Analyzing the Case for Privatization in the Indian Railways

Authored by - Nikhil Varghese Mathew

Edited by - Kausumi Saha

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The Government of India recently invited private sector investments in Indian Railways, citing the need to modernise the Railways and reduce the demand-supply gap in passenger transport. In this context, this paper attempts to analyse the reasons for the Railways’ crisis-ridden present-day reality and whether going down the path of privatisation would proffer a suitable alternative. In doing so, this paper also attempts to study the developmental trajectories of railway infrastructure as seen in other countries, and the lessons therein for India.