The Minister of Railways, Shri Suresh Prabhakar Prabhu while presenting the Railway Budget 2016-17 in Parliament today said “Last year, I had appealed to various NGOs and Civil society to help Indian Railways on social issues such as sanitation and provision of basic amenities at stations. I am proud to state that a number of voluntary groups came forward and contributed to this national cause. I extend my heartfelt gratitude to all of them and hope for their continued association.”

Railway Minister said that Self-Help Groups not only provide employment to women but also respect and dignity. IRCTC has begun the process of empanelling Self-help groups for providing catering/cooking services. Indian Railways is partnering with NABARD to provide support and access to our IRCTC website to ensure extensive e- marketing for products produced by the Self-help groups which would lead to increase in rural incomes.

Shri Prabhu added that Indian Railways had partnered with Khadi and Village Industries Commission to support creation of employment and self-reliance in rural India resulting in the generation of 17 lakh man days. Indian Railways will continue to partner with them to develop products and services for passengers and also market them using Indian Railway’s vast resources and assets. Indian Railways will encourage sourcing of products from SC/ST entrepreneurs.

Source Ministry of Railways 25-February, 2016