Indian Railways is rapidly positioning itself as a global hub for railway manufacturing and exports, in line with the government’s “Make in India, Make for the World” vision. Union Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw announced that India is now exporting metro coaches, bogies, locomotives, propulsion systems, and forged wheels to multiple international markets.
Indian Railways has strengthened its presence in more than 16 countries, delivering world-class railway solutions. Key export categories and destinations include:
- Metro Coaches: Shipped to Australia and Canada
- Bogies and Underframes: Exported to UK, Saudi Arabia, France, and Australia
- Propulsion Systems: Supplied to France, Mexico, Romania, Spain, Germany, and Italy
- Passenger Coaches: Delivered to Mozambique, Bangladesh, and Sri Lanka
- Locomotives: Supplied to Mozambique, Senegal, Sri Lanka, Myanmar, and Bangladesh, with a major upcoming export order to Guinea
A ₹3,000 crore deal will see 150 locomotives manufactured at the Marhaura (Bihar) plant for export to Africa, with the first units set for delivery in mid-2025. The minister also highlighted the upcoming Kazipet Coach Factory in Telangana, which will commence production in 2026, further boosting export capacity.
Additionally, India is establishing a ₹650 crore forged wheel plant near Chennai, expected to produce 2.5 lakh wheels annually, with significant quantities earmarked for Europe and the U.S. A similar facility in Odisha will dedicate 50% of its output for export.
“Indian Railways has transitioned from being an import-dependent entity to a major global exporter of railway technology,” Vaishnaw said. He attributed this success to indigenous manufacturing, advanced design standards, and partnerships with global players like Alstom and Wabtec.
In FY2025, Indian Railways manufactured 1,400 locomotives, surpassing the combined production of the U.S. and Europe. The sector is projected to transport 1.6 billion tons of cargo, cementing India’s position among the top three global freight operators.