Odisha Civil Services Exam Results Declared; Priyansu Pal Secures First Rank

**Odisha Public Service Commission Declares Odisha Civil Services Examination 2023 Results**

The Odisha Public Service Commission (OPSC) announced the results of the Odisha Civil Services Examination 2023 on Friday. A total of 398 candidates have successfully cleared the examination, including 144 women.

The recruitment process was conducted in three phases: preliminary and main (written) examinations held during April–May 2025, followed by personality tests in September.

### Topper Profile: Priyansu Pal

Topping the merit list, Priyansu Pal, a resident of Angul district, secured the first rank. A mining engineering graduate from Government Engineering College, Keonjhar (2018), Priyansu had initially worked in a private firm before moving into a managerial role at a multinational company.

In January 2025, he resigned from his well-paying job to focus entirely on preparing for the Odisha Administrative Service (OAS) exam. His dedication and hard work paid off, earning him the top spot in this year’s examination.

### Other Top Performers

The second rank was claimed by Ananya Mishra, the only woman among the top 10 merit-holders, while Sovan Pattanaik secured the third position.

OPSC has clarified that the selection of candidates is provisional and contingent upon verification of original certificates by the appointing authorities.

### Official Notification and Congratulatory Messages

Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi extended his congratulations to the successful candidates via a post on X, stating:

> “My heartfelt congratulations and best wishes to all who have succeeded in the Odisha Administrative Service Examination. Administrative service is a matter of pride and it plays an important role in the development trajectory of the state.
> I hope that you will work transparently, impartially, and with a people-oriented approach from the grassroots level for the development of the state.
> May your future career be bright, and I wish you progress in your professional life.”

This year’s results reflect an impressive performance by candidates across Odisha, highlighting the growing talent and commitment of young professionals like Priyansu Pal and Ananya Mishra. These promising individuals are set to contribute significantly to state governance and development at the grassroots level.

*For official details and notifications regarding the Odisha Civil Services Exam results, please visit the [OPSC website](#).*
https://www.freepressjournal.in/education/odisha-civil-services-exam-results-declared-priyansu-pal-secures-first-rank

Kerala: One Dead, Three Seriously Injured After Car Rams Into Tree Near Koorad Village In Malappuram District

Malappuram: One person died and three others were seriously injured in a car accident near Koorad village in the Wandoor region of Kerala’s Malappuram district, officials said on Saturday.

According to hospital officials, the accident occurred when a car lost control and rammed into a tree. The family was returning from Mysuru after completing admission formalities for their child when the mishap took place, just about one kilometre from their home.

The deceased has been identified as Mymoona of Karimpana House, Koorad. The injured are Kunju Muhammad and Tahira of Karimpana House, Koorad, and Isahak of Thekkethil Cherukulattil House, Valluvangad, Pandikkad.

All three injured individuals have sustained serious injuries and are currently undergoing treatment at the hospital. Further details are awaited.

*Note: Except for the headline, this article has not been edited by FPJ’s editorial team and is auto-generated from an agency feed.*
https://www.freepressjournal.in/india/kerala-one-dead-three-seriously-injured-after-car-rams-into-tree-near-koorad-village-in-malappuram-district

Maharashtra Govt Announces ₹2,000 Diwali Gift For Anganwadi Workers & Helpers

Mumbai: The Maharashtra government has announced a special Diwali gift for anganwadi workers and helpers serving under the Integrated Child Development Services (ICDS) scheme. Each worker and helper will receive Rs 2,000 as a token of appreciation, Women and Child Development Minister Aditi Tatkare said.

The government has sanctioned Rs 40.61 crore for this initiative, with a formal government resolution issued on Thursday.

Minister Tatkare emphasized the vital role anganwadi workers and helpers play in the care, nutrition, and overall development of women and children. She stated, “Anganwadi workers and helpers play a crucial role in the care, nutrition, and overall development of women and children. To acknowledge their dedicated service and add joy to the festive season, the state government has sanctioned this Bhau Beej gift. Every anganwadi worker and helper is a true strength of our society, and we endeavour to make their festival more joyful.”

The amount will soon be disbursed to the beneficiaries through the ICDS commissioner’s office. This decision is expected to bring festive cheer to thousands of anganwadi workers and helpers across Maharashtra, making their Diwali celebrations brighter, the minister added.

