IRFCA is an electronic mailing list or discussion group connecting many railfans particularly interested in railways in India, and with links to other railfan groups around the world. As of June 2008, there are about 6,000 members in the group. Mail traffic is moderately heavy, and runs around 30 to 50 messages a day most of the time. You can subscribe to a digest version, or just check the discussions on the web, if it is inconvenient to receive individual messages in your mailbox. Topics of discussion cover just about any aspect of railways in India. Discussions are in the English language.
Topics on IRFCA cover anything and everything having to do with trains in India! Many members are interested in current passenger services, routes, timetables, etc. Others are more interested in technical details of railway operations, motive power, rolling stock, etc. Yet others are interested in historical aspects of trains in India and the subcontinent. We also get travelogues and descriptions of railfanning trips made by members. Occasionally we also discuss railways in neighbouring countries or elsewhere in the world.
Members of IRFCA are also engaged in documenting railways in India photographically and otherwise (see the main page and the links there to the photo gallery, members' web pages, documents on IR, etc.).
Some members are also engaged in preservation and heritage awareness-building activities, and other activities related to IR, although those are not officially within the scope of the IRFCA mailing list.
Custom Search
Monday, November 24, 2008
Area Covered
Andhra Pradesh : Guntur, Hyderabad, Secunderabad
Assam : Guwahati
Bihar : Patna, Bhagalpur, Muzaffarpur, Jamsedpur, Bokaro,
Bilaspur
Chandigarh : Chandigarh
Daman : Silvasa
Delhi : Delhi
Goa : Mapusa, Margao, Panjim, Ponda, Vasco
Gujarat : Ahmedabad, Anand, Bhavnagar, Gandhinagar,
Jamnagar, Rajkot, Surat, Vadodara, Vapi
Haryana : Ambala, Bahadurgarh, Ballabgarh, Karnal,
Hissar, Yamunanagar, Panipat, Gurgaon, Faridabad, Panchkula
Himachal Pradesh : Baddi, Shimla
Jammu&Kashmir : Jammu, Srinagar
Jharkhand : Ranchi
Karnataka : Bangalore, Mangalore, Mysore
Kerela : Kochi
Madhya Pradesh : Bhopal, Gwalior, Indore, Jabalpur, Ratlam,
Rewa, Ujjain
Maharashtra : Aurangabad, Mumbai, Nagpur, Pune, Thane
Orissa : Bhuvaneshwar
Pondicherry : Pondicherry
Punjab : Abohar, Amritsar, Bhatinda,
Ferozpur, Hoshiarpur, Jalandhar, Ludhiana, Pathankot, Patiala
Rajasthan : Ajmer, Jaipur, Jodhpur, Kota, Udaipur
Tamil Nadu : Coimbatore, Chennai, Madurai
Uttar Pradesh : Agra, Alahabad, Aligarh, Barielly, Bijnore,
Budayun, Chandausi, Dadri, Firozabad, Hathras, Izzatnagar,
Jhansi, Kanpur, Lucknow, Mathura, Meerut, Moradabad,
Muzaffar Nagar, Mirzapur, Saharanpur, Shahjahanpur, Varanasi,
Vrindavan, Ghaziabad, Noida, Greater Noida, Hapur
Uttarakhand : Dehradun, Haldwani, Nainital, Rishikesh, Roorkee
West Bengal : Kolkata, Howrah, Siliguri
Assam : Guwahati
Bihar : Patna, Bhagalpur, Muzaffarpur, Jamsedpur, Bokaro,
Bilaspur
Chandigarh : Chandigarh
Daman : Silvasa
Delhi : Delhi
Goa : Mapusa, Margao, Panjim, Ponda, Vasco
Gujarat : Ahmedabad, Anand, Bhavnagar, Gandhinagar,
Jamnagar, Rajkot, Surat, Vadodara, Vapi
Haryana : Ambala, Bahadurgarh, Ballabgarh, Karnal,
Hissar, Yamunanagar, Panipat, Gurgaon, Faridabad, Panchkula
Himachal Pradesh : Baddi, Shimla
Jammu&Kashmir : Jammu, Srinagar
Jharkhand : Ranchi
Karnataka : Bangalore, Mangalore, Mysore
Kerela : Kochi
Madhya Pradesh : Bhopal, Gwalior, Indore, Jabalpur, Ratlam,
Rewa, Ujjain
Maharashtra : Aurangabad, Mumbai, Nagpur, Pune, Thane
Orissa : Bhuvaneshwar
Pondicherry : Pondicherry
Punjab : Abohar, Amritsar, Bhatinda,
Ferozpur, Hoshiarpur, Jalandhar, Ludhiana, Pathankot, Patiala
Rajasthan : Ajmer, Jaipur, Jodhpur, Kota, Udaipur
Tamil Nadu : Coimbatore, Chennai, Madurai
Uttar Pradesh : Agra, Alahabad, Aligarh, Barielly, Bijnore,
Budayun, Chandausi, Dadri, Firozabad, Hathras, Izzatnagar,
Jhansi, Kanpur, Lucknow, Mathura, Meerut, Moradabad,
Muzaffar Nagar, Mirzapur, Saharanpur, Shahjahanpur, Varanasi,
Vrindavan, Ghaziabad, Noida, Greater Noida, Hapur
Uttarakhand : Dehradun, Haldwani, Nainital, Rishikesh, Roorkee
West Bengal : Kolkata, Howrah, Siliguri
Wednesday, October 15, 2008
Suburban City
This is a suburban city and also called as South Gate of greater Chennai, which is situated 27 Km away from Chennai Metropolitan City . This city is a hub to all major destinations from Chennai to south Tamilanadu. as it lies on the busy Chennai–Trichy national highway. The Chennai Subaraban Railway has its Terminus of Chennai Beach to Tambaram EMU railway line here.
Many number of Engineering Colleges are located around this city include Bharath Deemed University , Dhanalakshmi College of Engineering and Sri Sai Ram Engg college. Madras Christian College (MCC) and Sivanandha Orpahanage is a well known Landmark of Tambaram township. The notable schools in the Tambaram include Good Earth,Christ King Higher Secondary School, Corley High School, Sri Sankara Vidyalaya,Zion Matriculation School and St Mary's School.
A very well known Tourist place Arignar Anna Zoolagical Park situated in Vandalur, very near to Tambaram township houses some rare species of wild flora and fauna and is famous throughout India.
Tambaram is a nerve centre of many villages and suburbs like Padappai,Seliyur,Agaram, Madambakkam and Madipakkam.
The Madras Export Processing Zone (MEPZ)is located in Tambaram, One of Tamil Nadu's Special Economic Zones. Many Call centers and Garment Manufacturing unit are situated in this zone.
Shanmugam Road, Tambaram the only long Road which is considered as the heart line of Tambaram and is camparable to Ranganathan Street in T.Nagar, Chennai.
National Siddha Centre is recently built and inaugurated by our Honourable Prime Minister of India Dr. Manmohan Singh.
Many number of Engineering Colleges are located around this city include Bharath Deemed University , Dhanalakshmi College of Engineering and Sri Sai Ram Engg college. Madras Christian College (MCC) and Sivanandha Orpahanage is a well known Landmark of Tambaram township. The notable schools in the Tambaram include Good Earth,Christ King Higher Secondary School, Corley High School, Sri Sankara Vidyalaya,Zion Matriculation School and St Mary's School.
A very well known Tourist place Arignar Anna Zoolagical Park situated in Vandalur, very near to Tambaram township houses some rare species of wild flora and fauna and is famous throughout India.
Tambaram is a nerve centre of many villages and suburbs like Padappai,Seliyur,Agaram, Madambakkam and Madipakkam.
The Madras Export Processing Zone (MEPZ)is located in Tambaram, One of Tamil Nadu's Special Economic Zones. Many Call centers and Garment Manufacturing unit are situated in this zone.
Shanmugam Road, Tambaram the only long Road which is considered as the heart line of Tambaram and is camparable to Ranganathan Street in T.Nagar, Chennai.
National Siddha Centre is recently built and inaugurated by our Honourable Prime Minister of India Dr. Manmohan Singh.
Hotels in Chennai
1. Taj Fishermans Cove (From Rs 14008)
2. The Park (From Rs 14008)
3. Le Royal Meridien (From Rs 12733)
4. Trident Hilton Hotel (From Rs 11023)
5. Asiana Hotel (From Rs 9863)
6. Fortune Select Palms (From Rs 9281)
7. The Rain Tree (From Rs 8704)
8. Hotel Radisson GRT Hotel (From Rs 7726)
9. The Accord Metropolitan (From Rs 7640)
10. The Pride Hotel (From Rs 6379)
11. Savera (From Rs 5728)
12. Radha Regent (From Rs 5728)
13. Ambassador Pallava (From Rs 5518)
14. Hotel Green Park (From Rs 5219)
15. Raj Park (From Rs 5107)
16. Benzz Park Tulip (From Rs 4932)
17. Sabari Classic (From Rs 4814)
18. MGM Beach Resorts (From Rs 4730)
19. Quality Inn Sabari (From Rs 4281)
20. Days Inn Deccan Plaza (From Rs 4059)
21. Star City Crescent Park Street (From Rs 4059)
22. Esthell Continental (From Rs 3974)
23. Green Coconut Resorts (From Rs 3963)
24. Buena Vista Beach Resort (From Rs 3821)
25. The Aruna Chennai (From Rs 3625)
26. Hotel Aadithya (From Rs 3481)
27. Beverly (From Rs 3481)
28. Harrisons Hotel (From Rs 3481)
29. Comfort Inn Marina Towers (From Rs 3374)
30. Star City Bazullah Road (From Rs 3364)
31. Shelter Beach Resort (From Rs 3247)
32. Hotel Shelter (From Rs 3191)
33. The League Club (From Rs 3184)
34. Grand Orient (From Rs 3143)
35. Eastwoods (From Rs 3074)
36. Vestin Park (From Rs 3041)
37. Inn Chennai Apartment Hotel (From Rs 2959)
38. Hotel Shan Royal (From Rs 2930)
39. Star City Santhome (From Rs 2899)
40. The Vijay Park (From Rs 2787)
41. Arunachalla Inn (From Rs 2758)
42. Hotel Abu Palace (From Rs 2738)
43. Southern Crest (From Rs 2670)
44. Hotel Chariot (From Rs 2552)
45. The Royal Regency (From Rs 2538)
46. Hotel Royal Plaza (From Rs 2426)
47. Grand Residence (From Rs 2393)
48. Hotel Sakithyan (From Rs 2228)
49. Hotel Manhattan (From Rs 2208)
50. SRM Hotel (From Rs 2205)
51. Nilgiris Nest (From Rs 2166)
52. Hotel President (From Rs 2095)
53. GLM Meridian (From Rs 2087)
54. Hotel Raj Palace (From Rs 2037)
55. Hotel Henkala (From Rs 2037)
56. Star City Kottivakkam OMR (From Rs 2030)
57. Hotel Park View (From Rs 1913)
58. Chennai Gateway (From Rs 1909)
59. VGP Golden Beach Resort (From Rs 1909)
60. Star City Nungambakkam (From Rs 1857)
61. Kences Inn (From Rs 1857)
62. Hotel Maathus (From Rs 1827)
63. Hotel Ranjith (From Rs 1780)
64. Hotel Crystal Residency (From Rs 1764)
65. The Royal Star (From Rs 1739)
66. Hotel Chennai Deluxe (From Rs 1731)
67. Liberty Park Hotel (From Rs 1718)
68. Hotel Ganga International (From Rs 1683)
69. Hotel Mount Heera (From Rs 1657)
70. Hotel Dee Cee Manor (From Rs 1657)
71. Hotel Brownstar (From Rs 1590)
72. Thulashi Park (From Rs 1509)
73. The Mount Manor (From Rs 1509)
74. Hotel Maurya International (From Rs 1434)
75. New Victoria Hotel (From Rs 1392)
76. Sea Shell Residency (From Rs 1392)
77. Sreeja Excellency (From Rs 1270)
78. Hotel MGM Grand (From Rs 1244)
79. New Woodlands Hotel (From Rs 1177)
80. Sri Devi Park (From Rs 1162)
81. Goldmine Hotels (From Rs 1150)
82. Hotel Surya International (From Rs 1119)
83. Krishna Residency (From Rs 1119)
84. Hotel Kanchi (Geetha Hotels Pvt Ltd) (From Rs 1088)
85. Hotel Royal Paris (From Rs 1075)
86. Aspni Inn (From Rs 1020)
87. Hotel Gokulam Park (From Rs 998)
88. The Tidel Residency (From Rs 998)
89. Prema Palace (From Rs 997)
90. Hotel Dreamz Park (From Rs 960)
91. City Residency (From Rs 954)
92. The Orchid Inn (From Rs 933)
93. Hotel Blue Diamond (From Rs 933)
94. Hotel Sky Park (From Rs 873)
95. Golden Tower (From Rs 867)
96. Hotel Pratap Plaza (From Rs 851)
97. Hotel Pandian (From Rs 830)
98. Hotel Metro Manor (From Rs 790)
99. Hotel Nirmal Dakshin (From Rs 790)
100. Hotel Raaj Bhavan (From Rs 746)
101. Guruprakash Hotels (From Rs 746)
102. Raj Residency (From Rs 697)
103. Hotel Maps Inn (From Rs 686)
104. Hotel Lake View Park (From Rs 680)
105. Hotel Krishna Palace (From Rs 653)
106. Hotel Deluxe Inn (From Rs 621)
107. Hotel Guru (From Rs 621)
108. Hotel Anitha Towers (From Rs 609)
109. Chennai Residency (From Rs 593)
110. Hotel Leo Park (From Rs 592)
111. Hotel Melody (From Rs 565)
112. Picnic Hotel (From Rs 565)
113. Hotel Ambica Empire (From Rs 552)
114. Hotel Sudhara (From Rs 536)
115. Hotel Manickam Grand (From Rs 511)
116. Stay In Tour Home (From Rs 511)
117. Hotel Greens (From Rs 500)
118. A L A Bhavan Boarding & Lodging (From Rs 484)
119. Hotel Sudha (From Rs 478)
120. Hotel Comfort (From Rs 478)
121. Sarovara Delux Rooms Lodge (From Rs 462)
122. MC Feesa Residency (From Rs 456)
123. Hotel Lions India (From Rs 440)
124. Hotel Karpagam International (From Rs 420)
125. Hotel Sree Krishna (From Rs 403)
126. Broadlands Lodging House (From Rs 401)
127. Green Palace (From Rs 401)
128. AGP Guest House (From Rs 390)
129. Hotel Singapore (From Rs 379)
130. Hotel Surath Palace Lodge (From Rs 379)
131. Hotel Sakthipriya (From Rs 363)
132. ABC Guest House (From Rs 363)
133. Hotel Urvashi International (From Rs 346)
134. Hotel Bharani (From Rs 346)
135. Hotel Blue Star (From Rs 334)
136. Hotel Mallika (From Rs 291)
137. Best Guest House (From Rs 291)
138. Hotel A.K.Palace (From Rs 284)
139. Hotel Parkway (From Rs 258)
140. Victory Mansion Lodge (From Rs 236)
141. Jan Lodge (From Rs 93)
2. The Park (From Rs 14008)
3. Le Royal Meridien (From Rs 12733)
4. Trident Hilton Hotel (From Rs 11023)
5. Asiana Hotel (From Rs 9863)
6. Fortune Select Palms (From Rs 9281)
7. The Rain Tree (From Rs 8704)
8. Hotel Radisson GRT Hotel (From Rs 7726)
9. The Accord Metropolitan (From Rs 7640)
10. The Pride Hotel (From Rs 6379)
11. Savera (From Rs 5728)
12. Radha Regent (From Rs 5728)
13. Ambassador Pallava (From Rs 5518)
14. Hotel Green Park (From Rs 5219)
15. Raj Park (From Rs 5107)
16. Benzz Park Tulip (From Rs 4932)
17. Sabari Classic (From Rs 4814)
18. MGM Beach Resorts (From Rs 4730)
19. Quality Inn Sabari (From Rs 4281)
20. Days Inn Deccan Plaza (From Rs 4059)
21. Star City Crescent Park Street (From Rs 4059)
22. Esthell Continental (From Rs 3974)
23. Green Coconut Resorts (From Rs 3963)
24. Buena Vista Beach Resort (From Rs 3821)
25. The Aruna Chennai (From Rs 3625)
26. Hotel Aadithya (From Rs 3481)
27. Beverly (From Rs 3481)
28. Harrisons Hotel (From Rs 3481)
29. Comfort Inn Marina Towers (From Rs 3374)
30. Star City Bazullah Road (From Rs 3364)
31. Shelter Beach Resort (From Rs 3247)
32. Hotel Shelter (From Rs 3191)
33. The League Club (From Rs 3184)
34. Grand Orient (From Rs 3143)
35. Eastwoods (From Rs 3074)
36. Vestin Park (From Rs 3041)
37. Inn Chennai Apartment Hotel (From Rs 2959)
38. Hotel Shan Royal (From Rs 2930)
39. Star City Santhome (From Rs 2899)
40. The Vijay Park (From Rs 2787)
41. Arunachalla Inn (From Rs 2758)
42. Hotel Abu Palace (From Rs 2738)
43. Southern Crest (From Rs 2670)
44. Hotel Chariot (From Rs 2552)
45. The Royal Regency (From Rs 2538)
46. Hotel Royal Plaza (From Rs 2426)
47. Grand Residence (From Rs 2393)
48. Hotel Sakithyan (From Rs 2228)
49. Hotel Manhattan (From Rs 2208)
50. SRM Hotel (From Rs 2205)
51. Nilgiris Nest (From Rs 2166)
52. Hotel President (From Rs 2095)
53. GLM Meridian (From Rs 2087)
54. Hotel Raj Palace (From Rs 2037)
55. Hotel Henkala (From Rs 2037)
56. Star City Kottivakkam OMR (From Rs 2030)
57. Hotel Park View (From Rs 1913)
58. Chennai Gateway (From Rs 1909)
59. VGP Golden Beach Resort (From Rs 1909)
60. Star City Nungambakkam (From Rs 1857)
61. Kences Inn (From Rs 1857)
62. Hotel Maathus (From Rs 1827)
63. Hotel Ranjith (From Rs 1780)
64. Hotel Crystal Residency (From Rs 1764)
65. The Royal Star (From Rs 1739)
66. Hotel Chennai Deluxe (From Rs 1731)
67. Liberty Park Hotel (From Rs 1718)
68. Hotel Ganga International (From Rs 1683)
69. Hotel Mount Heera (From Rs 1657)
70. Hotel Dee Cee Manor (From Rs 1657)
71. Hotel Brownstar (From Rs 1590)
72. Thulashi Park (From Rs 1509)
73. The Mount Manor (From Rs 1509)
74. Hotel Maurya International (From Rs 1434)
75. New Victoria Hotel (From Rs 1392)
76. Sea Shell Residency (From Rs 1392)
77. Sreeja Excellency (From Rs 1270)
78. Hotel MGM Grand (From Rs 1244)
79. New Woodlands Hotel (From Rs 1177)
80. Sri Devi Park (From Rs 1162)
81. Goldmine Hotels (From Rs 1150)
82. Hotel Surya International (From Rs 1119)
83. Krishna Residency (From Rs 1119)
84. Hotel Kanchi (Geetha Hotels Pvt Ltd) (From Rs 1088)
85. Hotel Royal Paris (From Rs 1075)
86. Aspni Inn (From Rs 1020)
87. Hotel Gokulam Park (From Rs 998)
88. The Tidel Residency (From Rs 998)
89. Prema Palace (From Rs 997)
90. Hotel Dreamz Park (From Rs 960)
91. City Residency (From Rs 954)
92. The Orchid Inn (From Rs 933)
93. Hotel Blue Diamond (From Rs 933)
94. Hotel Sky Park (From Rs 873)
95. Golden Tower (From Rs 867)
96. Hotel Pratap Plaza (From Rs 851)
97. Hotel Pandian (From Rs 830)
98. Hotel Metro Manor (From Rs 790)
99. Hotel Nirmal Dakshin (From Rs 790)
100. Hotel Raaj Bhavan (From Rs 746)
101. Guruprakash Hotels (From Rs 746)
102. Raj Residency (From Rs 697)
103. Hotel Maps Inn (From Rs 686)
104. Hotel Lake View Park (From Rs 680)
105. Hotel Krishna Palace (From Rs 653)
106. Hotel Deluxe Inn (From Rs 621)
107. Hotel Guru (From Rs 621)
108. Hotel Anitha Towers (From Rs 609)
109. Chennai Residency (From Rs 593)
110. Hotel Leo Park (From Rs 592)
111. Hotel Melody (From Rs 565)
112. Picnic Hotel (From Rs 565)
113. Hotel Ambica Empire (From Rs 552)
114. Hotel Sudhara (From Rs 536)
115. Hotel Manickam Grand (From Rs 511)
116. Stay In Tour Home (From Rs 511)
117. Hotel Greens (From Rs 500)
118. A L A Bhavan Boarding & Lodging (From Rs 484)
119. Hotel Sudha (From Rs 478)
120. Hotel Comfort (From Rs 478)
121. Sarovara Delux Rooms Lodge (From Rs 462)
122. MC Feesa Residency (From Rs 456)
123. Hotel Lions India (From Rs 440)
124. Hotel Karpagam International (From Rs 420)
125. Hotel Sree Krishna (From Rs 403)
126. Broadlands Lodging House (From Rs 401)
127. Green Palace (From Rs 401)
128. AGP Guest House (From Rs 390)
129. Hotel Singapore (From Rs 379)
130. Hotel Surath Palace Lodge (From Rs 379)
131. Hotel Sakthipriya (From Rs 363)
132. ABC Guest House (From Rs 363)
133. Hotel Urvashi International (From Rs 346)
134. Hotel Bharani (From Rs 346)
135. Hotel Blue Star (From Rs 334)
136. Hotel Mallika (From Rs 291)
137. Best Guest House (From Rs 291)
138. Hotel A.K.Palace (From Rs 284)
139. Hotel Parkway (From Rs 258)
140. Victory Mansion Lodge (From Rs 236)
141. Jan Lodge (From Rs 93)
Indian Railways
