Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw announced that Indian Railways has developed the world’s most powerful hydrogen fuel-run train engine, boasting a maximum horsepower of 1,200—double the output of similar engines manufactured globally. This achievement highlights India’s progress in adopting sustainable and indigenous technologies.
Speaking at a plenary session titled “Green Connections: Diaspora’s Contribution to Sustainable Development” during the Pravasi Bharatiya Divas convention, Vaishnaw stated that only four countries produce such train engines, with their horsepower ranging between 500 and 600. The Indian innovation has set a new global standard.
The first hydrogen-powered train is slated for a trial run soon in Haryana on the Jind-Sonipat route. While the engine has been manufactured, its system integration is currently in progress. Vaishnaw emphasized that such technological achievements could lead to spin-off products, including power trains for trucks and tugboats, showcasing the adaptability of indigenous technologies.
“Indigenously developed technology provides a unique chance to create derivative technologies for various applications,” the minister said. He noted that these advancements bring confidence in achieving technological self-sufficiency and contribute to building critical parts of the value chain.
Panel Discusses Green Technology and Climate Change Challenges
During the session, Hambyarajen Narasinghaen, Mauritius’ Junior Minister of Foreign Affairs, highlighted the challenges posed by climate change in his country and sought India’s support in green technology solutions. Other notable participants included Rahul Fotedar, Founder & CTO of Morrow Batteries (Norway); Jagdish Nainwal, CEO of UPL for LATAM, Mexico; Indronil Sengupta, Swiss Biotech Association (Switzerland); Jitendra Kr. Sachdeva, Group President of SkipperSeil Ltd (Nigeria); and Kishore Reddy and Anju Virmani.
Odisha’s Transformation into an IT Hub
Outside the event, Vaishnaw revealed plans to transform Odisha into a major Information Technology hub within two to three years. Discussions on this initiative were held with Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi, with implementation expected to commence in the coming months. Vaishnaw, also a Rajya Sabha MP from Odisha, emphasized youth training programs as part of these efforts.
The Railway Minister highlighted the Centre’s commitment to Odisha’s development, citing railway projects worth over Rs 1 lakh crore announced for the state. Construction work on these projects has been expedited, with further talks held to enhance the state’s railway infrastructure.
Special Train for Maha Kumbh-2025
Vaishnaw also announced that the Railways will operate a special train from Odisha to Uttar Pradesh for the Maha Kumbh-2025 in Prayagraj, ensuring convenient travel for pilgrims.
