinet has approved several key projects covering various sectors like agriculture, energy, railway, and infrastructure among others. Details of the approved projects were shared with the media by Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw after the Cabinet meeting. These decisions will have a significant impact on the country's development and progress in the coming years.
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.