India's Green Revolution on Rails: First Hydrogen Train Begins Historic Jind-Sonipat Service

India has officially launched its first indigenously developed hydrogen-powered passenger train, the 'NaMo Green Rail', on the Jind-Sonipat route in Haryana, marking a monumental leap towards sustainable transportation. Prime Minister Narendra Modi flagged off the 10-coach train on July 17, 2026, which then commenced commercial operations on July 19, carrying passengers for as little as Rs 25. This pioneering initiative positions India among a select group of nations utilizing hydrogen fuel cell technology for railways, showcasing a significant step in decarbonizing one of the world's largest rail networks. This pilot project is a cornerstone of the broader National Green Hydrogen Mission and the Atmanirbhar Bharat initiative, aiming to foster self-reliance in clean energy. Operating at up to 75 kmph and capable of carrying approximately 2,600 passengers, the 'NaMo Green Rail' is touted as the world's longest and most powerful hydrogen train in service, generating electricity onboard with only water vapor as an emission. The project also included establishing India's largest railway hydrogen storage and refueling facility at Jind, underlining the integrated approach to green mobility. Looking ahead, the success of the Jind-Sonipat line will inform the deployment of hydrogen technology across other routes, including the 'Hydrogen for Heritage' project which plans to introduce 35 such trains on scenic and ecologically sensitive lines. This strategic move is critical for Indian Railways to achieve its ambitious goal of Net Zero emissions by 2030, contributing significantly to India's national target of net-zero carbon emissions by 2070. The operational experience from this pilot will be vital in overcoming technical and economic challenges as India scales up its hydrogen infrastructure.