Exclusive interview with Dr. Bharat Kaushal, Executive Chairman, Hitachi India

Dr. Bharat Kaushal is the Executive Chairman of Hitachi India and Corporate Officer at Hitachi, Ltd. He is the first Indian to be appointed as Managing Director of Hitachi India in 2017. Dr. Kaushal's leadership has been instrumental in Hitachi’s expansion across diverse sectors, including energy, infrastructure, healthcare, e-education, financial inclusion, and urban mobility in India.

Dr. Bharat Kaushal holds a Master’s degree in International Affairs (MIA) from Columbia University and an MBA from Northeastern University. He also earned a Bachelor of Laws (LLB) from the Faculty of Law, University of Delhi. Additionally, he completed both his undergraduate and postgraduate studies at St. Stephen’s College, University of Delhi.

In a recent interview with Metro Rail Today, Dr. Kaushal shares his insights on Hitachi India's clear vision, mission, and continuous contribution to India's sustainable growth.

Congratulations on your elevation. How do you envision your new role as Executive Chairman, Hitachi India and Corporate Officer, Hitachi, Ltd., impacting the company’s future direction in India?

Thank you. Stepping into this new role is an honor and a responsibility to navigate the future growth for Hitachi in India. In the evolving tapestry of global dynamics, India is on course to become the third-largest economy by 2027. This anticipated ascent underscores the nation’s expanding influence on the world stage and reinforces its pivotal role in defining the future economic narrative. At Hitachi, we are proud to be a steadfast partner in this remarkable journey. Backed by a legacy of over nine decades of innovation across energy, mobility, financial inclusion, e-Education, e-Healthcare and information technology, our vision transcends beyond conventional business aspirations. We are collaborating to position India as a catalyst for global progress, architecting a forward-looking, inclusive, and sustainable developmental roadmap.

We are focused on transitioning from a traditional B2B model to a more inclusive B2B2C framework. This strategic shift ensures our solutions across Energy, Mobility, Payments, IT, e-Education, and e-Healthcare that directly impact and uplift the lives of citizens. From spearheading transformative infrastructure projects like the Kolkata East-West Underwater Metro and the Udhampur-Srinagar-Baramulla Rail Link, to revolutionizing healthcare access through mobile hospitals and telemedicine, we are enabling impactful change at scale.

As we progress in this journey, Hitachi in India will accelerate its integration of advanced technologies to build human-centric, future-ready solutions. Our goal is not only to offer an expansive portfolio of services but to seamlessly connect technology with everyday life, transforming it into an enabler of inclusive progress, environmental sustainability, and digital equity. We want to become an enabler of weaving solutions in a unified way.

You've been pivotal in Hitachi's strategic growth since 2017. What, in your opinion, have been the most transformative milestones during your tenure?

Hitachi has embarked on a dynamic and purposeful transformation, anchored on reimagining Hitachi’s role in India’s development narrative. We have transitioned, placing societal impact at the heart of our operations. Over the past several years, this evolution has been marked by strategic expansion, deepened digital integration, and a renewed focus on grassroots empowerment.

Our ethos and rich culture are rooted in innovation-led growth, digital empowerment, and inclusive sustainability. From enhancing mobility to modernizing healthcare, from powering rural communities to democratizing financial access, every initiative underlines our commitment to shaping a resilient, inclusive India.

India’s rapid urbanization and infrastructural growth have opened new frontiers in mobility. Hitachi in India has emerged as a trusted partner in this journey, modernizing one of the world's largest rail networks with cutting-edge technologies. We have delivered transformational projects such as Mumbai Metro Lines 2A, 2B, and 5, and the Kolkata East-West Underwater Metro, redefining how millions travel each day. The advanced Automatic Fare Collection (AFC) systems provided by Hitachi Rail GTS, including state-of-the-art gate technologies, are designed to optimize ticketing operations, regulate passenger movement, and seamlessly integrate with multi-modal transportation networks. As an integral part of Hitachi Rail’s comprehensive suite of rail infrastructure solutions—including signaling, control, and ticketing systems—CMS (Communication Management System) contributes significantly to the seamless coordination and efficiency of modern railway networks. These intelligent systems enhance operational efficiency while improving the overall commuter experience. Our solutions seamlessly integrate safety, speed, and sustainability, reinforcing our commitment to building future-ready urban ecosystems. The Udhampur Srinagar Baramulla Rail Link project is a testament to human ingenuity as Hitachi Rail has partnered with the government to connect Kashmir to Kanyakumari, which is a symbol of national integration and economic upliftment, and a dream of our Honorable Prime Minister realized with precision.

