Commercial Department Functions and Powers

Podcast

Play an AI-generated podcast conversation about this lesson

Questions and Answers

Which of the following is NOT a function of the Marketing & Sales Organisation on the Railways?

Improving the quality of service provided to traders

Planning and providing inter-modal services

Maintaining and repairing railway tracks (correct)

Exploring new areas for developing new streams of traffic

What is a primary responsibility of the Public Relations Organisation on the Railways?

Managing ticket reservations

Conveying public suggestions and grievances to relevant departments (correct)

Developing new marketing strategies

Investigating claims for compensation

What is the primary goal of the 'Prevention of Claims' function in the Headquarters Office?

Ensuring the accuracy of freight charges

Minimizing instances of claims related to passenger injuries or property damage (correct)

Collecting data on passenger satisfaction

Handling complaints about delays in train services

Which of the following is NOT a function of the Headquarters Office of the Commercial Department?

Developing new railway lines and infrastructure (C) Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary purpose of 'inter-model co-ordination' within the Commercial Department?

Coordinating services with different forms of transportation, such as road and rail (B) Signup and view all the answers

What is the key function of 'Commercial advertising and publicity' within the Commercial Department?

Creating advertisements and public relations campaigns to promote railway services (C) Signup and view all the answers

What does the 'Research and Development' function in the Headquarters Office focus on?

Improving the efficiency and effectiveness of railway operations (B) Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is a key responsibility of the Public Relations Officer?

Responding to media inquiries about railway services (A) Signup and view all the answers

What is a key objective of the Marketing & Sales Organisation?

Developing strategies to compete with road transportation (C) Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of the Military Tariff related to Indian Railways?

To outline rules and rates for transporting military personnel and materials. (B) Signup and view all the answers

Which document outlines the rules for transporting dangerous goods on Indian Railways?

Red Tariff. (A) Signup and view all the answers

What is one of the responsibilities of the Commercial Committee of the Indian Railway Conference Association?

To recommend changes to the General Classification of Goods. (C) Signup and view all the answers

What does the Railway Telegraph Code facilitate?

Communication regarding railway operations and services. (B) Signup and view all the answers

What is the role of the Commercial Committee concerning disputes between railways?

To determine liability in compensation claims. (D) Signup and view all the answers

What is one key responsibility of the Commercial Department?

Marketing and selling transportation services (D) Signup and view all the answers

Who is the head of the Commercial Department?

Chief Commercial Manager (A) Signup and view all the answers

Which function does the Chief Commercial Manager NOT perform?

Directly managing customer service (D) Signup and view all the answers

What can the Chief Commercial Manager do regarding powers delegated to him?

Re-delegate powers to subordinates (A) Signup and view all the answers

What is an essential aspect of the Commercial Department’s interaction with the public?

Cultivating good public relations (D) Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is included as a responsibility of the Commercial Department?

Creating and developing traffic (B) Signup and view all the answers

What document outlines the powers of General Managers in commercial matters?

Appendix I (C) Signup and view all the answers

What is a critical function of the Commercial Department regarding traffic receipts?

Ensuring correct collection and remittance (D) Signup and view all the answers

What is one of the conduct requirements for railway servants?

To be prompt, civil, and obliging (B) Signup and view all the answers

What is forbidden for railway servants in relation to the public?

To accept illegal gratification (A) Signup and view all the answers

Which organization is responsible for framing rules for traffic interchange between railways in India and neighboring countries?

Indian Railway Conference Association (A) Signup and view all the answers

What type of publication does the I.R.C.A. issue concerning the carriage and delivery of goods?

Goods Tariff (D) Signup and view all the answers

What is included in the Conference Rules, Part II published by the I.R.C.A.?

Rules for the Interchange of Rolling-Stock and Traffic (B) Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is NOT a publication issued by the I.R.C.A.?

Employee Handbook (C) Signup and view all the answers

What is a component of the Coaching Tariff issued by the I.R.C.A.?

