Propulsion equipment makers get easier norms

According to the recently amended norms, Indian rail coach manufacturers such as Bharat Earth Movers Ltd (BEML) have been allowed to bid for supplying Metro Rail coaches in projects where the Centre provides assistance even also in cases where multi-lateral funding is involved. Now the Centre has advised the Metro Rail companies to place ―developmental order of 10% to Indian propulsion equipment suppliers. In its bid to push the Make in India mission, the housing and urban affairs ministry has issued fresh eligibility criteria for procurement of rolling stock (coaches), including the propulsion system. Propulsion and control equipment make the trains move. Currently, there are three major players in this field —Mitsubishi, Bombardier and Alstom with Mitsubishi commanding the largest share in this sector. Developmental orders are placed to promote indigenous technology where the rules applicable can be relaxed and certain concessions may by granted to indigenous coach makers, said official sources.