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ADB Grants $500 Million for Green Infrastructure and Solar Rooftops in India

The Asian Development Bank (ADB) has approved a $500 million loan to support India’s efforts to expand renewable energy and build climate-resilient infrastructure. The loan is part of ADB’s ongoing commitment to help India meet its sustainable development goals, particularly in the areas of renewable energy and infrastructure that can withstand the effects of climate change. This initiative will not only aid in reducing carbon emissions but also provide long-term solutions to address India’s vulnerability to natural disasters.

Solar Rooftop Systems Financing

ADB’s loan will provide financing for the installation of rooftop solar systems across India, channeling funds through Punjab National Bank (PNB). The initiative aims to help India scale its solar capacity, contributing to the government’s target of 40 gigawatts from solar rooftop systems by 2022. The financing includes $330 million from ADB and $170 million from the Clean Technology Fund. The solar project will reduce greenhouse gas emissions by approximately 11 million tons over the lifetime of the systems.

Strengthening India’s Green Infrastructure

In addition to renewable energy projects, ADB’s loan will also support the development of sustainable infrastructure to enhance India’s resilience against climate change. The loan is intended to help build infrastructure that can withstand floods, droughts, and cyclones, addressing India’s vulnerability to natural disasters. A significant portion of the funding will go to the India Infrastructure Finance Company Limited (IIFCL), which will oversee critical infrastructure projects in connectivity, energy transition, urban development, education, and healthcare.

Private Sector and Sustainability Initiatives

To ensure the success of these initiatives, ADB is focusing on integrating private sector investment into climate-resilient infrastructure projects. The IIFCL will play a key role in fostering such investments and promoting sustainable practices. A sustainability unit will be established to oversee the integration of green technologies into infrastructure projects, ensuring they meet India’s climate goals and adhere to high environmental standards. This effort marks a significant step towards bridging the climate financing gap, which is estimated to exceed $1 trillion.

ADB’s Long-Term Commitment to India’s Growth

ADB’s financing for green infrastructure aligns with India’s climate commitments under the Paris Agreement, where the country aims to reduce emissions intensity and increase the share of non-fossil-fuel power. This funding is crucial in bridging the gap between India’s growing infrastructure needs and the environmental challenges posed by climate change. ADB’s involvement is a testament to its ongoing efforts to support sustainable development in India and across the Asia-Pacific region.

Summary of the news

Why in News Key Points
ADB approves $500 million for Solar Rooftop & Green Infrastructure in India – Loan Amount: $500 million from ADB for rooftop solar systems and climate-resilient infrastructure.
– Solar Rooftop Funding: $330 million from ADB, $170 million from Clean Technology Fund.
– Target: 40 GW of solar rooftop capacity by 2022 under National Solar Mission.
– Green Infrastructure Focus: Climate-resilient infrastructure for floods, droughts, cyclones.
– IIFCL’s Role: Financing infrastructure projects in energy, education, healthcare, and urban development.
– Climate Goals: Reduce carbon emissions and support India’s Paris Agreement targets.
State Entities Involved – Punjab National Bank (PNB): Channeling ADB funds for rooftop solar installation projects.
– India Infrastructure Finance Company Ltd (IIFCL): Managing long-term capital for infrastructure projects.
Financial Details – Total Cost: $1 billion for Solar Rooftop Investment Program.
– Additional Investment: $300 million equity investment, $200 million in commercial loans.
Climate Action – India’s Target: Reduce emissions intensity by 33% from 2005 levels, 40% non-fossil fuel power by 2030.
– Global Climate Agreements: India ratified Paris Agreement.
ADB’s Role and Commitment – Headquarters: Manila, Philippines.
– Founded: 1966.
– Ownership: 67 members, 48 from Asia.
– Annual Financing for Climate: ADB committed to doubling to $6 billion by 2020.

“Dr. Dinesh Shahra Unveils Dalai Lama’s Secret to Happiness”

On December 12, 2024, Dr. Dinesh Shahra, a renowned philanthropist, author, and thought leader, launched his book, Dalai Lama’s Secret to Happiness, at the prestigious Library of Tibetan Works & Archives (LTWA) in Dharamshala. This event highlighted the significance of His Holiness the Dalai Lama’s teachings and their impact on promoting peace and happiness. The event was attended by scholars, dignitaries, and cultural representatives, all gathered to celebrate Tibetan culture, spirituality, and the wisdom shared through Dr. Shahra’s latest work.

