Mission 100% Electrification: The 99.2% Progress Report for UPSC
Q. With reference to Indian Railways' electrification and solar energy initiatives, consider the following statements:
1. As of November 2025, Indian Railways has electrified more than 99% of its Broad Gauge network.
2. Every state and Union Territory in India has achieved 100% railway electrification.
3. Approximately 70% of the railway's commissioned solar power is utilized directly for train traction purposes.
Which of the statements given above are correct?
(a) 1 and 2 only
(b) 1 and 3 only
(c) 2 and 3 only
(d) 1, 2 and 3
Context
Indian Railways is on the verge of a historic milestone, having electrified 99.2% of its Broad Gauge (BG) network by November 2025. Under Mission 100% Electrification, the system has transformed from a diesel-driven giant into one of the world’s most extensively electrified rail networks, significantly reducing carbon emissions and operational costs.
Evolution of Railway Electrification
India’s journey began a century ago in 1925, with the first electric train running between Bombay Victoria Terminus and Kurla Harbour. While progress was modest for decades, the last ten years have seen an unprecedented surge in pace.
Key Velocity Metrics:
- 2004–2014: 1.42 km per day.
- 2019–2025: Over 15 km per day.
- Historical Growth: Only 388 RKMs were electrified at Independence; as of November 2025, the figure stands at 69,427 RKMs.
- Decadal Achievement: 46,900 RKMs were electrified specifically between 2014 and 2025.
Status Snapshot: The Final Miles
Out of the total 70,001 RKM Broad Gauge network, only 0.8% (574 RKM) remains to be electrified.
- 100% Electrified: 25 States and Union Territories have achieved full electrification.
- Residual Work: Only 5 states have pending sections:
- Rajasthan: 99% (93 RKM balance)
- Tamil Nadu: 97% (117 RKM balance)
- Karnataka: 96% (151 RKM balance)
- Assam: 92% (197 RKM balance)
- Goa: 91% (16 RKM balance)
Global Benchmarking (June 2025)
India’s performance (99.2%) places it at the forefront of global railway systems:
- Switzerland: 100%
- China: 82%
- Japan: 64%
- France: 60%
- Russia: 52%
- United Kingdom: 39%
The Solar Integration Push
Indian Railways is leveraging its vast land holdings to integrate renewable energy into the traction system.
- Capacity Growth: Solar capacity jumped from 3.68 MW in 2014 to 898 MW by November 2025 (a 244-fold increase).
- Network Reach: Solar power systems are now installed across 2,626 railway stations.
- Traction vs. Non-Traction:
- 629 MW (70%): Used directly for electric train operations.
- 269 MW: Used for station lighting, workshops, and quarters.
- Economic Value: Electric traction is approximately 70% more economical than diesel traction.
Engineering Innovations
Speed and quality are being maintained through advanced mechanization:
1. Cylindrical Mechanised Foundation: Replaces manual excavation with augering, saving significant labour and time.
2. Automatic Wiring Train: Enables simultaneous installation of catenary and contact wires with precise tension control.
Significance
- Strategic Independence: Reduces reliance on imported fossil fuels for diesel locomotives.
- Environmental Impact: Moves the transport sector toward Net Zero Carbon Emission targets.
- Operational Efficiency: Higher capacity, faster speeds, and reduced noise compared to traditional diesel-run systems.
🎯 Analysis & Insights
Prelims mastery
Correct Answer: (b) 1 and 3 only.
Reasoning: Statement 1 is correct (99.2% electrified). Statement 2 is incorrect because 5 states (Rajasthan, TN, Karnataka, Assam, Goa) still have residual sections. Statement 3 is correct (629 MW out of 898 MW is for traction).
Mains perspective
"The shift from diesel to electric traction, coupled with a massive solar push, is not just a technical upgrade but a green civilizational leap for Indian Railways." Discuss the economic and environmental significance of Mission 100% Electrification. (150 words)