"The country’s popular leader Honourable UPA Chairman, Smt. Sonia Gandhi, Hon. Railways Minister for State, Shri. Rathwa, Chairman Impact India Foundation, Shri. Tobaccowala, Chief of Impact India Foundation, Smt. Lazarus, Chairman Railway Board Shri. Batra, Shri Matthew, Railway Board members, Chairman Northern Railway Shri Prakash, other delegates from Railways, all the medical and paramedical staff of Impact India Foundation, Ladies and Gentlemen, The Lifeline Express focuses on the common man and is an example of the determination and philosophy of the Indian Railways. Impact India Foundation with the cooperation of the Indian Railways commenced the Lifeline Express in 1991, to serve the poor people in far-flung areas with very good quality treatment.

"Since the last 16 years Surgeons, from within and outside the country and paramedical staff have served in the remote areas conducting eye, ear, orthopedic operations and treated patients for several other diseases. As the coaches given by the Railways had become quite old, the Railways were requested for five custom-built coaches at the Integral Coach Factory, Chennai. The new Lifeline Express, comprising five air-conditioned passenger coaches, equipped with state-of-the-art machinery and operation theatres, is now inaugurated by Honourable Smt. Sonia Gandhi.

"Today the Indian Railways hands over the Lifeline Express to Impact India Foundation which will run as a Hospital Train. On this occasion I would like to congratulate the Chairman of Impact India Foundation Shri. Tobaccowala who has dedicated himself to the process of building and renewing the train. At their request the Indian Railways is also handing over the four, old, coaches train to Impact India Foundation which will be stationed in the tribal areas to serve and treat the people in that area. I would like to thank the UPA Chairman, Madam Sonia Gandhi and also congratulate her for having taken special interest in producing the new Lifeline Express and inspiring this organization to carry out their praiseworthy activities.

"I assure complete support from the Indian Railways for the mission undertaken by Honourable Smt. Gandhi and Shri. Tobaccowala to provide free services to the poor. Indian Railways will always be at the country’s service. Jai Hind."

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