Key Highlights of the Launch

Event Details

  • Date: December 12, 2024
  • Venue: Library of Tibetan Works & Archives, Dharamshala
  • Attendees: Director of LTWA, Geshe Lhakdor, scholars, monks, dignitaries, and the general public.
  • Cultural Significance: The library is an important institution for preserving Tibetan culture, especially after His Holiness the Dalai Lama’s refuge in India.

Book Overview

  • Dalai Lama’s Secret to Happiness explores the Dalai Lama’s teachings on inner peace, compassion, joy, and universal love.
  • The book shares timeless wisdom, reflecting Dr. Shahra’s dedication to spreading messages of happiness and peace.

Philanthropy Aspect

  • All proceeds from the book sales are donated to the Library of Tibetan Works & Archives.
  • This philanthropic gesture underscores Dr. Shahra’s commitment to supporting the preservation of Tibetan heritage and culture.

Cultural Performances

  • The launch event was complemented by cultural performances, showcasing Tibetan traditions and adding vibrancy to the celebration.

Personal Meeting with the Dalai Lama

  • Dr. Shahra met with His Holiness the Dalai Lama the following day, presenting him with a copy of his book and receiving his blessings.
  • His Holiness expressed gratitude for Dr. Shahra’s effort in bringing his teachings to a broader audience.

Scholarly Praise

  • Geshe Lhakdor, Director of LTWA, lauded Dr. Shahra’s dedication to sharing the Dalai Lama’s teachings and promoting Buddhist culture globally.

Ongoing Mission

  • Dr. Shahra, founder of the Dinesh Shahra Foundation, continues his work through initiatives aimed at promoting peace, happiness, and humanitarian causes worldwide.
Summary/Static Details
Why in the news? Dr. Dinesh Shahra, a renowned philanthropist, author, and thought leader, launched his book, Dalai Lama’s Secret to Happiness
Event Date December 12, 2024
Location Library of Tibetan Works & Archives, Dharamshala
Book Title Dalai Lama’s Secret to Happiness
Author Dr. Dinesh Shahra
Event Highlights – Cultural performances celebrating Tibetan traditions

– Speech by Geshe Lhakdor, Director of LTWA

– Dr. Shahra’s donation of book proceeds to LTWA
Book Themes Inner peace, universal love, compassion, joy
Philanthropic Aspect Proceeds donated to Library of Tibetan Works & Archives
Cultural Importance LTWA preserves Tibetan culture and spirituality
Meeting with Dalai Lama Dr. Shahra received blessings and praise for his initiative
Dr. Shahra’s Mission Spreading timeless wisdom, promoting sustainable humanitarian causes
Impact of the Book Shares Dalai Lama’s teachings with a global audience to promote happiness

At How Many Places is Kumbh Mela Held?

The Kumbh Mela is one of the biggest religious festivals in the world, where millions gather to take a holy dip in sacred rivers. It is celebrated at four important locations in India, each with deep spiritual significance. The event symbolizes faith, unity and the belief in cleansing sins for spiritual significance.

An Overview of Kumbh Mela

Kumbh Mela is a major Hindu festival held every 12 years at four riverbank sites: Prayagraj, Haridwar, Nashik and Ujjain. It features ritual bathing in sacred rivers, believed to cleanse sins, and includes fairs, religious discourses, and community gatherings. In 2019, it witnessed the largest peaceful gathering in history.

At How Many Places Kumbh Mela Held?

Kumbh Mela is held at four sacred places in India: Prayagraj, Haridwar, Ujjain and Nashik. Each city hosts the Mela based on specific celestial alignments. These locations are associated with holy rivers- Ganga, Yamuna, Saraswati, Kshipra and Godavari – where millions of devotees gather for spiritual rituals and blessings.

