India Becomes Key Exporter Of Railway Equipment: Ashwini Vaishnaw

Railways Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw announced on Sunday that Indian Railways is rapidly emerging as a global exporter of bogies, coaches, locomotives, and propulsion systems.

This development is part of the broader ‘Make in India, Make for the World’ initiative, aimed at positioning India as a trusted global manufacturing hub.

During a visit to Alstom’s Savli facility in Vadodara, one of the country’s most advanced rolling stock manufacturing units, Vaishnaw praised the facility’s contributions to India’s growing rail exports and innovation capabilities.

India Becomes Exporter of Bogies & Locomotives

Vaishnaw revealed that metro coaches manufactured in India have been exported to countries such as Australia and Canada, while bogies have been shipped to the UK, France, Saudi Arabia, and Australia.

In addition, India-made propulsion systems are now in operation in France, Mexico, Romania, Spain, Germany, and Italy.

Passenger coaches and locomotives from India have also found a market in Mozambique, Bangladesh, and Sri Lanka, boosting India’s profile as a global supplier of railway technology.

The Minister noted that the increase in exports is creating thousands of employment opportunities within India.

He emphasised that Indian engineers and workers are now gaining hands-on experience with international quality and technical standards, marking a major milestone in the Make in India mission.

The Savli facility has exported over 1,002 rail cars since 2016 for various international projects.

Notably, 450 of these rail cars were built for the Queensland Metro project in Australia.

The unit has also exported more than 3,800 bogies to destinations such as Germany, Egypt, Sweden, Australia, and Brazil.

Additionally, the Savli facility has supplied over 4,000 flatpacks (modular components) to Austria, while Alstom’s Maneja unit has exported over 5,000 propulsion systems globally.

Digital Innovation and Global Collaboration

India is currently leading 27 international signalling projects and providing support for 40 more.

Alstom’s Digital Experience Centre in Bengaluru is playing a key role in these efforts, supporting over 120 global projects.

The centre focuses on next-generation signalling technologies, including IoT, AI, blockchain, and cybersecurity.

A robust network of suppliers backs the manufacturing ecosystem near Savli, including Integra, Anovi, Hind Rectifier, Hitachi Energy, and ABB.

These companies provide crucial inputs in fabrication, electrical systems, and coach interiors, strengthening India’s rail export capabilities.

Training, Innovation, and AI Integration

Vaishnaw encouraged Indian Railways to learn from Alstom’s innovation practices. He proposed a joint training programme with Gati Shakti Vishwavidyalaya and suggested that General Managers of production units visit the Savli facility for hands-on exposure.

He also discussed the adoption of sensors and artificial intelligence for preventive maintenance, pushing Indian Railways toward smarter and more efficient operations.

Speaking to the media, the Union Minister reiterated that the impact of the Make in India and Make for the World initiatives is clearly evident in the railway manufacturing sector.

He said the growing export figures and increasing global partnerships highlight India’s transformation into a world-class supplier of modern rail systems.

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