Bhopal, August 10, 2025 – In a significant move to boost India’s railway manufacturing capabilities and regional development, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh laid the foundation stone today for a state-of-the-art rail coach manufacturing unit in Madhya Pradesh’s Raisen district. Named BRAHMA (BEML Rail Hub for Manufacturing), the project is spearheaded by Bharat Earth Movers Limited (BEML) and estimated at ₹1,800 crore.
A Vision Materialises
The BRAHMA facility will be constructed over more than 60 hectares (approximately 148 acres) in Umaria village, near Obedullaganj, on the fringes of Bhopal. Aligned with the “Make in India” and “Atmanirbhar Bharat” initiatives, the plant will predominantly employ domestic technology and materials to reduce import reliance.
During his address, Singh highlighted that this project is a strategic step in strengthening India’s defence and industrial self-reliance. He stated that this hub will not only serve critical railway infrastructure needs but also elevate the domestic manufacturing ecosystem.The StatesmanThe New Indian ExpressETManufacturing.in
Regional Impact and Industrial Momentum
Chief Minister Mohan Yadav described the unit as a milestone for Madhya Pradesh’s industrial trajectory. The project promises to benefit Raisen, Sehore, Vidisha, and the state capital, Bhopal—while also energizing the Mandideep industrial belt with a surge in ancillary demand. Engineering students from regional technical institutes are expected to find opportunities as well, reflecting proactive local skills integration.The Economic TimesThe Times of IndiaUniindia
Employment and Production Scale
The BRAHMA hub is projected to generate over 5,000 direct and indirect jobs, bolstering the local economy. Production will kick off with an annual capacity of 125–200 coaches, with plans to ramp up to 1,100 coaches within five years.The Times of IndiaUniindiaThe Machine MakerETManufacturing.in
Green Tech and Sustainability Integration
True to modern industrial standards, the plant will feature green infrastructure: zero-liquid waste systems, solar and renewable power generation, rainwater harvesting, green landscaping, and construction using sustainable materials.The Times of IndiaUniindia This “green factory” concept positions BRAHMA as both environmentally responsible and technologically future-ready.
Strategic Railway Manufacturing
The hub is expected to manufacture coaches for India’s flagship trains: Vande Bharat, Amrit Bharat, and metro rail systems. Designed to cater both to domestic demand and global markets, the facility will bolster national infrastructure ambitions and enhance India’s export potential.The Machine MakerETManufacturing.inThe Statesman
Political and National Dimensions
At the event, Singh delivered a broader message—asserting that no external force can hinder India’s ascent. He took a veiled swipe at international criticism and tariff threats, affirming that India’s defence exports, now exceeding ₹24,000 crore, continue to grow steadily. This resonated strongly with the project’s representation of strategic self-reliance.
Singh also hailed Madhya Pradesh as transitioning toward a “modern” future, echoing Prime Minister Modi’s vision for technological and economic transformation. Union Agriculture Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan and Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw (virtually present) joined the ceremony alongside dignitaries and industry officials.UniindiaThe Machine MakerZee NewsETManufacturing.in