Prayagraj

Prayagraj, located in Uttar Pradesh, is one of the most important Kumbh Mela destinations. Here, the Mela takes place at the Triveni Sangam, the sacred confluence of three rivers.: Ganga, Yamuna and the mythical Saraswati.

  • Timing: The Mela is held in the Hindu month of Magh when Jupiter is in Taurus, and the Sun and Moon are in Capricorn.
  • Events: Maha Kumbh is organized every 12 years, while Ardh Kumbh takes place every 6 years.

Haridwar

Haridwar, in Uttarakhand, is a sacred city where the river Ganga flows. This city is considered one of the holiest places for Hindus.

  • Timing: The Kumbh Mela here occurs during the Hindu month of Chaitra when the Sun is in Aries, and Jupiter is in Aquarius.
  • Location: The celebrations take place along the banks of the Ganga, with millions of devotees bathing in its holy water.

Ujjain

The ancient city of Ujjain in Madhya Pradesh hosts the Kumbh Mela along the Kshipra River. This city holds great spiritual and historical significance.

  • Timing: The Mela is celebrated during the Hindu month of Vaisakha when Jupiter is in Leo, and the Sun is in Aries. Sometimes, it occurs when Jupiter, the Sun, and the Moon are in Libra.
  • Tradition: Ujjain’s peaceful atmosphere adds a unique charm to this grand event.

Nashik

Nashik, situated in Maharashtra, is a beautiful city on the banks of the Godavari River. It is deeply revered in Hindu culture.

  • Timing: The Kumbh Mela in Nashik is held in the Hindu Month of Bhadrapada when the Sun and Jupiter are in Leo.
  • Significance: The rituals and traditions here attract millions of devotees seeking spiritual blessings.

BMW and UNICEF Collaborate to Empower Rural India with STEM Education

BMW Group and UNICEF have partnered to revolutionize the educational landscape for 100,000 children in rural India, focusing on providing quality STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) education. The program targets marginalized girls in Assam, Jharkhand, Tamil Nadu, and West Bengal, aiming to bridge educational gaps and promote gender equality. This initiative is part of a broader global partnership between BMW and UNICEF, which seeks to impact over 10 million children worldwide.

Key Objectives of the Collaboration

The partnership will concentrate on foundational literacy and numeracy skills for primary school children, laying a strong cognitive base for advanced STEM learning. As these children transition into adolescence, the program will provide innovative, engaging learning experiences, particularly for girls, in low-cost maker spaces to spark curiosity, creativity, and problem-solving skills.

Targeted Impact for Marginalized Communities

Focusing on adolescent girls from Kasturba Gandhi Balika Vidyalayas and Tribal Ashramshalas, the program aims to reach the most marginalized groups in rural areas. The initiative will provide tailored teacher training in STEM instruction, addressing gender stereotypes, and empowering girls through leadership programs.

Strengthening Educational Foundations for Future Generations

The collaboration will establish maker spaces in schools to facilitate hands-on STEM learning, such as design thinking and computational analysis. This effort aligns with national goals for gender equality and inclusive education, ensuring long-term empowerment for underprivileged children in rural India.

BMW’s Commitment to Social Change

BMW Group’s partnership with UNICEF emphasizes the transformative power of education in empowering underprivileged girls, especially in STEM fields. “Education is the most powerful tool for empowerment,” said Vikram Pawah, President and CEO of BMW Group India, highlighting the importance of combining education with gender equality for greater societal impact.

Summary of the news

Why in News Key Points
BMW Group and UNICEF partner for STEM education in rural India – Focus on 100,000 children, especially adolescent girls in Assam, Jharkhand, Tamil Nadu, and West Bengal.
Partnership to promote gender equality and inclusive education – STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Maths) education for marginalized groups.
Program includes foundational literacy and numeracy skills – Aim to create low-cost maker spaces for hands-on learning.
Aimed at building cognitive foundation and critical thinking – Tailored teacher training in STEM with gender equality focus.
Global partnership between BMW and UNICEF – Global reach: Over 10 million children impacted annually in five countries.
BMW Group India details – BMW Group India has manufacturing plant in Chennai, headquartered in Gurgaon.
BMW Group India brands: BMW, MINI, and Motorrad – BMW India started operations in 2007, has over 80 touchpoints in India.
BMW India Financial Services – Established in 2010, offers Retail Finance, Commercial Finance, and Insurance Solutions.