Indian Railways
Online Railway Reservation
Railways - Telephone Enquiry Services
General Enquiry
131
Reservation Enquiry
132
Train Arrival & Dep (B.G) Central
133
Train Arrival & Dep (M.G) Egmore
134
Reservation Enquiry (Egmore)
135
Interactive Voice Response System Ticket Enquiry
In English
1361
In Hindi
1362
In Tamil
1363
Rail Reservation Centres in Chennai
(Reservation Hrs 08:00-14:00 & 14:15-20:00 Sun:08:00-14:00)
Avadi Rly Station
26555408
Annanagar
26631188
Airport
22560551
Besant Nagar
24901186
Central Railway Station
25353816
Egmore Railway Station
28194579
Mambalam Railway Station
24643755
Mylapore Railway Station
24954252
Perambur Railway Station
25510359
Saidapet Railway Station
24329970
Tambaram Railway Station
22365921
Tiruvotiyur Railway Station
25735314
Beach Railway Station
25234397
# Official Sites Indian Railways Official Site
# Indian Railways
# Central Railways
# Southern Railways
# Western Railways
# IndianRailJourneys
# Reservation Enquiries Trains/Berths/Full Fare
# Passenger Status
# Tele-booking facility
# Enquiries Trains Between Important Stations
# Concessional Fare
# Station Codes
# Train Schedule
# Passenger Information Reservation Rules
# Refund Rules
# Break Journey Rules
# Change in Name
# Tatkal Trains
# Special Trains
# Rajdhani / Shatabdi Trains
# Season Tickets
# Class Codes
# Quota Codes
# Booking Locations
# Travel Agents
# Luggage Rules
Online Railway Reservation
Railways - Telephone Enquiry Services
General Enquiry
131
Reservation Enquiry
132
Train Arrival & Dep (B.G) Central
133
Train Arrival & Dep (M.G) Egmore
134
Reservation Enquiry (Egmore)
135
Interactive Voice Response System Ticket Enquiry
In English
1361
In Hindi
1362
In Tamil
1363
Rail Reservation Centres in Chennai
(Reservation Hrs 08:00-14:00 & 14:15-20:00 Sun:08:00-14:00)
Avadi Rly Station
26555408
Annanagar
26631188
Airport
22560551
Besant Nagar
24901186
Central Railway Station
25353816
Egmore Railway Station
28194579
Mambalam Railway Station
24643755
Mylapore Railway Station
24954252
Perambur Railway Station
25510359
Saidapet Railway Station
24329970
Tambaram Railway Station
22365921
Tiruvotiyur Railway Station
25735314
Beach Railway Station
25234397
# Official Sites Indian Railways Official Site
# Indian Railways
# Central Railways
# Southern Railways
# Western Railways
# IndianRailJourneys
# Reservation Enquiries Trains/Berths/Full Fare
# Passenger Status
# Tele-booking facility
# Enquiries Trains Between Important Stations
# Concessional Fare
# Station Codes
# Train Schedule
# Passenger Information Reservation Rules
# Refund Rules
# Break Journey Rules
# Change in Name
# Tatkal Trains
# Special Trains
# Rajdhani / Shatabdi Trains
# Season Tickets
# Class Codes
# Quota Codes
# Booking Locations
# Travel Agents
# Luggage Rules
Chennai Rail Map
Chennai formerly known as Madras is the capital city of Tamil Nadu state and is the fourth largest metro city in India. The city grew up around the English settlement of Fort Saint George and gradually absorbed the surrounding towns and villages. However, despite the strong British influence, Chennai has retained its traditional Tamil Hindu culture and effectively blended it with the foreign influence. The city is widely spread in about 180 Sq. Kms. It is a major trade center, being well linked by road, rail and air to important cities besides being a sea port. Compared to the other major metros of India, it is far less congested and polluted.
Chennai, is a journey into timeless India, a kaleidoscope of moods. rich in the treasures of history, from temples and shrines to forts and palaces, the landscape of the past lives easily with the present. Chennai is the fourth largest city in India and the capital of Tamil Nadu. Retaining much of its traditional charm, this 350 year old city is the gateway to the south, providing many a fascinating vignette of southern heritage.
AREA: 174 Sq.Km. ALTITUDE: Sea level TEMPERATURE: Max- 37 C and Min-21 C in Summer, Max-32C and Min-20C in Winter.
RAINFALL: 1,272 Mm ( June to Sept ) BEST SEASON: Throughout the Year.
CLOTHING: Summer-cottons, Winter- Woolen, STD CODE: 044
REACHING CHENNAI
Kamraj National and Anna International Airports are situated at Tirusulam about 20 Kms from city. Chennai is connected by rail with all major towns and cities in India. Main Railway Stations: Central and Egmore. Chennai is connected by good network of roads with all important places in Tamil Nadu and other parts of India.
Near by Cities
Kancheepuram - 75kms. Bangalore - 334 kms.
Pondicherry - 162 kms. Tirupati - 154 kms.
Mamallapuram - 58 kms. Vellore - 145 kms.
Thirukkazhukundram - 74kms Vedanthangal - 85 kms.
HC directs SR
Chennai April 09 The Madras High Court today directed the General Manager, Southern Railway,Chennai to settle the differences and disputes between a contractor and the Chief Project Manager(CPM) and the Chief Administrative Officer, Metropolitan Transport projet (MRTS) through arbitration, within three months from the date of commencing the procedings.
On a petition filed by a contractor T Thiyagarajan, Mr Justice S Rajeswaran also directed the General Manager to settle two agreements between the petitioner and the Chief Project Manager (CPM) through arbitration and settle the differences.
The judge also observed that the petitioner's contract ended in 1998 and it was obvious that he was retaining possession for nearly 12 years and was liable to pay rent arrears to the tune of Rs 83 lakhs.
Considering the fact that eviction proceedings were initiated against the petitoner as per the statute, it was open to the CPM and GM to take further proceedings as per the same statute without resorting to any illegal methods, the judge ordered.
The petitioner submitted that he was one among five contractors for whom the CPM by letters of acceptance awarded the contract in Omni Bus Tender No.MTP/C/II/94,in schemes II and III, contract for constructing 13 shops in the ground floor of Chintadripet Railway station and three offices in the Mezzanine floor of the same station and for letting it out to third parties. The CPM awarded the contract in 1995 for the period of three years. The petitioner also submitted that he had invested a sum of Rs 15 lakhs to construct shops. But due to various lapses committed by the CPM and very poor passenger traffic, the shops were not occupied for years and power supply was provided by the railway authorities only in February 1999 only.
He also submitted that a dispute arose between the parties invoking clause 16 of the terms and conditions of the tender and he had called upon the CPM through a letter to appoint an arbitrator. But as there was no respose from the CPM, he moved the court and sought appointment of a retired judicial officer as the sole arbitrator to settle the differences and restrain the GM and CPM of Southern Railways from interferring in retaining possession of the shops and offices in the Chinthadripet Railway station.
The judge cited several judgements of the Supreme Court and rejected the plea for appointment of a retired judicial officer as arbitrator and directed the GM Southern Railways to arbitrate and settle the issue.
Published: Thursday, April 10, 2008
On a petition filed by a contractor T Thiyagarajan, Mr Justice S Rajeswaran also directed the General Manager to settle two agreements between the petitioner and the Chief Project Manager (CPM) through arbitration and settle the differences.
The judge also observed that the petitioner's contract ended in 1998 and it was obvious that he was retaining possession for nearly 12 years and was liable to pay rent arrears to the tune of Rs 83 lakhs.
Considering the fact that eviction proceedings were initiated against the petitoner as per the statute, it was open to the CPM and GM to take further proceedings as per the same statute without resorting to any illegal methods, the judge ordered.
The petitioner submitted that he was one among five contractors for whom the CPM by letters of acceptance awarded the contract in Omni Bus Tender No.MTP/C/II/94,in schemes II and III, contract for constructing 13 shops in the ground floor of Chintadripet Railway station and three offices in the Mezzanine floor of the same station and for letting it out to third parties. The CPM awarded the contract in 1995 for the period of three years. The petitioner also submitted that he had invested a sum of Rs 15 lakhs to construct shops. But due to various lapses committed by the CPM and very poor passenger traffic, the shops were not occupied for years and power supply was provided by the railway authorities only in February 1999 only.
He also submitted that a dispute arose between the parties invoking clause 16 of the terms and conditions of the tender and he had called upon the CPM through a letter to appoint an arbitrator. But as there was no respose from the CPM, he moved the court and sought appointment of a retired judicial officer as the sole arbitrator to settle the differences and restrain the GM and CPM of Southern Railways from interferring in retaining possession of the shops and offices in the Chinthadripet Railway station.
The judge cited several judgements of the Supreme Court and rejected the plea for appointment of a retired judicial officer as arbitrator and directed the GM Southern Railways to arbitrate and settle the issue.
Published: Thursday, April 10, 2008
Chennai Egmore
Chennai Egmore is a railway station in, The station acts as the arrival and departure point for trains connecting Chennai and southern, central and This is one of the two main railway junctions in the city along with, which serves the north and west bound trains from the city. However, some trains to the north-east and eastern parts of the country also start from/pass through here, though the number is much fewer than the ones from Chennai Central.
Trains originating from Chennai Egmore
Chennai-Dibrugarh Express
Chennai Egmore-Mangalore Express
Chennai-Guwahati Express
Chennai-Guruvayur Express
Chennai-Jodhpur Express
Chennai-Kacheguda Express
Chennai-Kanyakumari Kanyakumari Express
Chennai-Kacheguda Express
Chennai-Kumbakonam Rock Fort Express
Chennai-Madurai Pandian Express
Chennai-Madurai Vaigai Express
Chennai-Puducherry Express
Chennai-Tenkasi Express
Chennai-Thiruvananthapuram Ananthapuri Express
Chennai-Tuticorin Pearl City Express
Chennai-Tiruchirappalli Pallavan Express
Chennai-Tirunelveli Nellai Express
Trains passing through Chennai Egmore
Kanyakumari-Howrah Express
Kanniyakumari-Hazrat Nizamuddin Thirukkural Express
Madurai-Hazrat Nizamuddin TN Sampark Kranti Express
Trichy-Howrah Express
Trains originating from Chennai Egmore
Chennai-Dibrugarh Express
Chennai Egmore-Mangalore Express
Chennai-Guwahati Express
Chennai-Guruvayur Express
Chennai-Jodhpur Express
Chennai-Kacheguda Express
Chennai-Kanyakumari Kanyakumari Express
Chennai-Kacheguda Express
Chennai-Kumbakonam Rock Fort Express
Chennai-Madurai Pandian Express
Chennai-Madurai Vaigai Express
Chennai-Puducherry Express
Chennai-Tenkasi Express
Chennai-Thiruvananthapuram Ananthapuri Express
Chennai-Tuticorin Pearl City Express
Chennai-Tiruchirappalli Pallavan Express
Chennai-Tirunelveli Nellai Express
Trains passing through Chennai Egmore
Kanyakumari-Howrah Express
Kanniyakumari-Hazrat Nizamuddin Thirukkural Express
Madurai-Hazrat Nizamuddin TN Sampark Kranti Express
Trichy-Howrah Express
Kancheepuram
Welcome to the city of thousand temples.
Kancheepuram is popular for its renowned crafted world famous silk sarees, a traditional home industry. Kancheepuram is also known for its culture and civilization. Kancheepuram is easily accessible from the state capital Chennai. It is a place to visit for everyone.
By Road
Kanchipuram is 75 kms away from Chennai and is well connected by a good network of roads. There are frequent bus services from Kanchi to Chennai, Bangalore and other places.
By Air
The nearest airport is Chennai International Airport, just a 2 hours drive away.
By Rail
Can be reached from Chennai central railway station and Arakkonam railway station.
Kancheepuram is popular for its renowned crafted world famous silk sarees, a traditional home industry. Kancheepuram is also known for its culture and civilization. Kancheepuram is easily accessible from the state capital Chennai. It is a place to visit for everyone.
By Road
Kanchipuram is 75 kms away from Chennai and is well connected by a good network of roads. There are frequent bus services from Kanchi to Chennai, Bangalore and other places.
By Air
The nearest airport is Chennai International Airport, just a 2 hours drive away.
By Rail
Can be reached from Chennai central railway station and Arakkonam railway station.
Tuesday, October 7, 2008
Agra
Agra is known, to the world as the city of Taj Mahal. Agra has its roots, dating back to the time of Mahabaratha. Agra is situated on the west-bank of River Yamuna, 204 km south of Delhi. The old part of the town, north of the fort, is where the main market place is. The modern township is on the south. Agra has a magnificent fort and many other monuments from the Mughul era, not to mention the Taj Mahal, which are major attractions to the tourists.
Taj Mahal India
Even as the world is caught in the skirmishes of War & peace, Nuclear and Non-Nuclear; Taj has stood as the epitome of love. This extravagant monument of love is one of the most visited and most photographed places in the world. Taj Mahal was built by Shah Jahan in the memory of his beautiful wife Mumtaz Mahal. Taj Mahal was the culmination point of Indo-Persian architecture. The Mughals Emperor were always fond of constructing monuments. Perhaps they knew that they would be gone but these structures will remind the world of their grandeur.
Agra Red Fort
Agra which lies on the west bank of river Jamuna became one of the principal cities of the Mughal Empire after the death of Ibrahim Lodi at Panipat in 1526. When Akbar choose Agra as his capital he laid the foundation of the Fort of Agra. After Taj this was one of the most important group of buildings. The construction was started in 1565 and was completed in about eight years at a cost of thirty five lakh of rupees under the superintendence of Qasim Khan Mir Barr-u-Bahr. This fort was just one of the many large fortified residences that the emperor wanted to have at various strategic points of his empire. According to contemporary chroniclers like Abul Fazal the fort contained over five hundred buildings. But later on Akbar's descendants added new buildings, mainly in marble to the fort and demolished the old ones.
Fatehpur Sikri
37 kms from Agra is built a city predominantly in Red Sandstone called Fatehpur Sikri. This town was built by the Mughal Emperor Akbar. He had planned this city as his capital but shortage of water compelled him to abandon the city and within 20 years the capital of Mughals was shifted to Lahore. Fatehpur Sikri was built during 1571 and 1585. The city is a fine example of culmination of Mughal and Hindu architecture. Any visitor to Agra must have a go at Fatehpur Sikri. Fatehpur Sikri mosque was said to be built in lines of the holy mosque in Mecca. Entrance to the mosque is through the Buland Darwaza that is 54m high.
Akbar's Mausoleum, Sikandra
Four kilometer from Agra is the mausoleum of Akbar. Construction of this beautiful monument was started by Akbar himself . This structure has a perfect blending of Hindu, Christian , Islamic, Buddhist, Jain motifs.
Jama Masjid Or Jami Masjid
Built by Shah Jahan in 1648, the main gate of this mosque has inscription written on it that it was built by Jahanara Begum. She was the favorite daughter of Shah Jahan and was imprisoned with him. The absence of minarets and the shape of the dome give sit a distinguished character.
Chini-Ka-Rauza
A tomb of glazed tiles is a memorial dedicated to poet-scholar and later the Prime Minister of Shah Jahan, Allama Afzel Khal Mullah Shukrullah of Shiraz.
Dayal Bagh Temple
15-kms from Agra, Dayal Bagh, also known as Soamibagh, houses the samadhi of the founder of Radha Swami faith, 'Swamiji Maharaj'. The main structure is a majestic building, 110-feet in height, built of pure white marble. The belief here is that construction work should never end, making it into a living monument, hence it is under construction for almost 100 years.
Itmad-Ud-Daulah's Tomb
This tomb belongs to the father of Nur Jahan, Ghias-ud-Din Beg. He was the Wajir or the Chief Minister of Emperor Jehangir. This white marble tomb was built by Nur Jahan between 1622 and 1628. The tomb may not be as mammoth as the Taj but the inlay designs and carvings are no less than Taj if not more. The delicate marble latticework in the passages allows the light to enter the interiors. A similar tomb was built by Nur Jahan for Jehangir in Lahore. This tomb was the first complete marble Moghul structure.
Mariyam Tomb
This tomb is dedicated to the wife of Akbar. The red sand stone tomb was built in 1611 and is on the Delhi- Agra highway. The carvings on the tomb of Mariyam-us-Zamani are worth giving a closer look.
Ram Bagh
When Babur came to India he laid the first Mughal gardens 500 m North of the Chini Ka Rauza. This well laid gardens are not even a fraction of what they used to be. It will need lots of imagination to picture how these gardens must have looked in 1558.
