Not only trains, the Railways has been modernizing train stations by incorporating state-of-the-art features and services which would be at par with those available at airports.

Railway Minister Piyush Goyal has asked the Railway Board to identify the corridors and work on cutting the cost of construction by less than half.

The Indian Railways is reportedly ready to surprise the country with a new, self-propelled, semi-high speed train, entirely made in India, this summer.

This technology, experts say, will not only achieve faster acceleration of up to 160 km per hour, but also put in place advance protective measures like electro-pneumatic braking system to improve passenger safety.

\"We will continuously endeavour to improve the Operating Ratio of the Railways. The tariffs of Railways will be fixed, taking the costs, quality of service, social obligations and competition from other forms of transport into consideration,\" Jaitley said.

With so many events happening throughout  the year, Indian economy has seen some major ups and downs. From the demonetisation shock to the landmark GST passage, 2016 witnessed it all.

\"The test train consisted of one locomotive fit for 180 kmph along with one VIP coach, one first class coach, one cafeteria coach and four second class coaches,\" a statement from the ministry said.

Excitement ran high as the train hit top speed of 160 km per hour and completed its maiden journey in 99 minutes, a minute less than the scheduled 100. It upped its performance on the return journey taking 98 minutes to reach Delhi.

As Indian Railways usher in to the age of high speed trains, it is all set to upgrade its standards at par with air travel. And the most notable feature of it will be well groomed train hostesses and stewards.

From free newspapers and magazines to drinks and snacks - train attendants take care of every passenger needs during their journey. The trains as well as stations and lounges on TGV are equipped with WiFi.

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