Railway Budget, GPS, Wi-fi get the Like button

NEW DELHI, INDIA: Industry body NASSCOM welcomed the technology focused initiatives that were announced as a part of Shri. Suresh Prabhu’s Railway Budget 2016.

"We are glad to note that the government is walking the talk on IT integration and deployment of e-services, to achieve the dream of Digital India. Aimed at showcasing a positive future for railways in India; the inclusion of GPS based digital displays in coaches, and the setting up Wi-Fi internet in 100 station this year, are initiatives that will not only streamline services in the railways, but also benefit customers across the board. The minister has also announced the utilization of drones for remote monitoring of on-going projects, which is an imperative to ensure timely completion of projects. With the railways, ready to take the next leap in setting high speed rail networks, these announcements are testimony to the centre’s commitment towards the upgradation of services; giving the transportation lifeline of India its due."

Additionally, the setting aside of Rs.50 crore for providing innovation grants to employees, start-ups and businesses is an holistic and commendable approach towards scaling up the innovation and entrepreneurial landscape in the railway sector, it opined.

Dr Anand Agarwal, CEO, Sterlite Technologies observed as well that the proposed Indian Railway Budget for 2016 is high on technology intervention for commuters’ ease, and in-line with the vision of Digital India. "Initiatives like Wi-Fi installations in 400 more railway stations, implementation of CCTV surveillance in major stations, GPS-enabled digital displays for real-time information on upcoming stations, and launch of Track Management System shows the Government’s focus on creation of smart infrastructure that supports the world’s fourth biggest rail network.”