Passenger Fare Table (A) Signup and view all the answers

What type of rules are included in the Goods Tariff issued by the I.R.C.A.?

General Rules for Acceptance, Carriage, and Delivery of Goods (C) Signup and view all the answers

Which country’s railways are included in the interchanging traffic rules framed by the I.R.C.A.?

Bangladesh (C) Signup and view all the answers

What type of pamphlet does the I.R.C.A. provide related to goods?

Pamphlet showing goods arranged according to classes (D) Signup and view all the answers

What is a primary responsibility of the Divisional Commercial Manager/Area Manager?

To arrange for effective commercial operations within their area (A) Signup and view all the answers

What is one of the duties of commercial staff as outlined in the content?

To comply with the regulations established in the Indian Railway Commercial Manual (C) Signup and view all the answers

How should the behaviour of commercial staff be, according to the guidelines?

Correct and professional to maintain the railway's reputation (B) Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is NOT a responsibility of the Divisional Commercial Manager/Area Manager?

Setting ticket prices for train journeys (A) Signup and view all the answers

What should the commercial staff actively consider while performing their duties?

The changing needs and demands of the travelling public (D) Signup and view all the answers

Which aspect is emphasized for the Divisional Commercial Manager/Area Manager's role?

Coordinating with the railway for anti-social practices (D) Signup and view all the answers

What type of training should commercial staff receive?

Training in their specific duties and responsibilities (C) Signup and view all the answers

What should be prominently displayed at stations according to the Divisional Commercial Manager's responsibilities?

Fare lists and notices (C) Signup and view all the answers

What is necessary for commercial staff to maintain between themselves and their supervisors?

Close cooperation to ensure efficient operations (C) Signup and view all the answers

Which practice should be combated according to the responsibilities stated?

Ticketless travel and begging (B) Signup and view all the answers

Which function involves making recommendations for alterations to the General Classification of Goods?

Commercial Committee of the Indian Railway Conference Association (B) Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary focus of the Military Tariff regarding the transport of goods?

Rules and rates for military traffic (A) Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following documents provides rules for the conveyance of explosives over Indian Railways?

Red Tariff (A) Signup and view all the answers

What is one of the roles of the Commercial Committee concerning rates and conditions?

To examine and recommend proposals for uniformity in tariffs (B) Signup and view all the answers

What responsibility does the Railway Telegraph Code serve within the railway system?

It is used for conveying messages related to wagon movements. (C) Signup and view all the answers

What is a primary function of the Commercial Department?

Marketing and selling transportation services (A) Signup and view all the answers

Who holds ultimate accountability for the efficiency of the Commercial Department?

The General Manager (D) Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following roles assists the Chief Commercial Manager?

Officers in different grades (C) Signup and view all the answers

What can the Chief Commercial Manager do with powers delegated from the General Manager?

Re-delegate to authorities subordinate to him (B) Signup and view all the answers

What type of public relations does the Commercial Department prioritize?

Cultivating good public relations with the trading public (D) Signup and view all the answers

Which document details the powers of General Managers in commercial matters?

Appendix I (D) Signup and view all the answers

What crucial financial task is included in the Commercial Department's responsibilities?

Correct collection and remittance of traffic receipts (B) Signup and view all the answers

What is the role of the Chief Commercial Manager in relation to the powers delegated by the General Manager?

His powers are limited and can be further delegated (B) Signup and view all the answers

What is one responsibility of the Divisional Commercial Manager/Area Manager concerning facilities at stations?

Confirm reasonable facilities exist for booking and delivery of traffic (C) Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following practices is the Divisional Commercial Manager/Area Manager expected to combat?

Unauthorized vending on railway properties (A) Signup and view all the answers

What should commercial staff display prominently according to their responsibilities?

Tariffs and fare lists (D) Signup and view all the answers

How should the behavior of commercial staff be maintained according to their guidelines?

Professional to uphold railway reputation (C) Signup and view all the answers

What is a crucial aspect of the training for commercial staff?

