Jammu, January 27, 2026: Lieutenant Governor Shri Manoj Sinha interacted with Indian Railway Management Service (IRMS) Officer Trainees at Lok Bhavan, Jammu, and underscored the need for technology-led reforms to transform Indian Railways into a modern, efficient and passenger-centric mobility system aligned with the vision of a developed India.
Addressing the officer trainees, the Lieutenant Governor described Indian Railways as more than just a transport network, calling it the “circulatory system of India’s aspirations” that drives economic growth, strengthens social cohesion and binds the nation together.
“From formidable mountain heights to the remotest rural habitations, Indian Railways connects industry with markets and energises the daily lives of millions,” the Lieutenant Governor said.
He exhorted the young officers to focus on developing tech-inspired railway infrastructure and emphasised the importance of harnessing operational, passenger and freight data through scientific analysis. He said this technology and intelligence-driven approach would improve demand forecasting, optimise resource allocation, reduce accident risks and strengthen infrastructure.
“Smart technology holds the key to reimagining Indian Railways as a sleek, passenger-first mobility powerhouse for the 21st century,” the Lieutenant Governor remarked, adding that with India’s economy expanding and urbanisation accelerating, the demand for logistics is steadily intensifying.
He said Indian Railways is evolving to become faster, safer and more dependable, with a strong emphasis on enhanced operations and optimal deployment of resources.
Highlighting the freight sector, the Lieutenant Governor said reforms and technology will play a decisive role in improving efficiency and competitiveness. He noted that dedicated freight corridors, modern logistics terminals and integrated digital platforms can significantly reduce transportation costs for industries and provide a major boost to the Indian economy.
The Lieutenant Governor also stressed the need for developing a multimodal logistics network by integrating railways with road and other modes of transport, calling it a key requirement for the future.
Urging the officer trainees to keep national interest paramount, the Lieutenant Governor said, “Every file, every decision and every order must ultimately serve the nation and contribute to building a developed India.”
The Lieutenant Governor extended his best wishes to the officer trainees, encouraging them to embrace new challenges and emerging opportunities. The IRMS Officer Trainees are visiting the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir as part of the Bharat Darshan programme.
Principal Secretary to the Lieutenant Governor Dr Mandeep K. Bhandari; Course Directors Rahul, Professor (Traffic Planning & Costing), and Pranjalya Parth Lathe, Professor (Logistics & Supply Chain Management), Indian Railways Institute of Transport Management, along with other senior officials, were present during the interaction.