(Note: Except for the headline, this article has not been edited by FPJ’s editorial team and is auto-generated from an agency feed.)
https://www.freepressjournal.in/mumbai/maharashtra-govt-announces-2000-diwali-gift-for-anganwadi-workers-helpers

EES launch : The truth about ‘medical insurance’ checks under new EU border rules

**EU’s Long-Awaited Entry/Exit System (EES) Launches October 12: What British Eurostar Travellers Need to Know**

The European Union’s long-anticipated Entry/Exit System (EES) is finally set to launch on October 12, bringing new border control measures that will affect British travellers heading into Europe via Eurostar. However, even before going live, the new system is already causing some confusion and concern.

### What’s Happening with the EES?

The EES is designed to modernise border checks for non-EU nationals, which now includes British passport holders post-Brexit. Here’s what to expect when you arrive at London St Pancras International to board the Eurostar to Paris, Brussels, or Amsterdam:

– You will go through new electronic kiosks.
– Your passport will be scanned.
– Biometric data such as fingerprints and a facial scan will be taken.
– The system will record when and where you enter the Schengen zone.

Additionally, you will be asked a few simple questions, including whether you have:

– A booked place to stay.
– A return ticket.
– Enough money to cover your trip.
– Insurance coverage.

If you answer “no” to any of these questions, the system will flag you for a manual check by French border police. They have the authority to refuse entry if you do not meet the requirements.

### Who Will Be Affected Initially?

According to Euronews, from October 12, only business and premium class passengers on Eurostar will face these checks. A wider rollout for all travellers is expected in January 2026.

### Medical Insurance or Travel Insurance: Clearing Up the Confusion

Early reports suggested that passengers would need to show **medical insurance** to enter France, causing unnecessary panic among travellers. Eurostar quickly clarified that this was a translation error. What you actually need is **general travel insurance**, not a medical-only policy.

A Eurostar spokesperson explained that the English version of the kiosk questions is still provisional and awaiting final confirmation from France’s Ministry of the Interior, so wording may not be perfect on day one.

The UK government added some uncertainty by confirming that travellers might be asked about medical insurance at kiosks but emphasised that medical insurance is **not a legal requirement** to enter the EU. Instead, they strongly recommend purchasing comprehensive travel insurance covering medical expenses, repatriation, and trip cancellation before travelling.

### French Rules Add to the Complexity

Here’s the twist: While the EU does not require proof of medical insurance, France does impose this requirement on third-country nationals. Official French guidance recommends visitors have insurance covering medical, hospital expenses, repatriation, and even costs in case of death abroad.

In practice, checks on insurance have rarely been enforced at the border, but the EES could change that. With new electronic flagging systems, French border police may be more inclined to check insurance and return ticket compliance.

On the topic of return tickets, the Schengen rules require proof of departure from the zone (which could be any flight, not necessarily back to the UK), but France specifically insists on a booked return ticket.

### What This Means for Eurostar Travellers

If you’re planning to travel via Eurostar this autumn or later, here’s what you should keep in mind:

– Expect additional questions at the kiosks in St Pancras regarding your accommodation, finances, return ticket, and insurance.
– Travel insurance is the requirement—not strictly medical insurance—but it’s wise to have a policy covering both.
– You are unlikely to have to show proof, but having it handy could save your trip if asked.
– The full system won’t apply to standard class passengers until January 2026.

While headlines about compulsory medical insurance may have been overblown, the safest bet remains to travel with proper insurance. This not only protects you during unexpected emergencies abroad but also provides peace of mind when border officers decide to double-check your documents.

### A New Travel Reality for British Travellers

The launch of the EES is a clear reminder that post-Brexit travel between the UK and EU is now more complex. Gone are the days of a quick passport check before boarding the Eurostar. Instead, expect longer waits, biometric scans, and detailed questions about your travel plans.

The medical insurance confusion due to translation errors highlights the inevitable teething problems as the system rolls out.

So whether you’re heading to Paris for a weekend getaway, Brussels for business, or Amsterdam for a city break, don’t let new procedures catch you out. Pack your patience, keep your paperwork organised, and most importantly, buy travel insurance. Because while you might never have to show it, the day you do could be the day it saves you a fortune.
https://euroweeklynews.com/2025/09/27/ees-launch-the-truth-about-medical-insurance-checks-under-new-eu-border-rules/

Savvy saver: seven cracking ways to start or build up your savings

Having £2,000 in savings means you are 60% less likely to fall behind on household bills and have a much lower risk of problem debt than someone with little or no money put aside. That is the headline finding from an academic study highlighting £2,000 as a key turning point in the protective power of savings.

