History & Milestones — Set 2
Indian Railways · इतिहास और मील के पत्थर · Questions 11–20 of 70
Which committee's report in 2015 recommended the merger of the Rail Budget with the General Budget?
Correct Answer: C. Bibek Debroy Committee
The Bibek Debroy Committee suggested restructuring and modernization of the rail sector to improve efficiency. One of its key outcomes was the historic decision to end the 92-year-old tradition of a separate rail budget. This integration was aimed at providing a holistic view of the government's finances.
In which city was the first Metro Rail system in India commissioned in 1984?
Correct Answer: D. Kolkata
Kolkata Metro was the first underground transit system in India, running initially from Esplanade to Bhawanipur. It was planned during the 1970s to alleviate the city's severe road congestion. This project laid the groundwork for future urban metro networks in other Indian metros.
Which zone is the first to have a 100% electrified broad-gauge network in India?
Correct Answer: A. West Central Railway
The West Central Railway achieved complete electrification of its entire broad-gauge route in early 2021. Electrification is a key environmental goal to reduce carbon emissions and dependency on fossil fuels. This zone serves as a critical corridor for freight and passenger movement in central India.
Who was the first female locomotive pilot in India, hired in 1988?
Correct Answer: C. Surekha Yadav
Surekha Yadav became the first female train driver in India and Asia when she joined Central Railway. She has since operated various types of trains, including the Vande Bharat Express. Her career has been a significant milestone for gender diversity in technical roles within the rail sector.
Which year marked the completion of the massive Konkan Railway project, connecting Maharashtra to Karnataka?
Correct Answer: D. 1998
The Konkan Railway was officially inaugurated in 1998 after overcoming extreme geographical challenges. It traverses through tunnels and over bridges across the rugged Western Ghats along the coast. This project significantly reduced the travel time between Mumbai and the southern ports.
The Fairy Queen, the world's oldest working steam locomotive, was built in which year?
Correct Answer: A. 1855
Built in 1855, the Fairy Queen is certified by Guinness World Records as the oldest steam engine in regular operation. It was restored in 1997 to run special tourist trains between Delhi and Alwar. This heritage locomotive is a symbol of the enduring legacy of early rail engineering.
In which city did the Computerized Passenger Reservation System (PRS) first start in 1986?
Correct Answer: C. New Delhi
The pilot project for computerized ticketing was launched in New Delhi to modernize the manual booking process. It greatly reduced waiting times and minimized errors in seat allocation. This technology was subsequently expanded across the entire nation to create a unified network.
Which historic mountain railway in India was the first to be inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage list in 1999?
Correct Answer: D. Darjeeling Himalayan Railway
The Darjeeling Himalayan Railway, often called the 'Toy Train', was recognized for its innovative engineering and cultural impact. Opened in 1881, it climbs to an altitude of over 2,000 meters using unique loops and zig-zags. UNESCO recognition highlights its value as a masterpiece of human creative genius.
What is the name of the first semi-high speed train of India, launched in 2019?
Correct Answer: A. Vande Bharat Express
The Vande Bharat Express, originally known as Train 18, was designed and built indigenously at ICF, Chennai. It features self-propelled engine-less technology that allows for faster acceleration and deceleration. The train represents a major leap in modernizing passenger travel in India.
In which city is the headquarters of the Indian Railway's Research Design and Standards Organisation (RDSO) located?
Correct Answer: C. Lucknow
RDSO is located in Lucknow and serves as the technical advisor to the Ministry. It is responsible for setting standards and conducting research for all equipment used in the rail network. RDSO's work ensures the safety and technological advancement of the Indian rail system.