India emerges as a key infra player in Central Asia

04 Jan 2023 CW Team

India has emerged as an important juggernaut in infrastructure projects in Central Asia. While consolidating its geopolitical influence in the region and around the world, the country, unlike China, has demonstrated its acumen in infrastructure and technology, as well as a genuine commitment to positively supporting overall growth and development.

India's Dushanbe-Chortut highway project in Tajikistan is a testimony to the fact. A $20 million gift from the Indian President. Built by India's Border Roads Organization (BRO) the projects consist of a 4.44km eight-lane (two-way) expressway that will ease congestion in the national capital of Tajikistan. As of December 12, 2022, the project has reached 90.57% physical progress.

Likewise in Uzbekistan, a $448 million Line of Credit (LoC) backed by the Indian government is helping the Republic Scientific Specialized Allergy Center. India offers similar LoCs to other Central Asian countries including Kazakhstan and Turkmenistan. New Delhi is also firmly committed to improving the connectivity of the hinterland with the outside world through Iran's Chabahar Port and integrating it into the framework of the International North-South Transport Corridor (INSTC).

Different from China's controversial "One Belt, One Road" initiative, India has always adhered to the position of respecting national sovereignty and territorial integrity on interconnection projects, a position that has been recognized by Central Asian countries.

"Participants agreed that connectivity initiatives should be based on the principles of transparency, broad participation, local priority, fiscal sustainability, and respect for the sovereignty and territorial integrity of all countries," read a joint communiqué issued after the first meeting between India and Central Asia. Earlier in December 2022, the NSA/Security Council Secretary, chaired by National Security Advisor (NSA) Ajit Doval, released in New Delhi.

Infrastructure Urban

07 Oct 2025

India To Invest $37 Billion To Boost Petrochemical Capacity

India is set to become a major global player in the petrochemicals industry, driven by a planned capital expenditure of $37 billion (Rs 3.1 trillion) aimed at reducing import dependency and enhancing self-sufficiency, according to S&P Global Ratings.In its latest report titled “First China, Now India: Self-Sufficiency Goals Will Add To Petrochemicals Supply”, S&P said India’s large-scale capacity expansion—mirroring China’s earlier push—will likely intensify oversupply pressures in Asia’s petrochemical markets.Currently the world’s third-largest petrochemical consumer a..

Indian Railways Expands Global Exports Of Rail Equipment

Indian Railways has announced that it is rapidly emerging as a global exporter of railway equipment, including bogies, coaches, locomotives, and propulsion systems, under the government’s ‘Make in India, Make for the World’ initiative.According to an official statement, India’s railway products are now reaching over 16 international markets, reflecting the country’s growing capacity to design, develop, and deliver world-class rail solutions.Metro coaches have been exported to Australia and Canada; bogies to the United Kingdom, Saudi Arabia, France, and Australia; propulsion systems t..

RailTel Awards Rs 163 Million Contract To RTNS Technology

RailTel Corporation of India Limited (RailTel), a Mini Ratna Public Sector Undertaking, has awarded a domestic work order worth Rs 163 million to RTNS Technology Private Limited.The contract, issued on 30 September 2025, involves the supply and installation of equipment and related services for one of RailTel’s key customers. The project underscores RailTel’s commitment to advancing technology and communication infrastructure through collaboration with domestic system integrators.RTNS Technology Private Limited, an ISO-certified system integrator, provides comprehensive solutions for perim..