However, if reaching £2,000 feels unattainable, the good news is that even small sums make a difference. Savings as little as £200 can help reduce the risk of falling into financial difficulties, according to researchers from the University of Bristol’s Personal Finance Research Centre.

We all know how important it is to save, and putting some numbers out there may help give people a target to aim for. This research was commissioned by the Building Societies Association to mark UK Savings Week. Running until Sunday, the week is dedicated to encouraging people to build better savings habits, whatever their starting point.

Here are some of the more painless ways to start or build up your savings pot:

### Get Your Money Working Harder

There are thought to be hundreds of billions of pounds sitting in current accounts earning little or no interest. While you need enough money in your bank account to cover bills and outgoings, any leftover funds could be moved into a savings account to earn interest.

To prevent money from piling up in your current account again, consider setting up a monthly standing order to transfer funds into your savings account just after payday. Alternatively, you can sweep any remaining balance from your current account into savings at the end of each month.

### Save Little and Often

You can save money almost without thinking about it by using roundup tools or apps. Many banks and financial providers—from high street names such as NatWest and Lloyds to newer players like Starling and Chase—offer roundup features that round up your spending to the nearest £1 and transfer the difference into a savings pot.

For example, if you spend £3.60, you will be debited £4, with 40p going into your savings. Some banks, like NatWest, even let you multiply your roundups, sending two or five times the spare change to your savings account.

Apps like Monzo offer a “1p Saving Challenge,” where 1p is moved from your personal account to your savings pot on day one, 2p on day two, 3p on day three, and so on. If you keep it up for 365 days, you will have saved £667.95, earning interest (currently 3.5%) along the way.

### Get Into the Habit with Regular Savings Accounts

Regular savings accounts often offer some of the best interest rates. These accounts generally encourage you to put aside money each month for a limited period. While you may not have to save every month, these accounts tend to work best when you do.

For instance, putting away £50 every month into an account paying 6% interest would take about three years and one month to surpass the £2,000 mark, assuming interest is calculated daily and the rate remains unchanged. Note that many accounts’ headline rates last only one year, so you may need to open new accounts once the term expires.

Often, you need to hold a current account with the same bank to qualify. The Nationwide Flex Regular Saver offers 6.5% interest but requires an existing current account. However, some accounts do not require such relationships. For example, Yorkshire Building Society’s 50 Pound Regular Saver pays 6% interest and is open to all UK residents over 16. You can deposit up to £50 monthly over 12 months; by the end, you would have £619.50 including interest. This account can be opened in branches, agencies, or online (as the 50 Pound Regular eSaver).

### Stash a Little, (Maybe) Win Big

The chance of winning a prize can make saving more exciting. NS&I Premium Bonds are the best-known option: when you buy these, you’re entered into a monthly prize draw with tax-free prizes ranging from £25 up to £1 million. The minimum investment is £25.

The downside is Premium Bonds pay no interest, making them more vulnerable to inflation than other savings options. The prize fund rate—the percentage of the total invested paid out to winners—is currently 3.6%. While you could strike it lucky, there is no guarantee you will win anything.

Coventry Building Society has recently launched the Sunny Day Saver, an easy-access account paying 4.3% interest and offering 11 monthly prize draws (the first on 17 October). You can open the account with as little as £1, and there is no requirement to save every month. However, for each month you save at least £10, you qualify for a prize draw with ten prizes of up to £500. Those who save every month for 11 months will also qualify for an additional draw next summer with a top prize of £5,000.

The savings and investment app Chip offers a Prize Savings Account where, instead of interest, you have a chance to win cash prizes every month. The current monthly prize pot is £75,000, including a grand prize of £10,000. Every £10 saved earns one entry into the draw, but you need an average minimum balance of £100 to qualify.

### Benefit from Help to Save

Help to Save is a government-backed savings account designed for working people on low incomes who receive Universal Credit. It offers a 50p bonus for every £1 you save over four years.

You can save between £1 and £50 each month—you don’t have to save every month—and receive bonuses at the end of the second and fourth years based on your savings. The maximum you can save is £2,400 over four years, with a possible bonus of up to £1,200.

### Use ISAs for Tax-Free Growth

Individual Savings Accounts (ISAs) allow you to save money tax-free. The government sets an annual maximum you can save in ISAs, currently £20,000 per tax year.

Cash ISAs are among the main options, offered by banks, building societies, and other providers. You do not pay tax on the interest earned in these accounts.

Another option is the Lifetime ISA, which helps people save towards their first home or retirement. Its biggest draw is the government bonus: up to £32,000 in theory. You must be aged 18 to 39 to open one and can pay in up to £4,000 each year until you turn 50. The government adds a 25% bonus to your savings, up to £1,000 per year.

