Darjeeling Himalayan Railway Appoints First Woman Train Ticket Examiner
Sarita Yolmo becomes the first woman TTE on the Darjeeling train.
Key Facts
The Darjeeling Himalayan Railway appointed its first woman train ticket examiner (TTE), Sarita Yolmo.
Sarita Yolmo shifted from the Railway Press section to the Commercial Department.
She became a TTE at New Jalpaiguri.
She was assigned ‘tour duty’ on the train.
The Darjeeling Himalayan Railway was established in 1881.
It was designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in December 1999.
The railway is operated by the Northeast Frontier Railway.
The railway is Asia’s oldest two-foot narrow-gauge system.
UPSC Exam Angles
GS Paper I: Historical significance of Darjeeling Himalayan Railway
GS Paper II: Government initiatives for gender equality
GS Paper III: Infrastructure development and sustainable transportation
Visual Insights
Location of Darjeeling Himalayan Railway
Map showing the route of the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway in West Bengal, India.
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More Information
Background
Latest Developments
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is the historical significance of the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway for the UPSC exam?
The Darjeeling Himalayan Railway (DHR), established in 1881 and designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1999, represents a remarkable feat of engineering and reflects the colonial history of India. Its historical importance lies in its role in connecting the hill station of Darjeeling with the plains and its impact on the region's economy and culture. For the UPSC exam, it's important to understand the railway's historical context, its impact on the region, and its recognition as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
2. What are some key facts about the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway that are relevant for the UPSC Prelims exam?
Key facts include that it was established in 1881, it is also known as the 'Toy Train,' and it became a UNESCO World Heritage Site in December 1999. The railway covers a distance of 88 km, climbing from an average elevation of 330 feet at New Jalpaiguri to 7,200 feet at Darjeeling.
- •Establishment: 1881
- •UNESCO World Heritage Site: December 1999
- •Distance: 88 km
- •Elevation Change: 330 feet (New Jalpaiguri) to 7,200 feet (Darjeeling)
3. Why is the appointment of the first woman TTE on the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway significant?
The appointment of the first woman TTE, Sarita Yolmo, on the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway is a significant step towards gender equality in the Indian Railways. It reflects a broader trend of increasing female representation in traditionally male-dominated roles and aligns with initiatives by the Ministry of Railways to encourage women's participation in various railway jobs.
4. How does the appointment of a woman TTE on the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway impact common citizens?
The appointment can serve as a symbol of progress and empowerment, inspiring women and girls in the region and beyond. It also promotes a more inclusive and diverse workforce, potentially leading to improved services and a more welcoming environment for all passengers. It highlights the breaking of gender stereotypes in traditionally male-dominated fields.
5. What are some related concepts that are important to understand in relation to the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway?
Related concepts include UNESCO World Heritage Sites, gender equality in employment, and the historical significance of railways in India. Understanding these concepts provides a broader context for appreciating the importance of the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway and the recent appointment of its first woman TTE.
6. What initiatives has the Ministry of Railways taken to promote gender equality in its workforce?
The Ministry of Railways has been actively promoting initiatives to encourage women's participation in various railway jobs. While specific details of these initiatives are not provided, the appointment of Sarita Yolmo as the first woman TTE on the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway exemplifies this effort.
Practice Questions (MCQs)
1. Consider the following statements regarding the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway (DHR): 1. It was established in 1881. 2. It operates on a broad gauge track. 3. It was designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1999. Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
- A.1 and 2 only
- B.1 and 3 only
- C.2 and 3 only
- D.1, 2 and 3
Show Answer
Answer: B
Statement 1 is CORRECT: The Darjeeling Himalayan Railway was established in 1881. Statement 2 is INCORRECT: The DHR operates on a narrow gauge track, not a broad gauge track. Statement 3 is CORRECT: The DHR was designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1999.
2. Which of the following statements is NOT correct regarding UNESCO World Heritage Sites?
- A.They are designated for their outstanding cultural or natural significance.
- B.The Darjeeling Himalayan Railway is one such site in India.
- C.UNESCO provides financial assistance for the maintenance of all World Heritage Sites.
- D.The World Heritage Committee makes the final decision on designations.
Show Answer
Answer: C
Option C is NOT correct. While UNESCO supports conservation efforts, it does not provide financial assistance for the maintenance of ALL World Heritage Sites. Funding often comes from the country where the site is located, along with other sources.
3. In the context of the Indian Railways, consider the following statements: 1. The Indian Railways Act was enacted in 1890. 2. The Ministry of Railways is responsible for the overall development of the railway sector. 3. The National Rail Plan 2030 aims to modernize and expand the railway network. Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
- A.1 and 2 only
- B.1 and 3 only
- C.2 and 3 only
- D.1, 2 and 3
Show Answer
Answer: D
All three statements are correct. Statement 1: The Indian Railways Act was indeed enacted in 1890. Statement 2: The Ministry of Railways is the nodal ministry for the railway sector. Statement 3: The National Rail Plan 2030 is a comprehensive plan for the future of Indian Railways.