Indian Film “The Kumbaya Story” Wins tve Global Sustainability Film Award

The Indian film “The Kumbaya Story” has achieved international recognition by winning the Transforming Society Short Film category at the 13th tve Global Sustainability Film Awards (GSFA). The event was held at the iconic BAFTA venue in London. This accolade underscores India’s growing influence in the realm of sustainability-focused storytelling. The awards celebrate powerful narratives that inspire solutions for a sustainable future.

Key Highlights

Winning Film: The Kumbaya Story

  • Produced by the Kumbaya Producer Co. Ltd.
  • Chronicles the journey of resilient women transforming their lives through weaving.
  • Depicts the establishment of the Kumbaya Producer Company.

Other Indian Achievements

“GOBUK – Harmony in the Highlands”

  • Produced by Greenhub India.
  • Shortlisted in the Young Filmmakers category.
  • Explores sustainable tourism.

“Laapataa Ladies”

  • India’s official Oscar 2025 entry in the Best International Feature category.
  • Shortlisted for the Founder’s Award.

International Recognition

Kenyan Film: “NAWI”

  • Won the Founder’s Award in the Feature category.
  • Focuses on the global issue of child brides.
  • Kenya’s official entry for the Oscars 2025.
  • Recognized at the 2024 Africa Movie Academy Awards.

Canadian Documentary: “500 Days in the Wild”

  • Won the Founder’s Award in the Docu-Feature category.
  • Chronicles a woman’s journey across Canada.
  • Canada’s official entry for the Oscars 2025.

Significance of the Awards

  • Organized by tve GSFA, now in its 13th year.
  • Recognizes impactful storytelling from business, non-profits, media, and creative sectors.
  • Promotes solutions for a sustainable and just world.

Founder’s Words

  • Surina Narula, founder of tve GSFA, highlighted the importance of films like “NAWI” in addressing critical global issues.
  • Stressed the role of cinema in driving awareness and change.
Summary/Static Details
Why in the news? Indian Film “The Kumbaya Story” Wins tve Global Sustainability Film Award
Winning Indian Film “The Kumbaya Story” – Transforming Society Short Film category
Highlight of the Film Showcases women’s empowerment through weaving and establishing the Kumbaya Producer Company
Other Indian Achievements “GOBUK” (Young Filmmakers category), “Laapataa Ladies” (Shortlisted for Founder’s Award)
International Winners “NAWI” (Kenyan Feature Film), “500 Days in the Wild” (Canadian Documentary)
Significance Celebrates impactful sustainability-themed storytelling
Founder’s Message Films play a vital role in addressing pressing global issues and inspiring change

Delhi Govt. Announces ₹2,100 Monthly Aid for Women

In a strategic move ahead of the Delhi Assembly elections, Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal has unveiled the Mukhya Mantri Mahila Samman Yojana, promising to increase financial assistance for eligible women from ₹1,000 to ₹2,100 per month post-elections. This initiative, aimed at empowering women financially, was announced at an event with a large gathering of AAP’s women supporters. The scheme, which mirrors successful programs in other states like Madhya Pradesh and Maharashtra, will begin registration on December 13, 2024, with a focus on women aged 18 and above who do not pay taxes or receive government pension.

Key Details of Mukhya Mantri Mahila Samman Yojana:

  • Registration Begins: December 13, 2024.
  • Eligibility: Women aged 18 and above, not employed in government jobs, and not paying GST or income tax.
  • Financial Aid: ₹2,100 per month after elections, increased from the earlier ₹1,000.
  • Scheme Objective: To support women with no formal income, enhancing their financial independence.
  • Impact on Elections: The AAP sees this as a critical factor in boosting its chances in the upcoming polls, aiming to secure over 60 seats by mobilizing women voters.

Opposition and Criticism

The BJP has raised doubts over the scheme, accusing Kejriwal of repeating unfulfilled promises, citing a similar pledge made in Punjab during the 2022 elections. Delhi BJP president Virendra Sachdeva questioned the feasibility and delivery of such promises, pointing out discrepancies in past electoral pledges.

