In FY 2024-25, Indian Railways set a new milestone by manufacturing 7,134 passenger coaches—the highest ever in its history. This was a 9% increase compared to the previous year’s 6,541 coaches.
Out of this total, 4,601 were non-AC coaches—ensuring millions of everyday passengers enjoy affordable and comfortable travel.
This achievement directly supports the Government of India’s “Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas” vision—growth and progress that benefits every citizen. More non-AC coaches mean improved access to safe and comfortable travel for the common man, while modern manufacturing boosts local jobs and strengthens India’s industrial backbone.
Behind this record achievement is not just advanced technology and skilled manpower—it’s also about having the right materials at the right time. That’s where Ujala Stainless played a crucial role.
Ujala Stainless, a leading stainless steel stockist and channel partner of Jindal Stainless (JSL), has played a pivotal role in supporting Indian Railways’ ambitious coach manufacturing projects—specifically at ICF (Chennai), MCF (Raebareli), and RCF (Kapurthala).
About Indian Railways’ Coach Production
These coach factories form the backbone of passenger coach production in India:
- ICF (Integral Coach Factory) in Chennai is one of the oldest and most productive coach-making plants in India.
- MCF (Modern Coach Factory) in Raebareli is a technologically advanced facility operational since 2012. A high-tech facility, focused on efficiency and modern coach designs.
- RCF (Rail Coach Factory) in Kapurthala is known for producing over 41,000 coaches, including stainless steel LH.
Together, these plants are the driving force behind India’s passenger transport system.
The Challenges :
To meet the growing passenger demand and align with the “Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas” goal, Indian Railways needed to manufacture more coaches—without compromising on safety or quality.
For modern LHB stainless steel coaches, this means using high-grade stainless steel that:
- Meets strict safety and durability standards.
- Resists rust and weather damage for decades.
- Allows precise fabrication for structural strength and interior finish.
And it all has to be delivered on time, because any delay in material supply could slow down production and affect service delivery to passengers.
Ujala Stainless’s Contribution : Supplying the Right Material
Ujala Stainless is an authorised channel partner and stockist of Jindal Stainless (JSL), India’s largest stainless steel producer. We supply Indian Railways–approved grades like SS 304 and SS 316, known for their:
- Corrosion resistance – ideal for India’s varied climate.
- High strength – for structural safety.
- Ease of fabrication – for smooth manufacturing of panels, frames, and interiors.
–> Trusted Supplier Network
As an authorised channel partner and stockist for Jindal Stainless, Ujala Stainless ensures a steady supply of IR-approved stainless steel — critical for rail coach production.
–> Premium Materials Delivered Right
Ujala Stainless’s inventory includes top-tier grades (such as SS 304, SS 316), favored for their corrosion resistance and workability in rail applications like coach panels, structural frames and interiors.
–> Reliable Logistics Across India
With a pan-India distribution network and deep industry expertise, Ujala Stainless delivers precisely to manufacturing hubs—including Chennai, Raebareli and Kapurthala—ensuring smooth production timelines without compromise.
–> Supporting Production Targets
By ensuring uninterrupted raw material supply, Ujala Stainless helps Indian Railways meet its ambitious production goals—contributing directly to affordable travel, modern infrastructure, and economic inclusivity.
Impact & Outcomes
- Production Continuity: Consistent supply chains helped maintain uninterrupted coach output across ICF, MCF and RCF.
- Quality Assurance: JSL-grade stainless steel enhanced overall coach quality, aligning with IR’s stringent standards for LHB coaches and other critical components.
- Operational Trust: By meeting high-performance benchmarks, Ujala Stainless earned the confidence of rail coach manufacturers across India.
Why This Matters for India
This collaboration aligns with the Government’s ‘Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas’ vision in three ways:
- Inclusivity – More non-AC coaches for affordable public travel.
- Growth – Supporting large-scale manufacturing and job creation.
- Self-Reliance – Using locally made materials to power national infrastructure.
Conclusion
Indian Railways’ 2024-25 record coach production is a perfect example of public–private synergy.
By supplying high-quality, IR-approved stainless steel on time, Ujala Stainless enabled ICF, MCF, and RCF to keep production running smoothly, meeting India’s growing travel needs.
Through consistent quality, timely delivery and strong supplier partnerships, Ujala Stainless has become a trusted name in supporting Indian Railways’ manufacturing excellence at ICF, MCF and RCF.
Our commitment to providing IR-approved, high-performance stainless steel ensures that every coach built is stronger, safer and built to last.
As the nation builds faster, safer and India’s railway network expands, Ujala Stainless remains committed to fueling this progress — one stainless steel solution at a time.
