Growth of Indian Railways - Infographic

The government announced 5,000 km of Metro rail network by 2047 in 100 cities.

Advantage India

Growing
Demand

* India is projected to account for 40% of the total global share of rail activity by 2050.

*The government announced 5,000 km of Metro rail network by 2047 in 100 cities.

* Passenger volume on Indian Railways grew 6 % in FY25 to over 7 billion passengers, with revenue rising nearly 50 % to Rs. 75,215 crore (US$ 8.7 billion), boosted by Vande Bharat trains and higher chair car earnings.

Attractive
Opportunities

* Indian Railways, as of 2025, has expanded 35,000 km of track, produces 30,000 wagons and 1,500 locomotives annually, increased freight share to 29 %, cut accidents by 80 %, and plans 1,000 new trains and bullet train operations by 2027.

Higher
Investments

* Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) inflows in railway-related components stood at Rs. 9,163 crore (US$ 1.43 billion) for April 2000- March 2025.

* Revenue of Indian railway sector companies is expected to grow 5 % in FY26, with operating margins around 12 %, supported by government capital outlay of Rs. 2,52,000 crore (US$ 29.41 billion) and a strong order book-to-income ratio of 2.77.

Policy
Support

* Government has allowed 100% FDI in the railway sector.

* From July 2025, Tatkal bookings now Aadhaar-authenticated with OTP verification, revised fares, early charts, and agent restrictions, improving convenience and transparency.

*From November 1, 2024, Indian Railways reduced the advance reservation period from 120 to 60 days.