Rajasthan Royal Wheels
Tour Duration : 07 Nights / 08 Days
The first commercial launch is scheduled for October 2008.
Proposed Tour Itinerary
Delhi - Capital of modern India. Many dynasties and rulers have flourished on its regal soil over the last 3000 years. The legacy still survives in many monuments varying from the 13th century mausoleum of the Lodi Kings to the buildings of British India's imperial past like the Parliament House and the Presidential Estate.
Agra - The ancient city once the capital of the Mughal empire in the 16th and 17th century, depicts a gorgeous panorama of majestic architectural creations and a rich tradition of art and culture. Agra houses one of Seven Wonders of the World, the marble symphony of Emperor Shah Jahan - “The Taj Mahal”. Discover the dazzling creations of their craftsmen in other architectural marvels in Agra, the quintessential Mughal City.
Sawai Madhopur - Ranthambore Wildlife Sanctuary extends over an area of 392 sq. kms of thick forests. The place abounds in the scenic beauty and is a refuge for both the carnivorous and herbivorous animals. The numerous valleys and flat hill tops form picturesque surroundings of the 10th century historical Ranthambore Fort. One can spot predators like the Tiger and Leopard and other carnivorous animals like the Hyena, Jackal and Sloth Beer. The sanctuary also abounds in Wild Boar and various varieties of Deer like spotted Deer, Sambhar, Chinkara and Nilgai (blue bull). The common Langaur (monkeys) abound in the trees.
Chittorgarh - is the epitome of Rajput pride, romance and spirit. It reverberates with history of heroism and sacrifice, which is evident as it echoes with the tales sung by the Bards of Rajasthan. The main reason for visiting Chittorgarh is its massive hilltop fort, which is a depiction of Rajput culture and values. The fort stands on a 240-hectares site on an 180m high hill that rises rapidly from the plains below.
Udaipur - This is Rajasthan’s most congenial and romantic city situated in the lap of the thickly wooded Aravali Hills. Founded in 1568 by Maharana Udai Singh following the final sacking of Chittorgarh by the Mughal Emperor, Akbar, Udaipur rivals any of the world famous creations of the Mughals with its Rajput love of the whimsical and its superbly crafted elegance. Udaipur has been called the “Venice of the East”.
Jodhpur; - Grandeur by the sand dunes, founded in 1459 by Rao Jodha, Jodhpur was the capital of the state of Marwar during the rule of the Rathor clan. Set right at the edge of Thar Desert, Jodhpur is strewn with forts and palaces that go back to the 15th century, all vividly testify to the history of the princely state.
Osian - The ancient town of Thar Desert was a great trading center between 8th to 12th centuries. Today it is desert oasis with 16 Brahamanical and Jain temples, beautifully sculpted and designed, most of which have stood ravages of time. The place is highlighted by its camel ride at the time of the sunset.
Jaisalmer - Rising from the heart of the Thar Desert like a golden mirage is the city of Jaisalmer. A commanding fort etched in yellow sandstone stands with all its awesome splendours, dominating the amber-hued city.
Jaipur - The capital of Rajasthan, this picturesque city is a symphony in pink, a color which signifies hospitality in Rajput culture. Built by Raja Jai Singh in the 18th century, it is surrounded by hills topped with rugged fortresses and dotted with fairy tale palaces. Ambling camels and brightly dressed locals, reflect Jaipur’s desert heritage while the teeming markets display a profusion of handlooms and crafts. Come visit the city of love, legends and lore.
Luxury Train Facilities:
The train will comprise of one super deluxe saloon, thirteen deluxe saloons, two restaurant cum lounge cars, one spa cum board room car, one kitchen car, two staff cars and two power cars.
Super Deluxe Coach;
The super deluxe coach will have two Suites with a capacity of 4 persons. Each Suit (Mother of Pearl and Silver Suites) will have double beds, with spacious sitting area with dressing table, luggage rack, a spacious bath room with shower and bath tub. The coach also has a common lounge
Deluxe Coach;
Deluxe coach will have 3 double bedded cabins with a capacity of 6 pax. Each cabin will have double beds, seating area, dressing table, luggage rack with spacious bathroom.
Restaurant Lounge;
The concept of the restaurant lounge is to eliminate waiting time. The two restaurant lounge cars, combined would have a capacity of 120 pax.
Spa cum Board Room;
International Gym and spa facilities would be available. Corporate and guests can arrange meetings in the board room which will have modern facilities.
The train will have internet connectivity, TV, channel music, public address system, running hot and cold water, cubical toilet facilities, pantry in each coach with provision for tea/coffee, snacks.
The first commercial launch is scheduled for October 2008.
Proposed Tour Itinerary
Delhi - Capital of modern India. Many dynasties and rulers have flourished on its regal soil over the last 3000 years. The legacy still survives in many monuments varying from the 13th century mausoleum of the Lodi Kings to the buildings of British India's imperial past like the Parliament House and the Presidential Estate.
Agra - The ancient city once the capital of the Mughal empire in the 16th and 17th century, depicts a gorgeous panorama of majestic architectural creations and a rich tradition of art and culture. Agra houses one of Seven Wonders of the World, the marble symphony of Emperor Shah Jahan - “The Taj Mahal”. Discover the dazzling creations of their craftsmen in other architectural marvels in Agra, the quintessential Mughal City.
Sawai Madhopur - Ranthambore Wildlife Sanctuary extends over an area of 392 sq. kms of thick forests. The place abounds in the scenic beauty and is a refuge for both the carnivorous and herbivorous animals. The numerous valleys and flat hill tops form picturesque surroundings of the 10th century historical Ranthambore Fort. One can spot predators like the Tiger and Leopard and other carnivorous animals like the Hyena, Jackal and Sloth Beer. The sanctuary also abounds in Wild Boar and various varieties of Deer like spotted Deer, Sambhar, Chinkara and Nilgai (blue bull). The common Langaur (monkeys) abound in the trees.
Chittorgarh - is the epitome of Rajput pride, romance and spirit. It reverberates with history of heroism and sacrifice, which is evident as it echoes with the tales sung by the Bards of Rajasthan. The main reason for visiting Chittorgarh is its massive hilltop fort, which is a depiction of Rajput culture and values. The fort stands on a 240-hectares site on an 180m high hill that rises rapidly from the plains below.
Udaipur - This is Rajasthan’s most congenial and romantic city situated in the lap of the thickly wooded Aravali Hills. Founded in 1568 by Maharana Udai Singh following the final sacking of Chittorgarh by the Mughal Emperor, Akbar, Udaipur rivals any of the world famous creations of the Mughals with its Rajput love of the whimsical and its superbly crafted elegance. Udaipur has been called the “Venice of the East”.
Jodhpur; - Grandeur by the sand dunes, founded in 1459 by Rao Jodha, Jodhpur was the capital of the state of Marwar during the rule of the Rathor clan. Set right at the edge of Thar Desert, Jodhpur is strewn with forts and palaces that go back to the 15th century, all vividly testify to the history of the princely state.
Osian - The ancient town of Thar Desert was a great trading center between 8th to 12th centuries. Today it is desert oasis with 16 Brahamanical and Jain temples, beautifully sculpted and designed, most of which have stood ravages of time. The place is highlighted by its camel ride at the time of the sunset.
Jaisalmer - Rising from the heart of the Thar Desert like a golden mirage is the city of Jaisalmer. A commanding fort etched in yellow sandstone stands with all its awesome splendours, dominating the amber-hued city.
Jaipur - The capital of Rajasthan, this picturesque city is a symphony in pink, a color which signifies hospitality in Rajput culture. Built by Raja Jai Singh in the 18th century, it is surrounded by hills topped with rugged fortresses and dotted with fairy tale palaces. Ambling camels and brightly dressed locals, reflect Jaipur’s desert heritage while the teeming markets display a profusion of handlooms and crafts. Come visit the city of love, legends and lore.
Luxury Train Facilities:
The train will comprise of one super deluxe saloon, thirteen deluxe saloons, two restaurant cum lounge cars, one spa cum board room car, one kitchen car, two staff cars and two power cars.
Super Deluxe Coach;
The super deluxe coach will have two Suites with a capacity of 4 persons. Each Suit (Mother of Pearl and Silver Suites) will have double beds, with spacious sitting area with dressing table, luggage rack, a spacious bath room with shower and bath tub. The coach also has a common lounge
Deluxe Coach;
Deluxe coach will have 3 double bedded cabins with a capacity of 6 pax. Each cabin will have double beds, seating area, dressing table, luggage rack with spacious bathroom.
Restaurant Lounge;
The concept of the restaurant lounge is to eliminate waiting time. The two restaurant lounge cars, combined would have a capacity of 120 pax.
Spa cum Board Room;
International Gym and spa facilities would be available. Corporate and guests can arrange meetings in the board room which will have modern facilities.
The train will have internet connectivity, TV, channel music, public address system, running hot and cold water, cubical toilet facilities, pantry in each coach with provision for tea/coffee, snacks.
Magnificient Periods of History
13 Coaches & Saloons.13 Magnificent Periods of History.
1st day (Wednesday)
Leave Delhi : Tea and Dinner on board The Royal Orient.
2nd day (Thursday)
Chittaurgarh : Visit Chittaurgarh Fort. Leave for Udaipur. Breakfast on Board. Udaipur : Lunch at Hotel. Visit City Palace, Tripolia Gates, Sahelion-ki-Bari (Royal Gardens), and Shilpgram (Craft Village). Leave for Junagadh. Dinner on Board.
3rd day (Friday)
Ahmedabad : Operational Halt for one hour. Breakfat and Lunch on board. Junagadh : Visit Ashokan Rock Edict of 3rd Century B.C., Darbar Hall Museam, Mausoleum of Nawab Mahabat Khanji. Leave for Verval. Veraval : Visit Shiva Temple at Somnath. Dinner at Hotel.
4th day (Saturday)
Leave for Sasan Gir, Early Breakfast on Board. Sasan Gir : Visit the Lion Sanctuary. Leave for Delwada. Lunch on Board. Delwada : Visit Ahmedpur Mandvi beach and Diu (Fort and St. Paul's Chruch). Leave for Palitana. Dinner on Board.
5th day (Sunday)
Breakfast on Board. Palitana : Visit 863 Jain Temples atop Shatrunjaya Hills. The 3,572 steps can be climbed or, if you so desire, please use the chairslings arranged for you. Leave for Sarkhej. Lunch on Board. Sarkhej :Visit and have dinner at Vishalla village. Proceed to Ahmedabad by bus.
6th day (Monday)
Ahmedabad : Visit Adalaj Step Well, Gandhi Ashram, Calico Textiles' Museum, Hathising Jain Temple, Sidi Sayyad's Mosque, and shopping. Lunch at Hotel. Leave for Jaipur. Tea and Dinner on board.
7th day (Tuesday)
Breakfast on board. Jaipur : Visit City Plalace, Jantar Mantar Observatory, Hawa Mahal. Lunch at Hotel. Visit Amer Fort. Enjoy an elephant ride. Leave for Delhi. Dinner on Board.
8th day (Wednesday)
Delhi : Reach Delhi Cantt. Railway Station.
October to March April to September
Single occupancy US$ 350 US$ 263
Double occupancy US$ 200 US$ 150
Triple occupancy US$ 175 US$ 132
* Children below 5 years of age are permitted free. Those between 5 and 12 years are charged only 50% of rate.Valid only if accompanied by parents
1st day (Wednesday)
Leave Delhi : Tea and Dinner on board The Royal Orient.
2nd day (Thursday)
Chittaurgarh : Visit Chittaurgarh Fort. Leave for Udaipur. Breakfast on Board. Udaipur : Lunch at Hotel. Visit City Palace, Tripolia Gates, Sahelion-ki-Bari (Royal Gardens), and Shilpgram (Craft Village). Leave for Junagadh. Dinner on Board.
3rd day (Friday)
Ahmedabad : Operational Halt for one hour. Breakfat and Lunch on board. Junagadh : Visit Ashokan Rock Edict of 3rd Century B.C., Darbar Hall Museam, Mausoleum of Nawab Mahabat Khanji. Leave for Verval. Veraval : Visit Shiva Temple at Somnath. Dinner at Hotel.
4th day (Saturday)
Leave for Sasan Gir, Early Breakfast on Board. Sasan Gir : Visit the Lion Sanctuary. Leave for Delwada. Lunch on Board. Delwada : Visit Ahmedpur Mandvi beach and Diu (Fort and St. Paul's Chruch). Leave for Palitana. Dinner on Board.
5th day (Sunday)
Breakfast on Board. Palitana : Visit 863 Jain Temples atop Shatrunjaya Hills. The 3,572 steps can be climbed or, if you so desire, please use the chairslings arranged for you. Leave for Sarkhej. Lunch on Board. Sarkhej :Visit and have dinner at Vishalla village. Proceed to Ahmedabad by bus.
6th day (Monday)
Ahmedabad : Visit Adalaj Step Well, Gandhi Ashram, Calico Textiles' Museum, Hathising Jain Temple, Sidi Sayyad's Mosque, and shopping. Lunch at Hotel. Leave for Jaipur. Tea and Dinner on board.
7th day (Tuesday)
Breakfast on board. Jaipur : Visit City Plalace, Jantar Mantar Observatory, Hawa Mahal. Lunch at Hotel. Visit Amer Fort. Enjoy an elephant ride. Leave for Delhi. Dinner on Board.
8th day (Wednesday)
Delhi : Reach Delhi Cantt. Railway Station.
October to March April to September
Single occupancy US$ 350 US$ 263
Double occupancy US$ 200 US$ 150
Triple occupancy US$ 175 US$ 132
* Children below 5 years of age are permitted free. Those between 5 and 12 years are charged only 50% of rate.Valid only if accompanied by parents
Indian Hill Railways
The Darjeeling Railway
The Darjeeling Himalayan Railway is one of the engineering feats of the world. Although the steepness of the gradients on this narrow-gauge line is .....More about The Darjeeling Railway....
The Kangra Valley Railway
The exotic Kangra Valley lying between the Dhaula Dhar and the Shivalik foothills in the state of Himachal Pradesh is the conglomeration of valleys and ....More about The Kangra Valley Railway....
Kalka Shimla Railway
An interesting feature of the Kalka-Shimla Railway is the almost complete absence of Girder bridges. Multi arched galleries like ancient roman aqueducts being the ....More about Kalka Shimla Railway....
Nilgiri Mountain Railway
Nilgiri Mountail Railwayis the steepest one in Asia ( the steepest gradient is about 1in12). In combination with this gradient there are curves as ....More about Nilgiri Mountain Railway....
Matheran Light Railway
Abdul Hussain, son of the business tycoon, Sir Adamjee Peerbhoy of Mumbai, has started the construction of Matheran railway in 1904 and the two ....More about Matheran Light Railway....
The Darjeeling Himalayan Railway is one of the engineering feats of the world. Although the steepness of the gradients on this narrow-gauge line is .....More about The Darjeeling Railway....
The Kangra Valley Railway
The exotic Kangra Valley lying between the Dhaula Dhar and the Shivalik foothills in the state of Himachal Pradesh is the conglomeration of valleys and ....More about The Kangra Valley Railway....
Kalka Shimla Railway
An interesting feature of the Kalka-Shimla Railway is the almost complete absence of Girder bridges. Multi arched galleries like ancient roman aqueducts being the ....More about Kalka Shimla Railway....
Nilgiri Mountain Railway
Nilgiri Mountail Railwayis the steepest one in Asia ( the steepest gradient is about 1in12). In combination with this gradient there are curves as ....More about Nilgiri Mountain Railway....
Matheran Light Railway
Abdul Hussain, son of the business tycoon, Sir Adamjee Peerbhoy of Mumbai, has started the construction of Matheran railway in 1904 and the two ....More about Matheran Light Railway....
Culture- India
India is a mysteriously diverse country. As a society its character is unpredictable, structurally chaotic, very much intrusive, somewhat mischievous, a bit corrupt and tricky, unbelievably patient, pretty lethargic, inquisitive to the core, talkative to a point of insanity and obviously a lot noisy. A man on the road sees no reason why he should not talk to a total stranger passing by. At the end the curiosity wins! Now you put that inside a train. You get India in its rolling-stock version.
Multiply it with the scale that is India. Indian Railways operate more than 14000 (yes, fourteen thousand) trains a day. If traveled towards moon, the distance covered by all these trains easily equals 4 times the journey to moon… that is in its every day operations. 16 million passengers (twice the population of London) travel by train daily.
With 1.6 million employs, Indian Railways looks more like an army. In fact it is the largest employer in the world, if one bar the armies from the contest.
Being that the backdrop, a train journey in India refuses to be just another uneventful and boring affair.
Inside a Sleeper Class coach. Inside a Sleeper Class coach.
Every kinds of weirdness in India have already found its place in the railway stations and trains. So being inside the train doesn’t insulate you, no fear of that happening.
Everyone settled, the train just left the station, you think its time to do some reading and pulls out that gleaming magazine from your bag. Nothing unusual happens. You are wrong!
The vying eyes of your co passengers have already fallen on it. It is only a question of time you receive the first request for the magazine, with an ear-to-ear grin of course. Once it leaves you, the magazine slowly turns socialist. It changes many hands. In the beginning, you receive a gentle request for consent from your first borrower to pass it to his neighbor. That curtsey vanishes fast. What is the need to trouble you again since you didn’t show any reservations at all?
Many hours later, the magazine finally traces its way back to you. By now it would look like a tired but proud solder returning from the battlefield. Long gone is the sheen on its once gleaming cover. That is what happens three-dozen passengers on a train read a magazine in turns. If it happened to be a newspaper instead of a magazine, the fate is still brutal.
Don’t worry too much, if the whole thing sounds a bit odd or intrusive. Either you start liking it albeit with a disdain or refuse to carry a magazine onboard. Sure you can always do it on other passengers.
Of late are you getting that urge to pull gently at the corner of somebody else’s’ magazine? It just assures that by now you are already a seasoned train traveler in India!
A typical long distance train passes through many states. It is safe to assume that there are all having unique cultural identity. In other words, people speak different languages, wear different costumes and even the cuisine is different. It seems the train arrives at a different India every 500 kilometers or so. That diversity reflects inside the train too.
Take a long distance train connecting two particularly unique places. A great lot of the passengers in the train would be from these two regions. It is sometime amusing to watch the crowd who speaks different languages and possess considerable difference in taste.
In general Indians travel in family. Indian Railways have a rule, one cannot reserve for more than six in a group. Not very sure what was in their mind in setting this rule. Probably they though of preventing an entire village on the move reserve a coach and run their council meeting an Afghan style Loya Jirga.
If you happed to be in the middle of a traveling middleclass family, expect these: force-feeding you every time they open that box of home cooked food packets, in return they want to know where you are going? What you are doing? How much you earn?…..the list is as long as your journey.
First of all you are in a fix. You’ve seen a poster round the corner that conmen use biscuits and soft drinks to drug unsuspecting passengers to rob. The railways have been repeatedly advising people not to accept food or drinks from strangers while traveling. Also somewhere you’ve red that saying a polite “No Thanks” could be considered as a rude statement in India. In this dilemma your prudence fight with curtsey. Commonsense overrides all alarms. Curtsey wins, usually!
Well, so far we’ve been talking about the reserved coaches. What about the unnerved coaches at the ends of the train? To be frank, that is a different republic altogether.
