Parliament Question: Reforms in Indian Railways

GOVERNMENT OF INDIA MINISTRY OF RAILWAYS RAJYA SABHA UNSTARRED QUESTION NO. 907 ANSWERED ON 06.02.2026 REFORMS IN INDIAN RAILWAYS 907 SHRI ASHOKRAO SHANKARRAO CHAVAN: Will the Minister of RAILWAYS be pleased to state: (a) whether Government has launched or implemented a “52 Reforms in 52 Weeks” initiative aimed at bringing major systemic reforms in Indian Railways; (b) if so, the details thereof, particularly focusing on improvements in operational efficiency, governance, transparency and service delivery; (c) whether any independent assessment or performance audit has been conducted by Government to evaluate the impact of these reforms, if so, the details thereof; and (d) the steps taken/being taken to institutionalise these reforms on a long-term basis and to ensure sustained improvements in efficiency, governance and passenger satisfaction? ANSWER MINISTER OF RAILWAYS, INFORMATION & BROADCASTING AND ELECTRONICS & INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY (SHRI ASHWINI VAISHNAW) (a) to (d): Indian Railways has planned to carry out 52 Reforms during 2026 relating to various areas such as customer service, maintenance of assets, train operations, passenger amenities, rolling stock production and quality, construction quality, health services, adoption of new technology etc., with the objective of bringing systemic improvements in efficiency, governance and service delivery. The reforms would place a strong focus on safety through better training, disciplined operations, technology deployment and continuous monitoring. The initiative also envisages accelerated adoption of advanced technologies, including artificial intelligence, modern Signaling, new generation rolling stock and smarter maintenance practices, alongside a fundamental upgradation of maintenance standards to ensure long-term safety and reliability. Reforms are planned in training and talent management through continuous skill upgradation, use of simulators and digital platforms, and linkage of training with career progression. Major improvements are planned in food quality, catering and onboard passenger services for better customer satisfaction. *****