Past & Present Context

Previously, the Delhi government had introduced several welfare schemes, including free electricity, which Kejriwal claims were successful. This new financial aid initiative follows a pattern of direct welfare measures targeting specific voter groups, similar to the Ladli Behna schemes of BJP in Madhya Pradesh and Maharashtra, which contributed to electoral victories. The AAP aims to replicate such successes by enhancing its outreach to women, a vital demographic.

Financial Backing and Budget Allocation

The scheme will be funded with an allocation of ₹2,000 crore under the Delhi government’s budget. It is expected to benefit around 45 lakh women, significantly influencing the political landscape in the capital. Kejriwal expressed confidence that the scheme, along with other welfare measures, will ensure AAP’s success in the upcoming assembly elections.

Summary of the news

Why in News Key Points
Delhi Govt. announced ₹2,100 aid for women under Mukhya Mantri Mahila Samman Yojana ahead of elections. Scheme Name: Mukhya Mantri Mahila Samman Yojana.
Objective: To provide ₹2,100 per month to eligible women in Delhi.
Eligibility: Women aged 18 and above, not employed with government, not paying GST or income tax.
Budget Allocation: ₹2,000 crore.
Expected Beneficiaries: Around 45 lakh women.
Launch Date: Registration begins on December 13, 2024.
State: Delhi CM: Arvind Kejriwal, Capital: New Delhi.
Opposition: BJP raised doubts about the scheme’s feasibility, citing past unfulfilled promises. BJP’s Criticism: Questioned why similar schemes were not implemented in Punjab despite prior announcements.
Key Feature: The scheme offers ₹2,100 per month to women after elections, raised from ₹1,000. Scheme Start: Financial aid to begin post-elections after Model Code of Conduct, first installment may be before elections if Code applies.
AAP’s Strategy: Scheme aims to boost electoral support from women voters. Chief Minister Atishi: Announced the scheme details along with Arvind Kejriwal.
Comparison: Similar to Ladli Behna schemes in Madhya Pradesh and Maharashtra. Scheme Impact: Expected to boost AAP’s chances in Delhi elections.
Political Context: AAP’s attempt to replicate success from other states through targeted welfare measures. Election Timeline: Delhi Assembly elections due in February 2024.

Industrial Output Growth Slows to 3.5% in October 2024

India’s industrial output growth slowed to 3.5% in October 2024, a sharp drop from 11.9% recorded in the same month last year. The Index of Industrial Production (IIP) for October 2024 stood at 149.9, up from 144.9 in October 2023. The slowdown was driven by weaker performance in the mining, electricity, and manufacturing sectors, as per data released by the Ministry of Statistics.

Sectoral Performance

Manufacturing Growth: The manufacturing sector grew by 4.1% in October 2024, compared to 10.6% in October 2023. Positive growth was recorded in 18 out of 23 industry groups, with notable contributors including:

  • Basic metals: 3.5% growth
  • Electrical equipment: 33.1% growth
  • Coke and refined petroleum products: 5.6% growth

Within basic metals, pipes, galvanised products, and mild steel bars led the segment. Electrical equipment growth was driven by electric heaters, small transformers, and optical fibre connectors.

Mining and Electricity: Mining expanded marginally by 0.9%, while electricity grew by 2.0%.

Use-Based Classification

All segments under the use-based classification showed growth:

  • Infrastructure/construction goods: 4.0%
  • Consumer durables: 5.9%
  • Consumer non-durables: 2.7%
  • Capital goods: 3.1%
  • Intermediate goods: 3.7%
  • Primary goods: 2.6%

Year-to-Date Trends

From April to October 2024, industrial output rose by 4.0%, down from 7.0% in the same period the previous year. Revised estimates for September 2024 and final figures for July 2024 were released, with response rates of 94% and 91%, respectively.

Employment and Economic Implications

The manufacturing sector, contributing over three-fourths to the IIP, plays a crucial role in generating employment, especially for engineering graduates. Growth in capital goods, a key investment indicator, suggests potential multiplier effects on jobs and income in the future.

