Vinod Bhat
New Delhi: Shri Ashwini Vaishnaw, Union Minister of Railways, Information & Broadcasting, and Electronics & Information Technology, Government of India, visited the Banaras Locomotive Works (BLW) today, October 31, 2026. On this occasion, he paid respectful homage to the ‘Iron Man’ and Bharat Ratna recipient, Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, by garlanding his portrait and offering floral tributes at the BLW Welcome Hall. Recalling Sardar Patel’s unparalleled contributions, he remarked that his role in ensuring the unity, integrity, and integration of the nation would always remain unforgettable.
A particularly special and heartfelt moment occurred when the Union Railway Minister, Shri Ashwini Vaishnaw, stepped away from formal protocols to sit and share a meal with the employees in the BLW staff canteen. In this relaxed and informal setting, he engaged with the staff, inquiring about their work processes, the facilities provided in the canteen, their personal experiences, and their suggestions. The presence of the Railway Minister, dining alongside them and conversing with such ease, brought great enthusiasm and joy to the employees. They expressed their appreciation for the Minister’s warm and approachable demeanour, describing the interaction as a proud and memorable experience.
Following this, the Union Railway Minister held positive discussions with representatives from various BLW employee organisations, including the BLW Staff Council, the SC/ST Association, the BLW Mazdoor Sangh, and the BLW Men’s Congress, regarding their concerns, suggestions, and demands. During this visit, representatives of employee unions submitted memoranda detailing their demands to the Minister. The Hon’ble Minister listened to their concerns with great seriousness and assured them of appropriate and positive action.
On this occasion, the Hon’ble Minister of Railways also held a special interaction with the female employees working at BLW (Banaras Locomotive Works). He discussed significant topics such as women’s empowerment, ensuring a safe and conducive workplace environment, improving facilities, and increasing the participation of women in railway operations. He highlighted the vital role played by female employees in the progress and development of the Railways.
This visit by the Hon’ble Minister of Railways served as an inspiring example of genuine connection, dialogue, and engagement with the workforce. His approachable demeanour and his initiative to reach out directly to the employees to hear their views infused a sense of great enthusiasm and positive energy throughout the BLW family.
Present on this occasion were the Chairman of the Railway Board and CEO, Shri Satish Kumar; the General Manager of BLW, Shri Ashutosh Pant; various Heads of Departments; senior officials; the Joint Secretary of the Staff Council, Shri Pradeep Yadav, along with other council members; representatives of employee unions; and a large number of employees.
