Indian Railways is stepping up its use of artificial intelligence (AI), machine learning (ML) and predictive analytics for workforce management with the launch of the Centre for HR Information Systems, Research and Analytics in Governance (Chirag) at Moula-Ali in Hyderabad.
According to media reports, the centre will bring workforce data, HR research and digital tools into a more integrated framework for managing the railway workforce. Chirag is expected to become fully operational by May 2028.
The centre will focus on strengthening Human Resource Information Systems (HRIS), workforce planning, HR research, digital learning and policy assessment. It will also support the expansion and standardisation of the Human Resource Management System (HRMS) across railway zones.
A key part of Chirag’s mandate will be the use of AI and predictive analytics to anticipate workforce requirements rather than relying only on existing staffing patterns.
The analytics could be used to study employee retirement trends, identify emerging skill gaps and forecast workforce requirements across functions and regions. This could give railway authorities greater visibility into where staffing pressures are likely to emerge and allow them to plan recruitment, deployment and employee development in advance.
Chirag will also have a strong focus on employee skills and digital HR capabilities. The centre will develop role-based HR training programmes and prepare HRMS master trainers who can support the adoption of digital HR processes across railway zones.
The centre’s role will, therefore, extend beyond technology deployment. It is also expected to contribute to building the capabilities needed by HR teams to use digital systems and workforce data effectively.
The creation of Chirag marks a broader shift in how Indian Railways is approaching workforce administration, bringing HR information systems, analytics, research and digital learning under a common framework.
