MCI India, U.S. Associations Collaborates with Railway Minister to Boost NDT and Welding Training

In a significant step toward advancing the safety and efficiency of India's railway network, MCI India recently organized a collaborative meeting with the Honorable Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw, along with representatives from the American Society for Nondestructive Testing (ASNT) and the American Welding Society (AWS). The discussions focused on implementing cutting-edge Non-Destructive Testing (NDT) and welding training for railway personnel across the country.

The meeting brought together key figures from the industry, including Neal Couture, CAE (CEO, ASNT), Paul Lang (Chief Global Strategy Officer, ASNT), Samir Kalia (Managing Director, MCI India), Prakash Gokulananadam (Director & General Manager, ASNT India), Jason Riggs (Vice President, ASNT), Richard Arn (Vice President, AWS), and J. Nealy Wheat, CAE, SPHR (ASNT).

Central to the discussions was ASNT India's ambitious plan to establish a state-of-the-art Training Centre of Excellence, which will provide computer-based certifications using advanced equipment. This center will align with the International Standard ISO 9712, aiming to certify professionals in NDT to enhance railway safety and productivity across the vast network.

The Training Centre of Excellence is envisioned as a pivotal resource that will utilize the latest in NDT and welding technologies to train and certify railway personnel, ensuring they meet global safety standards. By providing certifications in line with ISO 9712, the initiative seeks to elevate the technical skills of India's railway workforce, thereby reducing risks and improving operational efficiency.

MCI India, along with its international partners, extended heartfelt thanks to Minister Vaishnaw for his unwavering support and encouragement. The meeting concluded with a shared vision of enhancing railway safety and boosting productivity through comprehensive and globally recognized training programs.

This collaboration marks a significant milestone in the ongoing efforts to modernize India's railway infrastructure and ensure the highest standards of safety and reliability for millions of passengers and freight services across the country.