Amrit Bharat Station Scheme: Transforming Railway Stations into Modern Transit Hubs

Why in News?

The Prime Minister recently inaugurated 75 redeveloped railway stations across 20 States under the Amrit Bharat Station Scheme (ABSS). This marks the second nationwide dedication of redeveloped stations under the scheme. Earlier, on 22 May 2025, 103 redeveloped stations across 18 States and Union Territories were inaugurated. The initiative reflects India’s commitment to modernising railway infrastructure and creating passenger-centric, world-class transit hubs.

What is the Amrit Bharat Station Scheme?

The Amrit Bharat Station Scheme (ABSS) was launched by the Ministry of Railways in December 2022. It aims to redevelop 1,309 railway stations across India through a phased and need-based approach. Instead of adopting a uniform design, the scheme customises each station according to local requirements, passenger traffic, cultural identity, and future growth.

What are the key features of the scheme?

• Modern Passenger Facilities
  • Spacious waiting halls and lounges.
  • Lifts, escalators, free Wi-Fi, food courts, kiosks, and executive lounges.
  • Better lighting, parking, digital information systems, and platform improvements.
• Local Heritage-Based Design
  • Station buildings reflect regional architecture and cultural heritage.
  • Landscaped surroundings and aesthetically designed façades improve the passenger experience.
• Inclusive Infrastructure
  • Developed under the Sugamya Bharat Abhiyan (Accessible India Campaign).
  • Features ramps, tactile pathways, Braille signage, accessible toilets, lifts, and low-height ticket counters for Divyangjan.
• Promotion of Local Economy
  • Supports the One Station One Product (OSOP) initiative.
  • Provides dedicated outlets for handicrafts, handlooms, tribal products, regional cuisine, and local artisans.
• Sustainable and Multimodal Development
  • Integrates railway stations with metro, bus, and other public transport systems.
  • Encourages green spaces, energy-efficient infrastructure, rainwater harvesting, and environmentally sustainable planning.

Related Information

The Amrit Bharat Station Scheme complements major railway modernisation initiatives such as Vande Bharat Express, Dedicated Freight Corridors (DFC), Kavach Automatic Train Protection System, PM Gati Shakti National Master Plan, and the National Rail Plan 2030. Together, these initiatives aim to improve connectivity, logistics efficiency, passenger safety, and economic growth. The scheme also supports the vision of Viksit Bharat 2047 by transforming railway stations into vibrant urban growth centres.

Exam Oriented Facts

• Launched: December 2022.
• Implementing Ministry: Ministry of Railways.
• Target: Redevelopment of 1,309 railway stations.
• Approach: Phased, station-specific redevelopment.
• Recent Milestone: 75 stations inaugurated across 20 States.
• Previous Milestone: 103 stations inaugurated on 22 May 2025 across 18 States and UTs.
• Associated Initiative: One Station One Product (OSOP) promotes local artisans and indigenous products.
• Accessibility Initiative: Sugamya Bharat Abhiyan (Accessible India Campaign) ensures barrier-free infrastructure.
• Objective: Transform railway stations into integrated, sustainable, accessible, and passenger-friendly transport hubs while preserving regional identity.