PM Modi First Sleeper Vande Bharat Inauguration: Prime Minister Narendra Modi flagged off India’s first Vande Bharat Sleeper Train between Howrah and Guwahati (Kamakhya) at Malda Town Railway Station. The fully air-conditioned train is built for long-distance travel and offers airline-like comfort at affordable prices. Officials say it will cut travel time on the route by about 2.5 hours and help boost religious tourism, passenger comfort, and connectivity between West Bengal and the Northeast.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi will be in West Bengal till January 18 to inaugurate and flag off a series of rail, road and infrastructure projects worth over Rs 4,000 crore.
India’s first Vande Bharat Sleeper train
The launch marks a major milestone for Indian Railways, with the country’s first Vande Bharat Sleeper train offering overnight premium travel between eastern and northeastern India. Operated and maintained by the Northeast Frontier Railway zone, the 16-coach train will include 11 AC 3-tier coaches, four AC 2-tier coaches and one AC First Class coach.
Two rakes have been allocated for the Howrah-Guwahati-Howrah route, with the January 17 service running as an inaugural special. Safety has been positioned as a key feature of the Vande Bharat Sleeper train. The service will be equipped with the Kavach automatic train protection system, emergency communication units for passengers, and a state-of-the-art driver’s cab featuring advanced control systems.
Four new Amrit Bharat Express to be flagged off
During the event, Modi will also virtually flag off four new Amrit Bharat Express trains connecting New Jalpaiguri with Nagercoil and Tiruchirappalli, and Alipurduar with SMVT Bengaluru and Mumbai (Panvel). In addition, two new LHB-coach services from Radhikapur and Balurghat to SMVT Bengaluru will be launched, aimed at improving long-distance connectivity for students, workers and traders.
Vande Bharat Sleeper: Fare details
From Howrah
To Kamakhya
1AC: Rs 3,640
2AC: Rs 2,970
3AC: Rs 2,299
To New Jalpaiguri
1AC: Rs 2,113
2AC: Rs 1,724
3AC: Rs 1,334
To Malda Town
1AC: Rs 1,520
2AC: Rs 1,240
3AC: Rs 960
Between Kamakhya and Malda Town
1AC: Rs 2,409
2AC: Rs 1,965
3AC: Rs 1,522
Between Kamakhya and New Jalpaiguri
1AC: Rs 1,524
2AC: Rs 1,243
3AC: Rs 962
India’s first Vande Bharat Sleeper train was flagged off by Prime Minister Narendra Modi from West Bengal’s Malda on Saturday. Developed by BEML, this orange and grey coloured long-distance semi-high-speed train will run between Howrah and Guwahati (Kamakhya).
Common passengers, however, will have to wait longer to avail its services. News agency PTI quoting a senior official at the Railway Ministry reported that the efforts are being made in the booking system to include Vande Bharat Sleeper train. Interested readers can find out more about booking updates for the latest Vande Bharat here.
Vande Bharat Sleeper inauguration LIVE: Local cuisines on board
The catering is included in the ticket price and focuses on local flavours and cuisines. While passengers travelling from Kamakhya to Howrah will be served Assamese cuisine, those on the return journey from Howrah to Kamakhya will relish Bengali dishes.
Vande Bharat Sleeper inauguration LIVE: Updated suspension system
Automatic doors with vestibules have been placed between coaches to ensure safe and convenient movement within the train. An advanced suspension system has also been added to enhances ride quality by minimising jerks and vibrations, ensuring a calm and fatigue-free journey.
Vande Bharat Sleeper inauguration LIVE: All features
The new Vande Bharat sleeper train comes packed with an array of brand new features. The recently unveiled model offers ample and well-planned luggage space, with overhead racks and under-berth storage for smaller bags, and dedicated areas near coach entrances for larger suitcases, ensuring uncluttered and comfortable interiors.
You can learn more about all featured offered by the train here.
Vande Bharat Sleeper inauguration LIVE: Train features
Designed for long-distance travel, the train features ergonomic sleeper berths, USB charging ports and enhanced security systems. Vande Bharat Sleeper trains also offer ample and well-planned luggage space, with overhead racks and under-berth storage for smaller bags, and dedicated areas near coach entrances for larger suitcases, ensuring uncluttered and comfortable interiors.
Vande Bharat Sleeper inauguration LIVE: PM Modi on launch of Vande Bharat Sleeper trains across India
"These projects will make travel easier, simplify trade and business": PM Modi after flagging off India's first Vande Bharat sleeper train.
Starting today, Vande Bharat Sleeper trains are being launched in India." Explaining the impact of the new service, he said, "These Vande Bharat Sleeper trains will make long journeys for the countrymen more comfortable, splendid, and memorable." The Prime Minister also revealed the route of the first sleeper service.
What Assam CM said on first Vande Bharat Sleeper Train
Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma said that it "is a matter of great joy for Assam" that the first Vande Bharat Sleeper Train launched today will run between Kolkata and Guwahati, calling it a "very big achievement" for the people of Assam. "On behalf of the people of Assam, I thank the Prime Minister and the Railway Minister," he said.
