In a significant move that marks India's growing expertise in urban transportation, Union Minister Manohar Lal Khattar has unveiled ambitious plans to take the Delhi Metro model international while expanding mass rapid transit systems across the country. The announcement came during the inauguration of the 18th Urban Mobility India Conference and Exhibition in Gurgaon on Friday, November 7, 2025.
Major Initiatives for Global Metro Expansion
The minister detailed several groundbreaking initiatives that represent a new phase in India's urban development strategy. The formation of Delhi Metro International Limited (DMIL) will spearhead the expansion of metro networks beyond India's borders, leveraging the country's two decades of experience in building and operating one of the world's most successful metro systems.
Additionally, the government plans to establish more Mass Rapid Transit Systems (MRTS) across urban centers in collaboration with the Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC). The minister emphasized that these systems will strengthen interconnectivity while maintaining strict safety and cybersecurity standards to ensure reliable public transportation.
Building Capacity and Innovation
The development strategy includes establishing a Delhi Metro Rail Academy to accelerate capacity building in the transportation sector. A dedicated Centre of Excellence will also be created to drive innovation in metro services through new technological approaches.
"These initiatives will mark a new phase of development with the main objective of providing easy travel in urban areas," stated Khattar during his address at the three-day conference, which operates under the theme "Easy Mode of Travelling."
India's Metro Ambitions and Regional Development
The minister highlighted India's impressive position in global metro coverage, noting that the country currently ranks third worldwide and is projected to surpass the United States within three years. This growth aligns with the government's vision of making India a developed nation by 2047 under the Make in India initiative.
Khattar also revealed plans to discuss with Haryana Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini about establishing a state-of-the-art convention centre in Gurgaon, further boosting the city's infrastructure development.
In a related development, the minister confirmed that the Delhi–Haryana–Rajasthan Rapid Rail corridor is expected to receive Cabinet approval soon. This 106-kilometer segment of the Delhi–Alwar Regional Rapid Transit System (RRTS) corridor will connect Sarai Kale Khan to Shahjahanpur–Neemrana–Behror via Gurgaon.
The transportation push extends beyond rail systems, with plans to provide 10,000 buses at concessional rates nationwide, including 450 allocated to Haryana with 100 specifically designated for Gurgaon. The Central government's adoption of new technologies and future-ready solutions positions India's urban mobility sector for significant transformation in the coming years.
