Marking the historic moment, President Draupadi Murmu's village, Rairangpur, celebrated the inauguration of its first-ever express train. During her visit to Odisha, President Murmu took part in the flagging-off ceremony at Badampahar station, initiating three new trains. These include the Shalimar-Badampahar-Shalimar Weekly Express (Train No. 18049/18050), Badampahar-Rourkela-Badampahar Weekly Express (Train No. 18051/18052), and Tatanagar-Badampahar-Tatanagar MEMU Service (Train No. 08147/08148).

On this occasion, addressing the gathering, President Murmu said, "The development of any area depends on the connectivity of that area. Be it rail, roads or postal services - all these services make people's lives easier."

During the launch of three new trains today, President Draupadi Murmu highlighted their significance for local residents traveling to neighboring states like Jharkhand and West Bengal. She emphasized that the introduction of these trains will also enhance accessibility to Odisha's industrial town, Rourkela.

The President acknowledged the enduring relevance of India Post despite the prevalence of cell phones and courier services. Noteworthy was the inauguration of a new Postal Division at Rairangpur, marking a significant development for the region. President Murmu expressed confidence that the people in this area will now have easy access to postal services.

The President highlighted that the Union Government is undertaking multiple initiatives to foster the development of tribal communities. She pointed out that the current budget shows nearly a threefold increase compared to the budget allocated for the Financial Year 2013-14.

She said, "Inclusive development is incomplete without the development of tribal people. That is why the government is giving priority to the development of tribal communities."

Encouraging tribal youth, she urged them to make the most of government schemes. Emphasizing the importance of personal effort in self-development, she stressed that continuous endeavour is crucial for progress in their lives. The President announced the launch of PM JANMAN (PM-Janjati Adivasi Nyaya Maha Abhiyan) on Janjatiya Gaurav Divas this year, focusing on the development of Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Groups (PVTGs).

The President highlighted the PM-JANMAN initiative as a crucial step for tribal communities, expressing confidence in its transformative impact on a developed India. Afterward, she traveled on the inaugural Badampahar - Shalimar Express, marking the first express train service in the President's village and the region. The event also saw the virtual inauguration of the Rairangpur Postal Division, the release of a Commemorative Special Cover, and the foundation stone laying for the redevelopment of the Badampahar Railway station.

Speaking to ANI, Minister of Railways, Ashwini Vaishnaw said "This region is the centre of indigenous culture. Today, the President inaugurated the services of three trains from Badampahar. Prime Minister Narendra Modi's commitment to developing every region, especially tribal areas, finds its synonymous fulfillment in this opportunity."

He added, "For 60-70 years, some people engaged in entitlement politics, believing that the country is under their rule. Since the responsibility was entrusted to Narendra Modi by the people in 2014, transformative changes have occurred. Telecom towers are being installed in remote areas, post offices are being opened and revolutionary development is underway. This has instilled a resolve and trust among the masses, marking a significant shift in the socio-economic landscape."

Image source: ANI