Indian Railways has launched a comprehensive and forward-looking initiative known as '52 Reforms in 52 Weeks', designed to introduce one major reform every week throughout the calendar year 2026. The program was formally announced on January 8, 2026, during a high-level review meeting at Rail Bhavan in New Delhi, chaired by Union Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw. This structured approach aims to ensure steady, measurable progress in transforming the nation's extensive rail network into a more efficient, safe, and passenger-oriented system.
The meeting brought together Ministers of State V. Somanna and Ravneet Singh, Railway Board Chairman and CEO Satish Kumar, and other senior officials, who collectively emphasized the New Year spirit of renewed resolutions and bold transformations. Vaishnaw underscored the necessity for deep-rooted changes in governance structures, operational protocols, and service standards, drawing from on-ground feedback to address longstanding challenges in one of the world's largest railway systems.
Safety remains a cornerstone of the initiative, building on remarkable progress already achieved, with consequential train accidents dropping dramatically by nearly 90 percent from 135 in 2014-15 to around 11 in the 2025-26 period. The ministry has set an ambitious target to further reduce this to single-digit incidents through intensified measures, including the rapid deployment of artificial intelligence and advanced technologies for real-time monitoring, predictive maintenance, and automated train operations.
Also Read: Railway Ministry Issues Fog Protocols to Ensure Punctual Train Operations
Beyond safety, the reforms encompass a broad spectrum of enhancements, such as revamping talent management practices and introducing innovative employee skill development programs to equip the workforce with expertise in emerging technologies. Significant attention is also being directed toward upgrading onboard catering services, with plans to elevate food quality, modernize catering operations, and improve overall passenger comfort during journeys.
The discussions further reviewed ongoing advancements in infrastructure development, track maintenance, and network capacity expansion, reinforcing the ministry's unwavering dedication to technological innovation, uncompromising safety standards, and a truly passenger-centric ethos. This weekly reform drive signals a proactive commitment to delivering tangible improvements across India's vital railway ecosystem in the year ahead.
Also Read: Amit Shah Reviews J&K Security, Vows Complete Eradication of Terrorism