Jind: Prime Minister Narendra Modi flagged off India’s first hydrogen-powered passenger train from Jind, Haryana, marking a historic leap in the country’s clean energy transition and sustainable transportation. Operating on the 90-kilometre Jind-Sonipat route, the newly launched train is equipped with a 3,200-horsepower engine, making it the most powerful hydrogen-powered train in the world. Addressing a massive public gathering at the inauguration, the Prime Minister described the indigenous emission-free train as a proud testament to the ‘Make in India’ initiative and noted that India has joined an elite global club of nations pioneering hydrogen rail technology. He drew historical parallels by stating that just as coal defined the 19th century and diesel or electricity dominated the 20th century, hydrogen-powered transportation will define the 21st century.
During his address, the Prime Minister emphasized the strategic importance of green energy and technological self-reliance, pointing out that domestic advancements shield the nation from global fuel supply vulnerabilities. Citing ongoing geopolitical tensions in West Asia and disruptions in crude oil routes through the Strait of Hormuz, he highlighted that extensive railway electrification has drastically fortified India’s energy security. The Indian Railways network has reached 99 per cent electrification, with Haryana achieving a full 100 per cent electrification milestone. The Prime Minister added that the rollout of hydrogen technology will not only foster an eco-friendly transport ecosystem but will also unlock fresh employment opportunities for the youth of Haryana.
Beyond the rail sector, the Prime Minister unveiled a massive suite of development and connectivity projects for the region. He inaugurated and laid the foundation stones for the Haryana section of the Delhi-Amritsar-Katra Expressway, the Jind-Gohana National Highway, and the Kala Amb four-lane highway, asserting that modern roads will accelerate growth for regional industries, farmers, and livestock owners. Reflecting on his recent diplomatic visits to Australia and New Zealand, he shared updates on international sports cooperation agreements, reiterating India’s firm commitment to bidding for the 2036 Olympic Games while praising Haryana’s rich sporting legacy. The event concluded with the Prime Minister highlighting central welfare schemes, noting that farmers in Haryana have received thousands of crores under the PM-Kisan Samman Nidhi, as he reaffirmed the government’s resolve to modernise national infrastructure while honoring the historical heritage of Jind.
