Indian Railways Boosts Innovation with “Startups for Railways” Initiative

In a significant move towards enhancing the efficiency and safety of railway operations, the Ministry of Railways launched the “Startups for Railways” initiative.

Launched on June 13, 2022, this program aims to leverage the expertise of Indian startups, MSMEs, individual innovators, Research and Development organizations, NGOs, and entrepreneurs to foster innovation across the railway network.

As part of this initiative, the Indian Railways Innovation portal has also been made live at https://innovation.indianrailways.gov.in/.

As of July 2024, a total number of 1,942 entities engaged in innovations have registered on the Innovation Portal of Indian Railways. These include startups, individual innovators, MSMEs and R&D organizations.

Ministry of Railways has also carried out meticulously planned workshops / meetings / Talk / VC to spread awareness among various stakeholders of Innovation policy which resulted in to the good participation of Startups/Innovators.

Ministry of Railways has received total 423 offers against the 28 problem statements opened so far on Innovation portal. A total of 23 innovation projects have been awarded for 15 problem statements so far. The value of 23 awarded Innovation projects is approx. Rs. 43.87 crore with share of Railway’s grant of approx. Rs. 10.52 crore to eligible entities.

The problem statements for which projects are already awarded includes Design of superior elastomeric pad for heavy haul freight wagons, Light weight wagon for transporting commodities like salt, Rail stress monitoring system, Track inspection technologies for accurate inspection, Broken Rail system, Track cleaning machine, Development of sensor based load calculation device with audio visual alarm in VPUs/Power Car/SLRs, Simplified OHE cantilever design, Quick point locking clamp/system, Development of sensor based Fire/Smoke detection system for coaches of IR with wireless networking, e-Seal system for protection of booked consignments on Indian Railways, Development of technological solution to avoid unsafe situations during shunting due to improper visibility and loss of communication, Relaying of cautions to Loco Pilot and Guard, Provision of solar power generating system with flexi solar PV panels on rooftop of LVPH coaches, Development of sensor based Fire/Smoke detection system for coaches of IR with wireless networking (Phase II).

These innovations are expected to significantly improve railway operations, safety, and amenities, contributing to the overall enhancement of the Indian Railways.

Also Read: NF Railway Registers Record Growth in Freight Loading in June 2024