The Union Cabinet has approved eight railway multitracking projects worth about ₹20,804 crore, covering key routes across nine states and adding nearly 1,196 kilometres to the existing Indian Railways network.

The projects are aimed at increasing rail capacity, reducing congestion, improving operational efficiency and strengthening passenger and freight connectivity. The approved works are scheduled to be completed by 2029-30. 

The approvals cover two groups of projects. Three projects with an estimated cost of ₹10,783 crore will add about 656 km across West Bengal, Jharkhand, Odisha, Madhya Pradesh and Chhattisgarh. Another five projects, costing approximately ₹10,021 crore, will add around 540 km across Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka and Telangana. 

Major Rail Expansion Across MP and Chhattisgarh

The first set of projects includes the Kharagpur–Jharsuguda fourth line, Katni–Pendra Road fourth line and Bilaspur (Uslapur)–Pendra Road third line.

Together, these projects will cover 14 districts and strengthen some of the important railway corridors used for the movement of coal, cement, iron and steel and other freight commodities.

The Railway Ministry estimates that the additional capacity from these projects could support around 27 million tonnes per annum of additional freight traffic. It also expects the improved rail infrastructure to reduce logistics costs and contribute to lower fuel consumption and carbon emissions. 

For Madhya Pradesh and Chhattisgarh, the Katni–Pendra Road fourth line and Bilaspur–Pendra Road third line are particularly significant because they add capacity to a heavily used east-central rail corridor.

Five More Projects in Southern India

The second package consists of five projects covering 17 districts in Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka and Telangana.

These include:

• Arakkonam–Renigunta third and fourth lines — 77 km

• Whitefield–Bangarapet third and fourth lines — 47 km

• Hosur–Omalur doubling — 147 km

• Salem–Karur–Dindigul doubling — 159 km

• Secunderabad (Ghatkesar)–Kazipet multitracking — 110 km

The projects will increase the existing railway network by about 540 km and are expected to improve connectivity to approximately 2,121 villages with a combined population of around 52 lakh. 

The Railway Ministry expects these projects to generate additional freight capacity of about 47 million tonnes per annum. Several important tourism destinations, including Tirupati, Kodaikanal Hills, Sathyamangalam Wildlife Sanctuary and destinations around Telangana, are also expected to benefit from improved rail connectivity. 

Seven High-Density Corridors to Get Four Lines

The government is also pursuing a larger capacity-expansion programme for India's busiest railway corridors.

According to the announcement, all seven identified high-density corridors are being targeted for four-lining, covering roughly 11,000 km.

The corridors include Delhi–Howrah, Mumbai–Howrah, Delhi–Mumbai, Delhi–Guwahati, Delhi–Chennai, Howrah–Chennai and Mumbai–Chennai.

Around 2,000 km of four-lining work has already been completed, according to the government.

The focus is not limited to passenger trains. Expanding these corridors is also intended to create additional paths for freight trains, allowing more efficient movement of coal, steel, cement, food grains, petroleum products, containers and other goods.

Projects Linked to PM Gati Shakti

The newly approved projects are being planned under the PM Gati Shakti National Master Plan, which focuses on coordinated infrastructure development and multimodal connectivity.

The government says the approach will help integrate rail connectivity with other modes of transport while improving the movement of people, goods and services. 

The projects across Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, Odisha, Jharkhand and West Bengal are expected to strengthen freight movement in an important industrial and mineral belt. The southern projects, meanwhile, will improve connectivity between major industrial centres, cities and tourism destinations.

Mumbai-Ahmedabad Bullet Train Update

Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw also provided an update on the Mumbai–Ahmedabad Bullet Train project, saying the service is expected to begin next year.

The initial operational section is planned between Surat and Vapi, covering about 100 km, as construction progresses on the larger high-speed rail project.

The project is being developed as India's first high-speed passenger rail corridor and is expected to introduce a new travel option between major cities along the Mumbai–Ahmedabad route.

Government Pushes Capacity Overhaul

The latest approvals form part of a broader effort to expand railway capacity rather than rely solely on new routes.

