From Malda to the nation: PM Modi unveils India’s Vande Bharat sleeper

During the visit, Modi also inaugurated and laid the foundation stone for multiple rail and road infrastructure projects worth ₹3,250 crore, aimed at strengthening connectivity and accelerating development in West Bengal and the North-Eastern region.

Addressing a public gathering, the Prime Minister said that Malda had become a new starting point for accelerating the development of West Bengal.

“From Malda today, the campaign to accelerate the progress of West Bengal has gained further momentum,” Modi said, noting that several key projects dedicated to the state’s development were inaugurated on the occasion.

Boost to rail connectivity and jobs

Modi highlighted the launch of new rail services for West Bengal, saying the projects would make travel easier while also boosting trade and commerce. He added that newly established train maintenance facilities would generate fresh employment opportunities for the youth of Bengal.

Underscoring the modernisation of Indian Railways, Modi said that the introduction of the Vande Bharat sleeper train marked a new chapter in long-distance travel.

“This new Vande Bharat sleeper train will make long journeys more comfortable and splendid,” he said, adding that the train reflects the vision of how rail travel in a developed India should be.

The Prime Minister said he had interacted with passengers at Malda station earlier, with many describing their journey on the train as an extraordinary experience.

‘Made in India’ milestone

Recalling how Indians once admired advanced foreign trains, Modi said that dream was now being realised at home. He noted that foreign tourists were increasingly documenting India’s railway transformation.

“This Vande Bharat train is Made in India, built with the hard work and dedication of Indians,” he said.

Modi pointed out that the country’s first Vande Bharat sleeper train connects the land of Maa Kali in Bengal with the land of Maa Kamakhya in Assam, adding that the service would gradually expand across the country.

Expanding modern rail network

Highlighting broader reforms, Modi said Indian Railways is undergoing a major transformation through electrification of railway lines and modernisation of stations. He noted that more than 150 Vande Bharat trains are currently operating across India, including in West Bengal.

Alongside high-speed services, Modi said a comprehensive network of modern trains was being developed to benefit poor and middle-class families, particularly in Bengal.

He announced the launch of four Amrit Bharat Express trains for the state:

New Jalpaiguri–Nagercoil

New Jalpaiguri–Tiruchirappalli

Alipurduar–Bengaluru

Alipurduar–Mumbai

The Prime Minister said these services would strengthen connectivity between North Bengal and southern and western parts of the country, while also benefiting pilgrims travelling to Gangasagar, Dakshineswar and Kalighat, as well as passengers heading to Tamil Nadu and Maharashtra.

Self-reliance in rail manufacturing

“Indian Railways is becoming not only modern but also self-reliant,” Modi said, noting that India now manufactures more locomotives than the US and Europe and exports passenger and metro coaches to several countries.

He said this growth was strengthening the economy and creating employment opportunities for the youth.

Modi concluded by stressing that connecting India and reducing distances remain key national priorities, reflected in the projects launched at Malda.