The reform roadmap will be monitored weekly, with cross-functional teams driving execution and feedback loops.
As part of its ongoing endeavour to modernise infrastructure and services, Indian Railways, the world’s fourth-largest rail transporter by network size and passenger volume, is set to undertake one reform every week through FY2026-27.
Union Minister of Railways Ashwini Vaishnaw announced the initiative during a high-level meeting at Rail Bhawan on Thursday, attended by junior ministers V Somanna and Ravneet Singh Bittu, Railway Board Chairman & CEO Satish Kumar, and senior officials.
The ambitious 52 reforms in 52 weeks agenda targets systemic improvements in efficiency, governance, and service delivery. Having already reduced train accidents by nearly 90 per cent—from 135 in FY2014-15 to 11 in FY2025-26—the Railways now aims to bring this number down to single digits.
To further enhance safety, maintenance, and operations, Indian Railways will accelerate the deployment of artificial intelligence and advanced technologies. A comprehensive talent and training revamp is also underway, exploring innovative methods for skill development and workforce optimisation.
Passenger experience is another priority, with major upgrades planned in food and catering services to improve onboard quality and hygiene.
During the meeting, participants shared on-ground experiences and reviewed progress on infrastructure development, maintenance, and capacity enhancement across zones. The reform roadmap will be monitored weekly, with cross-functional teams driving execution and feedback loops.