Titagarh Rail to Spin Off Naval Division, Open to Strategic Collaborations

manufacturing-news
Umesh Chowdhary, VC and MD. Titagarh Rail Systems

Titagarh Rail Systems Ltd (TRSL) announced its decision to establish a new wholly-owned subsidiary—Titagarh Naval Systems Ltd (TNSL)—to handle its shipbuilding and maritime services operations. The company is considering partnerships or investments from strategic players to expand this business.

The board has given in-principle approval for the transfer of the shipbuilding, maintenance, and services (SMS) division to the new entity, pending regulatory approval. This move will allow TRSL to focus fully on its core rail manufacturing and systems operations, while TNSL pursues opportunities in the maritime and defence sectors, including government-led initiatives to boost domestic shipbuilding.

According to the company, TNSL may operate independently or collaborate with strategic partners or investors to scale operations. The new firm will build on TRSL’s past experience, which includes delivery of over 35 vessels to clients such as the Indian Navy, Coast Guard, National Institute of Ocean Technology, and Garden Reach Shipbuilders & Engineers.

TNSL plans to expand its facility in Falta, West Bengal—acquired from Precision Shipyard in 2023. The site currently has a capacity to produce 12–16 vessels annually, with ship lengths of up to 180 metres. The company stated that this reorganisation would enhance its footprint in the defence sector and unlock new growth areas, either through direct expansion or joint ventures.

In the first quarter of FY 2025–26, TRSL secured fresh orders worth ₹2,092 crore (excluding GST), bringing its total order book to nearly ₹26,000 crore. Contracts related to freight rail systems made up ₹4,114 crore of this figure and included agreements for the supply of 10,772 wagons. These wins reflect continued demand for the company’s offerings in the rail sector.

However, the financial results for the quarter showed a significant downturn. Net profit fell 53.8% year-on-year to ₹30.94 crore, compared to ₹67.01 crore in the same period last year. The decline was primarily driven by lower wheelset supplies, which impacted overall profitability despite the healthy order intake.

Revenue for the quarter ended June 30, 2025, also dropped sharply, decreasing 24.77% to ₹679.3 crore. The weaker top-line performance, coupled with reduced operational output in key product segments, weighed on the company’s financial position for the period.

Titagarh Rail Systems Ltd (TRS) is a prominent Indian manufacturer of railway rolling stock and related infrastructure, with a legacy that spans over four decades. Established in 1997, the company specializes in designing, manufacturing, and supplying a wide range of rail vehicles, including passenger coaches, freight wagons, and specialized rail systems. With state-of-the-art production facilities in India, Titagarh Rail serves both domestic and international markets, catering to the growing demand for rail transport solutions.

The company’s product portfolio includes advanced railcars, electric multiple units (EMUs), metro trains, and custom-built solutions, designed to meet the specific needs of its clients. Titagarh Rail also provides comprehensive services, such as the design and integration of rail systems, maintenance, and modernization of existing rolling stock.

Titagarh Rail has secured strategic contracts both within India and abroad, collaborating with major railway authorities and transportation bodies. The company has been instrumental in various high-profile projects, including the development of metro rail systems in cities like Kolkata and Mumbai.

With a commitment to quality, innovation, and sustainability, Titagarh Rail continues to play a vital role in the modernization and expansion of rail transport infrastructure in India and beyond. Its expertise in manufacturing and strong technological capabilities position it as a leading player in the global rail industry.