In a significant boost to India's growing stature as a global exporter of advanced railway equipment, Union Minister for Railways, Information & Broadcasting, and Electronics & Information Technology, Ashwini Vaishnaw, visited the Alstom manufacturing facility at Savli in Vadodara recently.
Make in India, Make for the World' in Action
Accompanied by Vadodara MP Dr. Hemang Joshi, Savli MLA Ketanbhai Inamdar, General Managers of Western and Central Railways, and senior railway officials, the Minister reviewed the factory’s state-of-the-art operations, including the production of the modern ‘Namo Bharat’ coaches.
During the visit, Alstom officials briefed the Minister on various ongoing projects and technological innovations. Vaishnaw lauded the quality and design of the Namo Bharat coaches, highlighting their manufacturing with cutting-edge technology and alignment with the government’s “Make in India, Make for the World” initiative.
The Savli unit is actively involved in the global supply of railway components, including coaches, locomotives, bogies, and propulsion systems. These products are being exported to countries such as Australia, the United Kingdom, France, Germany, Canada, and Mexico — underscoring India’s rising capability as a railway manufacturing powerhouse.
“Under the vision of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi ji, India is not only building world-class railway infrastructure domestically but also becoming a major exporter to developed nations,” said Minister Vaishnaw. He praised Alstom for its commitment to designing and developing equipment in India for global markets.
AI-Driven Maintenance and Innovation Highlighted
The Minister also reviewed the factory’s maintenance protocols, including the integration of sensors and AI in preventive maintenance systems. He commended Alstom’s focus on innovation, supplier partnerships, and comprehensive life-cycle support for railway systems.
Emphasising the positive impact of the factory on regional development, Vaishnaw acknowledged the role of the Savli facility in boosting the local economy and creating employment opportunities for youth in the Vadodara region.
Contribution to Local Economy and Employment Recognised
In addition to manufacturing, the Minister took keen interest in Alstom’s talent development programs. With around 7,000 engineers based in India including 300 working on international projects the company is significantly contributing to the development of India’s engineering and technology workforce.
Vaishnaw suggested expanding training collaborations, including with Gati Shakti Vishwavidyalaya, and encouraged Alstom to roll out large-scale on-site and off-campus training initiatives for Indian Railways personnel.
The visit concluded with the Minister congratulating the Alstom team and railway officials for their contributions to India’s emergence as a global player in railway manufacturing and technology.
