Railway Board — Set 3
Indian Railways · रेलवे बोर्ड · Questions 21–30 of 50
The term 'Departmentalism' in the old Railway Board structure referred to what issue?
Correct Answer: D. Inter-departmental rivalry
Departmentalism meant that different wings like Engineering and Traffic worked in silos, often hindering overall efficiency. This led to delays in project approvals and decision-making. The 2020 merger into IRMS was specifically designed to solve this problem.
Who serves as the ex-officio Chairperson of the Railway Board?
Correct Answer: D. The senior-most member
The senior-most professional officer is appointed as the Chairperson and CEO by the government. Unlike many other boards, the Railway Minister is not the chairperson but the political head. The professional head ensures technical continuity in administration.
The Railway Board oversees the functions of which specialized research organization?
Correct Answer: A. RDSO
The Research Designs and Standards Organisation (RDSO) in Lucknow functions under the Railway Board. It is the technical advisor to the board on standards and innovations. RDSO ensures that all railway equipment meets safety and performance criteria.
Which wing of the board deals with the welfare and recruitment of railway employees?
Correct Answer: C. Human Resources wing
The Human Resources (HR) wing or Directorate manages the massive workforce of over 1.2 million people. They handle recruitment through RRBs and look after training and staff welfare. A Director General (HR) often assists the board in these matters.
In the context of the Railway Board, what is 'Rail Bhavan'?
Correct Answer: C. The administrative headquarters building
Rail Bhavan is the iconic building in New Delhi that serves as the central office for the Railway Board. It is where the highest-level meetings and policy formulations take place. It remains the nerve center of the Indian rail network.
What significant change occurred in 1951 regarding the Railway Board?
Correct Answer: B. A new post of Chairman was created
In 1951, the post of Chairman of the Railway Board was formally established to provide unified leadership. Previously, the board functioned without a single professional head. This strengthened the executive control over the vast railway machinery.
The Railway Board is responsible for deciding which of the following?
Correct Answer: B. Passenger and Freight Tariffs
The Board has the authority to fix freight rates and passenger fares subject to government approval. This is a critical economic function that impacts the national logistics cost. Decisions are made based on operating costs and socio-economic factors.
Which committee recommended the induction of the CEO designation in the Railway Board?
Correct Answer: A. Bibek Debroy Committee
The Bibek Debroy Committee (2015) suggested major reforms including the introduction of a CEO. The aim was to introduce corporate-style management and accountability. This was finally implemented during the 2020 restructuring.
Who appoints the Chairman and members of the Railway Board?
Correct Answer: C. Appointments Committee of the Cabinet
The Appointments Committee of the Cabinet (ACC), chaired by the Prime Minister, makes the final selection. This ensures that the top leadership of the railways is chosen from a pool of eligible senior officers. It is a high-level selection process based on merit and seniority.
The 'Signal and Telecommunication' directorate falls under which member?
Correct Answer: B. Member (Infrastructure)
Signaling is considered a part of the core infrastructure required for train operations. Therefore, it is managed by the Member (Infrastructure). Modern signaling like Kavach is a major focus area for this department currently.