§ On the other hand, the extension of railroads, wherever undertaken after proper surveys, have been of great benefit not only to the districts through which they run, but to the community at large. They facilitate migration, they greatly increase the area of cultivation, they develop the mineral wealth of the country, and open up new industries. They are a most effective preventive of death from starvation by their carrying power in time of famine and distress, and in years of prosperity they are the most reliable instrument for the augmentation and distribution of wealth, and, so far as the recuperative powers of the mass of the people are concerned, they are the readiest agency the Government can employ. Last year I announced to the House that we proposed to largely increase the railway programme of expenditure for the next three years, and during that period there were to be constructed by the State about 5,000 miles costing Rx.29,665,000, and by private companies 2,626 miles, costing Rx.16,189,000 making an aggregate of 7,681 miles and Rx.45,854,000 of expenditure. After consultation with the Viceroy, we have determined to adhere, as far as we possibly can, to this increased outlay—["hear, hear!"]—though it may be necessary for the present year to reduce our proposed expenditure by one crore; but I believe, for the reasons I have already stated, that the prosecution of this policy will be a most effective famine preventive instrument, and one which should be vigorously pushed through, even although it may occasion for the moment some financial inconvenience. ["Hear, hear!"]