2026 - 100 Years of Railway Electrification | Commemorative Coin

The first commemorative coin of 2026 was released to mark the 100 years of Electrification in Indian Railway. This also marks the second coloured coin issued in the Republic of India’s coinage.

India’s railway system has long been the backbone of the nation’s growth, connecting people and industries across vast distances. The year 2025 marked a significant milestone in the history of Indian Railways, as it completed 100 years of electrification. This journey, which began in 1925 with the first electrified railway section between Bombay Victoria Terminus (now Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus) and Kurla, transformed the rail network into a more efficient, sustainable, and environmentally friendly mode of transportation.

The introduction of electrified railways in India was a major step towards modernization and efficiency. In the early years, steam locomotives were the primary mode of traction, consuming vast amounts of coal and contributing to pollution. The move towards electrification was aimed at reducing operational costs, increasing speed, and making rail transport more reliable. The first electric train in India ran on February 3, 1925, using a 1,500V DC system. Over the decades, the electrification process expanded gradually, adopting new and improved technologies such as the 25 kV AC system, which became the standard from the 1950s onward.

Railway electrification played a crucial role in enhancing connectivity and economic growth. Electrified routes allowed for faster and more efficient train services, reducing travel time and increasing the frequency of trains. The transition to electric locomotives also reduced dependency on fossil fuels, lowering greenhouse gas emissions and aligning with India’s commitment to sustainable development. The efficiency of electric trains improved freight movement as well, boosting trade and industrial growth across regions.

Over the past century, Indian Railways electrified thousands of kilometres of track, making it one of the largest electrified rail networks in the world. The government consistently emphasized the need for 100 percent electrification to enhance operational efficiency and minimize environmental impact. In the years leading up to this milestone, the electrification drive gained momentum, with ambitious targets set for the complete electrification of broad-gauge routes. This initiative not only aligned with global efforts toward sustainable transportation but also reduced the railways’ fuel expenses, making operations more economically viable.

The celebration of 100 years of railway electrification stood as a tribute to the engineers, planners, and workers who contributed to this remarkable transformation. This milestone reflected the continuous evolution of Indian Railways, from steam-powered locomotives to a modern, electrified network capable of supporting high-speed and energy-efficient trains. Looking ahead, the focus remained on expanding electrification to remote areas, integrating renewable energy sources, and adopting new technologies to make rail transport even more efficient and sustainable.

The journey from a single electrified section in Mumbai to an extensive, modern network highlighted the resilience and vision of Indian Railways, reinforcing its role as a crucial driver of India’s economic and social development.

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