Outlook

The industrial growth rate for November 2024 will be released on January 10, 2025. The October data underscores the need to monitor sectoral performances closely to sustain economic recovery and growth momentum.

Summary of the news

Why in News Key Points
India’s Industrial Output Growth Slows to 3.5% in October 2024 – IIP Growth: 3.5% in October 2024, down from 11.9% in October 2023
– Manufacturing Sector Growth: 4.1% in October 2024 (down from 10.6% in October 2023)
– Mining Sector Growth: 0.9%
– Electricity Sector Growth: 2.0%
– Positive Growth in 18 of 23 Manufacturing Groups
– Key Contributors: Basic metals (3.5%), Electrical equipment (33.1%), Coke and refined petroleum products (5.6%)
– Use-based classification growth: Consumer durables (5.9%), Capital goods (3.1%), Infrastructure goods (4.0%)
– IIP stood at 149.9 in October 2024, up from 144.9 in October 2023
– Year-to-date (April-October) IIP Growth: 4%, down from 7% last year
Sector-wise Key Data – Manufacturing: 4.1%
– Mining: 0.9%
– Electricity: 2.0%
– Infrastructure goods: 4.0%
– Consumer durables: 5.9%
– Capital goods: 3.1%
Official Data Released – Ministry of Statistics, IIP Data Release
Future Data Release – November 2024 IIP Data: Scheduled for January 10, 2025

Bangladesh Court Stays ‘Joy Bangla’ Slogan Decision

The Supreme Court of Bangladesh has stayed a High Court verdict that declared ‘Joy Bangla’ as the country’s national slogan. The slogan, popularized by Sheikh Mujibur Rahman during Bangladesh’s liberation movement, had been officially recognized as the national slogan under the previous government led by his daughter, Sheikh Hasina. The Supreme Court’s decision comes amidst political shifts and changes in government policy, highlighting the complexities surrounding national identity and governance in Bangladesh.

Key Developments

  • High Court Verdict of 2020: On March 10, 2020, the High Court of Bangladesh declared ‘Joy Bangla’ as the national slogan, mandating its use at state functions and in educational institutions.
  • Official Recognition Under Hasina’s Government: The decision was implemented by the Awami League-led government, which issued a gazette notification on March 2, 2022, affirming ‘Joy Bangla’ as the national slogan.
  • Change of Government: Following student protests on August 5, 2024, Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina fled to India, and an interim government led by Chief Adviser Muhammad Yunus assumed power on August 8.
  • Supreme Court Stay Order: On December 2, 2024, the state filed a petition with the Supreme Court seeking to overturn the High Court’s 2020 ruling. 
  • A four-member bench headed by Chief Justice Syed Refaat Ahmed stayed the verdict, asserting that the decision on a national slogan is a matter of government policy, beyond judicial intervention.

Arguments Presented

Government’s Stance

  • The national slogan is a policy decision, and judicial rulings on such matters infringe on executive authority.
  • The change aligns with the interim government’s focus on redefining state symbols and priorities.

Supreme Court Ruling

  • The Appellate Division stated that ‘Joy Bangla’ cannot be considered the national slogan under its stay order.

Opposition to the Decision

  • Critics view the removal of ‘Joy Bangla’ and changes to other symbols as undermining the legacy of Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, widely regarded as the “Father of the Nation.”

Contextual Changes

  • Bangabandhu’s Image Removed: Bangladesh Bank has begun printing new currency notes featuring the student uprising of July 2024 but excluding Sheikh Mujibur Rahman’s image.
  • August 15 Holiday Revoked: The interim government’s advisory council decided to remove August 15, the day of Sheikh Mujibur Rahman’s assassination, as a national holiday.
  • Political Realignment: These moves signify a broader shift in national narratives under the new administration.
  • Additional Ruling on Mourning Day: On December 1, 2024, the apex court also stayed a separate High Court decision designating August 15 as a national mourning day and public holiday.
Summary/Static Details
Why in the news? The Supreme Court of Bangladesh has stayed a High Court verdict that declared ‘Joy Bangla’ as the country’s national slogan.
Recognition by Hasina Govt Official gazette issued in 2022 to formalize ‘Joy Bangla’ as the national slogan.
Change of Government The interim govt led by Muhammad Yunus replaced Hasina after August 5 protests.
Supreme Court Stay (2024) SC ruled the national slogan as a policy matter, stayed the HC’s 2020 verdict.
Removal of Symbols Currency notes and August 15 holiday altered to reflect the new government’s stance.
Criticism Viewed as eroding Sheikh Mujibur Rahman’s legacy and historical contributions.

