Thu Oct 03 18:05:22 UTC 2024: ## Modi Cabinet Approves Classical Language Status for Five Languages, Railway Bonus, and Key Infrastructure Projects

**New Delhi:** The Union Cabinet, chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, has approved a series of significant decisions impacting language, infrastructure, and the welfare of railway employees.

**Classical Language Status for Marathi, Pali, Prakrit, Assamese, and Bengali:** In a move to preserve India’s rich cultural heritage, the Cabinet conferred “classical language” status on Marathi, Pali, Prakrit, Assamese, and Bengali languages. The government emphasizes that these languages embody the essence of their respective communities’ historical and cultural milestones.

**Productivity-Linked Bonus for Railway Employees:** To boost morale and acknowledge their contributions, over 11.72 lakh railway employees will receive a productivity-linked bonus equivalent to 78 days’ wages, amounting to Rs 2028.57 crore. This payment is made annually before Durga Puja/Dusshera holidays.

**Chennai Metro Rail Project Phase-II Gets Green Light:** The Cabinet gave its approval to the Chennai Metro Rail Project Phase-II, comprising three corridors spanning 118.9 km with 128 stations. This expansion, costing Rs.63,246 crore, is expected to be completed by 2027, bringing Chennai’s total Metro network to 173 Km.

**India Joins International Energy Efficiency Hub:** The Cabinet endorsed India’s entry into the International Energy Efficiency Hub, a global platform promoting collaboration and energy efficiency practices. This move aligns with India’s commitment to sustainable development and reducing greenhouse gas emissions.

**PM-RKVY and Krishonnati Yojana for Sustainable Agriculture:** The Cabinet approved two umbrella schemes, Pradhan Mantri Rashtriya Krishi Vikas Yojana (PM-RKVY) and Krishonnati Yojana (KY), with a combined proposed expenditure of Rs 1,01,321.61 crore. These schemes aim to promote sustainable agriculture and address food security through technology-driven implementation.

**National Mission on Edible Oils-Oilseeds for Self-Sufficiency:** The Cabinet approved the National Mission on Edible Oils-Oilseeds (NMEO-Oilseeds) with an outlay of Rs 10,103 crore. This seven-year mission, commencing from 2024-25, aims to reduce India’s dependence on edible oil imports by boosting domestic production.

These decisions reflect the Modi government’s commitment to preserving cultural heritage, improving infrastructure, enhancing employee welfare, and achieving sustainable development goals.

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