Understanding detailed rules and responsibilities (D) Signup and view all the answers

Which aspect of cooperation is highlighted for commercial staff?

Collaboration between station staff and supervisory staff (D) Signup and view all the answers

What operational aspect is the Divisional Commercial Manager/Area Manager expected to inspect periodically?

Facilities at booking and reservation offices (B) Signup and view all the answers

Which factor is considered critical for commercial staff while addressing public needs?

Alertness to changing passenger demands (D) Signup and view all the answers

What is a significant outcome expected from the collaboration within the commercial staff?

Effectiveness in meeting public service demands (A) Signup and view all the answers

According to the content, what is emphasized for the display of information at stations?

Comprehensive fare lists and rate tables (B) Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is required of every railway servant in their interactions with the public?

To ensure conduct is prompt, civil, and obliging (B) Signup and view all the answers

What type of rules does the I.R.C.A. Framework for traffic interchange consist of?

Fundamental and subsidiary rules for interchange (A) Signup and view all the answers

In which publication issued by the I.R.C.A. would you find the General Classification of Goods?

Goods Tariff (B) Signup and view all the answers

What is specifically prohibited for railway servants when interacting with the public?

Accepting illegal gratification (A) Signup and view all the answers

Which document contains the rules related to the interchanging of rolling-stock and traffic between Indian Railways?

Conference Rules, Part II (A) Signup and view all the answers

What is included in the Coaching Tariff issued by the I.R.C.A.?

Passenger Fare Table and conditions for traffic (A) Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is NOT a responsibility of the I.R.C.A.?

Setting safety protocols for railway construction (D) Signup and view all the answers

Which aspect is essential for railway servants' conduct when handling public inquiries?

To provide correct and timely information (A) Signup and view all the answers

What is a primary function of the Indian Railway Conference Association related to goods?

Framing rules for the interchange of dangerous goods (B) Signup and view all the answers

What is one significant aim of the Marketing & Sales Organisation on the Railways?

To explore new areas for developing new streams of traffic (B) Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following best describes the role of the Public Relations Officer on the Railways?

To give publicity to service improvements and manage public grievances (D) Signup and view all the answers

What aspect is crucial for the 'Prevention of Claims' function within the Commercial Department?

Minimizing the occurrence of refunds and compensation requests (D) Signup and view all the answers

How does the Marketing & Sales Organisation plan to combat road competition?

By planning inter-modal services (B) Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following functions is focused on understanding public perception and improving services?

Public Relations (D) Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is NOT a responsibility of the Commercial Department?

Manufacturing railway coaches (D) Signup and view all the answers

Which function primarily aims to provide better training and awareness to railway staff regarding public duties?

Public Relations Organisation (D) Signup and view all the answers

What is a vital service involved in the improvement of passenger facilities according to the Commercial Department?

Catering and Vending (C) Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following describes a responsibility related to public grievances in the Commercial Department?

Conveying public suggestions and grievances (A) Signup and view all the answers

What is a primary component of the marketing tactics used by the Railways to improve their appeal to traders?

Maintaining close liaison and resolving transportation issues (A) Signup and view all the answers

What is one of the main functions of the Marketing & Sales Organisation on the Railways?

To identify new opportunities to increase railway traffic. (B) Signup and view all the answers

Which function within the Headquarters Office of the Commercial Department deals with ensuring that claims are minimized?

Prevention of Claims (D) Signup and view all the answers

What is a key responsibility of the Public Relations Organisation on the Railways?

To handle complaints and suggestions from the public. (C) Signup and view all the answers

What is one of the functions of the Public Relations Officer on the Railways?

To educate railway staff on providing courteous service to passengers. (B) Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is NOT a function handled by the Headquarters Office of the Commercial Department?

Scheduling train departures (A) Signup and view all the answers

What is a key objective of the Marketing & Sales Organisation, according to the content?