Longest Train Route in India by 2024, List of Top-10 Longest Train Routes

India’s railway system is one of the biggest in the world, connecting cities, towns and villages with a wide network of tracks. It makes travel easy and helps people move smoothly across the country. These long train routes allow people to visit faraway places, experience new things, and enjoy India’s rich diversity. This article will look at the longest train routes in India.

Indian Railway System

Indian Railways, under the Ministry of Railways, operates India’s national railway system, the world’s fourth largest. With 132,310 km of track, 96.59% electrified by 2024, it employs over 1.2 million people, making it India’s second-largest employer. Founded in 1951, it merged 42 railway companies and now has 18 regional zones.

Top-10 Longest Train Routes in India 2024

The longest train route in India is from Kanyakumari to Dibrugarh, covered by Vivek Express. This incredible journey spans 4,154.1 km, passing through 8 Indian states and taking around 75 hours to complete.

Here is the list of Top-10 longest train routes in India:

S. No. Train Name Route Distance (in km) Time
1. Vivek Express Kanyakumari- Dibrugarh 4,154.1 75 hrs 30 min
2. Aronai Superfast Express Thiruvananthapuram Central- Silchar 3915.5 71 hrs 45 min
3. Himsagar Express Kanyakumari- Shri Mata Vaishnu Devi Katra 3788.7 68 hrs 20 min
4. Ten Jammu Express Tirunelveli Junction- Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Katra 3642 71 hrs 20 min
5. New Tinsukia- Bengaluru Weekly Express Bangalore- New Tinsukia 3,642 65 hrs
6. Humsafar Express Agartala- Banglore Cantonment 3599 64 hrs 15 min
7. Silchar- Coimbatore SF Express Silchar- Coimbatore 3,544 64 hrs 15 min
8. Avadh Assam Express Dibrugarh- Lal Garh Junction 3,118 66 hrs 25 min
9. Kochuveli- Dehradun SF Express Kochuveli- Yog Nagari Rishikesh 3110.6 52.5 hrs
10. Yesvantpur Kamakhya AC SF Express Yesvantpur- Kamakhya 3025 52.5 hrs

India’s Longest Train Route: Kanyakumari- Dibrugarh

  • Train name: Vivek Express
  • Route: Kanyakumari- Dibrugarh
  • Distance: 4,218.6 km
  • Time: 74 hours 35 minutes

The Kanyakumari- Dibrugarh Vivek Superfast Express is a special train that travels all the way from Dibrugarh in Assam to Kanyakumari in Tamil Nadu. It is the longest train route in India,  taking about 74 hours 35 minutes to cover a distance of 4,218.6 km. This train passes through eight states, giving people chance to sea different places. Vivek Express (now Vivek Superfast Express) are four pairs of express trains that were announced in the Railway-Budget of 2011-12. These trains were started to commemorate the 150th birth anniversary of Swami Vivekananda.

Second longest train route in India: Thiruvananthapuram Central- Silchar

  • Train name: Aronai Superfast Express
  • Route: Thiruvananthapuram Central- Silchar
  • Distance: 3,932 km
  • Time: 74 hours and 44 minutes

The Thiruvananthapuram Central- Silchar Aronai Superfast Express runs between Thiruvananthapuram Central and Silchar. It’s a long journey, taking 74 hours and 44 minutes to cover a distance of 3,932 km. This train goes through 8 states in India. It was first started between Thiruvananthapuram Central and Guwahati, but later it was extended to Silchar. It is now the longest-running superfast train and the second longest running train in India.

