Indigenising India's rail supply chains

Indian Railways is undergoing a transformative shift towards self-reliance, driven by the Make in India initiative.

- Vikash Lohia

With increased budget allocations, domestic manufacturing of key components, and innovations like hydrogen-powered trains, the sector is reducing import dependence, boosting local industry, and positioning itself as a global leader in sustainable rail infrastructure.

India’s rail infrastructure has heavily relied on imports for critical components, from wheels and brake systems to sophisticated electronics for decades. As recently as FY 2022-23, Indian Railways imported no less than 80,000 wheels worth ₹520 crore from China and Russia. Such reliance strains foreign exchange reserves and exposes the network to global supply shocks. The Russia-Ukraine conflict laid this bare when 128 wheels from a broader order of 36,000 (valued at USD 16 million) became stranded en route from Ukraine to Romania.

Such disruption makes the proactive Make in India initiative all the more critical and laudable. Perhaps in recognition of this, the Indian Railways, a lifeline for the nation, has wholeheartedly embraced the Make in India vision, embarking on a deliberate transition toward modernisation and self reliance. This indigenisation drive has spurred domestic manufacturing, slashed import bills, and sparked innovation across every facet of rail technology. Today, India’s railways are increasingly powered by homegrown solutions, marking a decisive break from decades of external dependence while laying the foundation for a resilient, future ready network.