Union Cabinet's Major Decisions: Bridges, Languages, and Metro Expansion

The Union Cabinet plans to discuss major issues, following significant approvals, including a rail-cum-road bridge over the Ganga in Uttar Pradesh, the classical language status for several languages, and financing for Chennai Metro Phase 2. These decisions involve extensive investments and impactful infrastructure developments.

The Union Cabinet is slated for a crucial meeting on October 24 in New Delhi, where key topics will be on the agenda. In a recent session on October 16, spearheaded by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the Cabinet greenlit a rail-cum-road bridge over the Ganga. This bridge aims to connect Varanasi and Chandauli districts in Uttar Pradesh, featuring a six-lane highway above and four rail lines below, with an estimated budget of Rs 2,642 crore.

Earlier this month, on October 3, the Cabinet recognized Marathi, Pali, Prakrit, Assamese, and Bengali as classical languages. This designation, established by the Indian Government in 2004 starting with Tamil, is reserved for languages with a profound historical background and an original literary tradition. The Linguistic Experts Committee advocated for Marathi, while other proposals hailed from Bihar, Assam, and West Bengal.

In response to these recognition efforts, Chief Ministers and senior figures from West Bengal, Maharashtra, Assam, and other states have conveyed their thanks to the Central Government. Furthermore, the Cabinet sanctioned funding for 65 percent of the Chennai Metro Phase 2, comprising a Rs 33,593 crore loan accompanied by Rs 7,425 crore in equity and subordinated debt. The remaining 35 percent will be under the State Government's purview. (ANI)

(With inputs from agencies.)