Vande Bharat's indigenous design, manufacturing to be future of Indian Railways: Northeast Frontier Railway GM Guwahati
The 'pride of Indian railways' Vande Bharat sleeper train has been equipped with the latest technology for both passengers and the drivers, with a full indigenous design and indigenous manufacturing, according to Northeast Frontier Railway's General Manager Chetan Kumar Srivastava.
Vande Bharat Sleeper inauguration LIVE: PM to launch road projects across North Bengal
PM Modi will lay the foundation stone for the four-laning of the Dhupguri–Falakata stretch of National Highway 31D. The upgraded road will facilitate smoother movement of passengers and goods, improve regional connectivity, and support trade in North Bengal. The project will also reduce travel time and enhance safety for commuters along this key corridor.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi flagged off India’s first Vande Bharat Sleeper Train between Howrah and Guwahati (Kamakhya) at Malda Town Railway Station. The fully air-conditioned train is built for long-distance travel and offers airline-like comfort at affordable prices. Officials say it will cut travel time on the route by about 2.5 hours and help boost religious tourism, passenger comfort, and connectivity between West Bengal and the Northeast.
Watch -
#watch | Malda, West Bengal: PM Narendra Modi flags off India’s first Vande Bharat Sleeper Train between Howrah and Guwahati (Kamakhya)
— ANI (@ANI) January 17, 2026
(Source: DD) pic.twitter.com/lQkE5g6gCa
Vande Bharat Sleeper inauguration LIVE: PM Modi to address political context in Malda
The Prime Minister’s visit comes amid the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls in West Bengal and political controversy over ED raids on I-PAC offices. PM Modi will address a rally in minority-majority Malda while highlighting development initiatives, positioning infrastructure projects as a central theme ahead of the upcoming assembly elections in the state.
Vande Bharat Sleeper inauguration LIVE: Rs 3,250 Crore Rail and Road Projects in Malda
PM Modi will dedicate to the nation rail and road infrastructure projects in Malda worth over Rs 3,250 crore. The initiatives include four major railway projects, upgrades to freight and maintenance facilities, and modernisation of Vande Bharat train operations. These developments aim to accelerate connectivity, strengthen logistics, and generate employment in West Bengal and the Northeast.
Vande Bharat Sleeper inauguration LIVE: PM Modi to arrive Malda town shortly
PM Modi is expected to arrive in Malda shortly for the flag-off of the Vande Bharat Sleeper train. Ahead of his visit, security has been increased throughout the district.
Vande Bharat Sleeper inauguration LIVE: Women seen singing as they waited for the event to begin | Watch
Women onboard on India’s first Vande Bharat sleeper train, which will run between Howrah and Guwahati (Kamakhya) and be flagged off by PM Narendra Modi later today, were seen singing songs as they waited for the event to begin.
#watch | Malda, West Bengal | Women onboard the first Vande Bharat sleeper train of India, which will run between Howrah and Guwahati (Kamakhya), and will be flagged off by PM Narendra Modi later today, sing songs while waiting for the event to commence. pic.twitter.com/yf5FwpqXVs
— ANI (@ANI) January 17, 2026
Vande Bharat Sleeper inauguration LIVE: PM Modi’s visit schedule
PM Modi will visit West Bengal and Assam on January 17–18. In Malda, he will flag off the Vande Bharat Sleeper Train and inaugurate multiple rail and road projects. On January 18, he will attend programmes in Singur, Hooghly, and launch development projects worth Rs 830 crore. The visit comes amid rising political attention on West Bengal.
Vande Bharat Sleeper inauguration LIVE: New Jalpaiguri station to become world-class
New Jalpaiguri (NJP) Railway Station is undergoing major redevelopment, with the addition of two new platforms and modern facilities. The station will feature improved passenger amenities and IT hub potential. These upgrades aim to strengthen North Bengal’s rail connectivity, supporting regional trade, tourism, and employment opportunities while integrating the Northeast with key Indian cities.
Vande Bharat Sleeper inauguration LIVE: Railways Minister highlights PM Modi’s gift of new trains
Railways Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw said PM Modi is “gifting” West Bengal over a dozen new trains. The first Vande Bharat Sleeper service will run from Guwahati to Kolkata, while several Amrit Bharat Express trains are being introduced. Vaishnaw added that 101 railway stations are being reconstructed, including New Jalpaiguri, which is being upgraded into a world-class hub.
Vande Bharat Sleeper inauguration LIVE: Electrification of key rail sections to enhance efficiency
The Prime Minister will dedicate the electrification of rail lines between New Coochbehar–Bamanhat and New Coochbehar–Boxirhat. This upgrade will enable cleaner, faster, and more energy-efficient train operations. Electrification is expected to improve punctuality, reduce fuel costs, and support India’s broader transition toward sustainable railway infrastructure.