This is where the so-called real India travels (as if the rest of India is not so real!). Albeit its lack of luxury and comforts, the unreserved coaches and the slow passenger trains are definitely showcases of India’s diversity, patience, flexibility, humility and more importantly its simplicity.
Where on earth one can travel a thousand miles for as low as Rs250 (5 USD) by an express train?
No vulgar display of pomp and vanity here. If you equate the higher classes with upscale hotels, the second-class coaches compare with those downtown lodges where one can walk in. It has character. If you still have stamina left, welcome inside. It won’t be boring, sure!
If one feels India handles paradoxes with ease, look at the Indian railways to watch the climax. This never sleeping conglomerate uses satellites technologies to monitor and track its trains. Walk into their luggage booking office; the centerpiece would be a Victorian era weighing scale. The clerk sitting next to it is no less colonial either. He jots a luggage receipt for your bicycle in quadruple using three layers of carbon papers. You’ve already got the weight measured by the assistant standing next to the scale. Now you stand in the queue to pay the luggage charges. Again the clerk takes his sweet time to fill the rows and columns of an ancient looking ledger system. Proudly in display is the railway’s beaurocrasy at its slowest best.
Right next to it is the reservation office. Tens of thousands of computers are connected to the railways mission critical reservation system. If works with amazing efficiency that can make any giant airlines in the world turn green with envy. It may look trivial in the modern world of online ticket bookings. But the scale at which the railway is operating is mind-boggling. This single organization’s e-tickets sale accounts for about 30% of the whole online purchases made in India.
Let it be the heroin falls in love with hero, or the bandits looting a train or even the partition of India and Pakistan, countless number of Indian movies - Bollywood or otherwise- are made in the backdrop of train journeys.
Having boasted of its sophistication, the century old coal and steam trains are no history in India. If one is keen to travel in steam engine trains, Indian railways have a few trains in its rolling inventory.
Vintage steam engie at Coonor railway station. Vintage steam engie at Coonor railway station
Three legacy railways Darjeeling Himalayan Railway, Kalka-Shimla Railway and the Nilgiri Mountain Railway marched into the UNESCO listed World Heritage Site on in cultural value for the humanity. These mountain trains of India still have enough steam left to bring the kid out of you. It is very difficult to hold the scream as the smoke spitting Nilgiri mountain train disappears into a dark tunnel.
No talk on Indian trains is conclusive without the mention of the cuisine. While some dishes are known after Indian railways, the humble Chai stands top in the list.
Literally hundreds of Chai vendors mob the trains from inside and outside. Kettle after kettle of tea finds its way through the windows into the coaches. It seams even the paper cups across the country is designed make it slip easily through the window grills.
Multiply it with the scale that is India. Indian Railways operate more than 14000 (yes, fourteen thousand) trains a day. If traveled towards moon, the distance covered by all these trains easily equals 4 times the journey to moon… that is in its every day operations. 16 million passengers (twice the population of London) travel by train daily.
With 1.6 million employs, Indian Railways looks more like an army. In fact it is the largest employer in the world, if one bar the armies from the contest.
Being that the backdrop, a train journey in India refuses to be just another uneventful and boring affair.
Inside a Sleeper Class coach. Inside a Sleeper Class coach.
Every kinds of weirdness in India have already found its place in the railway stations and trains. So being inside the train doesn’t insulate you, no fear of that happening.
Everyone settled, the train just left the station, you think its time to do some reading and pulls out that gleaming magazine from your bag. Nothing unusual happens. You are wrong!
The vying eyes of your co passengers have already fallen on it. It is only a question of time you receive the first request for the magazine, with an ear-to-ear grin of course. Once it leaves you, the magazine slowly turns socialist. It changes many hands. In the beginning, you receive a gentle request for consent from your first borrower to pass it to his neighbor. That curtsey vanishes fast. What is the need to trouble you again since you didn’t show any reservations at all?
Many hours later, the magazine finally traces its way back to you. By now it would look like a tired but proud solder returning from the battlefield. Long gone is the sheen on its once gleaming cover. That is what happens three-dozen passengers on a train read a magazine in turns. If it happened to be a newspaper instead of a magazine, the fate is still brutal.
Don’t worry too much, if the whole thing sounds a bit odd or intrusive. Either you start liking it albeit with a disdain or refuse to carry a magazine onboard. Sure you can always do it on other passengers.
Of late are you getting that urge to pull gently at the corner of somebody else’s’ magazine? It just assures that by now you are already a seasoned train traveler in India!
A typical long distance train passes through many states. It is safe to assume that there are all having unique cultural identity. In other words, people speak different languages, wear different costumes and even the cuisine is different. It seems the train arrives at a different India every 500 kilometers or so. That diversity reflects inside the train too.
Take a long distance train connecting two particularly unique places. A great lot of the passengers in the train would be from these two regions. It is sometime amusing to watch the crowd who speaks different languages and possess considerable difference in taste.
In general Indians travel in family. Indian Railways have a rule, one cannot reserve for more than six in a group. Not very sure what was in their mind in setting this rule. Probably they though of preventing an entire village on the move reserve a coach and run their council meeting an Afghan style Loya Jirga.
If you happed to be in the middle of a traveling middleclass family, expect these: force-feeding you every time they open that box of home cooked food packets, in return they want to know where you are going? What you are doing? How much you earn?…..the list is as long as your journey.
First of all you are in a fix. You’ve seen a poster round the corner that conmen use biscuits and soft drinks to drug unsuspecting passengers to rob. The railways have been repeatedly advising people not to accept food or drinks from strangers while traveling. Also somewhere you’ve red that saying a polite “No Thanks” could be considered as a rude statement in India. In this dilemma your prudence fight with curtsey. Commonsense overrides all alarms. Curtsey wins, usually!
Well, so far we’ve been talking about the reserved coaches. What about the unnerved coaches at the ends of the train? To be frank, that is a different republic altogether.
This is where the so-called real India travels (as if the rest of India is not so real!). Albeit its lack of luxury and comforts, the unreserved coaches and the slow passenger trains are definitely showcases of India’s diversity, patience, flexibility, humility and more importantly its simplicity.
Where on earth one can travel a thousand miles for as low as Rs250 (5 USD) by an express train?
No vulgar display of pomp and vanity here. If you equate the higher classes with upscale hotels, the second-class coaches compare with those downtown lodges where one can walk in. It has character. If you still have stamina left, welcome inside. It won’t be boring, sure!
If one feels India handles paradoxes with ease, look at the Indian railways to watch the climax. This never sleeping conglomerate uses satellites technologies to monitor and track its trains. Walk into their luggage booking office; the centerpiece would be a Victorian era weighing scale. The clerk sitting next to it is no less colonial either. He jots a luggage receipt for your bicycle in quadruple using three layers of carbon papers. You’ve already got the weight measured by the assistant standing next to the scale. Now you stand in the queue to pay the luggage charges. Again the clerk takes his sweet time to fill the rows and columns of an ancient looking ledger system. Proudly in display is the railway’s beaurocrasy at its slowest best.
Right next to it is the reservation office. Tens of thousands of computers are connected to the railways mission critical reservation system. If works with amazing efficiency that can make any giant airlines in the world turn green with envy. It may look trivial in the modern world of online ticket bookings. But the scale at which the railway is operating is mind-boggling. This single organization’s e-tickets sale accounts for about 30% of the whole online purchases made in India.
Let it be the heroin falls in love with hero, or the bandits looting a train or even the partition of India and Pakistan, countless number of Indian movies - Bollywood or otherwise- are made in the backdrop of train journeys.
Having boasted of its sophistication, the century old coal and steam trains are no history in India. If one is keen to travel in steam engine trains, Indian railways have a few trains in its rolling inventory.
Vintage steam engie at Coonor railway station. Vintage steam engie at Coonor railway station
Three legacy railways Darjeeling Himalayan Railway, Kalka-Shimla Railway and the Nilgiri Mountain Railway marched into the UNESCO listed World Heritage Site on in cultural value for the humanity. These mountain trains of India still have enough steam left to bring the kid out of you. It is very difficult to hold the scream as the smoke spitting Nilgiri mountain train disappears into a dark tunnel.
No talk on Indian trains is conclusive without the mention of the cuisine. While some dishes are known after Indian railways, the humble Chai stands top in the list.
Literally hundreds of Chai vendors mob the trains from inside and outside. Kettle after kettle of tea finds its way through the windows into the coaches. It seams even the paper cups across the country is designed make it slip easily through the window grills.
Bycycle Tour
Day - 01
Upon arrival in Delhi you will be met/assisted , garlanded and then transferred to your hotel in Delhi. This afternoon at 1330 hrs, you will be taken for half day combined tour of Old + New Delhi visiting Raj - Ghat, the Red Fort and the great Jama Masjid - the largest mosque in India, Parliamentary Complex, Humayun's Tomb, Qutab Minar and the embassy area.
Overnight: hotel in Delhi.
Day - 02
Today at 0800 hrs you will be driven from Delhi to Agra via Sikandra - tomb of Mughal emperor Akbar the great (enroute Delhi / Agra) thereafter continue drive to Agra and checkin at hotel. This afternoon at 1400 hrs you will be taken on a half day city tour of Agra visiting the magnificent Taj Mahal, built by the emperor Shah Jahan as a symbol of his love for his wife, Fort of Agra and local market.
Overnight: hotel in Agra.
Day - 03
Today morning at 0800 hrs you will be picked up from your hotel in Agra and then driven to Bharatpur via deserted city Fatehpur Sikri. Thereafter cycle to Bharatpur, for two hours.
Overnight : hotel in Bharatpur.
Day - 04
Today morning you will be taken cycle from Bharatpur to Mauwa, approx 60 kms.
Overnight : hotel in Mauwa.
Day - 05
Today morning you will be taken cycle from Mauwa to Dausa, rejoin mini coach and drive to Kanota. Then cycle for another hour before driving to Jaipur.
Overnight : hotel in Jaipur
Day - 06
This morning at 0900 hrs, you will be taken on a city tour which will include visit to Palace of Winds, Jai Singh's astrological observatory and the city palace, visit local craft workshops specializing in brassware, block fabric printing and jewellery. Afternoon free to relax or to do your own activities.
Overnight : hotel in Jaipur.
Day - 07
This morning at 0900 hrs, you will be taken on a tour of the hilltop Amber Fort approaching the gates on the back of gaily decorated elephant. The palace inside contains the Jagmandir hall of victory, the Jaimahal and temple of Kali, after the tour continue drive back to Delhi where your tour ends.
Upon arrival in Delhi you will be met/assisted , garlanded and then transferred to your hotel in Delhi. This afternoon at 1330 hrs, you will be taken for half day combined tour of Old + New Delhi visiting Raj - Ghat, the Red Fort and the great Jama Masjid - the largest mosque in India, Parliamentary Complex, Humayun's Tomb, Qutab Minar and the embassy area.
Overnight: hotel in Delhi.
Day - 02
Today at 0800 hrs you will be driven from Delhi to Agra via Sikandra - tomb of Mughal emperor Akbar the great (enroute Delhi / Agra) thereafter continue drive to Agra and checkin at hotel. This afternoon at 1400 hrs you will be taken on a half day city tour of Agra visiting the magnificent Taj Mahal, built by the emperor Shah Jahan as a symbol of his love for his wife, Fort of Agra and local market.
Overnight: hotel in Agra.
Day - 03
Today morning at 0800 hrs you will be picked up from your hotel in Agra and then driven to Bharatpur via deserted city Fatehpur Sikri. Thereafter cycle to Bharatpur, for two hours.
Overnight : hotel in Bharatpur.
Day - 04
Today morning you will be taken cycle from Bharatpur to Mauwa, approx 60 kms.
Overnight : hotel in Mauwa.
Day - 05
Today morning you will be taken cycle from Mauwa to Dausa, rejoin mini coach and drive to Kanota. Then cycle for another hour before driving to Jaipur.
Overnight : hotel in Jaipur
Day - 06
This morning at 0900 hrs, you will be taken on a city tour which will include visit to Palace of Winds, Jai Singh's astrological observatory and the city palace, visit local craft workshops specializing in brassware, block fabric printing and jewellery. Afternoon free to relax or to do your own activities.
Overnight : hotel in Jaipur.
Day - 07
This morning at 0900 hrs, you will be taken on a tour of the hilltop Amber Fort approaching the gates on the back of gaily decorated elephant. The palace inside contains the Jagmandir hall of victory, the Jaimahal and temple of Kali, after the tour continue drive back to Delhi where your tour ends.
Saturday, September 27, 2008
New Delhi Railway Station
New Delhi Railway Station
As one of the largest railway stations in all of India, the New Delhi Railway Station is the sort of attraction that visitors are bound to see as some point or another, provided that they do enough moving about. The station runs over three hundred trains a day to destinations throughout the entire country, so travelers wanting to go just about anywhere, especially to destinations in the northern and eastern parts of the country, can get there from here.
In addition, busses and taxis exist for travel to local sites and establishments, making it not just an ideal point of departure, but arrival as well. Those with an interest in the history of the railroad should take note that the New Delhi Railway Station features the largest route interlock system in the world. Visitors waiting for connecting trains can even take a short walk south to visit the famous Connaught Place if they’re so inclined.
http://traintiming.blogspot.com/
As one of the largest railway stations in all of India, the New Delhi Railway Station is the sort of attraction that visitors are bound to see as some point or another, provided that they do enough moving about. The station runs over three hundred trains a day to destinations throughout the entire country, so travelers wanting to go just about anywhere, especially to destinations in the northern and eastern parts of the country, can get there from here.
In addition, busses and taxis exist for travel to local sites and establishments, making it not just an ideal point of departure, but arrival as well. Those with an interest in the history of the railroad should take note that the New Delhi Railway Station features the largest route interlock system in the world. Visitors waiting for connecting trains can even take a short walk south to visit the famous Connaught Place if they’re so inclined.
http://traintiming.blogspot.com/
Friday, September 19, 2008
How to tell if you're Indian
If you're Indian...
* Freedom of speech generally exists, but is not guaranteed.
* The main characters of popular culture are gods of Hindu mythology. Depending on your demographic, you may also be familiar with movie stars such as Amitabh Bacchan, Rajesh Khanna, Madhuri Dixit, Hrithik Roshan, Rajanikanth, Mohanlal or any of many others.
* You know nothing of baseball, basketball or American football. You might play soccer, cricket and field hockey (or variants of them), in addition to domestic games such as kabaddi.
* Vacations usually consist of visiting relations (American-style "getaway" vacations are unheard of). There is no standard length of vacation time; it depends on one's livelihood.
* You almost certainly believe in God; for most Indians good deeds result in either heaven or promotion-type rebirth and bad deeds result in hell or demotion-type rebirth.
* McDonald's or KFC are for occasional outings for upper-middle-class folk in the big cities.
* You probably do not own either a telephone or a TV. The masses do not have bathrooms and do their thing in the open air. They have dirt floors. They eat sitting cross-legged on the floor.
You mean it's not all tandoori chicken?
* You don't consider insects, dogs, cats, monkeys, or guinea pigs to be food. In fact it is very possible you are a strict vegetarian. If you do eat meat it is probably either mutton, chicken or fish. It is expensive and not something you can afford to indulge in everyday. Many people can only afford two meals a day anyway.
* It seems natural to you that the telephone system and railroads are either run by the government or by government enterprises; though things are changing towards more privatization. The train system is the only mode of long distance transport for over 95% of people.
* You find a multiple-party system natural. You expect politicians of all parties to be corrupt and inefficient. Socialism used to be taken seriously till around 1985.
* Instead of "black" and "white" there are thousands of castes forming an elaborate system which governs the social order.
* You think most problems could be solved if only people would be decent.
* You have a court system which is relatively clean and just, but immensely slow. Moreover the illiteracy and poverty of most people and the corruption of administrative and law-enforcement officials make justice-for-all a distant dream.
* You'd respect someone who speaks English, since it is a mark of the affluent classes. Other European languages are largely unknown. There is a great deal of glamor associated with Sanskrit and Persian; they are traditionally the languages of the learned and the well-read.
* School is nominally free or very cheap; but still beyond the range of many people. Infrastructure is totally inadequate and it is often an economic necessity for children to assist parents with earning money. Paradoxically, the best college education is highly subsidized.
How big would a lakh of those seeds be?
* Mustard seeds are bought whole. Shaving cream comes from solid round tablets. Milk comes in the milkman's aluminum cans and is decanted into your container at your doorstep, or at the dairy.
* The date comes first: 15/8/1947. (And you know what happened on that date.)
* The decimal point is a dot. Certainly not a comma.
* A billion is a thousand times a million. But you would be more likely to talk in lakhs (a hundred thousand) or crores (10 million).
* World War II is not terribly important. India's struggle for independence is a more passionate memory.
* You always expect marriages to be arranged by third parties. Getting married by a judge is not something you want to do; you might resort to it if you are eloping. Most marriages are religious ceremonies. All except Muslims are required to be monogamous; Muslims are allowed upto four wives if they desire it.
* For men to have sex with other men is almost totally unheard of. There is a very small number of genuine homosexuals in the big cities. On the other hand, there is a complete absence of American style homophobia in Indian society; it is very common for men to express affection by embracing each other.
* Once you're introduced to someone, you will call him/her by name only if the person is a peer, subordinate or junior. Anyone who is senior or higher in the socio-economic ladder must be addressed with great respect.
No Monicas here
* If you're a woman, you are very modest with your dress. In some Hindu and Muslim families you may feel pressured to avoid visual contact with unrelated men altogether.
* A hotel room has a private bath.
* You do not watch any foreign films.
* You never ever expect to be able to transact business, or deal with the government, without paying bribes.
* The nature of Indian conservatism being what it is, no Indian politican has ever cheated on his wife.
* Credit cards are unknown except in big and expensive stores in the big cities.
* A private sector company can fire just about anybody. For the goverment or for a goverment enterprise it is quite impossible to fire anybody.
* You do not eat bacon.
* There is no Labor Day.
Name that celeb
* Western pop culture icons are unknown to you unless you are an urban upper middle class youth. You would very likely know the following Indian figures, however:
o Sports: Cricket reigns supreme as the Indian spectator sport of choice. Some of the more popular players are Sunil Gawaskar, Kapil Dev, Azharuddin and Sachin Tendulkar.
o TV shows: a music game show called Antakshari and its anchor Annu Kapoor are extremely popular. There is a host of popular serials too numerous to name ranging from soap operas to comedy.
o Musicians: Classical: Bhimsen Joshi, Zakir Hussain, M. S. Subbulakshmi. Folk: Ila Arun, Shubha Mudgal. Movie soundtrack music (very popular in India): Annu Malik, A. R. Rehman.
* Good medical treatment is a luxury for the upper middle class. For the majority, it is very possible to die of cholera or other Third World diseases. You do expect very strong measures to be taken to save very ill babies or people in their eighties, but you know that such measures are in vain. You think dying at 65 would give you a long life.
* If you are upper middle class you went over Indian and world history in school; and the ignorance of college educated Americans amazes you.
* You expect the military to fight wars, not get involved in politics.
We got rid of the Brits too
* Your country was colonized by the British till fifty years ago.
* There is a lack of choices for almost anything you buy, but this never even strikes you until you visit the US.
