The Railway Board has issued strict instructions to all zones to remove symbols and practices from the British era by May 14, 2026. This move is part of a larger effort to reflect the vision of a New India and Viksit Bharat. The initiative aims to eliminate the colonial mindset from the functioning of the national carrier.
What changes are coming for railway officials and staff
Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw announced the end of the British-style ‘Band Gala’ (Black Prince Coat) as formal attire. Officials will now prefer modern business suits or white shirts and trousers suitable for the Indian climate, paired with a domestic tie featuring the Indian Railways logo. Additionally, old brass buttons on uniforms will be replaced with high-quality fiber or steel buttons embossed with the Ashoka Chakra.
Which colonial traditions and symbols are being removed
The Railway Board is targeting several old practices to modernize the system. The East Indian Railway metal logo will be removed from the Coral Club in Prayagraj. The practice of deploying ‘Bangla Chaprasi’ at senior officials’ residences and the tradition of annual royal inspections by General Managers have already been stopped. Correspondence terms like ‘Your Obedient Servant’ are being replaced with more dignified words like ‘Bhavdiya’.
How are the technical and operational terms changing
| Old British Term/Item | New Indian/Modern Update |
|---|---|
| Guard | Train Manager |
| Khalasi | Assistant |
| Mile Stones | Kilometer Posts |
| Brass Bells | Digital Information Systems |
| Silver/China Crockery | Stainless Steel/Bio-degradable Cutlery |
| Saloon Coaches | Modern Coaches with Wi-Fi and Digital Screens |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the deadline for removing colonial symbols?
The Railway Board has directed all zones to complete the removal of British-era symbols and practices by May 14, 2026.
How will the uniforms of railway officials change?
The colonial ‘Band Gala’ coat is being replaced by modern business suits or white shirt-pants with a domestic Indian Railways logo tie and Ashoka Chakra buttons.