Union Cabinet approved the policy for long-term leasing of the Indian Railway

The Union Cabinet has approved the proposal for long-term leasing of the Indian Railway to implement the PM Gati Shakti framework. Anurag Thakur, the central minister, said 300 Gati Shakti Terminal will be developed over the 5 years.

PM Gati Shakti is a digital platform launched by PM Narendra Modi, to bring 16 ministries together including railways, shipping, civil aviation, and roadways. This plan was launched in October 2021 for the planning and implementation of infrastructure connectivity projects.

The aim of this project is to increase railway modal share in freight transportation to 45% and lessen the logistic cost. It’ll enhance more cargos to railways. It will create more revenue for Indian railways and create 1.2 lakhs employment in the economy. This plan will be implemented in the coming 90 days.

PM Gati Shakti helps in incorporating the infrastructure schemes of various State Governments and Ministries like Bharatmala, Inland waterways, dry/land ports, etc. This will also develop public utilities like electricity, water supply, pipeline roads, sewage disposal, drains, etc.

The union Education Minster, Dharmendra Pradhan said the union cabinet has approved PM-SHRI schools (PM schools for rising India). Under this scheme, 14,500 schools will be upgraded across the country over 5 years. The center contributes Rs.18,128 crores which will be benefited 1.8 million students.