Government Schemes and Policy · 20 January 2026

Vande Bharat Sleeper Express Launch Enhances Overnight Rail Connectivity

Exam-focused facts from the 20 January 2026 current affairs briefing.

Key facts

  • Prime Minister Narendra Modi flagged off India’s first Vande Bharat Sleeper train from Malda Town railway station in West Bengal.
  • The train will operate on the Howrah–Guwahati (Kamakhya) route and is expected to cut travel time by up to six hours.
  • Developed by BEML using ICF technology, the train includes catering services in the fare for all classes.