Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday, January 17, 2026, virtually flagged off four new Amrit Bharat Express trains, significantly boosting India's affordable long-distance rail connectivity. The event was part of a larger dedication and foundation stone laying ceremony for multiple rail and road infrastructure projects worth over ₹3,250 crore in Malda, West Bengal. The newly inaugurated Amrit Bharat Express trains will operate on four key routes: Alipurduar – SMVT Bengaluru, Alipurduar – Mumbai (Panvel), New Jalpaiguri – Nagercoil, and New Jalpaiguri – Tiruchirappalli. These services are designed to enhance travel experiences for common citizens, students, migrant workers, and traders, strengthening inter-state economic and social linkages. The Amrit Bharat Express is characterized by its modern 'push-pull' configuration, featuring locomotives at both ends for quicker acceleration and braking, allowing speeds up to 130 kmph. These non-air-conditioned trains primarily offer sleeper and unreserved facilities, catering to budget-conscious travelers over distances exceeding 800 km or journeys longer than ten hours. Passengers can benefit from improved features such as enhanced seating, foldable snack tables, LED lighting, air-spring suspension bogies for better ride stability, and an integrated passenger information system. Safety features include aerosol-based fire suppression and individual charging stations with USB Type-A and Type-C ports. Indian Railways had initially launched the Amrit Bharat Express concept in December 2023, with plans to expand the network to address growing transportation needs. This recent flag-off is a step towards realizing that vision, with additional Amrit Bharat Express trains also announced for January 18.