Third Longest Train Route in India:  Kanyakumari- Shri Mata Vaishnu Devi Katra

  • Train name: Himsagar Express
  • Route: Kanyakumari- Shri Mata Vaishnu Devi Katra
  • Distance: 3787 km
  • Time: 72 hours

The Himsagar Express is a weekly Indian train that travels from Kanyakumari to Shri Mata Vaishnu Devi Katra. It is the 36th longest train in India and third longest train in India. The journey takes about 72 hours to cover a distance of 3787 km, passing through 12 Indian States and stoppage at 73 stations.

Tirunelveli Junction- Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Katra

Train Name: Ten Jammu Express

Route: Tirunelveli Junction- Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Katra

Distance: 3642 km

Time: 71 hours and 20 min

The Ten Jammu Express, operating as Train 16787/16788, is a weekly railway service linking Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Katra in Jammu and Kashmir with Tirunelveli Junction in Tamil Nadu. Covering 3,633 km in about 69 hours, it is the world’s 40th largest train route and the fourth longest within Indian Railways, crossing 13 states with 64 stopes.

Bangalore- New Tinsukia

Train Name: New Tinsukia- Bengaluru Weekly Express

Distance: 3,642 km

Time Taken: 65 hrs

The New Tinsukia- Bengaluru Weekly Express, with the train numbers 22501/02, operates as a weekly Superfast train service. It serves as a vital rail link connecting Tinsukia, the easternmost town in Assam, to the bustling metropolis of Bengaluru in South India. This train offers various coach classes, including AC 1st class, 2-tier, 3-tier and sleeper-class coaches. As of 2023, it ranks as the fifth longest train route within the Indian Railways network, covering an impressive total distance of 3,542 kilometers.

President Murmu Confers Honorary General Rank to Nepal Army Chief

President Droupadi Murmu, honored Nepal’s Army Chief, General Ashok Raj Sigdel, with the prestigious honorary rank of ‘General of the Indian Army.’ This event, held at the Rashtrapati Bhavan, reflects the enduring tradition of mutual respect and deep military ties between India and Nepal, which dates back to 1950. This ceremony also emphasizes the shared commitment of both nations to further strengthen their defense collaboration and friendly relations.

Key Highlights

Ceremony Details

  • The honorary rank of ‘General of the Indian Army’ was conferred on General Ashok Raj Sigdel by President Droupadi Murmu at a special investiture ceremony in Rashtrapati Bhavan.
  • The recognition celebrates General Sigdel’s commendable military skills and contributions to fostering the long-standing and friendly association between India and Nepal.

Tradition Since 1950

  • A unique tradition of conferring honorary military titles has been maintained between the two countries since 1950.
  • Indian Army chiefs receive the honorary rank of ‘General of Nepal Army,’ while Nepal Army chiefs receive the honorary rank of ‘General of Indian Army.’

Significance of General Sigdel’s Visit

  • General Sigdel’s visit to India commenced on December 11, 2024, and spans four days, concluding on December 14, 2024.
  • The visit is aimed at bolstering the defense ties between the two nations, underscoring the shared commitment to regional security and cooperation.

Recent Reciprocal Honor

  • Nepal’s President Ramchandra Paudel recently conferred the honorary rank of ‘General of Nepal Army’ on Indian Army Chief General Upendra Dwivedi during a ceremony in Kathmandu.

Strategic Importance

  • These exchanges highlight the robust defense partnership and mutual respect between India and Nepal.
  • Military cooperation between the two countries is central to fostering stability and security in the region.
Summary/Static Details
Why in the news? President Murmu confers honorary rank of General on Nepal’s army chief
Occasion Special investiture ceremony at Rashtrapati Bhavan
Significance Symbolizes military prowess and strengthens India-Nepal defense ties
Tradition Ongoing since 1950, reciprocal honorary ranks for Army Chiefs of both nations
General Sigdel’s Visit December 11-14, 2024; aims to deepen defense cooperation between India and Nepal
Reciprocal Honor Indian Army Chief General Upendra Dwivedi honored in Nepal by President Ramchandra Paudel
Strategic Outcome Reinforces regional security, mutual respect, and collaborative defense efforts

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Welcome to the Current Affairs Section of Adda247. If you are preparing for Government Job Exams, then it is very important for you to read the Daily Current Affairs. All the important updates based on current affairs are included in this Daily Current Affairs 2024 article.

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