**INDIA, August 2025** — India’s Ministry of Railways is accelerating efforts to expand the Vande Bharat Sleeper fleet, a project set to redefine long-distance overnight travel across the country. Designed for comfort and efficiency, the Sleeper version of the Vande Bharat is expected to modernize India’s rail network while significantly improving passenger experience.

The manufacturing contract was awarded to BEML, Kinet Railway Solutions, and a consortium led by Titagarh Rail Systems Limited in partnership with Bharat Heavy Engineering Limited (BHEL). Under this agreement, Titagarh Rail Systems will deliver a prototype train by September 2026, consisting of 16 coaches. Production is expected to ramp up following the prototype’s rollout.

The design phase of the project is nearing completion, with Titagarh Rail Systems establishing a dedicated car body production line at its Uttarpara facility. The first car body entered production in the first quarter of FY26. In total, the company is contracted to build 80 Vande Bharat Sleeper train sets.

The overall supply contract for the Vande Bharat trains is valued at Rs 9,600 crore, covering 1,280 coaches. Titagarh Rail Systems holds a 51% stake in the consortium, translating into an order share worth Rs 4,943 crore.

In parallel, the Ministry of Railways is preparing to introduce the first Vande Bharat Sleeper next month, manufactured by BEML using ICF technology. This early debut underscores India’s commitment to revolutionizing its rail infrastructure and providing passengers with faster, more comfortable travel options for long-distance journeys.

Source: The Indian Express