As India targets 500 GW of renewable energy by 2030 and Net Zero by 2070, Hitachi is leading the field in clean energy solutions. Through Hitachi Energy, we’ve delivered advanced solutions like High Voltage Direct Current (HVDC) systems, transformers, EconiQ® eco-efficient switchgear, and a suite of digital solutions—empowering India to move from fossil dependency to sustainable power. Our technologies ensure clean energy is delivered across the country, enabling a reliable and resilient energy grid and contributing to India’s climate leadership on the global stage. Through such endeavours, we are illuminating the lives of billions across the length and breadth of the nation.

Simultaneously, the convergence of IT and OT has positioned us as a key enabler of Industry 4.0—advancing productivity, resilience, and resource efficiency across sectors.

Our White Label ATM network, the second largest in India, is expanding access to financial services in underserved and rural regions. Through Upgradable ATM technology, we ensure continuity, scalability, and sustainability—empowering citizens to manage their finances with dignity and ease.

In healthcare, our transformation has been driven by digital innovation. The MStar™ Telemed platform, developed by Hitachi MGRM Net, has brought remote diagnostics, consultation, and treatment to some of the most underserved areas of the country. Certified by the National Health Authority for integration with the Ayushman Bharat Digital Mission (ABDM) modules M1, M2, and M3, this platform has become a beacon of accessible healthcare. We’ve further expanded this impact through Bluetooth-enabled Telemedicine Kits and Lifecare Mobile Hospitals, reaching over 33 million users and ensuring that medical care is no longer constrained by geography.

As industries race toward digitization, Hitachi has been at the forefront, championing the next wave of digital transformation through Digital Reality technologies. By blending Augmented Reality (AR), Virtual Reality (VR), and Mixed Reality (MR), we are transforming experiences across education, healthcare, retail, and manufacturing. Gradually, we are migrating to offer our solutions from India to India and India to the World.

At Hitachi, we are not just building infrastructure—we are building bridges to a better future. We are committed to co-creating a digitally empowered, environmentally sustainable, and socially inclusive India—an India that not only serves its people but inspires the world.

What are the immediate priorities or initiatives you are focusing on in your new capacity to accelerate Hitachi India’s growth?

In the near term, my strategic priorities are anchored in three key pillars: strengthening regional inclusion, accelerating digital innovation, and advancing our green transformation agenda.

We are actively expanding India’s digital infrastructure into Tier 2 and Tier 3 cities, leveraging our robust white-label ATM networks, upgradable Cash Recycling Machines, and citizen-centric digital platforms to foster financial inclusion and service accessibility at scale. My vision goes beyond offering solutions to playing a lead role in orchestrating a circular economy voyage where growth for all not only drives the growth of the nation but becomes purposeful for everyone.

In parallel, our e-Healthcare and e-Education solutions, notably through telemedicine and e-learning platforms, are being scaled to reach more than 33 million users, ensuring equitable access to essential services across both urban and rural communities.

Together, these initiatives reflect our ambition to position Hitachi not just as a technology provider, but as a trusted partner in nation-building—one whose impact is felt not only in metropolitan hubs but in every village, town, and region across the country.

India is witnessing rapid digital transformation. How is Hitachi aligning itself with this wave of technological evolution?

India’s digital leap is among the most dynamic in the world—and we’re proud to be a part of it. Our approach is rooted in what we call “Digital Reality”, an ecosystem where Augmented Reality, Virtual Reality, and Mixed Reality converge to offer meaningful experiences across sectors. Whether it’s simulation-based surgeries in healthcare, AR-assisted manufacturing, or immersive e-learning, we’re embracing an environment to further enhance the well-being of how people live and work. Through GlobalLogic, a Hitachi group company, we’re enabling businesses to seamlessly adopt these next-gen technologies. Furthermore, we’re contributing towards the nation’s digital backbone by integrating ITxOT capabilities in power grid technologies, digital finance, and citizen services, turning India into a model of digital resilience.

Agentic Computing is here to stay. Not too far, we will find personalized AI Agents interacting with Enterprise Agents and Government Departmental proxies, for executing a task like Driver’s License renewal. For implementing such a modern, Agent-based framework of social governance, we need to educate the flag-bearers of the Indian Government – the representatives and the government officials in AI.

Can you elaborate on Hitachi’s approach to developing cutting-edge, sustainable solutions that ensure socio-economic impact at the grassroots level?

Our philosophy is simple: profound technology must serve humanity. At Hitachi, we are deliberately designing solutions that reach and uplift the grassroots. In financial services, for instance, we’ve redefined ATM infrastructure by launching India’s first UPI ATM, eliminating the need for physical cards. In healthcare, the MStar™ Telemed platform, certified by the National Health Authority for integration with Ayushman Bharat Digital Mission (ABDM) modules M1, M2, and M3, offers diagnostics and treatment in the remotest villages. These aren't just innovations—they’re instruments of empowerment, built for scale, inclusion, and resilience.

