In a press conference on Budget 2026-27, Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw reveals a dramatic 95% drop in railway accidents. Know how is the Union Budget 2026 reshaping safety and industry in India?
Ashwini Vaishnaw highlighted the significant reduction in railway accidents over recent years
New Delhi: Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw on Thursday emphasized that passenger safety, particularly for senior citizens, remains a top priority for the government. Speaking at a press conference on Budget 2026-27, he highlighted the significant reduction in railway accidents over recent years.
Responding to a question from Dynamite News, Vaishnaw noted that consequential railway accidents have dropped by nearly 95%, calling it a landmark achievement.
"Comparing the current safety record with the Congress-led period from 2004 to 2014, he said that safety had received little focus back then, with an average of 171 accidents per year. Today, that number has fallen dramatically to 12 accidents annually, reflecting the government’s ongoing efforts to strengthen preventive measures and systemic improvements", the minister added.
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Vaishnaw explained that safety reviews start at the highest level, mentioning that his first call every morning is with the DG of Safety. He emphasized continuous measures to identify root causes of accidents, upgrade technology, improve processes, enhance maintenance practices, and strengthen staff training and skills.
Responding to a question by Dynamite News, Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw said that passenger safety especially the safety of senior citizens remains a top priority for the government. He highlighted that consequential railway accidents have reduced by nearly 95%, calling it a… pic.twitter.com/YwiKTGMbGV
— Dynamite News (@DynamiteNews_) February 1, 2026
“These steps are part of a holistic strategy to ensure that every aspect of passenger safety is addressed,” the minister said.
In addition to safety initiatives, Vaishnaw highlighted the government’s financial support programs, noting that subsidies worth around ₹60,000 crore have already been credited directly to passengers’ accounts. This measure ensures that citizens benefit not only from safer travel but also from tangible financial support.
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On the industry front, Vaishnaw also informed that the allocation for electronics component manufacturing under the Electronics Component Manufacturing Scheme (ECMS) has been increased from ₹22,000 crore to ₹40,000 crore. The move is aimed at sustaining strong growth momentum in the sector, promoting domestic manufacturing, generating employment, and strengthening India’s position in the global electronics market.
With enhanced safety measures, direct passenger subsidies, and significant industry-focused budget allocations, the government is aiming to ensure safer travel, economic growth, and technological advancement, Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw said.
