Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated India's first hydrogen train during a ceremony in Jind, Haryana, marking a significant milestone in railway modernization. The hydrogen train operates on the 90-kilometer Jind-Sonipat route and represents cutting-edge technology with 3,200 horsepower, making it the most powerful and longest (10-coach) hydrogen train globally. Designed by Indian engineers and built domestically, it positions India among only 3-4 countries capable of operating hydrogen trains, which have existed for just 7-8 years worldwide. The government plans to expand this network after further research to reduce costs and improve efficiency, with Jind serving as a hub for future hydrogen train infrastructure and related manufacturing, creating new employment opportunities for Haryana's youth.
The event also launched development projects worth over ₹14,000 crore for Haryana, including major railway and highway infrastructure. Three key road projects were inaugurated: the Haryana section of the Delhi-Amritsar-Katra Expressway, the Jind-Gohana National Highway, and the Ambala-Kala Amb four-lane road, transforming Jind into a district connected by five national highways. This enhanced connectivity is expected to benefit farmers and cattle-rearers through cheaper access to markets, boost industries and tourism, and generate substantial employment.
Healthcare infrastructure received significant investment with two new medical colleges: Pandit Neki Ram Sharma Medical College in Bhiwani and Maharshi Chyavan Medical College with Rao Tularam Hospital in Narnaul. These institutions aim to strengthen medical services and create pathways for local youth to enter medical professions. Additionally, a Sikh Museum was announced in Kurukshetra to preserve and promote India's spiritual heritage.
The Prime Minister highlighted Indian Railways' transformation, noting that electrification reached nearly 99% of the network under his administration compared to just 30% between 1925-2014. This near-complete electrification has insulated India's rail system from global oil supply disruptions, particularly important given ongoing conflicts in West Asia affecting sea routes for fuel imports. Haryana's railway network is fully electrified.
Agricultural benefits were emphasized, with Haryana farmers receiving nearly ₹8,000 crore under the PM Kisan Samman Nidhi scheme, including over ₹600 crore specifically for Jind farmers. The speech also addressed sports development, noting recent discussions with Australia and New Zealand governments regarding collaboration in sports industries and athlete training. With India scheduled to host the Commonwealth Games in 2030 and preparing to host the Olympic Games in 2036, the government is implementing the National Sports Policy and Khelo Bharat policy through initiatives like Khelo India and the TOPS scheme to support athletes.