India’s First Locomotive Export to Guinea Begins from Bihar

India begins global rail export from Bihar

India’s First Locomotive Export to Guinea Begins from Bihar: On June 20, 2025, India took a big step in global railway exports as Prime Minister Narendra Modi flagged off the first indigenously-made locomotive to Guinea from the Marhowrah rail factory in Bihar. This marks a proud milestone not just for Indian engineering, but also for India’s growing role as a railway supplier on the international stage. The launch reflects India’s efforts under the Atmanirbhar Bharat mission to make local products competitive worldwide.

A landmark deal with Africa

This initiative is part of a ₹3,000 crore agreement between India and Guinea. Over the next three years, 150 locomotives will be exported. These will support Guinea’s SimFer Simandou iron ore project, one of the biggest mining projects in Africa. The first batch includes 37 locomotives, followed by 82 in FY 2026–27 and 31 in FY 2027–28. This phased delivery ensures long-term collaboration and reflects a well-planned production timeline.

Modern engines with advanced features

The locomotives boast modern features like air-conditioned cabins, microwave, refrigerator, and waterless toilets—prioritising comfort for the operators. From a technical angle, the trains follow the best emission standards, making them eco-friendly. They also come with fire detection systems and a DPWCS (Distributed Power Wireless Control System) for better hauling efficiency. Each locomotive can handle up to 100 wagons in tandem mode.

India’s global manufacturing strength

These exports come from the Marhowrah facility in Bihar, a high-tech plant equipped to handle broad gauge, standard gauge, and cape gauge rail systems. This makes it adaptable for different international rail standards. The order was won through global competitive bidding, which proves India’s capacity to compete with top global players in quality and pricing.

Economic and diplomatic boost

The project will generate employment in Bihar and support several ancillary industries. It’s a boost to the local economy and improves India’s export profile. Diplomatically, the move deepens India’s partnership with Africa and aligns with South-South Cooperation, where developing nations support each other for mutual growth. It is also a realisation of India’s long-term strategic goals in the Global South.

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