By adding third and fourth lines and doubling existing single or double-line sections, the Railways aims to allow more trains to operate on congested corridors while reducing conflicts between passenger and freight services.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi said the Cabinet decisions would strengthen connectivity, improve passenger movement and create additional freight capacity. He also highlighted the expected benefits for states including Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, Jharkhand, Odisha and West Bengal, including tourism and lower logistics costs.

With the eight projects together adding nearly 1,196 km of railway capacity, the latest approvals represent another major step in the government's ongoing multitracking programme. 

In a major push towards energy security and cleaner fuel, the Union Cabinet has approved the ₹23,731 crore National Circular Bioenergy Scheme (GOBARdhan), a 10-year programme aimed at significantly increasing domestic compressed biogas (CBG) production and reducing India's dependence on imported liquefied natural gas (LNG).

The scheme, which will run from FY2027 to FY2036, seeks to transform agricultural residue, cattle dung, municipal organic waste and other biomass into compressed biogas, while strengthening the country's renewable energy ecosystem and promoting a circular economy.

The approval comes amid growing concerns over global energy supply disruptions, particularly following geopolitical tensions affecting the Strait of Hormuz, through which a large share of India's LNG imports passes. India currently imports nearly 50 per cent of its natural gas requirement, making energy diversification a strategic priority.

Reducing Import Dependence

Announcing the Cabinet decision, Union Information and Broadcasting Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw said domestically produced compressed biogas would play a crucial role in reducing reliance on imported natural gas and improving India's long-term energy resilience.

According to government estimates, the scheme could help save more than ₹40,000 crore in foreign exchange over the next decade by replacing imported LNG with domestically produced biofuel. It is also expected to create a bioenergy industry valued at nearly ₹75,000 crore.

Six-Pillar Strategy

The GOBARdhan scheme has been designed around six key components to accelerate the growth of India's compressed biogas sector.

A major feature is the introduction of mandatory blending targets for City Gas Distribution (CGD) companies. Under the roadmap, compressed biogas blending will be fixed at 3 per cent in FY2027, 4 per cent in FY2028, and 5 per cent from FY2029 onwards for both transport fuel and piped natural gas supplied to households.

To improve investor confidence, the government has also introduced an administered price of ₹2,110 per million British thermal units (MMBTU), providing producers with predictable long-term pricing.

Financial Support for Projects

The scheme provides substantial financial assistance for establishing new compressed biogas plants. Eligible greenfield projects will receive capital support of up to ₹2 crore per tonne per day of installed capacity, while existing plants expanding operations will also qualify for assistance.

In addition, financial support will be provided for developing pipeline connectivity between compressed biogas plants and existing gas distribution networks, helping producers integrate with the national gas infrastructure.

A dedicated credit guarantee mechanism will improve financing access for micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs), while a Challenge Fund will support district-level feedstock aggregation, technology adoption and project development.

Waste-to-Wealth Initiative

The programme aims to utilise agricultural residue, cattle dung, sugar industry waste such as press mud, municipal organic waste and other biodegradable materials for biogas production.

Apart from generating clean fuel, the initiative is expected to improve waste management, reduce stubble burning, increase production of organic manure and create additional income opportunities for farmers, rural entrepreneurs and local communities.

The government believes the initiative will also contribute to lowering greenhouse gas emissions by converting organic waste into renewable energy instead of allowing it to decompose or be burnt in open fields.

Building on Existing Progress

The new scheme builds upon the government's Sustainable Alternative Towards Affordable Transportation (SATAT)initiative, under which more than 200 compressed biogas plants have already been commissioned across India.

Officials expect the new policy framework to accelerate investment in the bioenergy sector by ensuring stable demand, better financing options and long-term commercial viability for compressed biogas producers.

With growing global uncertainty over energy supplies and increasing emphasis on clean energy transition, the Cabinet's approval of the GOBARdhan scheme marks another significant step in India's efforts to strengthen energy security while promoting sustainable waste management and rural economic development.

In a major political development, Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan on Saturday submitted his resignation to Prime Minister Narendra Modi amid continuing student protests linked to the NEET paper leak controversy. The announcement came only a few hours before the scheduled third round of negotiations between the Centre and the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP), which has been spearheading the protests.

