Key Takeaways
- PM Modi flags off four new Vande Bharat Express trains from Varanasi
- New routes connect major cultural, religious and economic centers
- Infrastructure development highlighted as key driver of economic growth
- Trains expected to boost tourism and regional connectivity
Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated four new Vande Bharat Express trains on November 8, 2025, emphasizing that India is accelerating rapidly on the path of development through infrastructure expansion. The flag-off ceremony took place at Banaras railway station in Varanasi, the PM’s parliamentary constituency.
“In developed countries across the world, the biggest reason for economic growth has been their infrastructure. In every nation that has achieved major progress, the driving force behind it has been infrastructure development,” Mr. Modi said.
“Infrastructure is not just about big bridges and highways. Whenever such systems are developed anywhere, it sparks the overall development of that region,” he said.
New Generation of Indian Railways
PM Modi highlighted that trains like Vande Bharat, Namo Bharat and Amrit Bharat are establishing the foundation for a new era in Indian Railways. He noted that with numerous Vande Bharat trains now operational and increased international flight connectivity, these developments are directly linked to national growth.
Boost to Pilgrimage Tourism
The Prime Minister emphasized that pilgrimage sites serve as spiritual centers and the development work in Uttar Pradesh over the past 11 years has elevated them to new heights. He revealed that devotees visiting Uttar Pradesh’s religious sites have contributed thousands of crores to the state’s economy.
The government is focused on making visits to Varanasi a special experience for all visitors, the PM added.
New Connectivity Routes
The four new Vande Bharat Express trains will operate on the following routes:
- Banaras-Khajuraho
- Lucknow-Saharanpur
- Firozpur-Delhi
- Ernakulam-Bengaluru
According to official statements, these semi-high-speed trains will substantially reduce travel time between major stations, improve regional mobility, promote tourism and support economic activity nationwide.
The Banaras-Khajuraho route specifically will connect significant cultural and religious destinations including Varanasi, Prayagraj and Chitrakoot. Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw and Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath were present at the inauguration ceremony.