### Check for Forgotten Savings

You might already have savings you’ve forgotten about. Several online tracing services can help reunite you with lost accounts.

A free service called My Lost Account consolidates tracing schemes from UK Finance, the Building Societies Association, and NS&I into a single website. This means you only need to fill in one application form to search for forgotten savings accounts linked to your name.

Building your savings pot can make a real difference to your financial stability. Even starting small and using some of these easy strategies can help you work towards that crucial £2,000 milestone—and beyond.
https://www.theguardian.com/money/2025/sep/27/seven-ways-to-start-or-build-up-your-savings

Eight interior designer-approved easy updates to give your home an autumnal update – including the top designer dupes

1. Go Brown (Yes, Really!)

Chocolate, caramel, and espresso shades are popping up on everything from rugs to tiles and walls. As striking (and practical for homes with kids or pets) as a brown sofa can be, it’s best to start small with a vase or cushion and build from there. Sostrene Grene has a wide range of brown textiles and furnishings to help you test out the trend.

Another option is to refresh walls or furniture with a coat of brown paint. This will pair beautifully with other autumnal tones such as rust, ochre, and forest green, while also grounding softer neutrals like cream and blush. Painting an internal door, skirting boards, a bookshelf, or even a wall will quickly dial up the cosiness factor.

Try the ganache-inspired Affogato from Little Greene or the soft cinnamon-brown Hidden Valley from Benjamin Moore Paint.

2. Warm Up with Bulbs and Lamps

Lighting is one of the easiest ways to get your home autumn-ready, and the best part is, you don’t need to buy new fittings or call an electrician to enjoy the glow. Simply swap your existing bulbs or LEDs for amber-toned versions to create a warm atmosphere. B&Q sells a good selection.

Replacing lampshades with ones in warm materials such as brass or wicker is another easy win. Try Next for stylish and affordable options.

3. Try a Designer Dupe

This season, it’s easier than ever to channel designer style without the hefty price tag. Some of our favourite high-street finds include:

  • Lakeland’s colourful 8-in-1 Only Pan (£60), a dead-ringer for the iconic Our Place Always Pan (£125).
  • The Otto duvet cover set by Made.com (£50 for a king size), strikingly similar to the Kemptown Stripe from Piglet in Bed (£199).
  • Georges navy Bobbin lamp (£15) from Asda Direct, a budget-friendly option that channels the look of Pooky’s £72 design.

4. Block Out the Draught Stylishly

Insulating and draught-proofing your external doors is crucial as the weather gets cooler. But that doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice style. This season, many high-street stores are offering plush and patterned draught excluders.

Among our favourites are the Ollin (£25) from Perch & Sparrow, and Dunelm’s Linford Stripe (£16) from Dunelm.

5. Bring Nature Indoors

A touch of the outdoors can make a big difference to the look and feel of your home, and it doesn’t have to cost a lot. Instead of splurging on fresh flowers, fill vases with branches for a sculptural centrepiece, or use dark foliage such as eucalyptus parvifolia and Cercis canadensis ‘Forest Pansy’ to create an instant focal point.

You can find these at most local florists, while retailers such as Layered Lounge offer a convincing faux selection — cheaper, and no one will notice.

6. Get Cosy with Textiles

Swapping lightweight linens and cottons for velvet, wool, and chunky knits is an easy way to prep your home for autumn. A throw draped over the arm of a sofa, cushions, or a bedspread in earthy tones can instantly transform a space at low cost.

H&M and Zara Home have a wide selection. Instead of buying new cushions, consider investing in covers — they are easy to store away when spring rolls back around.

7. Spice Up Your Room Scents

Change breezy summer florals for warm notes such as cinnamon, clove, and sandalwood. Room diffusers and sprays often last longer than candles and are just as decorative.

Rituals has recently launched a limited-edition reed diffuser, Intuitia (£37.90), with notes of saffron and vanilla that linger for up to three months.

For a DIY approach, try making your own seasonal scent. Simply simmer sliced oranges and cinnamon sticks in plenty of water on the hob to give your kitchen an instant aromatic boost that can last for hours.

8. Dress the Dining Table

[Content for this section was not provided in the original text.]

https://www.dailymail.co.uk/home/you/article-15125343/Eight-interior-designer-approved-easy-updates-home-autumnal-update-including-designer-dupes.html?ns_mchannel=rss&ns_campaign=1490&ito=1490

Charley Hull updates fans on ‘bad back’ struggles during practice in IG story

Charley Hull has faced a series of health challenges this year, including a significant issue with her spine. In a recent post, the LPGA Tour star provided an update on her efforts to play despite dealing with a bad back.