Pradhan confirmed his decision through a post on X, thanking Prime Minister Narendra Modi for the opportunity to serve the nation and stating that he respects the aspirations and expectations of India's youth. His resignation fulfills the principal demand of the protesters, who have been camping at Delhi's Jantar Mantar for over a month.

Resignation Breaks Weeks-Long Deadlock

The demand for Dharmendra Pradhan's resignation had become the biggest obstacle in discussions between the government and the protesting students. Despite multiple rounds of negotiations, talks had failed to move forward as protest leaders insisted that meaningful dialogue could only begin after the Education Minister stepped down.

On Saturday morning, CJP representatives reiterated that they would not participate in discussions unless the government accepted their demand for Pradhan's removal. Within hours, the minister announced his resignation, significantly changing the course of the negotiations.

Political observers believe the move could help reduce tensions and create an environment for constructive discussions on education reforms and examination transparency.

Government Meets Protesters' Key Demands

With Pradhan's resignation, the Centre has now accepted all three major demands raised by the protesters.

These include:

• Resignation of Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan.
• No legal action against students participating in the protests.
• Compensation for the families of students who reportedly died by suicide following the NEET paper leak controversy.

During Friday's discussions, government representatives had already agreed in principle to the latter two demands. However, they had remained silent on the issue of the minister's resignation, which continued to be the primary point of disagreement.

The latest development is expected to clear the way for the third round of talks and may help both sides focus on long-term reforms aimed at strengthening India's examination system.

Pradhan Thanks PM Modi in Resignation Statement

In his post on X, Dharmendra Pradhan expressed gratitude to Prime Minister Narendra Modi and reflected on his tenure as Education Minister.

He wrote:

"I hold deep respect for the aspirations, sentiments, and rightful expectations of the youth of this country. Realising the dreams of India's young generation has been the moral resolve of our political and social life. I express my gratitude to Hon'ble Prime Minister for the opportunity given to me to serve the nation under his visionary leadership."

The statement did not directly address the allegations surrounding the NEET paper leak but emphasized his commitment to the country's youth and educational development.

Focus Shifts to Education Reforms

The resignation is expected to become a turning point in the ongoing movement demanding greater accountability and transparency in India's competitive examination system.

The NEET paper leak controversy triggered widespread protests by students and youth organizations, who alleged serious lapses in the conduct of one of the country's most important entrance examinations. The issue also led to calls for stronger safeguards against examination malpractice and greater institutional accountability.

With the immediate political demand now addressed, attention is likely to shift toward policy reforms, examination security, and measures to restore public confidence in the education system.

The Centre and protest leaders are expected to discuss these issues during the upcoming negotiations.

What Happens Next?

The government has not yet announced who will take charge of the Education Ministry following Pradhan's resignation. Cabinet-level decisions regarding his successor are expected in the coming days.

Meanwhile, political parties, student organizations, and education experts are closely watching the outcome of the Centre-CJP talks, which could shape the future roadmap for examination reforms and student welfare policies.

The resignation marks one of the most significant political developments arising from the NEET controversy and is expected to have far-reaching implications for education policy and public accountability in the country.

The Union Cabinet has approved the construction of a 43.218-km elevated corridor along the Varuna River in Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh, at an estimated cost of ₹10,998.32 crore, aiming to significantly reduce urban congestion and improve connectivity across the city.

The project, cleared by the Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs (CCEA) chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, will be implemented by the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) under the Hybrid Annuity Model (HAM).

Designed as a predominantly 6/4-lane access-controlled elevated corridor, the project will connect NH-31 with the Varanasi Ring Road through a network of elevated carriageways, flyovers, ramps, loops and service roads. The total project cost includes ₹4,565.33 crore for civil construction and ₹934.91 crore for land acquisition.

Major Decongestion Project

The proposed corridor forms a key component of the Varanasi Decongestion Plan and is expected to improve connectivity between NH-31 and Kashi Railway Station, while easing traffic movement within the city.