Urban mobility is a key pillar in India’s smart infrastructure. What role is Hitachi playing, especially in metro rail and urban transport systems?

Urban mobility in India is undergoing a transformative overhaul, and Hitachi is at the forefront of this revolution. We have delivered landmark transportation projects such as Mumbai & Navi Mumbai Metro Rail, Noida Metro Rail, along with the iconic Kolkata East-West first Underwater Metro Rail in India, fundamentally transforming how millions of people commute daily. These projects exemplify our commitment to creating smart, efficient, and sustainable urban mobility solutions that enhance connectivity and quality of life. Our advanced Automatic Fare Collection (AFC) systems incorporate the state-of-the-art gate technologies that streamline ticketing processes, optimize passenger flow, and seamlessly integrate with multi-modal transport networks. These systems not only improve operational efficiency but also enhance the overall commuter experience. A key component of this integrated ecosystem is Hitachi Rail GTS’s Crew Management System (CMS)—a mission-critical IT platform that facilitates efficient crew deployment and real-time coordination of train operations. Our solutions are designed with speed, safety, and sustainability at their core, reinforcing Hitachi’s vision of building future-ready urban ecosystems that meet the growing demands of modern cities.

Hitachi has been an integral partner in supporting the Government of India’s ambitious efforts to expand and modernize the Indian Railways and Urban Transport infrastructure. A notable example is the Western Dedicated Freight Corridor (WDFC), a transformative initiative enhancing the efficiency of freight movement across the country. Another key project is the development of Mumbai Metro Lines 2 and 7, where Hitachi is responsible for the design, manufacturing, and supply of high-voltage, energy-efficient, and proven propulsion systems, along with the Train Control and Management System (TCMS) and event recorders. These systems are being integrated into the driverless/Unattended Train Operation (UTO) trains manufactured through Hitachi’s strategic partner.

Further demonstrating its leadership, the Hitachi-led consortium successfully commissioned a state-of-the-art signalling and telecommunications system across 931 km of the WDFC, spanning from New Rewari to New Makarpura. This includes the deployment of 31 station interlockings, a Multi-Section Digital Axle Counter System, and a sophisticated Train Management System housed at one of India’s largest operations control centres in Ahmedabad. With Hitachi’s advanced signalling solutions, trains now operate safely and efficiently on the corridor, significantly boosting regional industrial growth through enhanced logistics capabilities.

Hitachi Rail Delivers a Full Range of Advanced Technologies for Passenger and Freight. Our Significant Contribution Across Various Projects in India.

• Our Latest Achievement –Asia’s Largest Interlocking at Kharagpur Railway Station in the Southeastern Railway.
• Train Protection Warning System (TPWS): Pioneers to deploy TPWS (present day KAVACH) first on Indian Railways: New Delhi - Agra Cantt section on North Central Railway - Home to Gatiman Express 160 KMPH India's First Fastest Train, and Madras Beach/ Madras Central - Gummidipondi Section on Southern Railway

Modernisation of Signalling System on Ghaziabad – Kanpur Section

• Hitachi is a market leader for mainline signalling and telecommunication having completed 1274 stations for computer controlled electronic interlocking including in Kharagpur, which is the longest and largest railways yard in Asia with 800 routes, we substantially completed the prestigious project of re-signalling of existing corridor of 410 km long electrified route from Kanpur to Ghaziabad one of the busiest sections of Indian Railways with Electronic Interlocking and automatic block signalling system along with CTC, Centralised Traffic Control with Control Centre at Tundla station, funded by Kreditanstalt für Wiederaufbau (KfW) by providing products & solutions like  Microlock II, multi-section axle counters and Audio Frequency Track Circuits (AFTCs).

The unparalleled stories of how our technology is impacting the lives of billions are endless, but the vision is ONE – BUILDING A NATION, that becomes a testament for the world.

Could you share insights into Hitachi’s initiatives in the fields of energy, healthcare, and financial inclusion in India?

At Hitachi, our mission is to deliver meaningful impact through technology by enabling equitable access to essential services and building infrastructure that is both future-ready and deeply inclusive.

In the energy sector, we are playing a pivotal role in accelerating India’s transition to a cleaner, more resilient power ecosystem. With our industry-leading portfolio of transformers, HVDC technologies, digital solutions, and service capabilities, we are actively supporting the nation’s ambitious target of achieving 500 GW of renewable energy capacity by 2030. Our solutions, delivered by Hitachi Energy, not only enable the integration of vast amounts of clean renewable energy but also provide operators with the tools to manage the growing demand and the complex energy infrastructure needed to ensure seamless access to electricity across the country. These innovations are designed to be environmentally sustainable, digitally enabled, and operationally robust, meeting the energy needs of a growing, aspirational population while reducing the carbon footprint. The iconic Raigarh-Pugalur Ultra High Voltage Direct Current project is an exemplary testament of how our solutions can transport electricity across the length and breadth of the country and help mitigate the supply gaps, making electricity accessible across the country. At present, eight out of 16 HVDC links in India runs on Hitachi Energy HVDC technology.

