In FY 2023–24, Indian Railways (IR) achieved record earnings of Rs 2.56 trillion, with a net profit of Rs 32.6 billion driven by freight growth, operational efficiency, and strategic investments. Expenditure stood at Rs 2.52 trillion, with major outlays on staff, pension, and energy. IR has adopted a two-pronged strategy of revenue augmentation and cost control. Freight loading rose 29% from 1,233 million tonnes in FY21 to 1,591 million tonnes in FY24. IR is on track to handle 1.6 billion tonnes in FY25, making it the world’s third-largest freight railway system. Key freight initiatives include: Private sector participation under Gati Shakti Multi-Modal Cargo Terminal (GCT) policy. Specialised wagons for commodities like cement, oil, and automobiles.  Schemes such as “Cargo Aggregator Transportation Product” and “Rapid Cargo Services”. Tariff concessions for short-lead and empty flow traffic, and discounts for bulk and containerised cargo. IR is also boosting non-fare revenue via the NINFRIS policy, e-auctions for assets, and new kiosk concepts including nursing pods, digital cloakrooms, and EV charging stations. On the passenger front, IR enhanced earnings through new train services, onboard capacity, and modern coaches like Vande Bharat (136 services) and Amrit Bharat (4 services), offering improved safety, comfort, and features. To cut costs, IR continues electrification of tracks, saving over Rs 47 billion on diesel in FY24. As of now, 98% of tracks are electrified. Other efficiency measures include manpower optimisation, sustainable practices, and renewable energy procurement. IR has also modernised rolling stock and upgraded 23,000 km of track between 2014-15 and Feb 2025, improving speed potential to 130 kmph on many routes. Speed potential of 110 kmph now covers 80,000 km, up from 31,000 km in 2014. Further enhancements include: LED lighting and star-rated appliances across facilities. “Head-on-Generation” (HOG) systems to reduce diesel usage and pollution. Track monitoring systems, flash butt welding, and web-based analytics for precision maintenance. Despite modernisation, IR remains committed to affordability, providing a 46% average subsidy on passenger fares, with total passenger ticket subsidy at Rs 569.93 billion in FY23. Additional concessions continue for Divyangjans, patients, and students. This update was presented by Railways Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw in a written reply in the Lok Sabha. (PIB)