The project will also provide faster access to major transport hubs and public landmarks, including Varanasi Ring Road, Lal Bahadur Shastri International Airport, Kashi Railway Station, Varanasi City Railway Station, Varanasi Junction, Deen Dayal Upadhyay Junction, Ramnagar Inland Port, Sampurnanand Sanskrit University, the city's iconic Ghats, and the neighbouring Chandauli region.

Travel Time to Be Halved

Engineered for operating speeds of 80–100 kmph, the elevated corridor is expected to reduce travel time between NH-31 and Kashi Railway Station from nearly 40 minutes to around 20 minutes, cutting journey time by approximately 50 percent.

According to the government, the project will help decongest Varanasi's road network, improve road safety, lower vehicle operating costs and facilitate smoother movement of passenger and freight traffic.

Boost to Logistics and Regional Economy

The corridor is also expected to strengthen regional connectivity by improving access to the Chandauli Socio-Economic Zone, one major social node and six key logistics hubs, supporting the objectives of the PM Gati Shakti National Master Plan through enhanced multimodal integration.

The improved transport network will facilitate the movement of agricultural produce, industrial goods, construction materials and mineral resources, leading to greater logistics efficiency and supporting long-term economic growth across eastern Uttar Pradesh.

Modern Urban Transport Infrastructure

The government said the project will create a modern access-controlled urban transport corridor that enhances mobility, supports tourism, improves multimodal connectivity and contributes to better quality of life for residents and visitors in Varanasi.

Once completed, the elevated corridor is expected to play a crucial role in addressing increasing traffic demand while strengthening the city's position as a major religious, cultural and economic hub.

Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde and six Lok Sabha MPs who recently joined the Shinde-led Shiv Sena from the Uddhav Thackeray faction met Union Home Minister Amit Shah in New Delhi on Tuesday, triggering fresh political speculation over the party's growing influence in the NDA and a possible expansion of the Union Cabinet.

The meeting, which lasted nearly 50 minutes, was led by Eknath Shinde along with Shiv Sena's Lok Sabha leader Dr Shrikant Shinde. Discussions reportedly focused on pending development projects in Maharashtra, parliamentary strategy ahead of the Monsoon Session, legal procedures related to the MPs' merger, and the party's future role within the Union government.

Development Projects Take Centre Stage

During the meeting, the six MPs raised several pending infrastructure and development projects from their respective constituencies that require central approval or funding.

According to sources, the leaders urged the Centre to expedite these projects to ensure faster implementation before the next electoral cycle.

Union Home Minister Amit Shah reportedly assured the delegation that there would be no shortage of central assistance for welfare schemes and infrastructure initiatives in their constituencies, reaffirming the Centre's support for development-oriented governance.

Focus on Parliamentary Strength

The Delhi visit marks Eknath Shinde's first major political engagement in the national capital after the induction of six former Shiv Sena (UBT) MPs into his faction.

With the addition of the rebel lawmakers, the Shinde-led Shiv Sena has strengthened its numerical presence in Parliament, making it a more significant ally within the National Democratic Alliance (NDA).

Sources indicated that discussions also centred on preparations for the upcoming Monsoon Session of Parliament, where the party is expected to play a more prominent role on legislative and political issues.

Merger Recognition Awaited

The party leadership is also working to complete all procedural and legal formalities related to the induction of the six MPs.

According to political sources, the Lok Sabha Secretariat is expected to formally recognise the merger of the MPs with the Eknath Shinde-led Shiv Sena before the Monsoon Session begins.

Official recognition would further consolidate the party's parliamentary position and strengthen its claim as the principal Shiv Sena faction in the Lok Sabha.

Speculation Over Cabinet Expansion

The meeting has intensified speculation about an imminent expansion of the Union Council of Ministers.

Political sources suggest that the Shinde-led Shiv Sena could be rewarded with two ministerial positions—one Cabinet berth and one Minister of State portfolio—following the increase in its parliamentary strength.

Among the names being discussed, Dr Shrikant Shinde is widely seen as a leading contender for a Cabinet position, although no official confirmation has been made by either the BJP or the Shiv Sena.

