Railway Research Agreement between Gati Shakti University and Monash University.

CNN Central News & Network–ITDC India Epress/ITDC News Bhopal: Gati Shakti University (a central university under the Ministry of Railways) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Monash University, Australia, through the Monash Institute of Railway Technology (IRT) for joint research, education, and executive training in railway engineering.

The agreement was signed between Professor Craig Jeffrey (Vice-Chancellor – International and Senior Vice President, Monash University) and Professor Manoj Chaudhary (Vice-Chancellor, Gati Shakti University). The event was hosted by Monica Kennedy, Minister Commercial and Head of Austrade South Asia, at the Australian High Commission in New Delhi.

A joint research laboratory focused on advanced technical railway engineering will be considered, along with opportunities to collaborate on future industrial projects that will benefit both parties and enhance Australian and Indian railway systems. Joint educational programs and executive training will also be a key area of this collaboration.

Speaking on the occasion, Professor Craig Jeffrey said, “I am very pleased for Monash University to partner with GSV, which is the first university in India’s transport and logistics sectors. Monash IRT consistently develops new technologies to reduce risks and costs while enhancing productivity and safety requirements. The institute has established a strong track record in resolving technical issues related to railways, and its solutions have been adopted by railway systems worldwide. This new partnership between Monash IRT and GSV further extends Monash’s engagement with India.”

Professor Manoj Chaudhary noted, “GSV is an industry-driven and innovation-based university, aiming to contribute significantly to national development through the transport and logistics sectors. Railways are the lifeline of the country’s transportation sector, and with rapid technological advancement, the railway sector is on a transformative journey toward a ‘Developed India.’ We have many commonalities with Monash University, which is a research-oriented university working with leading institutions and industries for global impact.”

GSV is the first-of-its-kind university, with the aim of fulfilling national development plans (PM Gati Shakti National Master Plan 2021 and National Logistics Policy 2022) across sectors like railways, aviation, shipping, ports, highways, roads, and waterways. The university’s programs are designed in collaboration with industry experts to ensure practical relevance and cutting-edge education.

Senior officials from Monash University Australia, the Ministry of Railways, Gati Shakti University, Austrade, DFCCIL, and Delhi Metro Rail Corporation attended the MoU signing event, marking a collaborative effort to enhance railway engineering capabilities.