Furthermore, known for its cutting-edge technology, Hitachi Energy has produced (designed and manufactured) India's highest power-rated Scott transformers of 100 MVA at its Maneja facility in Vadodara. These Scott-connected transformers are pivotal in upgrading India's rail infrastructure, allowing trains to achieve speeds of up to 160km/h, a 20 percent increase from the current maximum speed of 130km/h. This upgrade will improve the reliability of passenger trains and increase the existing top speed. This would be the first step towards large-scale usage of Scott transformers by Indian Railways in its passenger rail network.

In healthcare, we are bridging the rural-urban divide through scalable, technology-enabled platforms. The MStar™ Telemed platform, developed by Hitachi MGRM Net, allows for real-time, remote diagnostics and consultations, dramatically improving healthcare access for underserved populations. Complemented by Bluetooth-enabled telemedicine kits, which include vital diagnostic devices such as digital stethoscopes, pulse oximeters, and blood pressure monitors, healthcare professionals in rural settings can now capture and share patient data with specialists in urban hospitals. This enables more accurate and timely diagnoses and interventions, ultimately saving lives and improving healthcare outcomes across geographies.

Financial inclusion remains a cornerstone of our broader social innovation strategy. In a country where cash still holds significant value alongside emerging digital channels, we’ve innovated across both ends of the spectrum. From introducing India’s first UPI-enabled ATM, which allows cardless cash withdrawals using just a mobile phone, to leading the market with Cash Recycling Machines which streamline cash management by enabling both deposits and withdrawals, we are redefining convenience and access. Furthermore, with second largest white-label ATM networks in the country, we are penetrating semi-urban and rural regions to ensure that banking services are not a privilege, but a universal right.

Together, these initiatives reflect our unwavering belief that technology should uplift, not exclude. Whether it’s powering villages, connecting patients to doctors, or enabling a farmer to withdraw cash in a remote district, our work is driven by the idea that progress must be inclusive, accessible, and human-centred.

Hitachi’s legacy in India spans over nine decades. How is the company adapting to India’s evolving economic landscape?

At Hitachi, legacy isn’t just our past—it’s our promise.

As India rises as a global leader in innovation and sustainability, powered by bold initiatives like Digital India, Make in India, and Aatmanirbhar Bharat, we see a nation forging a future where economic growth aligns with environmental and social equity.

We’re not just keeping pace—we’re leading. With over nine decades of presence and deep technological expertise, Hitachi is driving transformation through clean energy, digital innovation, and citizen-first solutions.

We’re investing where it matters most—metro rail, HVDC-powered transmission grids, AI-led smart cities, and rural financial inclusion. And as Indian enterprises scale globally, we’re here to co-innovate and build value chains that are globally competitive and locally rooted.

This is Social Innovation in action—delivering purpose with performance, and building a future where India leads, and the world follows.

As the Corporate Officer in charge of Regional Strategies (India), how do you plan to deepen Hitachi’s local partnerships and regional reach?

India’s diversity demands a hyper-local approach, and that’s exactly where my focus lies. We are nurturing regional partnerships that mirror local needs, be it deploying telemedicine platforms in Northeast India or enhancing ATM infrastructure in rural Bihar. Our strategy is not one-size-fits-all. It’s about customizing solutions that resonate culturally and economically. We aim to co-create with state governments, public sector bodies, and local entrepreneurs, ensuring our reach is not only national but deeply embedded in local ecosystems. Our goal is simple—make technology inclusive, accessible, and impactful for every Indian. Our core ideologies focus on enhancing lives of billions and making Hitachi a part of everybody’s life.

What leadership values guide your decision-making and strategic direction at Hitachi?

My leadership philosophy is anchored in three values: humility, foresight, and collective growth. Having grown up in a family steeped in public service, I’ve always believed that leadership is less about authority and more about service. I listen before I act. I prioritize people before processes. And I firmly believe that success is best measured not by how high you rise, but by how many you lift. At Hitachi, this ethos translates into a culture of empowerment, empathy, and excellence, where every decision is guided by long-term impact and stakeholder value.

What message would you like to convey to young professionals and future leaders inspired by your journey?

To young professionals - be fearless learners and compassionate leaders. The world today demands agility, emotional intelligence, and a commitment to purpose beyond profit. Let your career be a canvas for impact. Lead with curiosity, stay grounded in your values, and always see challenges as invitations to grow. Remember, leadership is not a position—it’s a mindset. And in every small decision lies the opportunity to shape a better world.