Latest news with #PRS
The Hindu
a day ago
- Business
- The Hindu
Mysuru MP reviews railway infrastructure projects
MP for Mysuru Yaduveer Krishnadatta Chamaraja Wadiyar on Monday visited Mysuru Railway Station and chaired a review meeting with officials of South Western Railway, Mysuru division, to assess the progress of various railway infrastructure projects and development initiatives in the region. Mudit Mittal, Divisional Railway Manager, Mysuru, along with Shammas Hameed, Additional Divisional Railway Manager, and other senior officials of the division were present during the meeting. During the interaction, Mr. Yaduveer was briefed on key infrastructure and service-related developments across the division. A major point of discussion was the Final Location Survey for the doubling of the Mysuru–Chamarajanagar railway line, covering a stretch of 60 km. The field survey for this project has been completed, and the Detailed Project Report (DPR) is currently under preparation. The DPR is targeted for submission to the Railway Board by August 2025. Another significant project reviewed was the doubling of the Arsikere–Mysuru railway line via Hassan, spanning 165.8 km. The Railway Board sanctioned the Final Location Survey for this section on August 14, 2024. A helicopter-based aerial survey has been completed, and the land survey is currently in progress. Once completed, this project is expected to enhance train-handling capacity and improve operational efficiency along this important corridor, a press release from the division said. The meeting also focused on the development of a new terminal at Naganahalli, which is expected to ease congestion at the Mysuru Railway Station. The proposed infrastructure includes widening of the existing platform (580 metres long and 10.5 metres wide), construction of a passenger running line and a stabling line (each with a clear standing length of 760 metres), a shunting neck (750 metres), a dry pit line, a machine siding (350 metres), and a platform shelter covering 1,176 square metres. Additionally, the extension of four minor bridges and one Road under Bridge (RUB) has been planned to support the new yard layout, according to Girish Dharmaraj Kalagonda, Divisional Commercial Manager. A total of 8 acres and 29 guntas of land has been identified for the acquisition of the Naganahalli terminal project. Mr. Yaduveer was requested to extend support in expediting the land acquisition process. Sanctioned during the financial year 2022–23, the Naganahalli terminal project also includes five platforms, five running lines, four stabling lines, a shunting neck, a new station building, a foot overbridge, a subway, a pit line, reconstruction of staff quarters, service buildings, and improved staff amenities. Two passenger service-related issues were also discussed during the meeting. The first was the proposal to shift the India Post Passenger Reservation System (IPPRS) from Virajpet to Madikeri, aiming to serve a larger population more effectively. The second was a request for rent-free accommodation for the PRS counter at Kuvempunagar, Mysuru, to ensure sustainability and reduce rental expenditure. Mr. Yaduveer appreciated the efforts of the Railway division and offered suggestions for further strengthening rail connectivity and improving passenger amenities in the region.
Hans India
3 days ago
- Health
- Hans India
Indian genetics demand tailored obesity solutions, finds new global study led by CSIR-CCMB
A recent international study led by the Centre for Cellular and Molecular Biology (CSIR-CCMB) in Hyderabad has revealed that lifestyle-based interventions or targeted nutrient supplementation could be more effective for Indians at genetic risk of obesity than generic global approaches. The research highlights a significant genetic variation in obesity risk between Indian and European populations, underlining the need for culturally and biologically relevant health strategies. The study, spearheaded by Dr. Giriraj Ratan Chandak and his team at CSIR-CCMB, forms part of a major global research initiative involving 600 scientists from over 500 institutions. Drawing on genetic data from more than 5 million individuals, including inputs from the GIANT consortium and 23andMe, the study explored how genetic and lifestyle factors combine to influence obesity. A key finding of the study was that the widely used Polygenic Risk Score (PRS)—a genetic test designed to predict obesity—performs more accurately in populations of European ancestry than in those with South Asian ancestry, including Indians. While many obesity-related gene variants identified in Europeans were also tested on Indian samples, most showed limited predictive power, reaffirming the unique nature of Indian genetic makeup. To dig deeper, the researchers analysed genome data from Indian individuals—both diabetics and non-diabetics—who have been monitored over the past two decades. They discovered a distinct pattern of central or abdominal obesity in Indians, unlike the more generalized obesity seen in Western populations. Interestingly, individuals with higher genetic risk for obesity responded better to lifestyle interventions like diet and exercise. However, they were also more prone to weight regain once those interventions ended. 'This finding mirrors earlier studies on height, where European genetic markers had limited applicability to Indians. It appears that diet, nutrition, and environment might play an equally, if not more, critical role in determining obesity in Indians,' said Dr. Chandak. Using Indian genomic data, the team developed a more region-specific PRS to model obesity risk and improve early detection, especially among children. The refined model can predict adulthood obesity by the age of five, making it twice as effective as older models. This breakthrough could enable early preventive measures among genetically vulnerable children, a move that could significantly reduce the burden of obesity-linked diseases such as diabetes and hypertension in India. 'This is not just a test. It's a predictive tool for proactive care,' said Assistant Professor Roelof Smit from the NNF Centre for Basic Metabolic Research at the University of Copenhagen and lead author of the global study, published in Nature Medicine. 'By identifying risk early, especially before lifestyle habits solidify, we can dramatically improve health outcomes.' The findings reiterate that while genetics do play a role, customised lifestyle strategies are critical for Indian populations. The future of obesity prevention in India may rest in precision medicine, where treatment plans are based not just on global data but on uniquely Indian insights.
