PSRI Visakhapatnam Chapter Honours DRM, Waltair Division, East Coast Railways
The theme “PR – The Fifth Pillar of Democracy” resonated strongly during discussions
The Waltair Division of East Coast Railway commemorated National Public Relations Day with great enthusiasm at the Divisional Railway Manager’s Conference Hall, Dondaparthi. The event revolved around the theme “PR – The Fifth Pillar of Democracy,” underscoring the growing significance of public relations in governance.
The programme was organised in collaboration with the Public Relations Society of India (PRSI), Visakhapatnam Chapter, bringing together distinguished dignitaries, communication professionals, and railway officials to reflect on the evolving role of PR in fostering transparency and public trust.
DRM Lalit Bohra Honoured
On the occasion, Lalit Bohra, Divisional Railway Manager of Waltair Division, was felicitated with the PRSI Award in recognition of his exemplary leadership and strong support for public communication initiatives.
A 1998-batch IRTS officer, Bohra assumed charge as DRM on 24 February 2025. Known for his strategic clarity and operational excellence, he has held several key positions across Indian Railways, including Chief Commercial Manager, Chief Passenger Transportation Manager, Chief Public Relations Officer, and Deputy General Manager (General).
Distinguished Guests Grace the Event
The event was graced by eminent personalities, including:
- Prof. DVR Murthi, Vice Chancellor of Andhra Kesari University, as Chief Guest
- B. Varalakshmi, Former Judge, Consumer Court
- Lakhmana Rao, Editor, Coastal Times
Speakers highlighted that public relations acts as a crucial bridge between institutions and citizens, ensuring effective communication, enhancing public awareness, and strengthening democratic responsiveness.
PR as a Democratic Pillar
The theme “PR – The Fifth Pillar of Democracy” resonated strongly during discussions, with speakers emphasizing that beyond the traditional pillars—legislature, executive, judiciary, and media—public relations plays an indispensable role in building trust, managing perceptions, and ensuring accountability in modern governance.
Participation and Presence
The programme witnessed the presence of key PRSI representatives, including:
- M.K.V.L. Narasimham, President, PRSI Visakhapatnam Chapter
- A. Govinda Rao, Secretary, PRSI
Along with executive members of PRSI and branch officers of Waltair Division.
Leadership Beyond Railways
Before his current role, Bohra served as Joint Secretary in the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy, where he played a key role in shaping flagship initiatives such as:
- PM Surya Ghar: Muft Bijali Yojana
- PM-KUSUM
- National Wind Energy Policy (including offshore wind)
- Green Energy Corridors
- PLI Scheme for Solar Manufacturing
He also served as Director General of the National Institute of Solar Energy and contributed as a board member to Power Grid Corporation of India Limited and Solar Energy Corporation of India Limited.
An alumnus of Indian Institute of Technology Bombay and Birla Institute of Technology Pilani, Bohra combines technical expertise with financial acumen, making him one of the most dynamic leaders in the Indian Railways ecosystem.
