RVNL targets to launch first Vande Bharat Sleeper train prototype in June 2026; to deliver full 120 train sets by 2032
Vande Bharat Sleeper trains: With a focus on comfort, speed and latest technology, the Vande Bharat Sleeper trains have been planned for long and medium distance journey.
the RVNL-led JV is set to manufacture 120 Vande Bharat Sleeper train sets. (Image: Kinet Railway Solutions)
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Vande Bharat Sleeper trains: The Ministry of Railways is working in full swing to ramp up the production of Vande Bharat Sleeper trains. For this, the national transporter awarded the contract to manufacture Vande Bharat Sleeper trains to three companies: BEML, Kinet Railway Solutions (a Joint Venture between Russian rolling stock major TMH and Rail Vikas Nigam Limited – RVNL) and a consortium of Titagarh Rail Systems Limited and Bharat Heavy Engineering Limited (BHEL).
Vande Bharat Sleeper trains production
Of these, the RVNL-led JV is set to manufacture 120 Vande Bharat Sleeper train sets. The company is expected to unveil the first prototype in June 2026. “All the roadblocks have been cleared and now it is in advance designing stage and production has started in Latur factory. And we hope to see the first prototype in June ’26. And after that, the regular production will start,” MP Singh, Director-Operations, RVNL said, according to an exchange filing.
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Singh also hoped that in the financial year 2026-27, the regular production of Vande Bharat Sleeper trainsets will begin. “As we expect the first prototype to roll out by next June, so revenue will also start flowing out. As per the contract condition, 90% of the cost of the train set will be given on production of prototype and after its successful trial balance, 10% will also be released as revenue”.
Once the trials are successful and proving trials are held and the prototype is cleared, the regular production will start. “So, in the next financial year, that is Financial Year ‘26-27, along with the prototype, we expect to see the regular production of the train sets also,” he said in an earnings conference call on August 12.
RVNL targets to manufacture full 120 trainsets by 2032
Speaking during the earnings conference call, Pradeep Gaur, Chairman and Managing Director, RVNL said that the order of 120 train sets will be concluded by 2032. “2032, 5 years total. There is a break up of year wise,” Gaur said, while responding to a question, according to a regulatory filing.
Anish Mondal is a journalist with over nine years of experience covering the railways and roadways. Currently a member of the Indianexpress.com editorial team, Anish specializes in high-impact sectors.
Professional Journey
Anish began his career at the public broadcaster Rajya Sabha Television (now Sansad TV), where he developed a foundational understanding of legislative processes and national governance. In 2018, he transitioned to digital financial journalism at FinancialExpress.com, spending nearly six years refining his expertise in market trends and corporate reporting. Before joining The Indian Express in 2025, he served as a key contributor at ETNowNews.com.
Education & Expertise
Anish’s reporting is backed by a rigorous academic background in communication and the humanities:
Master of Journalism and Mass Communication (MJMC) – Apeejay Stya University
Post Graduate Diploma in Journalism and Production (PGTVRJP) – Apeejay Institute of Mass Communication
Bachelor of Arts (English Honours) – University of Calcutta
Areas of Coverage
Connectivity: Detailed reporting on the expansion of Indian Railways and National Highway networks. ... Read More
