Indian Railways sets up CHIRAG Centre for AI-driven HR management

Indian Railways has launched the Centre for HR Information Systems, Research and Analytics in Governance (CHIRAG) at Moula-Ali in Hyderabad as part of its push to modernise workforce management.

According to media reports, the centre will bring artificial intelligence (AI), machine learning (ML) and predictive analytics into HR operations across the railway network. 

It is expected to be fully operational by May 2028.

Building a digital HR system

CHIRAG will focus on strengthening HR Information Systems and improving data-driven decision-making.

The centre will support research, workforce analytics, digital learning and HR policy development. It will also help strengthen the Human Resource Management System (HRMS) across railway zones.

The aim is to make HR administration faster, more consistent and more data-led.

Using AI to plan the workforce

AI and predictive analytics will help Indian Railways anticipate workforce needs.

The systems could be used to track retirement trends, identify skill gaps and forecast staffing requirements. They could also help determine training needs and assess HR policies.

This could allow railway authorities to identify workforce challenges earlier and plan resources more effectively.

Focus on employee skills

CHIRAG will also support digital training for railway employees.

The centre will create role-based HR training programmes and develop HRMS master trainers. It will also work to improve digital capabilities and promote standardised HR practices across the organisation.

Strengthening digital governance

The centre forms part of Indian Railways' wider digital transformation efforts.

By combining HR data, AI and analytics, the organisation aims to improve workforce planning and employee services while making HR governance more efficient.

For an organisation with one of the world's largest public-sector workforces, the initiative marks a significant shift towards technology-led HR management.