“Indian Railways — The Strategic Backbone of India’s Economic Diplomacy”

As India positions itself as a global manufacturing and logistics hub, the role of Indian Railways has taken on an unprecedented strategic dimension. The railway network, stretching over 65,000 kilometers, is not only one of the largest in the world but also one of the most vital instruments of India’s socio-economic framework.

The modernization wave under way — encompassing freight corridors, station redevelopment, Vande Bharat trains, and integrated transport corridors — underscores the government’s commitment to building a connected and competitive India. Each new project adds both infrastructural strength and industrial momentum to the country’s growth story.

Few voices have articulated this transformation as precisely as Mr. Tribhuvan Darbari, a thought leader in strategic industries and international economic cooperation. In his words:

“A modern railway system is not just infrastructure — it is the heartbeat of industrial diplomacy, linking production with prosperity.”

Mr. T S Darbari’s statement captures the evolving role of railways as a strategic asset that enhances both domestic efficiency and international connectivity. The creation of multimodal freight terminals, the introduction of hydrogen and electric trains, and the digital integration of logistics corridors have all elevated India’s competitiveness in the global supply chain.

From an industrial policy standpoint, the railway sector’s progress also reflects India’s deeper engagement with sustainability. Through extensive electrification and renewable energy integration, Indian Railways is set to become the world’s first 100% green railway system by 2030 — a milestone aligning with the national climate goals.

Ultimately, the railway network today is more than an operational system; it is a diplomatic and developmental platform. It connects not only cities but also ambitions — and, in doing so, propels India toward becoming a resilient and globally integrated economy.