Chandigarh, July 17: Prime Minister Narendra Modi launched India’s first hydrogen-powered train on the Jind-Sonipat route, introducing a cutting-edge transit technology to the nation. The launch took place during a major event where development initiatives valued at approximately Rs 14,700 crore were inaugurated. The ceremony was attended by Haryana Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini and Union Railways Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw.
While speaking to the public after the launch, the Prime Minister indicated that the nation is now part of an elite global group utilizing this sustainable technology.
“The hydrogen train running from Jind is the most powerful hydrogen train in the world. This train is 3,200 horsepower, and it is not only the most powerful but also the longest hydrogen train in India,” Modi asserted.
The Prime Minister noted that this type of rail transport represents the global future of travel, drawing a clear parallel to previous eras of transit. He maintained that while the 19th century was defined by steam engines and the 20th century by diesel and electric variants, the 21st century would belong entirely to hydrogen power. He stated that this technology emerged globally only in the last seven to eight years and remains operational in only a handful of nations.
“Hydrogen trains have only recently arrived on the global stage. They came into existence just seven or eight years ago. Currently, only three or four countries possess the capability to operate hydrogen trains, and even in those nations, the technology is still in its early stages. However, hearing about the capabilities of India’s hydrogen train will fill you and every Indian with pride,” the Prime Minister affirmed.
Turning his attention to the rapid modernization of the domestic transit network, the Prime Minister shared statistics comparing historical progress with recent achievements. He declared that while a mere 30 percent of the network was electrified between 1925 and 2014, nearly 99 percent has been completed over the past 12 years, shields the system from external energy shocks.
“The electrification of Indian Railways began in 1925, meaning about 100 years ago. From 1925 to 2014, in about 90 years, only about 30% of the country’s rail network could be electrified. 70% of the region ran on diesel. But in the last 12 years, about 99% of India’s rail network has been electrified. In Haryana, the rail network has achieved 100% electrification. Because of this, even despite conflicts and oil crises, India’s trains have not stopped; India’s vehicle of development has not stalled,” Modi maintained.
The massive developmental package also brought significant upgrades to regional roadways. The Prime Minister officially opened the Haryana section of the Delhi-Amritsar-Katra Expressway, the Jind-Gohana National Highway, and the four-lane Ambala-Kala Amb road, noting that enhanced connectivity acts as a force multiplier for economic growth.
“Be it rail or road… such connectivity work not only provides convenience but also multiplies the pace of development several times over. Today, Jind is connected to so many highways. From this platform, three major projects have just been launched. The inauguration of the Haryana section of the Delhi-Amritsar-Katra Expressway has taken place, and the Jind-Gohana National Highway has also been dedicated to the nation. In addition, the Ambala-Kala Amb four-lane road will provide great convenience to the people of Haryana and Himachal,” he said.
Reflecting on his recent international visits to Indonesia, Australia, and New Zealand, the Prime Minister concluded by sharing details of new international partnerships aimed at boosting the domestic sports sector, a move set to benefit regional athletes through specialized training systems and modern infrastructure frameworks.
“You all know that I returned from a trip to Indonesia, Australia, and New Zealand just a few days ago. There, India signed several agreements, which have been widely discussed. However, there is one subject that has not been discussed as much. This subject is related to the youth of my country, and especially of Haryana. That subject is sports. I had extensive discussions with the governments of Australia and New Zealand regarding sports. Together with these two countries, we are going to do a lot of work in areas like the sports industry and athlete training, which will greatly benefit the athletes of the country and Haryana,” Modi declared.