To explore opportunities to attract new customer segments for railway services. (B) Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is NOT a function of the Public Relations Organisation on the Railways?

Analyzing and predicting passenger travel patterns. (D) Signup and view all the answers

Which function within the Headquarters Office of the Commercial Department involves gathering and analyzing information on the volume and types of passengers and goods transported?

Commercial Statistics (B) Signup and view all the answers

What is one of the primary responsibilities of the Marketing & Sales Organisation on the Railways, as mentioned in the content?

To identify opportunities to improve the efficiency of goods transportation by rail. (A) Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary goal of the 'Prevention of Claims' function in the Headquarters Office of the Commercial Department?

To implement measures to minimize the occurrence of claims related to railway services. (A) Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary responsibility of the Commercial Department?

Managing passenger and freight transportation services (B) Signup and view all the answers

Who is directly responsible for the efficient operation of the Commercial Department?

The Chief Commercial Manager (A) Signup and view all the answers

What is one of the key functions of the Commercial Department regarding traffic receipts?

Maintaining accurate records of traffic receipts (D) Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is NOT a function of the Commercial Department?

Supervising the railway’s infrastructure (B) Signup and view all the answers

What is a key aspect of the Commercial Department's interaction with the public?

Maintaining friendly relationships with the public (D) Signup and view all the answers

Where are the powers of the General Manager in commercial matters outlined?

Appendix I (D) Signup and view all the answers

What is the relationship between the Chief Commercial Manager and the General Manager in terms of power?

The Chief Commercial Manager's powers are delegated by the General Manager (C) Signup and view all the answers

What is the responsibility of the Area Officers within the Commercial Department?

Assisting the Chief Commercial Manager in various functions (D) Signup and view all the answers

What does the 'Trains at a Glance' timetable provide?

Schedule and timings of trains (D) Signup and view all the answers

Which document outlines the rules, rates, and conditions for military transport by Indian Railways?

Military Tariff (A) Signup and view all the answers

Which function of the Commercial Committee involves reviewing proposals for uniformity in tariffs?

Recommendations for General Classification alterations (C) Signup and view all the answers

What primary responsibility does the Railway Telegraph Code serve?

Facilitate communication for wagon tracing (C) Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is a responsibility of the Commercial Committee of the Indian Railway Conference Association?

Examining claims related to freight responsibility (D) Signup and view all the answers

What is one requirement for railway servants when interacting with the public?

To be civil and obliging (B) Signup and view all the answers

What is strictly prohibited for railway servants in their dealings with the public?

Accepting illegal gratification (C) Signup and view all the answers

Which publication is issued by the Indian Railway Conference Association?

Alphabetical List of Railway Stations (B) Signup and view all the answers

What type of rules does the Goods Tariff include?

General rules for carriage and delivery of goods (C) Signup and view all the answers

What does the Coaching Tariff provide information about?

Conveyance rates for various types of traffic (D) Signup and view all the answers

Which railway administrations are involved in the Indian Railway Conference Association?

Railways from India, Bangladesh, and Pakistan (C) Signup and view all the answers

What kind of publications does the I.R.C.A. issue regarding traffic rules?

Tariffs and correction slips (A) Signup and view all the answers

What is included in the Conference Rules, Part II issued by the I.R.C.A.?

Rules for interchange of rolling-stock and traffic (B) Signup and view all the answers

What document includes rules related to the conveyance of passengers?

Coaching Tariff (C) Signup and view all the answers

What is one function of the I.R.C.A. regarding traffic?

Framing rules for international traffic (B) Signup and view all the answers

Which of these is NOT a responsibility of the Divisional Commercial Manager/Area Manager?

Managing the railway's budget (D) Signup and view all the answers

What type of training is essential for commercial staff?

Training in specific railway regulations and procedures (C) Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary focus of the content regarding the behaviour of commercial staff?

Promoting positive customer service and maintaining a positive image for the railway (C) Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following best describes the type of interaction emphasized between commercial staff and the public?

