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@article{198719,
        author = {MANOJ S and Dr.Nirmala Devi.N},
        title = {DRIVING CHANGE: INDIAN RAILWAY FREIGHT CHALLENGES THROUGH SDG'S},
        journal = {International Journal of Innovative Research in Technology},
        year = {2026},
        volume = {12},
        number = {11},
        pages = {9941-9945},
        issn = {2349-6002},
        url = {https://ijirt.org/article?manuscript=198719},
        abstract = {Freight transportation plays a crucial role in supporting economic growth, industrial development, and supply chain efficiency in India. Indian Railways is one of the largest freight carriers in the world and serves as a vital component of the national logistics system. However, the railway freight sector continues to face several challenges such as infrastructure limitations, technological gaps, operational inefficiencies, environmental concerns, and safety issues. This study aims to examine the factors influencing freight efficiency in Indian Railways with particular focus on rail infrastructure modernization, rail electrification, multimodal connectivity, digitalization and smart technologies, environmental sustainability initiatives, and safety enhancements. A quantitative research design was adopted for the study. Primary data were collected through a structured questionnaire distributed among railway and logistics professionals. Out of 170 questionnaires distributed, 150 valid responses were used for final analysis. Data analysis was conducted using SPSS with techniques including descriptive statistics, reliability analysis, correlation analysis, and multiple regression analysis. The findings reveal that all six independent variables significantly influence freight efficiency in Indian Railways. Among these variables, infrastructure modernization and digitalization emerged as major contributors to improving operational performance and freight reliability. The study highlights the importance of integrated modernization strategies aligned with Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) to enhance the efficiency, sustainability, and long-term competitiveness of railway freight transportation in India.},
        keywords = {Freight Efficiency, Indian Railways, Infrastructure Modernization, Rail Electrification, Digitalization, Sustainable Development Goals.},
        month = {April},
        }