Recently, India’s Minister of Railways rolled out a groundbreaking policy called “StartUps for Railways”. This policy represents part of a broader effort by the government to encourage innovation and entrepreneurship within the railway sector.
Key Takeaways from the Policy
The policy guarantees a grant up to Rs. 1.5 Crores to innovators on an equal sharing basis, with provisions for milestone-wise payment. It also promises a fully transparent and objective process, managed through an online portal. Another key feature of the policy is that Intellectual Property Rights (IPR) developed during the project will remain with the innovators. Crucially, the complete product development process will be decentralised at the divisional level to prevent delays.
Fostering Solutions for Identified Issues
Eleven prevalent issues, including rail fractures and headway reduction, have been singled out for the first phase of this program. These problems were selected from over 100 problem statements received from various divisions, field offices or zones of Indian Railways.
Anticipated Benefits of the Policy
The policy aims to tap into the vast potential of Indian startups, MSMEs, innovators, and entrepreneurs. By encouraging participation in operations, maintenance and infrastructure creation, it is expected to markedly improve efficiency and safety standards of the Indian Railways. A major objective of the policy is fostering an “Innovation Culture” in the country that will spur co-creation and co-innovation in the Railway sector.
Inside the Wheelhouse of Indian Railways
Launched in 1853, the Indian Railways has grown to become one of the world’s largest railway networks. It facilitates both freight and passenger movement, considerably fueling the nation’s economy. The network spans an impressive 67,956 km according to statistics from the Railway yearbook 2019-20. The network is divided into 16 zones spread across the country, each with its respective headquarters.
Moreover, Indian Railways boasts of four UNESCO accorded World Heritage Sites – Darjeeling Himalayan Railway, Nilgiri Mountain Railway, Kalka Shimla Railway, and Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus in Mumbai. Matheran Light Railway and Kangra Valley Railway are also featured in the tentative list.
Technological Innovations: Bio-toilets in Indian Railways
Indian Railways has been leading the way in innovative solutions with projects like the bio-toilets. This is the first time such technology has been used by any railroad globally. In these bio-toilets, human waste is acted upon by a colony of anaerobic bacteria that convert it mainly into water and a small fraction into bio-gases. This process significantly improves cleanliness and hygiene at platforms and efficiency of coach maintenance staff.
“StartUps for Railways” policy marks a significant push for encouraging innovation and entrepreneurship within the railway sector. With its emphasis on transparency, decentralisation and open participation, the policy could play a crucial role in modernising and improving operations of the Indian Railways.