With reference to the editorial, "Railways' tough times" (February 26), even in the face of severe constraints, Railway Minister Suresh Prabhu has presented a budget that is pragmatic, passenger-friendly and at the same time, takes into account the compelling needs of the Indian Railways (IR).
Leaving passenger fares and freight rates unchanged is itself a big achievement. Prabhu has thus reiterated that the IR is a public utility and mass transport system. He has clearly identified the priorities and the ways to realise them - by generating investment for building more infrastructure, employment and the upgrade of systems. All this is in line with the government's Make in India programme.
Overall, this Railway Budget aims to achieve long-term, sustainable growth without compromising on the financial health of the IR.
Srinivasan Umashankar Nagpur
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