Ashwini Vaishnaw
There are few places in the world where history, culture, and resilience come together as profoundly as they do in Bihar. From the ancient wisdom that once flowed from Nalanda and Vikramshila, to the earthy melodies of its folk songs and the soul-touching scent of its soil—Bihar continues to shape the spirit of India.
Now, as the people of this land of heritage look to the future with hope, Indian Railways is committed to accelerating their journey through the Amrit Bharat trains—a transformative initiative designed to combine affordability, dignity, and comfort in long-distance travel.
On April 24, Prime Minister Narendra Modi will flag off a new chapter for Bihar. Through video conferencing from Madhubani, he will inaugurate the Saharsa–Lokmanya Tilak Terminus Amrit Bharat Express, connecting Mithila—the cultural capital of Bihar—to Mumbai, the nation’s economic powerhouse. This will be the second Amrit Bharat train for Bihar, further energising the aspirations of its people.
A Train for the People, By the People
Amrit Bharat 2.0 is a symbol of self-reliant India. Every coach of this train has been designed and built in India, under the Make in India programme at the Integral Coach Factory. What makes this train unique is its focus on the middle class and Antyodaya—those who travel long distances for work and family, but often lack access to modern amenities.
It is these passengers—hardworking, aspirational, and proud—whom the Amrit Bharat train honours. They deserve comfort, they deserve dignity, and now they will experience both.
A Premium Experience at an Affordable Price
Travelling over 1,000 kilometres for just around Rs 450, passengers will experience a premium feel at a minimal fare. With features like foldable snack tables, mobile holders, radium flooring strips, and air-spring bogies, the Amrit Bharat train provides a modern rail experience without the premium cost.
Special provisions for Divyangjans, upgraded seating, and dedicated pantry services ensure accessibility and comfort for all. Toilets come with automatic soap dispensers, electro-pneumatic flushing systems, and aerosol-based fire suppression—a new standard in hygiene and safety.
Designed for Safety and Speed
This is also the first time semi-automatic couplers have been introduced in Indian Railways, ensuring a smoother ride with no jerks or sudden noises. The train features a crash tube, vacuum evacuation system, fully sealed gangways, and a talkback system in each coach—strengthening passenger safety like never before.
With twin engines (push-pull technology), the train reaches a top speed of 130 kmph, accelerates faster, brakes better, and reduces energy consumption—earning it the name Raftaar ke Saarthi.
A Green, Forward-Thinking Vision
The Amrit Bharat train also reflects our government’s focus on environmental consciousness and energy efficiency. It is not just a new train—it is a glimpse of a changing India, where development is inclusive, technology-driven, and deeply rooted in the dignity of its citizens.
As Prime Minister Modi has said, “People who often travel long distances for work and do not have that much income are also entitled to modern facilities and comfortable travel. These trains have been designed keeping in mind the dignity of life of the poor.”
And that is what Amrit Bharat stands for—not just speed or style, but a new standard of rail travel where no one is left behind. With each launch, we reaffirm our commitment to Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas, and the belief that every Indian deserves to travel with pride.
(The author is Minister of Railways, Government of India)
