Union Minister of Railways Ashwini Vaishnaw informed the Rajya Sabha, Indian Railways is providing a significant subsidy on passenger fares, with the cost of travel per kilometre amounting to Rs 1.38, while passengers are charged only 73 paise—effectively offering a 47 per cent subsidy.
During a discussion on the functioning of the Ministry of Railways, Vaishnaw emphasised that Indian Railways is not only delivering safe and quality services at affordable fares but is also establishing a strong global presence. He pointed out that railway fares in India are lower than in neighbouring countries such as Pakistan, Bangladesh, and Sri Lanka, while in Western nations, train fares are 10 to 20 times higher.
The minister highlighted that in the financial year 2022-23, the government provided a subsidy of Rs 57,000 crore to railway passengers, which increased to approximately Rs 60,000 crore in 2023-24 (provisional). “Our goal is to provide safe and better services at minimal fares,” he said.
Focus on electrification & sustainability
Vaishnaw underscored the benefits of railway electrification, stating that despite rising passenger numbers and freight transport, energy costs have remained stable. He reiterated the Indian Railways’ commitment to achieving ‘Scope 1 Net Zero’ emissions by 2025 and ‘Scope 2 Net Zero’ by 2030.
Global Markets expansion
The minister also announced that India would soon begin exporting locomotives manufactured at the Madhepura factory in Bihar. Currently, Indian Railways is exporting passenger coaches to Mozambique, Bangladesh, and Sri Lanka, while locomotives are being supplied to Mozambique, Senegal, Sri Lanka, Myanmar, and Bangladesh. Additionally, bogie underframes are being exported to the United Kingdom, Saudi Arabia, France, and Australia, while propulsion parts are being sent to France, Mexico, Germany, Spain, Romania, and Italy.
Record production & freight transport
Ashwini disclosed that India produced 1,400 locomotives this year—more than the combined production of the U.S. and Europe. Furthermore, the railway network has added two lakh new wagons to its fleet. By the end of the financial year on March 31, Indian Railways is expected to transport 1.6 billion tons of cargo, positioning India among the top three freight transporters globally, alongside China and the U.S.
The minister reaffirmed that Indian Railways is on track to become a more modern, safe, and environmentally friendly transportation system, playing a crucial role in the country’s logistics and economic growth.