Hull shared a video of herself wearing an all-black outfit while taking a shot on the course. In the caption, she revealed that playing with her spine injury made it difficult to achieve a good backswing, writing, “Flattening out my backswing with my bad back is very hard.”

Recently, Hull celebrated her third LPGA Tour title at the Kroger Queen City Championship. During a post-tournament press conference at TPC Rivers Bend, she disclosed that she was still recovering from several injuries. “Since then, my back just never got better,” she said.

Following her persistent discomfort, Hull underwent an MRI, which revealed cysts growing on her spine.

Charley Hull was scheduled to compete in the PIF London Championship in August. Unfortunately, after a practice round, she accidentally stumbled in the Centurion Club parking lot, resulting in a torn muscle in her ankle. Due to the injury, Hull withdrew from the event and was required to wear a moon boot while her ankle healed.

Although the initial recovery timeline was set at nine weeks, Hull surprised many by getting back on her feet within just three weeks.

Despite these setbacks, the four-time Ladies European Tour (LET) winner has been managing the pain with determination. “I’ve got a healthy spine. It’s just like managing it and stuff. I think I’ve been slapped with every injury at the minute, so I have just been managing my way through it this week,” she explained.

Hull shared that while she has been “a little sore,” her body has held up “pretty good so far.” She also emphasized that she has been continuing to work hard practicing her game despite the injuries.

### Charley Hull Describes Pain as a Test of the Mind

Following her thrilling victory at TPC Rivers Bend, Hull opened up about the challenges she has been facing off the course. The English golfer noted that although the win was a major highlight, she has been battling health issues in recent months.

Still, Hull chose to highlight the positive side of her situation. The four-time LET champion admitted that playing through discomfort might actually push her to perform at a higher level.

“I suppose pain is just a weakness of the mind. Probably does me a bit of a favor sometimes because I end up doing too much, too much gym, practice, overthinking,” Hull said.

For Charley Hull, her victory at TPC Rivers Bend was especially rewarding. After many runner-up finishes in recent years, she was thrilled to finally break her three-year winless streak on the LPGA Tour.
https://www.sportskeeda.com/golf/news-charley-hull-updates-fans-bad-back-struggles-practice-ig-story

Finance Ministry Issues Advisory To RBI & Other Financial Institutions To Stop Wasteful Expenses Like Festival Gifts To Curb Non-Essential Expenditure

**Finance Ministry Advises Against Festival Gifts to Promote Fiscal Discipline Ahead of Diwali**

*New Delhi:* Ahead of Diwali, the Finance Ministry has issued an advisory to all financial institutions, including the Reserve Bank of India, urging them to stop wasteful expenditure such as festival gifts. This move aims to promote fiscal discipline and curb non-essential spending.

Citing an advisory from the Department of Public Enterprises (DPE), the Department of Financial Services (DFS) has directed entities under its administrative control to adhere to this guideline, sources confirmed.

The advisory emerges at a time when the government is actively trying to boost consumption and encourage public spending. Earlier this year, as part of Budget 2025-26, the government provided income tax relief targeting the middle class to stimulate consumption.

Additionally, the government has reduced the Goods and Services Tax (GST) on approximately 375 items through the next-generation GST 2.0 reforms. These reduced rates came into effect from September 22.

According to government estimates, the combined impact of the tax rate cuts and GST 2.0 reforms is expected to add around Rs 2.2 lakh crore to India’s GDP, which is approaching the USD 4 trillion mark. These measures also help mitigate the effects of a steep 50 percent tariff imposed last month by the U.S. Administration on shipments from India.

As part of these efforts, the government is also celebrating the GST Bachat Utsav across the country.

Government-run institutions are among the largest consumers and significantly influence demand, especially during festive seasons. However, the DFS, quoting the DPE advisory, has instructed that no expenditure should be incurred on gifts or related items for Diwali and other festivals by Ministries, Departments, and other organs of the Government of India.

The advisory emphasizes the importance of promoting fiscal prudence and responsible use of public resources. “It has been noticed that there is a prevailing practice of incurring expenditure on gifts on the occasion of Diwali and other festivals in certain Central Public Sector Enterprises (CPSEs),” the DPE advisory dated September 19 stated.

