Rare photos: First train in India – 173 years of rail journey that began with 400 passengers, 3 engines and 34-km ride. From steam to speed © Zee News 1853: 34 km in 70 minutes Today: High-speed trains crossing hundreds of km daily India now has one of the worlds largest rail networks What started with a short steam-powered ride has grown into one of the biggest railway systems in the world. Indian Railways now operates thousands of trains daily, carrying millions of passengers across states and regions. (Photo: X/@RailMinIndia) The first route map © Zee News Start: Bori Bunder Mid-route stops: Byculla, Sion End point: Thane Total distance: 33-34 km The first rail route covered a short distance between Bombay and Thane. It laid the foundation for railway expansion across India in the decades that followed. (Photo: X/@RailMinIndia) Inside the first coaches © Zee News Wooden compartments Simple design compared to modern trains Limited seating comfort The coaches used in 185...
A Landmark Achievement Indian chess star R Vaishali has etched her name in history by winning the Women’s Candidates Tournament 2026 , becoming only the second Indian woman after Koneru Humpy to achieve this feat. This victory sets the stage for a thrilling world championship clash, marking a new era for Indian women’s chess. The Journey Vaishali’s path to the Candidates crown was marked by resilience, sharp preparation, and fearless play. Her ability to balance positional understanding with tactical brilliance made her stand out in a field of world‑class competitors. π Why This Victory Matters Historic Achievement: Vaishali is the first Indian woman to win the Candidates, and only the second to reach the world title match. Resilience: She started as one of the lowest‑rated players in the field, yet finished with 8.5 points from 14 rounds , edging out rivals by half a point. Symbolic Moment: Her success reflects the rise of Indian chess, following the footsteps of Viswanath...