* For the most part you measure things in metres, kilograms, and litres. Feet and inches are used almost exclusively for describing the height of people or small objects. Indian measures are still used in some contexts; e.g. a unit of weight called tola is widely used by goldsmiths.
* You are probably a farmer (or farmhand).
* Comics basically come in two varieties: newspaper comics and magazines; the latter either feature superheroes or Archie etc.
* The people who appear on the most popular talk shows are mostly entertainers, politicians, or rather strange individuals. Certainly not, say, authors.
* You drive on the left side of the road. Traffic lights exist only in the big cities. If you're a pedestrian you watch out for your own safety.
* Cars are a luxury of the rich.
* The police are typically not armed, unless they are guarding VVIPs, in which case they might tote submachine guns.
Girl, have a twinkie!
* If a woman is plumper than the average, it improves her looks. (i.e. what a person considers 'ideal' is likely to be plumper than the American ideal).
* The midday and evening meal are equally light.
* The ethnicity people most often make jokes about are the Sikhs (colloquially referred to as Sardars).
* Sikhs are widely considered to be dumb and good-natured; Biharis, loutish; Gujaratis, money-minded; Bengalis, impractical and talkative; Delhiites, rude and loutish. (Unless of course you belong to one of these groups.)
* There's parts of the city you definitely want to avoid at night.
* You feel that your kind of people aren't being listened to enough in New Delhi.
* You expect both inflation and unemployment to be very high (say, over 15%) at the same time.
Meet the parents
* You care very deeply what family someone comes from and what their caste is.
* When a couple dies, there are different ways to handle the estate: (1) it passes on to the eldest son, (2) it is divided equally between the male progeny, or (3) it is divided equally among all their children.
* Opera and ballet are unknown. Street plays or shows, singing and dancing are very popular, especially in the countryside. Many of these take place at fairs or festivals.
* Christmas is in the winter. If you're Christian, you spend it with your family, light up your house and go to church.
* You are used to not having a state church and the possibility of such a thing has never even occurred to you.
* You'd be hard pressed to name the capitals or the leaders of all the nations of Europe.
* You've never left a message at the beep.
* Taxis are generally operated by ordinary people; they only exist in the big cities.
* Welfare, unemployment payments, social security, and Medicare are unheard of.
* If you want to be a doctor, you need to get a bachelor's first.
* There are some lawyers; they do not particularly make a lot of money.
Space and time
* If you have an appointment, you'll mutter an excuse if you're an hour late.
* If you're talking to someone, you do not get at all uncomfortable if they approach closely.
* You expect to bargain for everything. When you offer a price, you aren't so much probing the seller's minimum, as signalling how much you really want the item.
* Even once you're past college, you might often simply show up at someone's place. People may invite each other but don't have to.
* When you negotiate, you may play convoluted games to get what you want. Also, in social situations, it is sometimes considered improper to be too direct.
* If you have a business appointment or interview with someone, you expect to have that person to yourself, but the business may take any amount of time depending on context.
* Freedom of speech generally exists, but is not guaranteed.
* The main characters of popular culture are gods of Hindu mythology. Depending on your demographic, you may also be familiar with movie stars such as Amitabh Bacchan, Rajesh Khanna, Madhuri Dixit, Hrithik Roshan, Rajanikanth, Mohanlal or any of many others.
* You know nothing of baseball, basketball or American football. You might play soccer, cricket and field hockey (or variants of them), in addition to domestic games such as kabaddi.
* Vacations usually consist of visiting relations (American-style "getaway" vacations are unheard of). There is no standard length of vacation time; it depends on one's livelihood.
* You almost certainly believe in God; for most Indians good deeds result in either heaven or promotion-type rebirth and bad deeds result in hell or demotion-type rebirth.
* McDonald's or KFC are for occasional outings for upper-middle-class folk in the big cities.
* You probably do not own either a telephone or a TV. The masses do not have bathrooms and do their thing in the open air. They have dirt floors. They eat sitting cross-legged on the floor.
You mean it's not all tandoori chicken?
* You don't consider insects, dogs, cats, monkeys, or guinea pigs to be food. In fact it is very possible you are a strict vegetarian. If you do eat meat it is probably either mutton, chicken or fish. It is expensive and not something you can afford to indulge in everyday. Many people can only afford two meals a day anyway.
* It seems natural to you that the telephone system and railroads are either run by the government or by government enterprises; though things are changing towards more privatization. The train system is the only mode of long distance transport for over 95% of people.
* You find a multiple-party system natural. You expect politicians of all parties to be corrupt and inefficient. Socialism used to be taken seriously till around 1985.
* Instead of "black" and "white" there are thousands of castes forming an elaborate system which governs the social order.
* You think most problems could be solved if only people would be decent.
* You have a court system which is relatively clean and just, but immensely slow. Moreover the illiteracy and poverty of most people and the corruption of administrative and law-enforcement officials make justice-for-all a distant dream.
* You'd respect someone who speaks English, since it is a mark of the affluent classes. Other European languages are largely unknown. There is a great deal of glamor associated with Sanskrit and Persian; they are traditionally the languages of the learned and the well-read.
* School is nominally free or very cheap; but still beyond the range of many people. Infrastructure is totally inadequate and it is often an economic necessity for children to assist parents with earning money. Paradoxically, the best college education is highly subsidized.
How big would a lakh of those seeds be?
* Mustard seeds are bought whole. Shaving cream comes from solid round tablets. Milk comes in the milkman's aluminum cans and is decanted into your container at your doorstep, or at the dairy.
* The date comes first: 15/8/1947. (And you know what happened on that date.)
* The decimal point is a dot. Certainly not a comma.
* A billion is a thousand times a million. But you would be more likely to talk in lakhs (a hundred thousand) or crores (10 million).
* World War II is not terribly important. India's struggle for independence is a more passionate memory.
* You always expect marriages to be arranged by third parties. Getting married by a judge is not something you want to do; you might resort to it if you are eloping. Most marriages are religious ceremonies. All except Muslims are required to be monogamous; Muslims are allowed upto four wives if they desire it.
* For men to have sex with other men is almost totally unheard of. There is a very small number of genuine homosexuals in the big cities. On the other hand, there is a complete absence of American style homophobia in Indian society; it is very common for men to express affection by embracing each other.
* Once you're introduced to someone, you will call him/her by name only if the person is a peer, subordinate or junior. Anyone who is senior or higher in the socio-economic ladder must be addressed with great respect.
No Monicas here
* If you're a woman, you are very modest with your dress. In some Hindu and Muslim families you may feel pressured to avoid visual contact with unrelated men altogether.
* A hotel room has a private bath.
* You do not watch any foreign films.
* You never ever expect to be able to transact business, or deal with the government, without paying bribes.
* The nature of Indian conservatism being what it is, no Indian politican has ever cheated on his wife.
* Credit cards are unknown except in big and expensive stores in the big cities.
* A private sector company can fire just about anybody. For the goverment or for a goverment enterprise it is quite impossible to fire anybody.
* You do not eat bacon.
* There is no Labor Day.
Name that celeb
* Western pop culture icons are unknown to you unless you are an urban upper middle class youth. You would very likely know the following Indian figures, however:
o Sports: Cricket reigns supreme as the Indian spectator sport of choice. Some of the more popular players are Sunil Gawaskar, Kapil Dev, Azharuddin and Sachin Tendulkar.
o TV shows: a music game show called Antakshari and its anchor Annu Kapoor are extremely popular. There is a host of popular serials too numerous to name ranging from soap operas to comedy.
o Musicians: Classical: Bhimsen Joshi, Zakir Hussain, M. S. Subbulakshmi. Folk: Ila Arun, Shubha Mudgal. Movie soundtrack music (very popular in India): Annu Malik, A. R. Rehman.
* Good medical treatment is a luxury for the upper middle class. For the majority, it is very possible to die of cholera or other Third World diseases. You do expect very strong measures to be taken to save very ill babies or people in their eighties, but you know that such measures are in vain. You think dying at 65 would give you a long life.
* If you are upper middle class you went over Indian and world history in school; and the ignorance of college educated Americans amazes you.
* You expect the military to fight wars, not get involved in politics.
We got rid of the Brits too
* Your country was colonized by the British till fifty years ago.
* There is a lack of choices for almost anything you buy, but this never even strikes you until you visit the US.
* For the most part you measure things in metres, kilograms, and litres. Feet and inches are used almost exclusively for describing the height of people or small objects. Indian measures are still used in some contexts; e.g. a unit of weight called tola is widely used by goldsmiths.
* You are probably a farmer (or farmhand).
* Comics basically come in two varieties: newspaper comics and magazines; the latter either feature superheroes or Archie etc.
* The people who appear on the most popular talk shows are mostly entertainers, politicians, or rather strange individuals. Certainly not, say, authors.
* You drive on the left side of the road. Traffic lights exist only in the big cities. If you're a pedestrian you watch out for your own safety.
* Cars are a luxury of the rich.
* The police are typically not armed, unless they are guarding VVIPs, in which case they might tote submachine guns.
Girl, have a twinkie!
* If a woman is plumper than the average, it improves her looks. (i.e. what a person considers 'ideal' is likely to be plumper than the American ideal).
* The midday and evening meal are equally light.
* The ethnicity people most often make jokes about are the Sikhs (colloquially referred to as Sardars).
* Sikhs are widely considered to be dumb and good-natured; Biharis, loutish; Gujaratis, money-minded; Bengalis, impractical and talkative; Delhiites, rude and loutish. (Unless of course you belong to one of these groups.)
* There's parts of the city you definitely want to avoid at night.
* You feel that your kind of people aren't being listened to enough in New Delhi.
* You expect both inflation and unemployment to be very high (say, over 15%) at the same time.
Meet the parents
* You care very deeply what family someone comes from and what their caste is.
* When a couple dies, there are different ways to handle the estate: (1) it passes on to the eldest son, (2) it is divided equally between the male progeny, or (3) it is divided equally among all their children.
* Opera and ballet are unknown. Street plays or shows, singing and dancing are very popular, especially in the countryside. Many of these take place at fairs or festivals.
* Christmas is in the winter. If you're Christian, you spend it with your family, light up your house and go to church.
* You are used to not having a state church and the possibility of such a thing has never even occurred to you.
* You'd be hard pressed to name the capitals or the leaders of all the nations of Europe.
* You've never left a message at the beep.
* Taxis are generally operated by ordinary people; they only exist in the big cities.
* Welfare, unemployment payments, social security, and Medicare are unheard of.
* If you want to be a doctor, you need to get a bachelor's first.
* There are some lawyers; they do not particularly make a lot of money.
Space and time
* If you have an appointment, you'll mutter an excuse if you're an hour late.
* If you're talking to someone, you do not get at all uncomfortable if they approach closely.
* You expect to bargain for everything. When you offer a price, you aren't so much probing the seller's minimum, as signalling how much you really want the item.
* Even once you're past college, you might often simply show up at someone's place. People may invite each other but don't have to.
* When you negotiate, you may play convoluted games to get what you want. Also, in social situations, it is sometimes considered improper to be too direct.
* If you have a business appointment or interview with someone, you expect to have that person to yourself, but the business may take any amount of time depending on context.
Getting India's Railroads On Track
27 June 2008, TIME magazine, By Simon Robinson
Until the past few years, Indian Railways (IR) itself was sunk in a languorous snore. The state-owned company, the monopoly owner-operator of the country's rail system, runs 12,000 trains a day over 39,000 miles (62,750 km) of routes, making it the world's largest railroad under a single administration. It was also notorious for being slow, inefficient and requiring constant government bailouts. But over the past six years, India's most important form of transport — "the lifeline of the nation" as it is often called — has undergone a remarkable turnaround. In its fiscal year ending March 2007, Indian Railways made more than $5 billion. Services are improving and rail bosses have announced plans to spend billions on new rolling stock, faster lines and new stations. Though it still gets government funding, IR is now India's second most profitable state-owned company. "Earlier we were dragging the economy down," says Sudhir Kumar, whose official title is officer on special duty to the Railway Minister, and who has helped oversee the revitalization. "Now we are leading the economy from the front."
The resurrection of India's railroads was a three-step process that has been so successful it is studied by visiting business students from places such as Harvard, Wharton and INSEAD. The first step: speed things up — not the trains themselves but the turnaround time between the end and beginning of each new trip. In 2001 the average time to unload, repair, refuel and reload a freight train in India was 7.1 days. Now it is just five days, which means that 800 trains leave on a new journey each day, rather than just 550. Given that an additional trip can earn up to $15 million, the improvement made an important contribution to IR's bottom line. IR also made sure each freight locomotive carries more cars, hence more cargo. That brings in an extra $1.5 billion a year, according to Kumar, who compares the railroads under old management practices to "a Jersey cow that we forgot to milk fully."
Finally, passenger trains have also been increased in length. Until a few years ago a typical train had about 15 carriages. IR officials discovered that a passenger-train journey could earn a profit with 24 carriages, which became the target length. By pushing the "quicker, heavier, longer" mantra, rail bosses have also been able to improve services. For example, in 2006 IR began offering special express trains on certain routes such as the run between New Delhi and Agra, home of the Taj Mahal. Tourists making day trips to India's most popular tourist attraction now can book online and sit in comfortable seats during a trip that takes less than two hours instead of almost three. Even on longer, slower trips the catering, which is now outsourced, has improved.
The man many people credit with rail's comeback is Minister Lalu Prasad Yadav, a controversial figure, as his term as Chief Minister of Bihar was characterized by mismanagement and corruption. Yadav is certainly lucky that he's heading Indian Railways during a period of tremendous growth in India. The company is minting money hauling freight for mines thanks to the massive demand for iron ore in China, to cite just one example. Contracts with mining firms are now linked to the price of ore rather than "set in concrete like in the old socialist fashion".
Hoping to grab more of the long-haul freight business lost to truckers in recent years, rail bosses plan to borrow at least $15 billion to build a dedicated fast-freight corridor between Mumbai, New Delhi and Kolkata. They also have big plans for some of the 1 million acres (420,000 hectares) of land that IR owns along rail lines and around stations and shunt yards. Real estate developers are currently bidding to overhaul the first of 16 major stations. At New Delhi's central station, which is likely worth billions of dollars, developers plan hotels, wireless Internet services and food courts.
Still, IR has miles to go before it can be called a first-class operation. Train travel in India remains infuriatingly slow for the 18 million Indians riding a train on any given day. A 1,378-mile (2,217 km) trip from New Delhi to Goa just before Christmas, for instance, took me 35 hours, almost a day longer than a train trip over a similar distance in Europe would take. Because of a lack of equipment and tiny station platforms, freight is sometimes thrown from trains in heaps. The heavier loading, critics charge, has caused more breakdowns. Older carriages can be dirty, shabby and full of cockroaches — and that's in upper class.
"Railways were in a denial mode, living on past glories from when we were a natural monopoly," Kumar says. "Now we have to compete — and we are."
Until the past few years, Indian Railways (IR) itself was sunk in a languorous snore. The state-owned company, the monopoly owner-operator of the country's rail system, runs 12,000 trains a day over 39,000 miles (62,750 km) of routes, making it the world's largest railroad under a single administration. It was also notorious for being slow, inefficient and requiring constant government bailouts. But over the past six years, India's most important form of transport — "the lifeline of the nation" as it is often called — has undergone a remarkable turnaround. In its fiscal year ending March 2007, Indian Railways made more than $5 billion. Services are improving and rail bosses have announced plans to spend billions on new rolling stock, faster lines and new stations. Though it still gets government funding, IR is now India's second most profitable state-owned company. "Earlier we were dragging the economy down," says Sudhir Kumar, whose official title is officer on special duty to the Railway Minister, and who has helped oversee the revitalization. "Now we are leading the economy from the front."
The resurrection of India's railroads was a three-step process that has been so successful it is studied by visiting business students from places such as Harvard, Wharton and INSEAD. The first step: speed things up — not the trains themselves but the turnaround time between the end and beginning of each new trip. In 2001 the average time to unload, repair, refuel and reload a freight train in India was 7.1 days. Now it is just five days, which means that 800 trains leave on a new journey each day, rather than just 550. Given that an additional trip can earn up to $15 million, the improvement made an important contribution to IR's bottom line. IR also made sure each freight locomotive carries more cars, hence more cargo. That brings in an extra $1.5 billion a year, according to Kumar, who compares the railroads under old management practices to "a Jersey cow that we forgot to milk fully."
Finally, passenger trains have also been increased in length. Until a few years ago a typical train had about 15 carriages. IR officials discovered that a passenger-train journey could earn a profit with 24 carriages, which became the target length. By pushing the "quicker, heavier, longer" mantra, rail bosses have also been able to improve services. For example, in 2006 IR began offering special express trains on certain routes such as the run between New Delhi and Agra, home of the Taj Mahal. Tourists making day trips to India's most popular tourist attraction now can book online and sit in comfortable seats during a trip that takes less than two hours instead of almost three. Even on longer, slower trips the catering, which is now outsourced, has improved.
The man many people credit with rail's comeback is Minister Lalu Prasad Yadav, a controversial figure, as his term as Chief Minister of Bihar was characterized by mismanagement and corruption. Yadav is certainly lucky that he's heading Indian Railways during a period of tremendous growth in India. The company is minting money hauling freight for mines thanks to the massive demand for iron ore in China, to cite just one example. Contracts with mining firms are now linked to the price of ore rather than "set in concrete like in the old socialist fashion".
Hoping to grab more of the long-haul freight business lost to truckers in recent years, rail bosses plan to borrow at least $15 billion to build a dedicated fast-freight corridor between Mumbai, New Delhi and Kolkata. They also have big plans for some of the 1 million acres (420,000 hectares) of land that IR owns along rail lines and around stations and shunt yards. Real estate developers are currently bidding to overhaul the first of 16 major stations. At New Delhi's central station, which is likely worth billions of dollars, developers plan hotels, wireless Internet services and food courts.
Still, IR has miles to go before it can be called a first-class operation. Train travel in India remains infuriatingly slow for the 18 million Indians riding a train on any given day. A 1,378-mile (2,217 km) trip from New Delhi to Goa just before Christmas, for instance, took me 35 hours, almost a day longer than a train trip over a similar distance in Europe would take. Because of a lack of equipment and tiny station platforms, freight is sometimes thrown from trains in heaps. The heavier loading, critics charge, has caused more breakdowns. Older carriages can be dirty, shabby and full of cockroaches — and that's in upper class.
"Railways were in a denial mode, living on past glories from when we were a natural monopoly," Kumar says. "Now we have to compete — and we are."
Early Policy Developments India
Many early post-independence leaders, such as Nehru, were influenced by socialist ideas and advocated government intervention to guide the economy, including state ownership of key industries. The objective was to achieve high and balanced economic development in India in the general interest while particular programs and measures helped the poor. India's leaders also believed that industrialization was the key to economic development. This belief was all the more convincing in India because of the country's large size, substantial natural resources, and desire to develop its own defense industries.
The Industrial Policy Resolution of 1948 gave government a monopoly in armaments, atomic energy, and railroads, and exclusive rights to develop minerals, the iron and steel industries, aircraft manufacturing, shipbuilding, and manufacturing of telephone and telegraph equipment. Private companies operating in those fields were guaranteed at least ten years more of ownership before the government could take them over. Some still operate as private companies in India.
