Indian Railways is solidifying its position as a global leader in railway manufacturing and services by exporting locomotives, passenger coaches, and railway components to multiple countries. Addressing the Rajya Sabha, Union Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw outlined Indian Railways’ significant achievements in both domestic and international markets, financial sustainability, and passenger subsidies.
The Railways has made remarkable strides in exports, supplying passenger coaches to Mozambique, Bangladesh, and Sri Lanka, while locomotives have been delivered to Mozambique, Senegal, Sri Lanka, Myanmar, and Bangladesh. Additionally, bogie underframes are being exported to the UK, Saudi Arabia, France, and Australia, and propulsion parts are reaching France, Mexico, Germany, Spain, Romania, and Italy.
Emphasizing the growing prominence of Indian Railways in global railway manufacturing, the Minister highlighted that 1,400 locomotives were produced this year, surpassing the combined output of the United States and Europe. Furthermore, the railway network has expanded its freight capacity by adding 200,000 new wagons to its fleet.
By March 31, 2025, Indian Railways is expected to rank among the top three freight carriers globally, moving 1.6 billion tons of cargo, alongside China and the United States. This achievement reflects the expanding logistical capabilities of Indian Railways and its crucial role in supporting the nation’s economy.
Despite significant expansion, Indian Railways remains one of the most affordable railway networks in the world. The Minister revealed that while the actual travel cost per kilometer is ₹1.38, passengers are charged only 73 paise, resulting in a 47% subsidy. In FY 2022-23, a total of ₹57,000 crore was allocated for passenger subsidies, which increased to ₹60,000 crore in FY 2023-24. Despite rising operational costs, Indian Railways maintains financial stability, with an annual revenue of ₹2.78 lakh crore and expenditures of ₹2.75 lakh crore.
In line with modernization and safety initiatives, Indian Railways is accelerating the transition from ICF coaches to LHB coaches, with plans to complete this transformation during Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s third term. So far, 41,000 LHB coaches have been manufactured.
To enhance safety, the Railways is implementing several key measures, including: Long Rails to reduce derailments, Electronic Interlocking Systems for better signaling, Fog Safety Devices to improve visibility in adverse conditions and Kavach Safety System, an advanced anti-collision technology. Additionally, 50 Namo Bharat trains will be introduced for short-distance travel, offering both AC and non-AC options.
Indian Railways has also set an ambitious goal of achieving Scope 1 net zero emissions by 2025 and Scope 2 net zero emissions by 2030. By prioritizing non-fossil fuel energy sources, the organization aims to become a carbon-neutral transporter, significantly reducing its environmental impact.
Reiterating the government’s commitment to affordable travel, the Minister announced that the number of general coaches in trains will be 2.5 times the number of AC coaches. As part of the ongoing production plan, 17,000 non-AC coaches will be manufactured to ensure accessible and economical travel options for all sections of society.
With substantial financial support—railway funding increasing from ₹25,000 crore to ₹2.5 lakh crore—Indian Railways is set for rapid modernization and expansion. The Minister reaffirmed the commitment to transforming Indian Railways into a modern, safe, and eco-friendly transportation network, effectively catering to both domestic and international markets.
As Indian Railways strengthens its global presence, enhances safety measures, and improves passenger services, it is on track to becoming a dominant player in the world’s railway ecosystem.