Why in News?
The eastern region of India, particularly West Bengal, celebrated the launch of its first Vande Bharat Express train connecting Howrah and New Jalpaiguri. This significantly reduces travel time between Kolkata and Siliguri, the gateway to Northeast India. This development aligns with the Purvodaya program, which focuses on enhancing infrastructure in Eastern India to boost national growth.
Key Highlights
What is Vande Bharat Express?- Description:
- Also referred to as Train 18, it is a semi-high-speed, intercity, electric multiple-unit train designed and operated by Indian Railways.
- Known for its speed, efficiency, and comfort, it represents a major leap in India’s rail transport innovation.
- Features:
- Lightweight and capable of reaching 100 km/h in just 52 seconds.
- Energy-efficient and equipped with modern amenities for passenger comfort.
About Purvodaya – Accelerated Development of Eastern Region
1. Background:- Eastern India, rich in coal, bauxite, and other resources, also has strategic ports like Paradip, Haldia, Vizag, and Kolkata.
- Despite these advantages, the region lags in Gross State Domestic Product (GSDP) and Human Development Index (HDI) due to inadequate infrastructure and governance challenges.
2. Mission Purvodaya:- Launched in 2020, this initiative aims to transform Eastern India into a national growth hub by focusing on infrastructure and connectivity development.
- Initial focus was on establishing an integrated steel hub in Kolkata, West Bengal.
3. Focus Areas:- Developing multi-modal connectivity through projects like the freight corridor, Bharatmala, and Sagarmala.
- Enhancing logistics and transportation infrastructure to stimulate economic activity.
4. Funding:- Over ₹10,262 crore was allocated to West Bengal in FY 2022-23, a significant increase from previous years.
5. Progress Achieved:- Over 4,700 km of railway tracks commissioned and 7,277 km electrified across West Bengal, Bihar, Jharkhand, and Odisha in the last eight years.
- Development of 37 world-class railway stations and enhanced terminal capacity in the Kolkata-Haldia stretch.
Steps Taken for Eastern India’s Development
1. Infrastructure Development:- Bharatmala Pariyojana:
- Development of 2,500 km of access-controlled expressways in the region.
- Construction of 1,200 flyovers and underpasses to ensure seamless connectivity.
- ₹100 lakh crore infrastructure investment plan announced in 2020, focusing on housing (Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana) and piped water supply (Jal Jeevan Mission).
2. Maritime India Vision (MIV) 2030:- Aims to improve port infrastructure and Roll-On, Roll-Off (Ro-Ro) services.
- Facilitates trade of goods like mangoes, milk, silica sand, and fish, benefiting local farmers in West Bengal, Bihar, and Jharkhand.
- Plans an investment of ₹3–3.5 lakh crore across ports, shipping, and waterways.
3. Boosting Digital Connectivity:- Expansion of Bharat Net to enhance internet access in remote and rural areas.
- Focus on creating robust digital infrastructure in villages and underserved regions.
What More Can Be Done?
1. Strengthen Cooperative Federalism:- Encourage collaboration between state and central governments to address regional disparities.
- States should support land acquisition and ensure law and order to avoid delays in infrastructure projects.
2. Promote Regional Growth:- Leverage the natural and human resources of the eastern states to unlock trade and economic opportunities.
- Foster a competitive market environment to boost GSDP and attract investments.
3. Enhance Governance and Policy:- Ensure good governance, uphold the rule of law, and develop resilient infrastructure tailored to local needs.
Key Takeaways
Eastern India holds immense potential to drive India's journey towards becoming a
$5 trillion economy. Through initiatives like
Purvodaya, the region can transform into an economic powerhouse, ensuring
‘Sarvodaya’—progress for all.
The cooperative efforts of the government and private sectors can make Eastern India a
torchbearer of Atmanirbhar Bharat and a vital contributor to India's
Vision 2047 of becoming a developed nation.
FAQsWhat is the Objective of the Sagarmala Project?- The Sagarmala Project aims to promote port-led development by enhancing port infrastructure and ensuring efficient, cost-effective transportation of goods.
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