The Industrial Policy Resolution of 1956 greatly extended the preserve of government. There were seventeen industries exclusively in the public sector. The Indian government took the lead in another twelve industries, but private companies could also engage in production. This resolution covered industries producing capital and intermediate goods. As a result, the private sector was relegated primarily to production of consumer goods. The public sector also expanded into more services. In 1956 the life insurance business was nationalized, and in 1973 the general insurance business was also acquired by the public sector. Most large commercial banks in India were nationalized in 1969. Over the years, the central and state governments formed agencies, and companies engaged in finance, trading, mineral exploitation, manufacturing, utilities, and transportation. The public sector was extensive and influential throughout the economy, although the value of its assets was small relative to the private sector.
Controls over prices, production, and the use of foreign exchange, which were imposed by the British during World War II, were reinstated soon after independence. The Industries (Development and Regulation) Act of 1951 and the Essential Commodities Act of 1955 (with subsequent additions) provided the legal framework for the government to extend price controls that eventually included steel, cement, drugs, nonferrous metals, chemicals, fertilizer, coal, automobiles, tires and tubes, cotton textiles, food grains, bread, butter, vegetable oils, and other commodities. By the late 1950s, controls were pervasive, regulating investment in industry, prices of many commodities, imports and exports, and the flow of foreign exchange.
Export growth in India was long ignored. The government's extensive controls and pervasive licensing requirements created imbalances and structural problems in many parts of the economy. Controls were usually imposed to correct specific problems but often without adequate consideration of their effect on other parts of the economy. For example, government of India set low prices for basic foods, transportation, and other commodities and services, a policy designed to protect the living standards of the poor. However, the policy proved counterproductive when the government also limited the output of needed goods and services. Price ceilings were implemented during shortages, but the ceiling frequently contributed to black markets in those commodities and to tax evasion by black-market participants. Import controls and tariff policy stimulated local manufacturers toward production of import-substitution goods, but under conditions devoid of sufficient competition or pressure to be efficient.
Private trading and industrial conglomerates (the so-called large houses) existed under the British and continued after independence. The government viewed the conglomerates with suspicion, believing that they often manipulated markets and prices for their own profit. After independence the government instituted licensing controls on new businesses, especially in manufacturing, and on expanding capacity in existing businesses. In the 1960s, when shortages of goods were extensive, considerable criticism was leveled at traders for manipulating markets and prices. The result was the 1970 Monopolies and Restrictive Practices Act, which was designed to provide the government with additional information on the structure and investments of all firms that had assets of more than Rs200 million (for value of the rupee--see Glossary), to strengthen the licensing system in order to decrease the concentration of private economic power, and to place restraints on certain business practices considered contrary to the public interest. The act emphasized the government's aversion to large companies in the private sector, but critics contended that the act resulted from political motives and not from a strong case against big firms. The act and subsequent enforcement restrained private investment.
The extensive controls, the large public sector, and the many government programs contributed to a substantial growth in the administrative structure of government. Indian government also sought to take on many of the unemployed. The result was a swollen, inefficient bureaucracy that took inordinate amounts of time to process applications and forms. Business leaders complained that they spent more time getting government approval than running their companies. Many observers also reported extensive corruption in the huge bureaucracy. One consequence was the development of a large underground economy in small-scale enterprises and the services sector.
India's current economic reforms began in 1985 when the government abolished some of its licensing regulations and other competition-inhibiting controls. Since 1991 more "new economic policies" or reforms have been introduced. Reforms include currency devaluations and making currency partially convertible, reduced quantitative restrictions on imports, reduced import duties on capital goods, decreases in subsidies, liberalized interest rates, abolition of licenses for most industries, the sale of shares in selected public enterprises, and tax reforms. Although many observers welcomed these changes and attributed the faster growth rate of the economy in the late 1980s to them, others feared that these changes would create more problems than they solved. The growing dependence of the economy on imports, greater vulnerability of its balance of payments, reliance on debt, and the consequent susceptibility to outside pressures on economic policy directions caused concern. The increase in consumerism and the display of conspicuous wealth by the elite exacerbated these fears.
The pace of liberalization increased after 1991. By the mid-1990s, the number of sectors reserved for public ownership was slashed, and private-sector investment was encouraged in areas such as energy, steel, oil refining and exploration, road building, air transportation, and telecommunications. An area still closed to the private sector in the mid-1990s was defense industry. Foreign-exchange regulations in India were liberalized, foreign investment was encouraged, and import regulations were simplified. The average import-weighted tariff was reduced from 87 percent in FY 1991 to 33 percent in FY 1994. Despite these changes, the economy remained highly regulated by international standards. The import of many consumer goods was banned, and the production of 838 items, mostly consumer goods, was reserved for companies with total investment of less than Rs6 million. Although the government had sold off minority stakes in public-sector companies, it had not in 1995 given up control of any enterprises, nor had any of the loss-making public companies been closed down. Moreover, although import duties had been lowered substantially, they were still high compared to most other countries.
Political successes in the mid-1990s by nationalist-oriented political parties led to some backlash against foreign investment in some parts of India. In early 1995, official charges of serving adulterated products were made against a KFC outlet in Bangalore, and Pepsi-Cola products were smashed and advertisements defaced in New Delhi. The most serious backlash occurred in Maharashtra in August 1995 when the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP--Indian People's Party)-led state government halted construction of a US$2.8 million 2,015-megawatt gas-fired electric-power plant being built near Bombay (Mumbai in the Marathi language) by another United States company, Enron Corporation.
India Economic policies 1995 data.
The Industrial Policy Resolution of 1948 gave government a monopoly in armaments, atomic energy, and railroads, and exclusive rights to develop minerals, the iron and steel industries, aircraft manufacturing, shipbuilding, and manufacturing of telephone and telegraph equipment. Private companies operating in those fields were guaranteed at least ten years more of ownership before the government could take them over. Some still operate as private companies in India.
The Industrial Policy Resolution of 1956 greatly extended the preserve of government. There were seventeen industries exclusively in the public sector. The Indian government took the lead in another twelve industries, but private companies could also engage in production. This resolution covered industries producing capital and intermediate goods. As a result, the private sector was relegated primarily to production of consumer goods. The public sector also expanded into more services. In 1956 the life insurance business was nationalized, and in 1973 the general insurance business was also acquired by the public sector. Most large commercial banks in India were nationalized in 1969. Over the years, the central and state governments formed agencies, and companies engaged in finance, trading, mineral exploitation, manufacturing, utilities, and transportation. The public sector was extensive and influential throughout the economy, although the value of its assets was small relative to the private sector.
Controls over prices, production, and the use of foreign exchange, which were imposed by the British during World War II, were reinstated soon after independence. The Industries (Development and Regulation) Act of 1951 and the Essential Commodities Act of 1955 (with subsequent additions) provided the legal framework for the government to extend price controls that eventually included steel, cement, drugs, nonferrous metals, chemicals, fertilizer, coal, automobiles, tires and tubes, cotton textiles, food grains, bread, butter, vegetable oils, and other commodities. By the late 1950s, controls were pervasive, regulating investment in industry, prices of many commodities, imports and exports, and the flow of foreign exchange.
Export growth in India was long ignored. The government's extensive controls and pervasive licensing requirements created imbalances and structural problems in many parts of the economy. Controls were usually imposed to correct specific problems but often without adequate consideration of their effect on other parts of the economy. For example, government of India set low prices for basic foods, transportation, and other commodities and services, a policy designed to protect the living standards of the poor. However, the policy proved counterproductive when the government also limited the output of needed goods and services. Price ceilings were implemented during shortages, but the ceiling frequently contributed to black markets in those commodities and to tax evasion by black-market participants. Import controls and tariff policy stimulated local manufacturers toward production of import-substitution goods, but under conditions devoid of sufficient competition or pressure to be efficient.
Private trading and industrial conglomerates (the so-called large houses) existed under the British and continued after independence. The government viewed the conglomerates with suspicion, believing that they often manipulated markets and prices for their own profit. After independence the government instituted licensing controls on new businesses, especially in manufacturing, and on expanding capacity in existing businesses. In the 1960s, when shortages of goods were extensive, considerable criticism was leveled at traders for manipulating markets and prices. The result was the 1970 Monopolies and Restrictive Practices Act, which was designed to provide the government with additional information on the structure and investments of all firms that had assets of more than Rs200 million (for value of the rupee--see Glossary), to strengthen the licensing system in order to decrease the concentration of private economic power, and to place restraints on certain business practices considered contrary to the public interest. The act emphasized the government's aversion to large companies in the private sector, but critics contended that the act resulted from political motives and not from a strong case against big firms. The act and subsequent enforcement restrained private investment.
The extensive controls, the large public sector, and the many government programs contributed to a substantial growth in the administrative structure of government. Indian government also sought to take on many of the unemployed. The result was a swollen, inefficient bureaucracy that took inordinate amounts of time to process applications and forms. Business leaders complained that they spent more time getting government approval than running their companies. Many observers also reported extensive corruption in the huge bureaucracy. One consequence was the development of a large underground economy in small-scale enterprises and the services sector.
India's current economic reforms began in 1985 when the government abolished some of its licensing regulations and other competition-inhibiting controls. Since 1991 more "new economic policies" or reforms have been introduced. Reforms include currency devaluations and making currency partially convertible, reduced quantitative restrictions on imports, reduced import duties on capital goods, decreases in subsidies, liberalized interest rates, abolition of licenses for most industries, the sale of shares in selected public enterprises, and tax reforms. Although many observers welcomed these changes and attributed the faster growth rate of the economy in the late 1980s to them, others feared that these changes would create more problems than they solved. The growing dependence of the economy on imports, greater vulnerability of its balance of payments, reliance on debt, and the consequent susceptibility to outside pressures on economic policy directions caused concern. The increase in consumerism and the display of conspicuous wealth by the elite exacerbated these fears.
The pace of liberalization increased after 1991. By the mid-1990s, the number of sectors reserved for public ownership was slashed, and private-sector investment was encouraged in areas such as energy, steel, oil refining and exploration, road building, air transportation, and telecommunications. An area still closed to the private sector in the mid-1990s was defense industry. Foreign-exchange regulations in India were liberalized, foreign investment was encouraged, and import regulations were simplified. The average import-weighted tariff was reduced from 87 percent in FY 1991 to 33 percent in FY 1994. Despite these changes, the economy remained highly regulated by international standards. The import of many consumer goods was banned, and the production of 838 items, mostly consumer goods, was reserved for companies with total investment of less than Rs6 million. Although the government had sold off minority stakes in public-sector companies, it had not in 1995 given up control of any enterprises, nor had any of the loss-making public companies been closed down. Moreover, although import duties had been lowered substantially, they were still high compared to most other countries.
Political successes in the mid-1990s by nationalist-oriented political parties led to some backlash against foreign investment in some parts of India. In early 1995, official charges of serving adulterated products were made against a KFC outlet in Bangalore, and Pepsi-Cola products were smashed and advertisements defaced in New Delhi. The most serious backlash occurred in Maharashtra in August 1995 when the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP--Indian People's Party)-led state government halted construction of a US$2.8 million 2,015-megawatt gas-fired electric-power plant being built near Bombay (Mumbai in the Marathi language) by another United States company, Enron Corporation.
India Economic policies 1995 data.
Overview - Indian HIstory
History of India . An overview : The people of India have had a continuous civilization since 2500 B.C., when the inhabitants of the Indus River valley developed an urban culture based on commerce and sustained by agricultural trade. This civilization declined around 1500 B.C., probably due to ecological changes.
During the second millennium B.C., pastoral, Aryan-speaking tribes migrated from the northwest into the subcontinent. As they settled in the middle Ganges River valley, they adapted to antecedent cultures.
The political map of ancient and medieval India was made up of myriad kingdoms with fluctuating boundaries. In the 4th and 5th centuries A.D., northern India was unified under the Gupta Dynasty. During this period, known as India's Golden Age, Hindu culture and political administration reached new heights.
Islam spread across the Indian subcontinent over a period of 500 years. In the 10th and 11th centuries, Turks and Afghans invaded India and established sultanates in Delhi. In the early 16th century, descendants of Genghis Khan swept across the Khyber Pass and established the Mughal (Mogul) Dynasty, which lasted for 200 years. From the 11th to the 15th centuries, southern India was dominated by Hindu Chola and Vijayanagar Dynasties. During this time, the two systems--the prevailing Hindu and Muslim--mingled, leaving lasting cultural influences on each other.
The first British outpost in South Asia was established in 1619 at Surat on the northwestern coast. Later in the century, the East India Company opened permanent trading stations at Madras, Bombay, and Calcutta, each under the protection of native rulers.
The British expanded their influence from these footholds until, by the 1850s, they controlled most of present-day India, Pakistan, and Bangladesh. In 1857, a rebellion in north India led by mutinous Indian soldiers caused the British Parliament to transfer all political power from the East India Company to the Crown. Great Britain began administering most of India directly while controlling the rest through treaties with local rulers.
In the late 1800s, the first steps were taken toward self-government in British India with the appointment of Indian councilors to advise the British viceroy and the establishment of provincial councils with Indian members; the British subsequently widened participation in legislative councils. Beginning in 1920, Indian leader Mohandas K. Gandhi transformed the Indian National Congress political party into a mass movement to campaign against British colonial rule. The party used both parliamentary and nonviolent resistance and non-cooperation to achieve independence.
On August 15, 1947, India became a dominion within the Commonwealth, with Jawaharlal Nehru as Prime Minister. Enmity between Hindus and Muslims led the British to partition British India, creating East and West Pakistan, where there were Muslim majorities. India became a republic within the Commonwealth after promulgating its constitution on January 26, 1950.
After independence, the Congress Party, the party of Mahatma Gandhi and Jawaharlal Nehru, ruled India under the influence first of Nehru and then his daughter and grandson, with the exception of two brief periods in the 1970s and 1980s.
Prime Minister Nehru governed India until his death in 1964. He was succeeded by Lal Bahadur Shastri, who also died in office. In 1966, power passed to Nehru's daughter, Indira Gandhi, Prime Minister from 1966 to 1977. In 1975, beset with deepening political and economic problems, Mrs. Gandhi declared a state of emergency and suspended many civil liberties. Seeking a mandate at the polls for her policies, she called for elections in 1977, only to be defeated by Moraji Desai, who headed the Janata Party, an amalgam of five opposition parties.
In 1979, Desai's Government crumbled. Charan Singh formed an interim government, which was followed by Mrs. Gandhi's return to power in January 1980. On October 31, 1984, Mrs. Gandhi was assassinated, and her son, Rajiv, was chosen by the Congress (I)--for "Indira"--Party to take her place. His government was brought down in 1989 by allegations of corruption and was followed by V.P. Singh and then Chandra Shekhar.
In the 1989 elections, although Rajiv Gandhi and Congress won more seats in the 1989 elections than any other single party, he was unable to form a government with a clear majority. The Janata Dal, a union of opposition parties, was able to form a government with the help of the Hindu-nationalist Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) on the right and the communists on the left. This loose coalition collapsed in November 1990, and the government was controlled for a short period by a breakaway Janata Dal group supported by Congress (I), with Chandra Shekhar as Prime Minister. That alliance also collapsed, resulting in national elections in June 1991.
On May 27, 1991, while campaigning in Tamil Nadu on behalf of Congress (I), Rajiv Gandhi was assassinated, apparently by Tamil extremists from Sri Lanka. In the elections, Congress (I) won 213 parliamentary seats and put together a coalition, returning to power under the leadership of P.V. Narasimha Rao. This Congress-led government, which served a full 5-year term, initiated a gradual process of economic liberalization and reform, which has opened the Indian economy to global trade and investment. India's domestic politics also took new shape, as traditional alignments by caste, creed, and ethnicity gave way to a plethora of small, regionally based political parties.
The final months of the Rao-led government in the spring of 1996 were marred by several major political corruption scandals, which contributed to the worst electoral performance by the Congress Party in its history. The Hindu-nationalist Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) emerged from the May 1996 national elections as the single-largest party in the Lok Sabha but without enough strength to prove a majority on the floor of that Parliament. Under Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee, the BJP coalition lasted in power 13 days. With all political parties wishing to avoid another round of elections, a 14-party coalition led by the Janata Dal emerged to form a government known as the United Front, under the former Chief Minister of Karnataka, H.D. Deve Gowda. His government lasted less than a year, as the leader of the Congress Party withdrew his support in March 1997. Inder Kumar Gujral replaced Deve Gowda as the consensus choice for Prime Minister of a 16-party United Front coalition.
In November 1997, the Congress Party in India again withdrew support for the United Front. New elections in February 1998 brought the BJP the largest number of seats in Parliament--182--but fell far short of a majority. On March 20, 1998, the President inaugurated a BJP-led coalition government with Vajpayee again serving as Prime Minister. On May 11 and 13, 1998, this government conducted a series of underground nuclear tests forcing U.S. President Clinton to impose economic sanctions on India pursuant to the 1994 Nuclear Proliferation Prevention Act.
In April 1999, the BJP-led coalition government fell apart, leading to fresh elections in September. The National Democratic Alliance-a new coalition led by the BJP-gained a majority to form the government with Vajpayee as Prime Minister in October 1999.
During the second millennium B.C., pastoral, Aryan-speaking tribes migrated from the northwest into the subcontinent. As they settled in the middle Ganges River valley, they adapted to antecedent cultures.
The political map of ancient and medieval India was made up of myriad kingdoms with fluctuating boundaries. In the 4th and 5th centuries A.D., northern India was unified under the Gupta Dynasty. During this period, known as India's Golden Age, Hindu culture and political administration reached new heights.
Islam spread across the Indian subcontinent over a period of 500 years. In the 10th and 11th centuries, Turks and Afghans invaded India and established sultanates in Delhi. In the early 16th century, descendants of Genghis Khan swept across the Khyber Pass and established the Mughal (Mogul) Dynasty, which lasted for 200 years. From the 11th to the 15th centuries, southern India was dominated by Hindu Chola and Vijayanagar Dynasties. During this time, the two systems--the prevailing Hindu and Muslim--mingled, leaving lasting cultural influences on each other.
The first British outpost in South Asia was established in 1619 at Surat on the northwestern coast. Later in the century, the East India Company opened permanent trading stations at Madras, Bombay, and Calcutta, each under the protection of native rulers.
The British expanded their influence from these footholds until, by the 1850s, they controlled most of present-day India, Pakistan, and Bangladesh. In 1857, a rebellion in north India led by mutinous Indian soldiers caused the British Parliament to transfer all political power from the East India Company to the Crown. Great Britain began administering most of India directly while controlling the rest through treaties with local rulers.
In the late 1800s, the first steps were taken toward self-government in British India with the appointment of Indian councilors to advise the British viceroy and the establishment of provincial councils with Indian members; the British subsequently widened participation in legislative councils. Beginning in 1920, Indian leader Mohandas K. Gandhi transformed the Indian National Congress political party into a mass movement to campaign against British colonial rule. The party used both parliamentary and nonviolent resistance and non-cooperation to achieve independence.
On August 15, 1947, India became a dominion within the Commonwealth, with Jawaharlal Nehru as Prime Minister. Enmity between Hindus and Muslims led the British to partition British India, creating East and West Pakistan, where there were Muslim majorities. India became a republic within the Commonwealth after promulgating its constitution on January 26, 1950.
After independence, the Congress Party, the party of Mahatma Gandhi and Jawaharlal Nehru, ruled India under the influence first of Nehru and then his daughter and grandson, with the exception of two brief periods in the 1970s and 1980s.