Political Significance

The high-profile meeting is being viewed as another political boost for the Shinde camp and a setback for the Uddhav Thackeray-led Shiv Sena (UBT), which recently lost six MPs to the rival faction.

Beyond organisational matters, the Centre's reported assurance on development funding is expected to help the newly inducted MPs strengthen their political base by accelerating projects in their constituencies.

While discussions on Cabinet representation remain speculative, the meeting underlines the Shinde faction's growing influence within the NDA and signals continued coordination between the Maharashtra leadership and the Union government ahead of an important parliamentary session.

Former Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) leader and Rajya Sabha MP Raghav Chadha is reportedly among the frontrunners for a ministerial position in the Narendra Modi-led Union government as the BJP is believed to be considering a Cabinet reshuffle. Alongside Chadha, Ashok Mittal, Chancellor of Lovely Professional University (LPU), and senior BJP leader Tarun Chugh are also being viewed as possible contenders for representation from Punjab.

The speculation comes after the Rajya Sabha tenure of Union Minister of State Ravneet Singh Bittu ended on June 21. Under constitutional provisions, a minister who is not a Member of Parliament can continue in office for only six months, meaning Bittu would need to secure parliamentary membership by December or vacate the post. This has triggered discussions over who could represent Punjab in the Union Cabinet if changes are made.

Although there has been no official announcement from the BJP or the Union government, political circles have been abuzz with reports that a Cabinet expansion or reshuffle could take place in the coming days. The speculation gained further momentum after Union Home Minister Amit Shah met President Droupadi Murmu, though the meeting's agenda has not been officially linked to any Cabinet changes.

Raghav Chadha's name has attracted particular attention because of his recent political shift from the Aam Aadmi Party to the Bharatiya Janata Party. Once considered among AAP's most influential leaders in Punjab, Chadha played a key role during the party's sweeping victory in the 2022 Punjab Assembly elections, where it secured 92 of the state's 117 Assembly seats.

During the initial years of the Bhagwant Mann-led government, Chadha was widely regarded as one of the party's principal strategists in Punjab. However, relations between him and the AAP leadership reportedly deteriorated over time. His eventual departure from the party marked one of the most significant political developments in Punjab in recent years.

According to reports, Chadha also played an important role in persuading several AAP parliamentarians to join the BJP, strengthening the ruling party's position while weakening its political rival. His organisational experience, communication skills and familiarity with Punjab's political landscape are believed to have enhanced his prospects within the BJP.

Political observers believe appointing Chadha as a Union minister could provide the BJP with a prominent face in Punjab ahead of the 2027 Assembly elections. His experience in urban constituencies and his ability to connect with professionals, entrepreneurs and business communities may help the party expand its support base in key cities such as Ludhiana, Jalandhar and Amritsar.

At the same time, his elevation could pose challenges for the Aam Aadmi Party. Having once been one of AAP's principal campaigners in Punjab, Chadha's criticism of his former party from a ministerial platform could influence political perceptions and potentially encourage more leaders to switch sides.

However, Chadha is not the only name under consideration. Ashok Mittal, who represents Punjab in the Rajya Sabha and is associated with the education sector through Lovely Professional University, is also viewed as a strong candidate. Senior BJP leader Tarun Chugh, recently nominated to the Rajya Sabha, is another experienced leader whose organisational role within the party makes him a potential choice.

Despite the growing speculation, the BJP has not confirmed any names or indicated the timing of a possible Cabinet reshuffle. Until an official announcement is made, the reports remain political speculation.

If a reshuffle takes place, Punjab's representation in the Union Council of Ministers is expected to be among the key issues closely watched by political observers.

The resignation of George Kurian has sparked political discussion in Kerala, where he has long been regarded as one of the BJP’s most prominent Christian leaders. His exit comes amid shifting political equations following recent developments in the state.

George Kurian Steps Down from Union Council of Ministers

Union Minister of State George Kurian resigned from the Union Council of Ministers on Tuesday, marking the end of his tenure in the Narendra Modi-led government. President Droupadi Murmu accepted his resignation on the advice of Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

The government has not officially disclosed the reason behind Kurian’s resignation. However, the development comes just days after the completion of his six-year Rajya Sabha term on June 21. The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) had chosen not to renominate him during the latest Rajya Sabha elections, effectively ending his tenure in Parliament.

