In a major milestone for Indian manufacturing and global trade, Prime Minister Narendra Modi will flag off India’s first locally-built locomotive export to the Republic of Guinea on June 20, 2025, from the Marhowrah rail factory in Bihar. This move highlights India’s emergence as a competitive global supplier in the railway manufacturing sector and marks a pivotal moment in strengthening India-Africa economic relations.
Why in News?
The initiative marks the beginning of a ₹3,000 crore deal between India and Guinea to export 150 locomotives over three years, aimed at powering Guinea’s SimFer Simandou iron ore project—one of Africa’s largest mining projects. The locomotives, manufactured by Indian engineers, incorporate modern technology and world-class safety standards, showcasing India’s Atmanirbhar Bharat mission on a global platform.
Key Highlights of the Project
- Event Date: June 20, 2025
- Location: Marhowrah Rail Factory, Bihar
- Purpose: Export of India’s first locomotive to Guinea
- Deal Value: Over ₹3,000 crore
Export Plan Details
- Total Locomotives: 150 over 3 years
Distribution
- FY 2025–26: 37 locomotives
- FY 2026–27: 82 locomotives
- FY 2027–28: 31 locomotives
Technical & Comfort Features
- Emission standards: Best-in-class, eco-friendly
- Safety: Fire detection systems
- Comfort: Air-conditioned cabins with microwave, refrigerator, and waterless toilets
- Advanced Tech: DPWCS (Distributed Power Wireless Control System) for efficient freight hauling
- Hauling Capacity: Up to 100 wagons in tandem operation
Manufacturing & Infrastructure
- Plant: Marhowrah facility equipped with,
- Broad gauge
- Standard gauge
- Cape gauge
- Global Readiness: Capable of building locomotives for different continents
- Procurement: Won via global competitive bidding, proving India’s manufacturing competency
Significance of the Export
Economic Impact
- Job creation in Bihar
- Expansion of ancillary industries
- Boost to India’s global export credentials
Diplomatic Impact
- Deepens India-Africa ties
- Strengthens South-South Cooperation
- Strategic Vision: A reflection of Atmanirbhar Bharat driving global economic partnerships
Summary/Static | Details |
Why in the news? | PM Modi Flags Off India’s First Locomotive Export to Guinea from Bihar |
Country of Export | Republic of Guinea |
Number of Locomotives | 150 (over 3 years) |
Total Deal Value | ₹3,000 crore |
Manufacturing Unit | Marhowrah Rail Factory, Bihar |
Key Features | Fire detection, ergonomic cabins, DPWCS system |
Hauling Capacity | Up to 100 wagons in pairs |