Assam’s entire rail network will be electrified within the current year, said junior railways minister V Somanna. He said a 100% railway electrification is going to be completed by 2025. He highlighted the significant progress in railway infrastructure development, mentioning that doubling works are being carried out at an accelerated pace to enhance capacity and efficiency. Mentioning that new railway lines are being laid to improve connectivity and cater to the growing transportation demands of the region, the minister emphasised the importance of modernising railway stations to enhance passenger comfort.
Army secures pension for soldier’s mother
The Indian Army secured the long-overdue family pension of the mother of a soldier, Guardsman Barun Chandra Boro, who died in the service to the nation. Biwari Boro faced an arduous three-year wait after her rightful pension was halted in 2021 due to procedural lapses following her husband’s demise. During a veterans’ outreach programme, the Army’s Tamulpur Brigade took up the matter. With sustained coordination between the Regimental Centre and the bank concerned, the documentation was rectified, leading to successful reinstatement of her pension.
Bird conservation awareness via movies
Well-known biodiversity conservation organisation Aaranyak screened movies as it raised awareness among village youth on the importance of conservation of birds. It also organised a bird-watching event and a cleanliness drive. The activities were organised at the Kohora River Basin in Karbi Anglong district recently. The event was followed by a “clean the village” drive led by participants, reinforcing the significance of maintaining a clean environment for birds and other wildlife. The youth were introduced to the deep cultural connections between the ethnic Karbi community and the birds of the region.
Prasanta Mazumdar
Our correspondent in Guwahati
prasantamazumdar@newindianexpress.com