Union Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw on Tuesday released a commemorative postage stamp to mark the 100 years of the All India Railwaymen’s Federation (AIRF).
AIRF is one of India’s largest and oldest trade unions of railway workers, which was established on April 24, 1924.
Ashwini Vaishnaw praised the commendable journey of the AIRF and said throughout the federation’s extensive journey, you have encountered numerous challenges and successes. Congratulations on your remarkable achievements.
Meanwhile, AIRF general secretary Shiva Gopal Mishra said that all office-bearers and over 5,000 workers gathered at the Karnail Singh railway stadium in Delhi to honor our illustrious history and the leaders who made significant sacrifices to protect the rights of workers.
The unveiling of the postal stamp showcased the enduring legacy and invaluable contributions of the All India Railwaymen’s Federation to India’s railway system. It stands as a poignant reminder of the AIRF’s century-long commitment to championing the rights and well-being of railway employees across India.
The event saw the presence of prominent dignitaries, representatives from the railway fraternity, and AIRF members, who expressed their gratitude for the recognition bestowed upon the federation’s historic milestone.
Recognising AIRF contribution
Addressing the employees gathered at the event, Vaishnaw underscored AIRF’s historical background and mentioned that the federation produced leadership who led the trade union movement at both national and international levels.
The Union Minister asserted that the imperative contributions of AIRF not only uplifted the social and economic growth of railway employees but also created a safe railway industry.
In addition to AIRF office-bearers and railway workers, senior officials from the railway ministry, the Indian postal department, and the northern railway zone also attended the occasion.
Among them were Railway Board Chairperson and CEO Jaya Verma Sinha, Indian Postal Services Director General Smita Kumar, Director General (HR) of Railway Board Naveen Gulati, and Northern Railway General Manager Shobhan Chaudhary graced the event.