Indian Railways is the world's largest employer and carries 18 million passengers daily, yet has remained profitable despite the global recession. Under Minister Lalu Prasad Yadav's leadership from 2004-2009, reforms were introduced that increased annual revenues from $13.9 billion to $20.5 billion through measures like increasing passenger and freight volumes carried rather than raising fares. New services like the Garib Rath express provided affordable air-conditioned travel for all. However, issues remain such as aging infrastructure, outmoded technology, and competition from roads.