Prime Minister Nehru governed India until his death in 1964. He was succeeded by Lal Bahadur Shastri, who also died in office. In 1966, power passed to Nehru's daughter, Indira Gandhi, Prime Minister from 1966 to 1977. In 1975, beset with deepening political and economic problems, Mrs. Gandhi declared a state of emergency and suspended many civil liberties. Seeking a mandate at the polls for her policies, she called for elections in 1977, only to be defeated by Moraji Desai, who headed the Janata Party, an amalgam of five opposition parties.
In 1979, Desai's Government crumbled. Charan Singh formed an interim government, which was followed by Mrs. Gandhi's return to power in January 1980. On October 31, 1984, Mrs. Gandhi was assassinated, and her son, Rajiv, was chosen by the Congress (I)--for "Indira"--Party to take her place. His government was brought down in 1989 by allegations of corruption and was followed by V.P. Singh and then Chandra Shekhar.
In the 1989 elections, although Rajiv Gandhi and Congress won more seats in the 1989 elections than any other single party, he was unable to form a government with a clear majority. The Janata Dal, a union of opposition parties, was able to form a government with the help of the Hindu-nationalist Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) on the right and the communists on the left. This loose coalition collapsed in November 1990, and the government was controlled for a short period by a breakaway Janata Dal group supported by Congress (I), with Chandra Shekhar as Prime Minister. That alliance also collapsed, resulting in national elections in June 1991.
On May 27, 1991, while campaigning in Tamil Nadu on behalf of Congress (I), Rajiv Gandhi was assassinated, apparently by Tamil extremists from Sri Lanka. In the elections, Congress (I) won 213 parliamentary seats and put together a coalition, returning to power under the leadership of P.V. Narasimha Rao. This Congress-led government, which served a full 5-year term, initiated a gradual process of economic liberalization and reform, which has opened the Indian economy to global trade and investment. India's domestic politics also took new shape, as traditional alignments by caste, creed, and ethnicity gave way to a plethora of small, regionally based political parties.
The final months of the Rao-led government in the spring of 1996 were marred by several major political corruption scandals, which contributed to the worst electoral performance by the Congress Party in its history. The Hindu-nationalist Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) emerged from the May 1996 national elections as the single-largest party in the Lok Sabha but without enough strength to prove a majority on the floor of that Parliament. Under Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee, the BJP coalition lasted in power 13 days. With all political parties wishing to avoid another round of elections, a 14-party coalition led by the Janata Dal emerged to form a government known as the United Front, under the former Chief Minister of Karnataka, H.D. Deve Gowda. His government lasted less than a year, as the leader of the Congress Party withdrew his support in March 1997. Inder Kumar Gujral replaced Deve Gowda as the consensus choice for Prime Minister of a 16-party United Front coalition.
In November 1997, the Congress Party in India again withdrew support for the United Front. New elections in February 1998 brought the BJP the largest number of seats in Parliament--182--but fell far short of a majority. On March 20, 1998, the President inaugurated a BJP-led coalition government with Vajpayee again serving as Prime Minister. On May 11 and 13, 1998, this government conducted a series of underground nuclear tests forcing U.S. President Clinton to impose economic sanctions on India pursuant to the 1994 Nuclear Proliferation Prevention Act.
In April 1999, the BJP-led coalition government fell apart, leading to fresh elections in September. The National Democratic Alliance-a new coalition led by the BJP-gained a majority to form the government with Vajpayee as Prime Minister in October 1999.
Traditions
Namaskar
Namaskar or Namaste, is the most popular form of greeting in India. Both palms are brought together and raised just below the face. It is a salutation of welcoming and bidding farewell. The joined palms symbolize one mind. The right hand represents higher nature, and the left hand represents worldly or lower nature.
Mehndi
An ancient Indian tradition, this body art has become a modern fashion trend in the West. Indian mehndi is intricate lines of reddish-brown lacey or floral patterns. Traditionally, Indian women adorn their hands and feet with beautiful mehndi designs for celebrations of weddings, festivals, and other special occasions. A bride is not expected to perform any housework until her wedding mehndi has faded.
This temporary tattoo is safe, painless, completely natural, and non-toxic. It is created by grounding henna plants and mixing with hot water. This paste is then traced in a design on the desired body part. A solution of lemon juice and sugar is applied to the drying mehndi to "set it".
Originating in ancient Egypt, mehndi has been made popular by many of today's celebrities. Now a craze for men as well as women, mehndi can be seen all over the body in an array of colors.
Tilak
A ritual mark on the forhead, between the brows, symbolizes the quest for the opening of the spiritual eye (third eye). The spot between the brows is considered to be the seat of wisdom and mental concentration. All rites and ceremonies of Hindus begin with a tilak being topped with a few grains of rice.
Bindi
Considered a symbol of the Goddess Parvati, this traditionally red dot between the eyebrows of women, signifies female energy and is believed to offer protection for the woman and her husband. Originally a symbol of marriage, it is now a decorative worn also by unmarried girls and women.
Namaskar or Namaste, is the most popular form of greeting in India. Both palms are brought together and raised just below the face. It is a salutation of welcoming and bidding farewell. The joined palms symbolize one mind. The right hand represents higher nature, and the left hand represents worldly or lower nature.
Mehndi
An ancient Indian tradition, this body art has become a modern fashion trend in the West. Indian mehndi is intricate lines of reddish-brown lacey or floral patterns. Traditionally, Indian women adorn their hands and feet with beautiful mehndi designs for celebrations of weddings, festivals, and other special occasions. A bride is not expected to perform any housework until her wedding mehndi has faded.
This temporary tattoo is safe, painless, completely natural, and non-toxic. It is created by grounding henna plants and mixing with hot water. This paste is then traced in a design on the desired body part. A solution of lemon juice and sugar is applied to the drying mehndi to "set it".
Originating in ancient Egypt, mehndi has been made popular by many of today's celebrities. Now a craze for men as well as women, mehndi can be seen all over the body in an array of colors.
Tilak
A ritual mark on the forhead, between the brows, symbolizes the quest for the opening of the spiritual eye (third eye). The spot between the brows is considered to be the seat of wisdom and mental concentration. All rites and ceremonies of Hindus begin with a tilak being topped with a few grains of rice.
Bindi
Considered a symbol of the Goddess Parvati, this traditionally red dot between the eyebrows of women, signifies female energy and is believed to offer protection for the woman and her husband. Originally a symbol of marriage, it is now a decorative worn also by unmarried girls and women.
Religions
Vedic Tradition
The Vedic background of India's religious traditions is a lively topic of debate. Although the origin of this tradition is uncertain, its influence is apparent.
Hinduism
Possibly the most ancient tradition, Hinduism is complex and not easily classified. It is an ideology of liberal attitude, tolerance, and patience, that is rooted in casteism and regionalism.
Buddhism
Originating in northern India from the teachings of Gautam Siddhartha, the Buddhism tradition has spread throughout the world in its 2500 years. The title "Buddha" translates to "Awakened One". This popular tradition has both monastic and non-monastic followers.
Jainism
An ancient ascetical tradition, Jainism is a tradition that also has monastic and non-monastic followers. Unlike Buddhism, Jains did not usually travel outside of India. Today there are approximately 4 million Jains, all except 200,000 are in India.
Islam
Dating back to the 7th century, this tradition is a "religion of the book". The Qur'an of Islam is considered the full and final revelation of the One Creator to the last prophet Muhammed. It is arguably the most populous religious tradition in the world today.
Sikhism
This tradition evolved from the teachings of Guru Nanak and his nine successors, ending with Guru Gobind Singh. The teaching authority passed to the Guru Granth Sahib, a highly honored scripture. There are about 14 million Sikhs worldwide, most of whom still live in or near the Punjab state of northern India.
Zoroastrianism
This tradition was a major religion of the Persian Empire. It has been preserved mainly by Parsi(Persian) immigrants to India and a small number of descendents living throughout the world.
The Vedic background of India's religious traditions is a lively topic of debate. Although the origin of this tradition is uncertain, its influence is apparent.
Hinduism
Possibly the most ancient tradition, Hinduism is complex and not easily classified. It is an ideology of liberal attitude, tolerance, and patience, that is rooted in casteism and regionalism.
Buddhism
Originating in northern India from the teachings of Gautam Siddhartha, the Buddhism tradition has spread throughout the world in its 2500 years. The title "Buddha" translates to "Awakened One". This popular tradition has both monastic and non-monastic followers.
Jainism
An ancient ascetical tradition, Jainism is a tradition that also has monastic and non-monastic followers. Unlike Buddhism, Jains did not usually travel outside of India. Today there are approximately 4 million Jains, all except 200,000 are in India.
Islam
Dating back to the 7th century, this tradition is a "religion of the book". The Qur'an of Islam is considered the full and final revelation of the One Creator to the last prophet Muhammed. It is arguably the most populous religious tradition in the world today.
Sikhism
This tradition evolved from the teachings of Guru Nanak and his nine successors, ending with Guru Gobind Singh. The teaching authority passed to the Guru Granth Sahib, a highly honored scripture. There are about 14 million Sikhs worldwide, most of whom still live in or near the Punjab state of northern India.
Zoroastrianism
This tradition was a major religion of the Persian Empire. It has been preserved mainly by Parsi(Persian) immigrants to India and a small number of descendents living throughout the world.
India Monuments
Stories and legends are told about the great monuments in India. India has a vast culture, interesting facts and the revelations are marvelous. As one looks at the beauty of Taj Mahal, we can just see the love Emperor Shah Jahan had for his wife. The work of Ustad Isa Khan, the architect who designed this piece is exquisite. This is surely one of the best heritage sites in India.
Down south is the Meenakshi Sundareshwar temple which bears the Shiv linga which was worshipped by Lord Indra to absolve him from sin. The Meenakshi Sundareshwar temple is a granite form and has twelve gopuras. Gopuras are the traditional architectural towers in the south of India. There are several shrines with the primary two shrines of the main Shiva and Parvathy.
The Nagara architecture is well seen in the Khajuraho temples. The works are in rough granite and depict a lot of tradition. This represent the pictures of Gods and Goddesses. The beauty of apsaras and deities is well seen in the carvings. The interior is well designed to allow air and light and this is certainly a tourists must-visit place.
The churches in Goa are spell bounding with their masterpiece works. The façade, interiors, dome shaped ceiling, painted windows are a treat to ones eyes. The Portuguese churches are again typical in their setting. St Francis of Asisi, Chapel of St. Cahterine, Church of lady of Rosary and Basilica of Bom Jesus are some of the masterpieces. The Ajanta and Ellora caves are set in Aurangabad which are thirty in number. Most heritage sites are a result of accidental discovery and this too was found by a group of British people who were on a hunting expedition. There is a prayer hall, monastery which strongly suggest Buddhist culture in the Ajanta caves. The Ellora again shows the traces of Jain, Buddhist and Brahman religions.
The Agra fort over the banks of Yamuna is another great place. The red stone colour is unique with the grandeur effect of architecture. Fatehpur Sikri was at its peak during the administration of Akbar. The tomb of Saint Sheik S Chisti, Jama Masjid, Bulund Darwaza are some of the monuments that are famous hers. The Konark temple, Hampi, Qutab Minar are other famous monuments in India.
Down south is the Meenakshi Sundareshwar temple which bears the Shiv linga which was worshipped by Lord Indra to absolve him from sin. The Meenakshi Sundareshwar temple is a granite form and has twelve gopuras. Gopuras are the traditional architectural towers in the south of India. There are several shrines with the primary two shrines of the main Shiva and Parvathy.
The Nagara architecture is well seen in the Khajuraho temples. The works are in rough granite and depict a lot of tradition. This represent the pictures of Gods and Goddesses. The beauty of apsaras and deities is well seen in the carvings. The interior is well designed to allow air and light and this is certainly a tourists must-visit place.
The churches in Goa are spell bounding with their masterpiece works. The façade, interiors, dome shaped ceiling, painted windows are a treat to ones eyes. The Portuguese churches are again typical in their setting. St Francis of Asisi, Chapel of St. Cahterine, Church of lady of Rosary and Basilica of Bom Jesus are some of the masterpieces. The Ajanta and Ellora caves are set in Aurangabad which are thirty in number. Most heritage sites are a result of accidental discovery and this too was found by a group of British people who were on a hunting expedition. There is a prayer hall, monastery which strongly suggest Buddhist culture in the Ajanta caves. The Ellora again shows the traces of Jain, Buddhist and Brahman religions.
The Agra fort over the banks of Yamuna is another great place. The red stone colour is unique with the grandeur effect of architecture. Fatehpur Sikri was at its peak during the administration of Akbar. The tomb of Saint Sheik S Chisti, Jama Masjid, Bulund Darwaza are some of the monuments that are famous hers. The Konark temple, Hampi, Qutab Minar are other famous monuments in India.
India Transportation
Indian Railroads: Track route length 62,458 in mid-1990s, fourth most heavily used system in world, both for passengers and freight; all government-owned and operated by Indian Railways. Some 14,600 kilometers double or multiple tracked; 11,000 kilometers electrified, 116,000 bridges; some high-speed routes; domestic production of most rolling stock and other components. Major government investment in modernization in 1990s. Full metro system in Calcutta, rapid transit system in Madras & major system planned for New Delhi; Bombay served by suburban rail network.
Indian Roads: Almost 2 million kilometers; 960,000 kilometers surfaced roads, and more than 1 million kilometers constructed of gravel, crushed stone, or earth. Fifty-three highways, almost 20,000 kilometers in total length, rated as national highways; carry about 40 percent of road traffic. Around 60 percent of all passenger traffic travels by road. Urban transit dominated by motor vehicles; increasing use of two- and three-wheel vehicles, automobiles, minibuses, buses, trucks. Large cities have major urban bus systems. Bullocks, camels, elephants, and other beasts of burden seen throughout India.
Maritime Transport in India: Eleven major ports and 139 minor ports. In 1995 three government-owned and between fifty and sixty privately owned shipping companies. Four major and three medium-sized shipyards, all government run, thirty-five smaller shipyards in private sector. Major coastal and ocean trade routes, more than 16,000 kilometers of inland waterways, more than 3,600 kilometers navigable by large vessels, although only about 2,000 kilometers used.
Airports : Two airlines (Air India and Indian Airlines) and one helicopter service (Pawan Hans) owned by government and six privately owned airlines; latter account for only 10 percent of domestic air traffic. Of 288 airports, 208 permanent-surface runways and two runways of more than 3,659 meters. Major international airports at Bombay (Mumbai), Delhi, Calcutta, Madras, and Thiruvananthapuram (Trivandrum). International service also from Mamargao (Goa), Bangalore, and Hyderabad. Major regional airports at Ahmadabad, Allahabad, Pune, Srinagar, Chandigarh, Kochi (Cochin), Nagpur, and Thiruvananthapuram.LoC 1995.
Indian Roads: Almost 2 million kilometers; 960,000 kilometers surfaced roads, and more than 1 million kilometers constructed of gravel, crushed stone, or earth. Fifty-three highways, almost 20,000 kilometers in total length, rated as national highways; carry about 40 percent of road traffic. Around 60 percent of all passenger traffic travels by road. Urban transit dominated by motor vehicles; increasing use of two- and three-wheel vehicles, automobiles, minibuses, buses, trucks. Large cities have major urban bus systems. Bullocks, camels, elephants, and other beasts of burden seen throughout India.
Maritime Transport in India: Eleven major ports and 139 minor ports. In 1995 three government-owned and between fifty and sixty privately owned shipping companies. Four major and three medium-sized shipyards, all government run, thirty-five smaller shipyards in private sector. Major coastal and ocean trade routes, more than 16,000 kilometers of inland waterways, more than 3,600 kilometers navigable by large vessels, although only about 2,000 kilometers used.
Airports : Two airlines (Air India and Indian Airlines) and one helicopter service (Pawan Hans) owned by government and six privately owned airlines; latter account for only 10 percent of domestic air traffic. Of 288 airports, 208 permanent-surface runways and two runways of more than 3,659 meters. Major international airports at Bombay (Mumbai), Delhi, Calcutta, Madras, and Thiruvananthapuram (Trivandrum). International service also from Mamargao (Goa), Bangalore, and Hyderabad. Major regional airports at Ahmadabad, Allahabad, Pune, Srinagar, Chandigarh, Kochi (Cochin), Nagpur, and Thiruvananthapuram.LoC 1995.
Saturday, September 13, 2008
Tour of Palace on Wheels in India
Kuuuuu& Chuk Chuk!!! Doesn't the whistle of the luxury train seem to invite you, If your answer is not in affirmative, it soon will be. After having gone through this article you will have a strong desire be onboard the luxury trains of India. The Palace on Wheels, the Royal Orient and the Toy Trains are the pride of Indian Railways, the largest passenger train service in the world.
The train tourism in India has actually done wonders bringing to life the concept of 'live life king-size'. The luxury trains of India namely the Palace-on-Wheels and the Royal Orient do more than providing opportunity of sightseeing the Indian States of Rajasthan and Gujarat. They offer an unforgettable holiday experience. The Palace on Wheels lives by its name and is no less than a fort on the swing. The lavish lifestyle, the facilities, the décor, the comfort and the style have made the first tourist train of India the most sought after. The journey is like a dream come true.
In a way it is the fusion of the East with the West, it is the amalgamation of all the modern day facilities including the air conditioners, bars etc. with the trails through the picturesque cities of Rajasthan. The marvelous train that today is a joint effort of the Rajasthan Tourism Development Corporation and the Indian Railways is a legacy from the Rajputanas, the Viceroy of the British India and the Nizam of Hyderabad.
The slow yet steady track takes the tourists through the lows of the Indian Desert and the highs of the Aravalli range. The itinerary of the royal trip has been thoughtfully planned to concentrate on the journey at night and focus on sight seeing during the daytime. The shopping sprees in the bustling bazaars have also been well taken care of. Tourism aboard the Palace-on-Wheels is an excellent opportunity to enjoy the legendary traditional hospitality of India and in the royal state, Rajasthan. The spectacular combination of the sight, sound and smell of royal India will not fail to sweep you off your feet. Plus you get to savor the taste of celebrated Indian food. The views of terrific Taj Mahal, huge Hawa Mahal and its likes make the tour an absolute joy.
During this excursion, the tourists are overwhelmed with the beauty at the major stations of Jaipur, Chittaurgarh, Udaipur, Jaisalmer, Jodhpur and Bharatpur, and Agra chugging through the culturally colorful states of Rajasthan and Gujarat. The welcoming elephants, garlands, music and dance can never fail to enchant any of the tourists. What better way of touring Rajasthan than being aboard the Palace-on-Wheels. The Desert Queen of Rajasthan has contributed immensely to the promotion of tourism in the state as well as in India.
You may even opt for a voyage onboard the Royal Orient, the train offering both style and comfort. The Royal Orient of India happens to be one of the most exotic trains in the world. It is a project of the Tourism Corporation of Gujarat Limited along with the Indian Railways. The rainbow of cities trotted by the royal extravagance of the bygone era include Delhi, Chittaurgarh, Junagarh, Veraval, Somnath, Sasan Gir, Ahmedpur, Mandvi/Palitana/ Sarkhej, Ahmedabad and Jaipur. For the pious tourists the halt at Somnath gives them the opportunity to offer prayers at one of the twelve holiest Shiva temples. For all the tourists the 11th century Shiva temple is a must visit. The temple was repeatedly destroyed and each time rebuilt in a more magnificent manner. For the wildlife freaks there is the opportunity to spot the Asiatic Lion in its natural habitat at the Sasan Gir Sanctuary. The 863 Jain temples in hills of Palitana have a charm of their own. Basking in the sun at the Ahmedpur Mandvi beach is a beautiful experience.
