List of Railway Ministers of India (1947-2023)

The Indian Railways, established on 6^th May 1836, has grown into one of the largest and busiest railway networks globally. Indian Railway, under the Ministry of Railways, operates the world’s fourth-largest railway system. The railway system is a crucial lifeline for the nation, connecting distant corners and facilitating the movement of millions of passengers and tons of freight every day. At the helm of this vast network, the Railway Minister of India plays a pivotal role in shaping policies, modernizing infrastructure and ensuring efficient transportation. This article delves into the history of Indian Railways through the lens of the various Railway Ministers who have led the charge from 1947 to 2023.

Railway Minister of India Before Independence

Before Independence, Asaf Ali served as the first Railway Minister of India from September 1946 to August 1947. Although India was still under British rule, Asaf Ali laid the groundbreaking for subsequent leaders in shaping the nation’ railway system.

First Railway Minister of India

John Mathai, born on January 10, 1886, was appointed as the first Railway Minister of India in 1947 and later served as Finance Minister. An economist and CIE, he resigned in 1950, protesting against the growing influence of the Planning Commission. Mathai was the first Chairman of the State Bank of India and played key roles in education and economic research. The Dr. John Mathai Centre in Thrissur, Kerala, honors his legacy. Posthumously awarded the Padma Vibhushan in 1959, his contributions endure in India’s economic landscape.

Current Railway Minister of India

Ashwini Vaishnaw, born on 18^th July 1970, is an Indian politician and former IAS officer. Currently serving as the 39^th Minister of Railways, 55^th Communications Minister and 2^nd Electronics & Information Technology Minister in the Government of India since 2021, he is also a Bhartiya Janata Party member and represents Odisha in the Rajya Sabha since 2019. Vaishnaw, with a background in the Indian Administrative Service, commenced his political journey after joining the BJP.

List of Railway Ministers of India (1947-2023)

The first Railway Minister was John Mathai who assumed the position on 15^th August 1947 and the current Railway Minister of India is Ashwini Vaishnaw, serving the position since 2021.

Here is the complete list of Railway Ministers of India (1947-2023):