Kurian, 65, served as Minister of State in the Ministry of Minority Affairs and the Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying. He was inducted into the Modi 3.0 government in June 2024 and represented Madhya Pradesh in the Rajya Sabha from August 2024 until June 2026.

A Prominent BJP Face in Kerala

A lawyer by profession, George Kurian has been associated with the BJP since the party’s formation in 1980. Over the decades, he emerged as one of the party’s most influential leaders in Kerala and held several key organizational positions, including state general secretary and vice-president of the BJP’s Kerala unit.

Kurian also served as national secretary of the Bharatiya Janata Yuva Morcha (BJYM) and was a member of the BJP national executive. Within party circles, he earned recognition as an effective spokesperson and frequently represented the BJP in television debates.

One of his notable roles was translating speeches of Prime Minister Modi and Home Minister Amit Shah into Malayalam during their visits to Kerala, helping the party strengthen its outreach among local audiences.

Political Significance

Kurian belongs to the Syro-Malabar Catholic community, one of Kerala’s largest Christian denominations. His appointment as a Union Minister in 2024 was widely viewed as part of the BJP’s broader strategy to expand its support among Christian voters in the state.

Political observers believe his exclusion from the Rajya Sabha may be linked to the BJP’s evolving electoral strategy in Kerala following recent political developments. However, neither the BJP nor the central government has issued any official statement explaining the decision.

According to party sources, Kurian’s departure is unlikely to affect the BJP’s organizational presence in Kerala immediately, but it may influence discussions around the party’s future Christian outreach strategy in the state.

Centre raises MSP for 14 kharif crops: Paddy up ₹72, tur by ₹450

The Union Cabinet on Wednesday approved an increase in the Minimum Support Price for 14 kharif crops, with paddy getting a ₹72 per quintal hike and tur dal seeing a sharp ₹450 rise.

Paddy, Tur get a push

The government has fixed the new MSP for paddy at ₹2,441 per quintal. For tur (pigeon pea), the increase is significantly higher at ₹450, reflecting the government's focus on boosting pulses production.

Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw confirmed the decision after the Cabinet meeting. Officials said the revised rates will apply to the upcoming kharif sowing season, which typically begins with the onset of the southwest monsoon.

 What is MSP?

Minimum Support Price works as a safety net for farmers. When market prices fall below a certain level, the government steps in to buy crops at the guaranteed rate. This protects growers from sudden price crashes, especially during years of bumper production.

The Commission for Agricultural Costs and Prices recommends these rates before each crop season. The government largely accepts them, though political pressure often pushes MSPs higher than what the CACP originally suggests.

Other Cabinet decisions

Coal gasification push

The Cabinet approved a ₹37,500 crore scheme for surface coal and lignite gasification projects. The technology converts coal into gas, and the government wants to process 100 million tonnes by 2030. Officials believe this will cut down import dependence and strengthen energy security.

Nagpur Airport lease extended

The lease period for AAI-owned land at Dr Babasaheb Ambedkar International Airport has been extended. The land was previously leased to MIHAN India Limited, and the tenure will now continue beyond August 6, 2039.

Semi-high-speed rail project cleared

The Ahmedabad (Sarkhej)-Dholera double line project received the green signal. At ₹20,667 crore, this will be India's first semi-high-speed railway project developed entirely with indigenous technology. The railways ministry will implement it.

Impact on farmers

For paddy growers, the ₹72 increase is modest compared to previous years. But traders note that tur farmers will benefit substantially. Pulses have seen volatile prices in recent seasons, and a higher MSP may encourage more area under cultivation.

Sources familiar with the matter said the government is particularly focused on reducing import dependency for tur and other pulses. India still brings in significant quantities from Myanmar and African nations.

The sowing season is just weeks away. Whether these rates actually translate into higher farmer incomes will depend on procurement efficiency. Past seasons have seen complaints about delayed purchases and limited procurement centres in some states.