News18
4 days ago
- Business
- News18
Around 89 per cent of train tickets being booked online: Rail Minister
New Delhi, Jul 25 (PTI) Prospective train passengers can book reserved tickets either online or through computerised Passenger Reservation System counters, and around 89 per cent of tickets are being booked online, Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw apprised the Rajya Sabha in a written reply on Friday. He responded to questions regarding recent initiatives related to digital reservations and deactivation of crores of dubious User IDs by the Indian Railway Catering and Tourism Corporation (IRCTC) 'With a view to curb malpractices in the ticket booking system, IRCTC has recently deactivated over 2.5 crore user IDs, as their credentials were found to be suspicious during extensive data point analysis," the Railway Minister said. He added, 'On Indian Railways, the demand pattern of reserved accommodation is not uniform throughout the year, and it varies over lean and peak periods. The trains running on popular routes and convenient timings are generally well patronised. However, in other trains, accommodation is generally available." Vaishnaw presented various steps taken by the Ministry to improve passenger access to confirmed tickets, ensure transparency and proliferate digital modes. 'Reserved tickets can be booked either online or across computerised Passenger Reservation System (PRS) counters on a first cum, first-served basis. Presently, around 89 per cent of total tickets are being booked through online mode," Vaishnaw said. 'At PRS counters, the facility of making payments through digital modes has been provided. With effect from 01-07-2025, tickets under the Tatkal Scheme can be booked through the website of the Indian Railway Catering and Tourism Corporation (IRCTC)/its app only by Aadhaar-authenticated users," he said. He said that agents are barred from booking opening-day Tatkal tickets during the first 30 minutes of the opening of Tatkal reservations. Vaishnaw stated that the waiting list position of the trains is monitored on a regular basis, and in order to cater to additional demand, Indian Railways operates special train services and augments the load of trains to generate additional accommodation, subject to operational feasibility. 'Further, schemes like Alternate Train Accommodation Scheme (ATAS), known as VIKALP and Up-gradation scheme have been introduced to provide confirmed accommodation to waitlisted passengers and also to ensure optimal utilisation of available accommodation," he added. PTI JP HIG view comments First Published: July 25, 2025, 19:15 IST Disclaimer: Comments reflect users' views, not News18's. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy.
