2 September 2024 : PIB Summary For UPSC

1. Shri Satish Kumar takes charge as Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, Railway Board

(Source – https://pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetail.aspx?PRID=2050631 )

Context

Shri Satish Kumar has assumed the role of Chairman and CEO of the Railway Board. With over 34 years in Indian Railways, his notable contributions include advancing safety, quality management, and infrastructure development, including innovations like the Fog Safe Device.

Railway Board:

• Overview: The Railway Board is the apex body responsible for the administration and oversight of Indian Railways, operating under the Ministry of Railways.
• Structure: Comprises a Chairman, who is the Chief Executive Officer (CEO), and several Members, each in charge of different domains like Traffic, Engineering, and Mechanical.
• Functions:
  • Policy Formulation: Develops and implements policies for the overall management and development of Indian Railways.
  • Planning and Coordination: Oversees planning of railway projects, including infrastructure development, modernization, and expansion.
  • Financial Management: Prepares and monitors the railway budget, ensuring efficient allocation and utilisation of resources.
  • Operational Oversight: Ensures smooth and safe operation of train services, including scheduling, maintenance, and safety measures.
  • Regulatory Role: Establishes standards for railway operations and infrastructure, and ensures compliance with safety and quality regulations.
  • Human Resource Management: Oversees recruitment, training, and management of railway personnel.

2. NHPC and SJVNL Conferred ‘Navratna’ Status

(Source – https://pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetail.aspx?PRID=2050604 )

Context

The Union Minister for Power and Housing & Urban Affairs, Shri Manohar Lal, has felicitated National Hydroelectric Power Corporation (NHPC) and Satluj Jal Vidyut Nigam Limited (SJVNL) for receiving ‘Navratna’ status. This recognition grants these hydro power PSUs greater autonomy, enabling faster decision-making, enhanced efficiency, and expanded capabilities for investment, innovation, and market growth.

National Hydroelectric Power Corporation (NHPC)

• Established in 1975, NHPC is a major Indian public sector undertaking (PSU) focused on hydroelectric power generation.
• Headquartered in Faridabad, Haryana.
• Operates and maintains several hydro power projects across India.
• Currently has an installed capacity of 7,144 MW.
• Engaged in constructing projects totaling 10,443 MW.
• Plays a key role in generating clean, renewable energy and reducing greenhouse gas emissions.

Satluj Jal Vidyut Nigam Limited (SJVNL)

Contributes significantly to renewable energy and sustainable development.

Established in 1988, SJVNL is a joint venture between the Government of India and the Government of Himachal Pradesh.

Headquartered in Shimla, Himachal Pradesh.

Focuses on hydro power generation with an installed capacity of 2,467 MW.

Involved in constructing projects with a total capacity of 4,836 MW.