Eastern Railway’s Malda Division celebrated the 77th Republic Day with great enthusiasm and patriotic fervour at Lakshan Sen Stadium, Malda. Shri Manish Kumar Gupta, Divisional Railway Manager, Malda, unfurled the National Flag and received the Guard of Honour presented by the Railway Protection Force (RPF) contingent on the occasion.
Addressing railway employees and their family members, the Divisional Railway Manager highlighted the significance of Republic Day as a symbol of India’s democratic values, constitutional traditions, discipline and national unity. He emphasized that Indian Railways, being the lifeline of the nation, continues to imbibe these values in its work culture while serving the nation with dedication and commitment.
During his address, the DRM recalled a historic moment for Malda Division when the Hon’ble Prime Minister of India, in the august presence of the Hon’ble Governor of West Bengal, personally dedicated the country’s first Vande Bharat Sleeper Train from Malda Town Station and inaugurated six new rail services, including four Amrit Bharat Express trains, through video conferencing. The presence of the Hon’ble Minister for Railways, Chairman & CEO of the Railway Board and General Manager, Eastern Railway further enhanced the significance of the occasion. He stated that the direct participation of the nation’s highest leadership reflects the confidence reposed in Malda Division’s organizational efficiency, discipline and reliability.
Highlighting the performance of Malda Division during 2025–26, the DRM informed that the division achieved a total revenue of ₹1,283 crore, registering a growth of 3.5% over the previous year. Freight earnings increased by 4%, while passenger earnings recorded a 5% growth. In the field of Ticket Checking, Malda Division achieved an exceptional 118% growth, securing a top position across Indian Railways. Freight loading exceeded the target by 2.2%, with a 9% year-on-year increase. Owing to continuous improvements in passenger services and facilities, the number of originating passengers rose to 2.98 crore, registering a 15% increase compared to the previous year.
Safety remained the highest priority of the division, and due to the alertness and dedication of staff, no major untoward incidents were reported during the year. To strengthen safety awareness, 162 safety seminars, 40 safety drives and 64 shunting melas were conducted. A Full-Scale Mock Drill with NDRF at Sahibganj was successfully organized, and the division received appreciation during the Inter-Railway Safety Audit. Significant safety initiatives included completion of Eastern Railway’s first Single Line IBS work, yard remodelling and electronic interlocking at Malda Town Station, extensive track safety works and large-scale fencing to prevent cattle run-over incidents.
In the field of infrastructure development, Malda Division continued steady progress. Under the Amrit Bharat Station Scheme, Pirpainti and Rajmahal stations were inaugurated by the Hon’ble Prime Minister through video conferencing. Works at the remaining stations have been mostly completed. As part of rail connectivity expansion, foundation stones were laid for two new Halt stations, scheduled for completion within the current financial year. To strengthen freight operations, a new Freight Examination Line at Jamalpur was commissioned, while modern Running Rooms at Bhagalpur, Barharwa, Manigram and Tildanga were constructed to enhance crew facilities and operational efficiency.
Passenger amenities were further strengthened through commissioning of new FOBs, lifts, water coolers, CCTV cameras, improved illumination, video display systems and Divyangjan-friendly facilities across stations. Passenger safety initiatives such as Mission Jeevan Raksha, Operation Matrushakti, Operation Nanhe Farishte and Operation Amanat delivered commendable outcomes.
Environmental sustainability remained a key focus area, with plantation of 1.35 lakh saplings, installation of solar power plants, energy and water audits, and large-scale cleanliness drives. Employee welfare measures included effective implementation of AEBAS, promotions, MACP benefits, compassionate appointments and improved crew duty management. Medical services were strengthened through telemedicine, mobile health units, modern diagnostic facilities and cashless treatment at empanelled hospitals.
The DRM also appreciated the contributions of the Eastern Railway Women’s Welfare Organization (ERWWO), Malda, for its efforts in health awareness, environmental protection and social welfare activities.
The celebrations concluded with a renewed commitment towards excellence, innovation, passenger satisfaction and nation-building.