“In the interest of economy and judicious utilization of public resources, it is imperative that such expenditure be discontinued. Accordingly, all CPSEs are requested not to incur expenditure on gifts, etc., for any festival,” the advisory added.

*Disclaimer: This story is from a syndicated feed. Only the headline has been edited.*
https://www.freepressjournal.in/business/finance-ministry-issues-advisory-to-rbi-other-financial-institutions-to-stop-wasteful-expenses-like-festival-gifts-to-curb-non-essential-expenditure

PNB Fraud Case: CBI Court Grants Pardon To Nirav Modi’s Brother-In-Law, Maiank Mehta

**Mumbai:**

The special CBI court has granted pardon to Maiank Mehta, the brother-in-law of fugitive businessman Nirav Modi, allowing his plea to be an approver in connection with the Punjab National Bank (PNB) fraud case lodged by the CBI against Modi.

Special judge AV Gujarathi, earlier this week, allowed Mehta’s application to turn approver after his confession statement was recorded by the CBI. Mehta was cited as an accused in the case registered by the agency for cheating PNB by fraudulently obtaining letters of undertaking (LOUs) worth Rs 23,780 crore.

The court stated that the pardon can be granted only after Mehta gives a statement and makes a full and true disclosure of the facts as an approver.

The CBI’s case against Modi is a predicate offence. Following this, the Enforcement Directorate (ED) launched a probe, in which Mehta was declared an approver by the special Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA) court back in 2021.

The CBI, however, made Mehta an accused in the case earlier this month, later agreeing to accept him as an approver.

As per the CBI case, the funds obtained through LOUs were transferred to Pacific Diamond FZE, Modi’s shell company in the UAE, and subsequently routed to Mehta through a complex web of transactions.

The probe revealed that around $30 million were transferred to Mehta’s account from Pacific Diamond FZE. Between November 13 and 26, 2013, Mehta transferred these funds in 10 instalments to Modi’s sister, Purvi Mehta’s account. Purvi reportedly showed these as gifts from her husband.

The CBI further claimed that on November 15, 2013, Purvi created four deposits with Syndicate Bank for three years, appointing Mehta as the nominee. Later, she allegedly availed a term loan of $19 million from Syndicate Bank, London, by mortgaging all the FCNR deposits.

On November 22, 2013, she is said to have transferred the loan amount to her account maintained with Ratnakar Bank. For the remaining $10 million, she allegedly opened a fixed deposit account with Ratnakar Bank.

Against this, she allegedly obtained a packing credit foreign currency facility of $28.50 million through her firm, Radhashree Jewellers Company.

The CBI alleges that out of the funds transferred via the LOUs, $30 million were used by both Nirav Modi and Purvi Mehta through a credit facility obtained by Radhashree Jewellers, with the assistance of Mehta.

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https://www.freepressjournal.in/business/pnb-fraud-case-cbi-court-grants-pardon-to-nirav-modis-brother-in-law-maiank-mehta

Senior Railway Board Officials Review Infrastructure Progress in Bengaluru Division

**Railway Board Conducts Key Infrastructure Review Meeting in Bengaluru Division**

A review meeting was held on Friday in the Bengaluru Division, led by senior officials from the Railway Board, to assess the status and progress of vital infrastructure projects in the region.

The meeting was chaired by Vikas Kumar, Executive Director (Public Grievances) to the Hon’ble Minister of Railways; S.M. Sharma, PEDME (Coaching), Railway Board; and Dhananjay Singh, EDPG to the Hon’ble Minister of State for Railways.

Officials conducted a detailed review of ongoing and proposed works, focusing on critical aspects such as land acquisition, project implementation timelines, and the elimination of level crossing (LC) gates to enhance safety and improve operational efficiency.

A significant topic discussed was the proposed Vande Bharat Sleeper Train Maintenance Depot at Thanisandra, Bengaluru. This facility is expected to support the upcoming Vande Bharat Sleeper variant trains by providing dedicated maintenance infrastructure.

The Railway Board officials also received updates on projects being undertaken by K-RIDE and deliberated on plans for the decongestion of KSR Bengaluru Station.

The meeting saw the participation of Ashutosh Kumar Singh, Divisional Railway Manager, Bengaluru Division; ADRMs Parikshit Mohan Puria and Praveen Kataraki; along with other senior officers from the division.

This collaborative review underscores the Railway Board’s commitment to advancing infrastructure development and operational efficiency in the Bengaluru region.
https://www.freepressjournal.in/corporate-gallery/senior-railway-board-officials-review-infrastructure-progress-in-bengaluru-division