Union Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw delivered game-changing news for Jharkhand and Odisha during a virtual press conference from Chakradharpur railway headquarters in West Singhbhum. The 2026-27 budget introduces unprecedented railway allocations, marking a seismic shift from past governments.
Jharkhand’s share skyrockets to Rs 7,536 crore, a figure that eclipses the Rs 457 crore yearly average seen between 2009 and 2014 by an astounding 16 times. This windfall will drive ambitious projects aimed at modernizing tracks, enhancing safety, and expanding capacity across the state.
Odisha follows suit with Rs 10,928 crore dedicated to its rail sector—roughly 13 times the previous benchmark of Rs 838 crore. These resources promise to tackle longstanding bottlenecks, from congested lines to inadequate facilities, fostering smoother freight and passenger movement.
Attendees at the event, including senior divisional officers like CPRO and CKS Tarun Huria, elaborated on specific initiatives in the Chakradharpur mandal. They painted a vivid picture of upcoming developments that could redefine travel in these mineral-rich states.
This funding surge aligns with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision for world-class railways. By prioritizing eastern India, the budget not only addresses historical neglect but also positions these states as vital cogs in India’s logistics and tourism engines. Expect ripple effects in employment, industry, and urban connectivity as projects unfold over the coming years.