Bharat Gaurav: Railways To Roll Out 180 Theme-Based Trains Showcasing India's Heritage

The railway minister told a news conference that these trains might be managed by both the private sector and the IRCTC.

Union Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw | File Image

New Delhi: Union Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw said on Tuesday that after the freight and passenger sectors, the railways will start a third segment dedicated to the tourism industry. Union Railway Minister announced that the government will launch a set of more than 180 theme-based trains dubbed "Bharat Gaurav" trains.

The railway minister told a news conference that these trains might be managed by both the private sector and the IRCTC.

"We've allocated over 180 trains for ‘Bharat Gaurav’ trains & 3033 coaches identified. We'll start taking applications from today. We've received a good response. Stakeholders will modify & run the train & Railways will help in maintenance, parking & other facilities," Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw said.

To showcase India's rich cultural heritage, Hon'ble MR Shri @AshwiniVaishnaw announces introduction of theme based tourist circuit trains, "Bharat Gaurav Trains".

It would boost tourism in the country. pic.twitter.com/8AVqrqdxa0

— Ministry of Railways (@RailMinIndia) November 23, 2021

The concept came from Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who recommended theme-based trains so that everyone in the country may comprehend, respect, and carry forth India's legacy, according to the minister.

He also stated that the fares for these trains would be mostly determined by tour operators, but that the railroads would verify that there were no pricing discrepancies.

State governments like Odisha, Rajasthan, Karnataka, and Tamil Nadu, according to the minister, have expressed interest in these trains.