The range of stations varies from placid, ancient temples, a stunning sea resort and exotic wild life. It runs through the months of September to April. The memories will for sure be as golden as the sand. Relish the recreation of the extravaganza of the bygone princely era in Indian holiday. The weeklong journey aboard the Royal Orient is the best way to enjoy the Indian states of Rajasthan and Gujarat. The holiday on Royal Orient offers you
Besides the Royal trains, the toy trains of India have attracted many a tourists. The ride on the train with a 4500 kilometers track chugs through the popular hill stations of the country like Shimal, Darjeeling, Ooty/ Udagamandalam or Ootacamund and Matheran. The toy trains are called so because of the narrow gauge railway lines they ride on. The Matheran Light Railway is another tourist attraction in India. The tiny mountain train commences its journey from Neral that is well connected by Mumbai suburban trains. The rail and road play hide and seek with each other, meeting and disappearing time and again.
The gradual gradient and the little toy trains urge you to be patient in life and enjoy each moment as it comes. Puffing along the jungles of Sal and teak, mountains, rocks and orchids. The nature seems to be at its best with the pace of the train and the rhythm of life.
The wondrous miniature of rail engineering that offers the most scenic beauties of the Himalayas from Kalka to Shimla and another from Jal Pai Guri to Darjeeling. The tourists are attracted to the old-world-charm offered by the toy train from Kalka to Shimla.
Promoting the train tourism in India is the Kangra Railway. Across the picturesque Kangra valley in the northern Indian state of Himachal Pradesh the Kangra Railway is an experience in itself. There are not many places in India that can match the picturesque beauty of the Kangra valley in the sub-Himalayas. The beautiful glens and streams pass by the train making the journey a pleasure.
Down south we have a baffling trip around the Nilgiris, the mysterious tinge of blue that made the mountain name to be called so. The journey through the tea and coffee plantations, into the dense forests and up to the mountains offers the humming insects and the chirping birds simultaneously. Deep ravines and the cascading green slopes come as bonuses to the tourists of the Indian railways. These spots have repeatedly attracted members of the film industry. The mysterious mist will refresh you for quiet a few days though the Blue Mountain Railway has already completed its centenary. No doubt the train tourism is doing so well in the Nilgiri Mountain Railway.
So have you got your tickets booked for an odyssey of a lifetime? The royal week ahead awaits you with the accompanying family and friends. Be the 'Prince' or the 'Princess' as soon as you can! Wander amongst the blues of the hills and feel the morning mist that will rejuvenate you better than any of the gels, for sure.
The train tourism in India has actually done wonders bringing to life the concept of 'live life king-size'. The luxury trains of India namely the Palace-on-Wheels and the Royal Orient do more than providing opportunity of sightseeing the Indian States of Rajasthan and Gujarat. They offer an unforgettable holiday experience. The Palace on Wheels lives by its name and is no less than a fort on the swing. The lavish lifestyle, the facilities, the décor, the comfort and the style have made the first tourist train of India the most sought after. The journey is like a dream come true.
In a way it is the fusion of the East with the West, it is the amalgamation of all the modern day facilities including the air conditioners, bars etc. with the trails through the picturesque cities of Rajasthan. The marvelous train that today is a joint effort of the Rajasthan Tourism Development Corporation and the Indian Railways is a legacy from the Rajputanas, the Viceroy of the British India and the Nizam of Hyderabad.
The slow yet steady track takes the tourists through the lows of the Indian Desert and the highs of the Aravalli range. The itinerary of the royal trip has been thoughtfully planned to concentrate on the journey at night and focus on sight seeing during the daytime. The shopping sprees in the bustling bazaars have also been well taken care of. Tourism aboard the Palace-on-Wheels is an excellent opportunity to enjoy the legendary traditional hospitality of India and in the royal state, Rajasthan. The spectacular combination of the sight, sound and smell of royal India will not fail to sweep you off your feet. Plus you get to savor the taste of celebrated Indian food. The views of terrific Taj Mahal, huge Hawa Mahal and its likes make the tour an absolute joy.
During this excursion, the tourists are overwhelmed with the beauty at the major stations of Jaipur, Chittaurgarh, Udaipur, Jaisalmer, Jodhpur and Bharatpur, and Agra chugging through the culturally colorful states of Rajasthan and Gujarat. The welcoming elephants, garlands, music and dance can never fail to enchant any of the tourists. What better way of touring Rajasthan than being aboard the Palace-on-Wheels. The Desert Queen of Rajasthan has contributed immensely to the promotion of tourism in the state as well as in India.
You may even opt for a voyage onboard the Royal Orient, the train offering both style and comfort. The Royal Orient of India happens to be one of the most exotic trains in the world. It is a project of the Tourism Corporation of Gujarat Limited along with the Indian Railways. The rainbow of cities trotted by the royal extravagance of the bygone era include Delhi, Chittaurgarh, Junagarh, Veraval, Somnath, Sasan Gir, Ahmedpur, Mandvi/Palitana/ Sarkhej, Ahmedabad and Jaipur. For the pious tourists the halt at Somnath gives them the opportunity to offer prayers at one of the twelve holiest Shiva temples. For all the tourists the 11th century Shiva temple is a must visit. The temple was repeatedly destroyed and each time rebuilt in a more magnificent manner. For the wildlife freaks there is the opportunity to spot the Asiatic Lion in its natural habitat at the Sasan Gir Sanctuary. The 863 Jain temples in hills of Palitana have a charm of their own. Basking in the sun at the Ahmedpur Mandvi beach is a beautiful experience.
The range of stations varies from placid, ancient temples, a stunning sea resort and exotic wild life. It runs through the months of September to April. The memories will for sure be as golden as the sand. Relish the recreation of the extravaganza of the bygone princely era in Indian holiday. The weeklong journey aboard the Royal Orient is the best way to enjoy the Indian states of Rajasthan and Gujarat. The holiday on Royal Orient offers you
Besides the Royal trains, the toy trains of India have attracted many a tourists. The ride on the train with a 4500 kilometers track chugs through the popular hill stations of the country like Shimal, Darjeeling, Ooty/ Udagamandalam or Ootacamund and Matheran. The toy trains are called so because of the narrow gauge railway lines they ride on. The Matheran Light Railway is another tourist attraction in India. The tiny mountain train commences its journey from Neral that is well connected by Mumbai suburban trains. The rail and road play hide and seek with each other, meeting and disappearing time and again.
The gradual gradient and the little toy trains urge you to be patient in life and enjoy each moment as it comes. Puffing along the jungles of Sal and teak, mountains, rocks and orchids. The nature seems to be at its best with the pace of the train and the rhythm of life.
The wondrous miniature of rail engineering that offers the most scenic beauties of the Himalayas from Kalka to Shimla and another from Jal Pai Guri to Darjeeling. The tourists are attracted to the old-world-charm offered by the toy train from Kalka to Shimla.
Promoting the train tourism in India is the Kangra Railway. Across the picturesque Kangra valley in the northern Indian state of Himachal Pradesh the Kangra Railway is an experience in itself. There are not many places in India that can match the picturesque beauty of the Kangra valley in the sub-Himalayas. The beautiful glens and streams pass by the train making the journey a pleasure.
Down south we have a baffling trip around the Nilgiris, the mysterious tinge of blue that made the mountain name to be called so. The journey through the tea and coffee plantations, into the dense forests and up to the mountains offers the humming insects and the chirping birds simultaneously. Deep ravines and the cascading green slopes come as bonuses to the tourists of the Indian railways. These spots have repeatedly attracted members of the film industry. The mysterious mist will refresh you for quiet a few days though the Blue Mountain Railway has already completed its centenary. No doubt the train tourism is doing so well in the Nilgiri Mountain Railway.
So have you got your tickets booked for an odyssey of a lifetime? The royal week ahead awaits you with the accompanying family and friends. Be the 'Prince' or the 'Princess' as soon as you can! Wander amongst the blues of the hills and feel the morning mist that will rejuvenate you better than any of the gels, for sure.
Buddhist Special Train
DELHI
Musical Fountain in Akshardham Temple The train leaves from Safdarjung Station at Delhi for Gaya. You'll be served the dinner on board the train.
Day 02 -
GAYA
Gaya is one of the most important pilgrimage places for the Hindus. It is believed that a Hindu will reach heaven if his last rites are offered under the celebrated 'Akshayabat' or immortal banyan tree, standing in the yard of Vishnupad temple. Believed to be built on the footsteps of Vishnu, the grand temple was renovated by Ahalyabai, queen of Indore.
Day 03 -
.
RAJGIR NALANDA
Nalanda is situated around 90 km off Patna and is part of the Buddhist Circuit that also includes Bodh Gaya and Rajgir. Nalanda, one of the greatest centers of learning in the ancient times, is located in the eastern Indian state of Bihar.
Thsough the Buddha visited Nalanda several times during his lifetime, this famous centre of Buddhist learning shot to fame much later, during 5th - 12th centuries. The Chinese scholar and traveler Hiuen Tsang stayed here in the 7th century, and has left an elaborate description of the excellence, and purity of monastic life practised here. About 2,000 teachers and 10,000 students from all over the Buddhist world lived and studied in this international university. The Nalanda Museum and the Nava Nalanda Mahavihar are definitely worth a visit. The Nandangarh stupa, nearby, is believed to house the ashes of the Buddha.
Day 04 -
VARANASI
Varanasi, or Benaras as it was earlier called, sacred to the Hindus has many names: Kashika, or 'the shining one' referring to the light of Shiva. At a distance of 12 km from Varanasi lies Sarnath, where Lord Buddha preached his first sermon. Here he revealed the eight fold path that leads to the attainment of inner peace, enlightment and ultimate Nirvana.
Day 05 -
GORAKHPUR-KHUSINAGAR
About 51 kilometres from Gorakhpur lies Kushinagar, Kushinagar, one of the principal centre of Buddhist pilgrimage, is the place where Lord Buddha left his corporeal self and attained Mahaparinirvana.
Day 06 -
GORAKHPUR-LUMBINI-GORAKHPUR
Lumbini Situated in Nepal at a distance of 122 km from Gorakhpur, Lumbini is the birthplace of Lord Buddha.
Day 07 -
GONDA-SRASWATI-GONDA
Sravasti is located in Gonda district in eastern Uttar Pradesh. Sravasti was the largest town in the Gangetic plains in the lifetime of Lord Buddha. Lord Buddha performed the most talked about of miracles when he created many images of himself. It is a very popular theme among the artists of Buddhist leanings. Buddhism was very much popular in Sravasti even in the lifetime of Lord Buddha.
Day 08 -
AGRA-FATEHPUR SIKRI-AGRA-DELHI
This is the city which can be declared to be the most authoritative centre of tourism in India. Agra is known all over the world for the legendary monument Taj Mahal which is also one of the seven wonders of the world. The Lodhi ruler Sikandar Lodhi made Agra his capital some time in the sixteenth century. Later Agra went into the hands of Mughals and it was the time when some of the most stunning monuments of the human history came up in the city.
Agra is an important destination on the tourism scene of the world and this city alone accounts for three heritage monuments. These are - Taj Mahal, Red Fort and Fatehpur Sikri. Not very many cities of the world can match the history and heritage of Agra.
Musical Fountain in Akshardham Temple The train leaves from Safdarjung Station at Delhi for Gaya. You'll be served the dinner on board the train.
Day 02 -
GAYA
Gaya is one of the most important pilgrimage places for the Hindus. It is believed that a Hindu will reach heaven if his last rites are offered under the celebrated 'Akshayabat' or immortal banyan tree, standing in the yard of Vishnupad temple. Believed to be built on the footsteps of Vishnu, the grand temple was renovated by Ahalyabai, queen of Indore.
Day 03 -
.
RAJGIR NALANDA
Nalanda is situated around 90 km off Patna and is part of the Buddhist Circuit that also includes Bodh Gaya and Rajgir. Nalanda, one of the greatest centers of learning in the ancient times, is located in the eastern Indian state of Bihar.
Thsough the Buddha visited Nalanda several times during his lifetime, this famous centre of Buddhist learning shot to fame much later, during 5th - 12th centuries. The Chinese scholar and traveler Hiuen Tsang stayed here in the 7th century, and has left an elaborate description of the excellence, and purity of monastic life practised here. About 2,000 teachers and 10,000 students from all over the Buddhist world lived and studied in this international university. The Nalanda Museum and the Nava Nalanda Mahavihar are definitely worth a visit. The Nandangarh stupa, nearby, is believed to house the ashes of the Buddha.
Day 04 -
VARANASI
Varanasi, or Benaras as it was earlier called, sacred to the Hindus has many names: Kashika, or 'the shining one' referring to the light of Shiva. At a distance of 12 km from Varanasi lies Sarnath, where Lord Buddha preached his first sermon. Here he revealed the eight fold path that leads to the attainment of inner peace, enlightment and ultimate Nirvana.
Day 05 -
GORAKHPUR-KHUSINAGAR
About 51 kilometres from Gorakhpur lies Kushinagar, Kushinagar, one of the principal centre of Buddhist pilgrimage, is the place where Lord Buddha left his corporeal self and attained Mahaparinirvana.
Day 06 -
GORAKHPUR-LUMBINI-GORAKHPUR
Lumbini Situated in Nepal at a distance of 122 km from Gorakhpur, Lumbini is the birthplace of Lord Buddha.
Day 07 -
GONDA-SRASWATI-GONDA
Sravasti is located in Gonda district in eastern Uttar Pradesh. Sravasti was the largest town in the Gangetic plains in the lifetime of Lord Buddha. Lord Buddha performed the most talked about of miracles when he created many images of himself. It is a very popular theme among the artists of Buddhist leanings. Buddhism was very much popular in Sravasti even in the lifetime of Lord Buddha.
Day 08 -
AGRA-FATEHPUR SIKRI-AGRA-DELHI
This is the city which can be declared to be the most authoritative centre of tourism in India. Agra is known all over the world for the legendary monument Taj Mahal which is also one of the seven wonders of the world. The Lodhi ruler Sikandar Lodhi made Agra his capital some time in the sixteenth century. Later Agra went into the hands of Mughals and it was the time when some of the most stunning monuments of the human history came up in the city.
Agra is an important destination on the tourism scene of the world and this city alone accounts for three heritage monuments. These are - Taj Mahal, Red Fort and Fatehpur Sikri. Not very many cities of the world can match the history and heritage of Agra.
Wheeling on fast track
INDIAN Railways today is quite upbeat on closing the fiscal 2006-07 with a massive cash surplus of Rs 20,000 crore (before Dividend). And achieved that without imposing undue burden on the common man. In fact, he has bettered on fiscal 2005-06 that ended with a cash surplus of Rs 14,700 crore. No established financial management theory can explain how it happens. Railways minister Lalu Prasad has his own economics and management theory.
“I have a tremendous sense of pride and gratitude. Pride in the fact that the Railways are poised to create history by generating a cash surplus before Dividend of Rs 20,000 cr as against Rs 14,700 cr in the previous year. This is the same Railway that defaulted on payment of Dividend and whose fund balances dipped to Rs 359 cr in 2001,” he said in his 2007-08 Budget speech and attributed this huge success to his 1.4 million railway family members “who in the face of stiff competition have conquered all odds with an indomitable spirit displaying matchless zeal, vigour and teamwork.”
“By rendering an unprecedented surplus in spite of the reduction in passenger fares, we have disproved the myth that Railways were sinking in to a financial crisis due to social obligations. Our turnaround strategy based on a perfect blend of commercial wisdom and empathy for the people has made the Railways a centre of attraction for the world,” he said.
In the first nine months of the current fiscal year terminating on March 31, 2007 Railways have registered a record-breaking growth. The Passenger earnings have increased by 14 percent and other coaching earnings by 48 percent during April to December 2006. A historic increase of 17 percent was registered in both freight earnings and gross traffic earnings during this nine-month period. Based on the growth registered so far, the revised estimates for Passenger, Other coaching, Freight and Gross Traffic Earnings have been kept at Rs.17,400 crore, Rs 1,726 crore, Rs42,299 and Rs. 63,120 crore, respectively. Gross Traffic Earnings are likely to go up by 16 per cent in comparison with last year and exceed Budget Estimates by 5.5 per cent.”
Cash surplus before Dividend is expected to be Rs.20,063 crore Net Revenue is expected to stand at Rs 14,870 cr. The surplus, after payment of Dividend of Rs.3,579 crore and deferred Dividend of Rs.663 crore, is expected to be Rs. 10,627 crore. Indian Railways is poised to achieve an operating ratio of 78.7 percent during the current fiscal. This is “perhaps the first occasion in the glorious history of 150 years of Indian Railways when our fund balances would reach Rs. 16,000 crores and the Net Revenue to Capital ratio, an historic level, of 20 per cent. Indian Railways’ name would thus be included in the select club of Railways in the world, having an operating ratio of less than 80 per cent”, the Railways minister pointed out in his Budget speech.
“I have a tremendous sense of pride and gratitude. Pride in the fact that the Railways are poised to create history by generating a cash surplus before Dividend of Rs 20,000 cr as against Rs 14,700 cr in the previous year. This is the same Railway that defaulted on payment of Dividend and whose fund balances dipped to Rs 359 cr in 2001,” he said in his 2007-08 Budget speech and attributed this huge success to his 1.4 million railway family members “who in the face of stiff competition have conquered all odds with an indomitable spirit displaying matchless zeal, vigour and teamwork.”
“By rendering an unprecedented surplus in spite of the reduction in passenger fares, we have disproved the myth that Railways were sinking in to a financial crisis due to social obligations. Our turnaround strategy based on a perfect blend of commercial wisdom and empathy for the people has made the Railways a centre of attraction for the world,” he said.
In the first nine months of the current fiscal year terminating on March 31, 2007 Railways have registered a record-breaking growth. The Passenger earnings have increased by 14 percent and other coaching earnings by 48 percent during April to December 2006. A historic increase of 17 percent was registered in both freight earnings and gross traffic earnings during this nine-month period. Based on the growth registered so far, the revised estimates for Passenger, Other coaching, Freight and Gross Traffic Earnings have been kept at Rs.17,400 crore, Rs 1,726 crore, Rs42,299 and Rs. 63,120 crore, respectively. Gross Traffic Earnings are likely to go up by 16 per cent in comparison with last year and exceed Budget Estimates by 5.5 per cent.”
Cash surplus before Dividend is expected to be Rs.20,063 crore Net Revenue is expected to stand at Rs 14,870 cr. The surplus, after payment of Dividend of Rs.3,579 crore and deferred Dividend of Rs.663 crore, is expected to be Rs. 10,627 crore. Indian Railways is poised to achieve an operating ratio of 78.7 percent during the current fiscal. This is “perhaps the first occasion in the glorious history of 150 years of Indian Railways when our fund balances would reach Rs. 16,000 crores and the Net Revenue to Capital ratio, an historic level, of 20 per cent. Indian Railways’ name would thus be included in the select club of Railways in the world, having an operating ratio of less than 80 per cent”, the Railways minister pointed out in his Budget speech.
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