Vande Bharat Sleeper inauguration LIVE: Big logistics boost for North Bengal through new facilities
The upcoming freight maintenance facilities at New Jalpaiguri and upgrades in Siliguri are expected to improve logistics efficiency and freight movement across North Bengal. With better rail infrastructure and modern maintenance systems, the region is likely to see faster cargo handling, improved services, and increased job opportunities in rail-related sectors.
Vande Bharat Sleeper inauguration LIVE: Festive mood at Malda town
Malda Town Station is buzzing with excitement as it gets ready for the first-ever Vande Bharat Sleeper train to begin its inaugural journey from the station.
See images-
Malda Town Station is in a vibrant, festive mood ahead of witnessing the inaugural run of India’s first Vande Bharat Sleeper train from Malda station. #vandebharatsleeper pic.twitter.com/rNUzboURoj
— Eastern Railway (@EasternRailway) January 16, 2026
Vande Bharat Sleeper inauguration LIVE: RPF seeks extra security after intel warning
The Railway Protection Force (RPF) has asked Kaliachak Police Station in Malda to increase security for today’s event, where Prime Minister Narendra Modi will flag off the Vande Bharat sleeper train. The RPF, referring to intelligence alerts, said there could be stone-pelting incidents at several points after the train leaves Malda.
Vande Bharat Sleeper inauguration LIVE: PM Modi to lay foundation for major rail projects
PM Modi will lay the foundation stone for four major railway projects in West Bengal, including a new Balurghat–Hili rail line, next-generation freight facilities at New Jalpaiguri, upgrades to the Siliguri Loco Shed, and modern maintenance systems for Vande Bharat trains. These projects aim to strengthen logistics, improve service reliability, and support local employment.
Vande Bharat Sleeper inauguration LIVE: Travel time to reduce by 2.5 hours on key route
The Vande Bharat Sleeper Train will cut travel time by nearly 2.5 hours between Howrah and Guwahati. This reduction is expected to boost tourism and spiritual travel, especially for passengers visiting prominent religious destinations in Assam and Bengal, while also improving convenience for frequent travellers on this busy route.
Vande Bharat Sleeper inauguration LIVE: Travel upgrade in th region
The new Vande Bharat Sleeper, developed for long-distance comfort, is India’s first fully air-conditioned sleeper variant in the premium category. It promises airline-like facilities, advanced safety features, and faster travel. The train aims to transform journeys on the Howrah–Guwahati route, making travel more efficient and appealing for passengers across Eastern India.
Vande Bharat Sleeper inauguration LIVE: PM to unveil infra projects to boost regional links
During his visit to Malda, PM Modi will dedicate to the nation several key rail and road projects worth ₹3,250 crore. These include new tracks, upgraded facilities, and modernisation works that will significantly enhance connectivity, reduce travel time, and support economic development across West Bengal and the broader North-Eastern corridor.
Vande Bharat Sleeper inauguration LIVE: Northeast–North rail connectivity to get major boost
The new Amrit Bharat Express services are expected to strengthen long-distance travel between the Northeast and Northern India. Designed for speed and comfort, these trains will offer passengers a safer and more convenient journey. The enhanced connectivity is anticipated to benefit traders, students, migrant workers, and frequent inter-state travellers across the two regions.
Vande Bharat Sleeper inauguration LIVE: PM to launch rail and road projects worth Rs 3,250 crore
After flagging off the Vande Bharat Sleeper, PM Modi will address a public event in Malda where he will inaugurate and lay the foundation stone for rail and road projects worth over ₹3,250 crore. These initiatives aim to strengthen transport infrastructure and boost connectivity across West Bengal and the North-Eastern region, supporting long-term economic growth.
Vande Bharat Sleeper inauguration LIVE: PM Modi says West Bengal ready to reject TMC
Ahead of his Malda rally, PM Modi posted that the people of West Bengal are set to reject the TMC, accusing the ruling party of widespread misgovernance. He added that the demand for a development-focused BJP government is growing stronger across the state as he prepares for two days of back-to-back public engagements in Bengal and Assam.
Vande Bharat Sleeper inauguration LIVE: PM Modi targets TMC ahead of West Bengal visit
Prime Minister Narendra Modi sharpened his attack on the Trinamool Congress ahead of his Saturday visit to West Bengal, saying people in the state want a development-driven BJP government. In a post on X, he said that daily instances of TMC’s misrule continue to surface and that West Bengal is “fed up” and ready for change as he prepares to address a rally in Malda.
Vande Bharat Sleeper inauguration LIVE: First Vande Bharat sleeper to be flagged off in Malda
At 12:45 pm on January 17, PM Modi will flag off India’s first Vande Bharat Sleeper Train between Howrah and Guwahati from Malda Town Railway Station. The new train marks a major upgrade in India’s long-distance travel segment with airline-like comfort, air-conditioned coaches, and improved travel speeds for passengers on this crucial route.