Time of India
4 days ago
- Business
- Time of India
Indian Railways has deactivated 2.5 crore IRCTC user IDs: Has yours also been deactivated? Check now
Academy Empower your mind, elevate your skills Reserved tickets can be booked either online or across computerised Passenger Reservation System (PRS) counters on first cum first served basis. Presently, around 89% of total tickets are being booked through online mode. At PRS counters, the facility of making payments through digital modes has been provided. With effect from 01-07-2025, tickets under tatkal scheme can be booked through the website of Indian Railway Catering and Tourism Corporation (IRCTC)/its app only by Aadhaar authenticated users. Agents are barred from booking opening day tatkal tickets during the first 30 minutes of opening of Tatkal reservation. Waiting list position of the trains is monitored on a regular basis and in order to cater to additional demand, Indian Railways operates Special train services and augments the load of trains to generate additional accommodation, subject to operational feasibility. Further, schemes like Alternate Train Accommodation Scheme (ATAS) known as VIKALP and up-gradation scheme have been introduced to provide confirmed accommodation to waitlisted passengers and also to ensure optimal utilization of available accommodation. The government also outlined a series of new reforms, including mandatory Aadhaar authentication for tatkal bookings, a ban on agent access during peak hours, and more transparent digital payment systems at PRS counters. Indian Railways has deactivated over 2.5 crore Indian Railway Catering and Tourism Corporation ( IRCTC ) user IDs as part of efforts to curb misuse in the online ticket booking system . The deactivation was done after noticing suspicious booking patterns and user behavior identified through advanced data analytics. With many concerns about tickets vanishing within minutes of booking and rising misuse by agents and bots. This was confirmed in a written reply to Parliament following questions raised by Member of Parliament A. D. of Parliament A. D. Sigh raised several questions on deactivation of user IDs, tickets vanishing with minutes and measures taken by the Wealth Online breaks down the government's official response to four key questions from the rationale behind deactivating accounts to the digital upgrades being implemented to stop ticketing fraud.(a) Whether it is a fact that Indian Railway Catering and Tourism Corporation (IRCTC) has recently deactivated over 2.5 crore User IDs, if so, the reasons behind such large-scale deactivation;(b) Whether government is planning a digital overhaul of the railway reservation system to curb misuse, if so, the details thereof;(c) Whether it is also a fact that tickets for many trains vanish within minutes of the opening of reservation window; and(d) The measures being taken to ensure transparency, prevent misuse, and improve passenger access to confirmed tickets?The government in Parliament replied to the aforementioned questions: With a view to curb malpractices in the ticket booking system, IRCTC has recently deactivated over 2.5 crore user ids, as their credentials were found to be suspicious during extensive data point analysis. On Indian Railways, the demand pattern of reserved accommodation is not uniform throughout the year and it varies over lean and peak periods. The trains running on popular routes and convenient timings are generally well patronized, however, in other trains, accommodation is generally available. To improve passenger access to confirmed tickets, to ensure transparency and to proliferate digital modes, the following steps have been taken by Indian Railways:-
&w=3840&q=100)
Business Standard
5 days ago
- Business Standard
Emergency quota rule for reserving train berth tightened to prevent misuse
Indian Railways has updated rules for the so-called emergency quota (EQ) in train tickets, saying applications must be made a day before the date of travel so that there is no misuse and those in genuine need are served. A circular by the national transporter this week said the rules apply to all trains and coach classes. What is emergency quota According to a Press Information Bureau statement, berths under EQ are primarily meant for High Official Requisition (HOR) holders based on their position in the warrant of precedence, such as ministers, Members of Parliament, and high-ranking bureaucrats. Leftover EQ berths are allocated to regular passengers whose needs are deemed urgent by railway zonal headquarters. These include: 1. Medical emergencies 2. Death or bereavement in the family 3. Government duty or official work 4. Job or educational interviews Each case is assessed based on urgency and the status of the applicant. New EQ booking deadlines Under the revised norms, EQ requests now need to be submitted a day before the date of travel. Depending on the departure time of the train, the deadline for submitting requests is split into two time bands: -For trains departing between 00.00 hrs and 14.00 hrs: Submit EQ request by 12 noon on the previous day. -For trains departing between 14:01 hrs and 23:59 hrs: Submit request by 4 pm on the previous day. -Requests made on the same day as the train's departure will no longer be entertained. What if your train departs on a Sunday or holiday? For trains scheduled on Sundays or public holidays, the EQ request must be submitted on the last working day during office hours. For example, if your train departs on a Sunday, the request should be filed on Friday during working hours. Other key railway changes effective July 2025 In addition to the EQ update, Indian Railways has rolled out a series of reforms to improve transparency in ticket bookings: Chart preparation: Now done eight hours before departure; for morning trains, charts will be prepared at 9 pm the previous night. Tatkal tickets: From July 15, Tatkal tickets at PRS counters and via agents require OTP verification. Aadhaar authentication: Starting July 1, Aadhaar is mandatory for Tatkal bookings made on IRCTC's website or app. Agent restrictions: Authorised agents are now barred from booking tickets during selected hours to give priority to individual passengers. These changes are part of a broader effort by the Railways to plug loopholes, minimise touting and ensure seats go to those who need them the most.
