India Becomes World’s 2nd Biggest Rail Freight Mover, Surpassing the US in FY25:
India Becomes 2nd Biggest Rail Freight Mover, Surpassing the US:
Kolkata, Sept 27 (Digital Preeyam News – World News):
In a historic achievement, Indian Railways has overtaken the United States to become the world’s 2nd biggest rail freight mover in fiscal year 2025, while China continues to dominate the top spot. With a record 1.61 billion tonnes of freight transported, Indian Railways has emerged as a cornerstone of the nation’s logistics and economic growth story.
This milestone positions India as a global leader in rail-based logistics and highlights the country’s commitment to sustainable and efficient transportation.

🔑 Key Details: India’s Rise as 2nd Biggest Rail Freight Mover
Global Ranking: India is now the second-largest rail freight mover, overtaking the United States.
Top Mover: China remains the world’s largest rail cargo carrier.
Record Performance: Indian Railways transported 1.61 billion tonnes of freight in FY25, setting a new benchmark.
Economic Impact: Rail freight revenues touched ₹2.62 lakh crore, underscoring India’s growing economic strength.
Infrastructure Push: Dedicated Freight Corridors (DFCs) are being expanded to ensure faster, uninterrupted goods movement.
Why This Matters: India as the 2nd Biggest Rail Freight Mover & Its Economic Growth
The achievement reflects India’s growing role in global trade and logistics. With more cargo moving by rail, the country reduces pressure on road transport, cuts CO₂ emissions by 95%, and lowers dependence on costly fuel imports.
The government has also announced plans to replace old coaches with modern LHB coaches within three years, further enhancing safety and efficiency.
🚄 India – 2nd Biggest Rail Freight Mover and the World’s Largest Locomotive Maker
Beyond freight, India has also become the biggest locomotive manufacturer in the world. Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw revealed that 1,600 locomotives were produced in the past year, surpassing the combined output of the US, Europe, and Japan.
He emphasized that India is not just increasing numbers but also introducing modern, technology-driven locomotives, reinforcing its position as a global hub for railway manufacturing.
Expert Insights on India as 2nd Biggest Rail Freight Mover:
Speaking at a CII event, Minister Vaishnaw said:
“We’ve achieved major milestones in the last decade. India is now the 2nd largest cargo-carrying railway in the world, with a capacity of 1,612 MT. This reduces logistics costs, cuts emissions, and strengthens India’s global competitiveness.”
Experts highlight that rail freight expansion aligns with India’s Viksit Bharat 2047 vision, ensuring faster, greener, and more reliable cargo movement.
Final Thoughts: India’s Railways on Track for Global Leadership
India’s rise as the 2nd biggest rail freight mover and the world’s largest locomotive builder signals a new era for its transport and logistics sector. With expanding freight corridors, modern trains, and advanced locomotives, Indian Railways is well-positioned to play a transformative role in shaping the country’s future economy.
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❓ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
1. What does it mean that India is the 2nd biggest rail freight mover?
Answer: It means Indian Railways has surpassed the United States to become the world’s second-largest carrier of goods by rail, transporting over 1.61 billion tonnes of freight in FY25.
2. Which country is the biggest rail freight mover in the world?
Answer: China remains the world’s largest rail freight mover, handling the highest cargo volumes globally.
3. How much freight did Indian Railways transport in FY25?
Answer: Indian Railways carried a record 1.61 billion tonnes of freight in fiscal year 2025, earning over ₹2.62 lakh crore.
4. Why is India’s achievement as the 2nd biggest rail freight mover important?
Answer: This milestone highlights India’s growing economic strength, reduced logistics costs, lower carbon emissions, and its progress toward becoming a global logistics hub.
5. What steps is India taking to improve freight efficiency further?
Answer: India is expanding its Dedicated Freight Corridors (DFCs), modernizing stations, introducing new trains, doubling rail lines, and replacing old coaches with modern LHB coaches.
6. Is India also leading in locomotive manufacturing?
Answer: Yes. India has become the world’s largest locomotive manufacturer, producing 1,600 locomotives in the past year—more than the combined output of the US, Europe, and Japan.
7. How does rail freight growth benefit India’s economy?
Answer: By moving more cargo through rail, India reduces road congestion, cuts CO₂ emissions by 95%, saves oil imports, and strengthens its supply chain efficiency.