Prime Minister Narendra Modi on 18 July 2025 flagged off India's first hydrogen-powered train from Jind in Haryana, marking a significant milestone in the country's push toward clean and sustainable rail transportation. The launch on the Jind-Sonipat railway section was part of a wider programme in the state that also included the inauguration of two new medical colleges.

Preparations and the Eco-Friendly Drive

Haryana Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini on 17 July 2025 personally reviewed arrangements at Chaudhary Ranbir Singh University, the primary venue, and at Jind railway station, where the hydrogen train launch was to take place. Saini inspected entry arrangements for the public and VIPs, the executive lounge, cafeteria, and the railway track, and issued directions to officials to ensure smooth conduct of the event.

All programmes associated with the Prime Minister's visit were designed to be fully eco-friendly, according to the Chief Minister. A special cleanliness drive under the 'Swachhata Se Swagat' campaign was also conducted at the Gohana railway junction, led by Tourism Minister Arvind Sharma. Sharma described the hydrogen train's arrival at Gohana as 'a golden moment in the history of modern India.'

The Hydrogen Train: What It Means for India

The hydrogen-powered train operating on the Jind-Sonipat section is India's first of its kind, positioning the country alongside a small group of nations — including Germany and China — that have commercially deployed hydrogen rail technology. Unlike conventional diesel trains, hydrogen trains emit only water vapour, making them a zero-emission alternative suited to non-electrified rail corridors.

This launch is part of a broader national strategy to decarbonise the Indian Railways network, which is among the world's largest by route length. The Indian Railways has set an ambitious target of achieving net-zero carbon emissions by 2030.

Other Key Inaugurations in Haryana

Beyond the train launch, PM Modi's programme in Haryana included the inauguration of Bhiwani Medical College and Koriawas Medical College in Mahendragarh. Health Minister Arti Singh Rao said the two institutions are expected to significantly improve healthcare access in south Haryana, reducing the need for residents to travel to larger cities for treatment.

The new colleges will also expand opportunities for local students pursuing medical education, she added. The event also featured the 'Viksit Bharat-Viksit Haryana' rally at the Haryana Urban Development Authority ground opposite Eklavya Stadium in Jind.

What Comes Next

The hydrogen train's commercial deployment on the Jind-Sonipat section will be closely watched as a pilot for potential expansion across other non-electrified corridors in India. The success of this launch could accelerate procurement and domestic manufacturing of hydrogen train technology, which aligns with the Centre's broader green hydrogen mission announced in recent years. Stakeholders in the rail and clean energy sectors will be tracking ridership data, operational reliability, and cost metrics in the months ahead.