India’s ambitious Vande Bharat programme is preparing to enter the global railway market as Indian Railways and RITES work on export-ready versions of the country’s flagship semi-high-speed train. The move could mark a significant milestone in India’s journey from being a major rail operator to becoming an exporter of advanced railway technology and rolling stock. Interest has already emerged from countries in South Asia, Africa, and Latin America, according to reports.
Standard-Gauge Version Under Development
Currently, Vande Bharat trains are manufactured in broad gauge, which is the track system predominantly used across India. However, most countries around the world use standard-gauge railway tracks. To address this, RITES and Indian Railways are jointly developing a standard-gauge version specifically designed for international markets.
Officials have stated that the project is currently in the design-development phase. Once the designs are finalized and export orders begin to materialize, production of the export-oriented trains will commence.
Growing International Interest
Neighbouring countries such as Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, and Nepal have reportedly shown interest in the Vande Bharat platform. Beyond South Asia, several nations in Africa and Latin America are also being explored as potential markets.
RITES, which already exports railway equipment and consultancy services globally, believes the train could become an attractive option for countries seeking affordable and modern intercity transportation systems. African nations, where RITES has an expanding presence, are considered particularly promising markets.
India’s Make-In-India Success Story
Launched in 2019, Vande Bharat has become one of India’s most successful indigenous transportation projects. The trains are currently manufactured at facilities in Chennai, Kapurthala, and Raebareli and are designed for speeds of up to 180 kmph.
Indian Railways plans to deploy around 800 Vande Bharat trainsets by 2030 and expand the fleet to approximately 4,500 trains by 2047. The recent rollout of the 100th Vande Bharat trainset highlights the rapid scale-up of domestic manufacturing capabilities.
Officials believe the train’s relatively lower manufacturing cost compared to many international competitors could become a major selling point in overseas markets. A 16-coach Vande Bharat train reportedly costs around ₹130-150 crore to manufacture.
Boost For India’s Railway Exports
The export push is part of a broader effort to position India as a supplier of high-tech mobility solutions. RITES has already secured railway export orders from countries such as Mozambique and Bangladesh and is looking to expand its global footprint further.
If successful, Vande Bharat exports could strengthen India’s presence in the global railway market, generate new manufacturing opportunities, and enhance the country’s reputation as a producer of advanced transportation technology.
Summary
India is developing an export-ready standard-gauge version of the Vande Bharat train to target international markets in South Asia, Africa, and Latin America. With interest already emerging from countries such as Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, Nepal, and several African nations, the initiative could transform Vande Bharat into a global railway brand. The move also supports India’s broader goal of becoming a major exporter of advanced transportation technology.