A professional and courteous relationship aimed at providing excellent service (B) Signup and view all the answers

What is necessary for commercial staff to maintain among themselves and their supervisors?

A collaborative and cooperative work environment (C) Signup and view all the answers

Which of these is NOT a responsibility of the Commercial Department?

Developing and implementing new railway technologies (D) Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Commercial Department Organization and Functions

The Commercial Department manages marketing and sales of railway transportation
It develops traffic, maintains public relations, and handles rate/fare setting and collection
Chief Commercial Manager is responsible for efficient Commercial Department operations, assisted by various officers
Commercial Dept. is responsible for marketing, sales, transportation, and maintaining public relations
The Department ensures accurate accounting and remittance of traffic receipts

Chief Commercial Manager Powers

Powers are detailed in Appendix I
Delegated powers by General Manager to the Chief Commercial Manager
Delegated powers by Chief Commercial Manager to subordinates

Commercial Department Subjects

A list of main subjects is in Appendix II

Headquarters Office Responsibilities

Sets rates and fares
Processes claims for refunds/compensation
Prevents claims (loss/damage)
Manages marketing and sales
Provides passenger amenities
Coordinates with other transport modes
Conducts traffic surveys
Handles research and development
Manages catering and vending
Performs ticket checking
Tracks commercial statistics
Coordinates reservation systems
Manages commercial advertising and publicity

Marketing and Sales

Explores new traffic areas and improves quality of service
Maintains close liaison with traders
Plans intermodal services (combining rail and road transport)
Aims to reduce road transport competition
Addresses trader problems relating to expeditious transport
Seeks to improve service to traders
Focuses on expeditious cargo transportation solutions

Public Relations

Main function is to improve passenger services and trading public facilities
Contributes to improving passenger service
Collects suggestions and grievances from the public
Corrects published misstatements
Educates railway staff and the public on courtesy, hygiene, and good practices.
Combats anti-social practices (ticketless travel, begging, etc.)

Divisional Commercial Manager/Area Manager Responsibilities

Guides day-to-day commercial decisions within their division/area
Ensures adequate facilities for processing traffic
Supervises prompt, civil, and courteous service to the public
Provides required tariffs, tables, and information to station staff
Manages stations, booking offices, parcels offices, and city booking offices
Maintains catering and vending services
Ensures availability of essential documentation like tariffs, rate advice, distance tables.

Commercial Staff Responsibilities

Adheres to rules and regulations outlined in the Indian Railway Commercial Manual
Undergoes training in duties & responsibilities
Maintains close contact with the travelling public
Prioritizes the public's needs while managing railway finances
Maintains a high level of professionalism within the Railway.
Follows set rules (prompt, civil, obliging, accurate information exchange, forbids illegal gratification)

Indian Railway Conference Association (IRCA)

Frames rules for interchanging traffic between Indian and other railways (including Bangladesh/Pakistan)
Issues tariffs, publications, and correction slips related to interchange of traffic
General classification of goods, carriage & delivery rules, (goods and coaching tariffs) (including rates and conditions for passenger and other traffic conveyance)
Additional topics of passenger fares, parcel rates, train travel concessions, military tariffs, dangerous goods, railway maps, railway telegraph code
Assigns code initials to railway stations
Provides information on wagon movements & passages.

Commercial Committee of the Indian Railway Conference Association

Examines, alters or adds to existing General Classification of Goods (Note: Railways must first refer to the Railway Board)
Generates recommendations on rates, conditions, and tariffs
Manages disputes related to compensation claims by the public, legal issues, and freight.
Acts as an arbitration committee to resolve disputes between railways regarding money claims.

Studying That Suits You

Use AI to generate personalized quizzes and flashcards to suit your learning preferences.

Description

This quiz covers the organization and functions of the Commercial Department in railway transportation. It delves into the responsibilities of the Chief Commercial Manager and the powers delegated within the department. Gain insights into marketing, sales, rate setting, and public relations as they relate to the railway sector.