Viksit Rail Viksit Bharat: From ‘World Class’ to ‘Best in Class’

New Delhi, March 20,2025 : Indian Railways (IR), often referred to as the Crouching Tiger of India’s growth story, has emerged as one of the fastest-growing railway networks globally. Over the last decade (2014-2024), IR has witnessed unprecedented growth, setting new benchmarks in infrastructure development, modernization, and connectivity.

Transformative Growth and Policy Approach

The key to this transformation lies in a Bharat-centric public policy, ensuring that the railway system remains both world-class and affordable for the common people. At the same time, IR has evolved as a backbone for India’s industry and commerce, supporting the country’s ambition of a $5 trillion economy.

Major Reforms & Achievements (2014-2024)

A decade-long comparison of IR’s performance highlights its significant progress:

• Network Expansion: 31,000 km of new tracks laid, compared to 14,900 km in the previous decade.
• Freight Loading: Increased to 12,660 million tons from 8,473 million tons.
• Revenue Growth: Jumped to Rs 18.56 lakh crore from Rs 8.64 lakh crore.
• Electrification: Expanded to 44,000 km from 5,188 km, reducing carbon footprint.
• Dedicated Freight Corridors: 2,741 km added, compared to none in the previous decade.
• Locomotive & Coach Production: Locos increased from 4,695 to 9,168; Coaches from 32,000 to 54,000.

A game-changing policy reform was the merger of the Railway Budget with the Union Budget, streamlining resources and focusing on critical projects. Capital investment through Gross Budgetary Support (GBS) surged to Rs 8.25 lakh crore, compared to Rs 1.56 lakh crore in the preceding decade.

Milestones & Technological Advancements

• First Train to Srinagar: The much-anticipated project, involving some of the highest bridges and longest tunnels, is nearing completion.
• 100% Electrification: IR is set to become the first major railway network to achieve full electrification, reducing dependency on fossil fuels.
• KAVACH Anti-Collision System: Proliferation of the safety system is the largest for a mixed-traffic railway.
• Vande Bharat Success: Advanced global technologies blended with domestic requirements for safe, fast, and affordable rail travel.
• Hydrogen Trains: India is set to roll out the world’s most powerful 1,200-HP hydrogen trains, surpassing other developed nations.

Hyperloop & Global Collaborations

India is taking giant strides toward the future of transportation with the establishment of the world’s longest hyperloop test facility. After successfully completing a 422-meter test track in December 2024, plans are underway for a 50-km commercial feasibility track. Agreements with Swiss Pod and France’s SYSTRA position India as a leader in hyperloop technology.

Additionally, CRRC India, a Chinese firm, has embraced ‘Make in India’, achieving over 75% localization for Bangalore Metro coaches, with plans to increase it to 90% in future projects.

Expanding India’s Rail Footprint Globally

• Bullet Train Project: Japan-backed rolling stock deals are being finalized, while India is simultaneously working on domestic high-speed train production.
• IMEC & Act East Policy: India is strengthening rail connectivity with ASEAN nations and is planning a Rail-Sea-Rail corridor to connect India with Europe.
• Railway PSUs: Indian PSUs are actively engaged in exporting rolling stock, railway infrastructure, and consultancy services to several Asian and African nations.

A Vision for the Future

With modern stations, high-speed corridors, and dedicated freight networks, Indian Railways is setting a global benchmark. The Viksit Rail Viksit Bharat vision is not just about waiting for transformation by 2047—it is an ongoing journey of progress and growth.