The Research Designs and Standards Organisation (RDSO) is an ISO 9001 research and development organization under the Ministry of Railways of India.

It functions as a technical adviser and consultant to the Railway Board, the Zonal Railways, the Railway Production Units, RITES and IRCON International in respect of design and standardization of railway equipment.

The Indian Railway Conference Association (IRCA) was established in 1903

The RDSO is headed by a Director General who ranks with a General Manager of a Zonal Railway.

Functions-

Development, adoption, absorption of new technology for use on Indian Railways

Development of standards for materials and products specially needed by Indian Railways

Development of new and improved designs

Technical investigation, statutory clearances, testing and providing consultancy services

Inspection of critical and safety items of rolling stock, locomotives, signalling & telecommunication equipment and track components

RDSO multifarious activities have also attracted attention of railway and non-railway organisations in India and abroad.

Contact address

RDSO Office
IRCOT Building, Shivaji Bridge, Behind Shankar Market, Connaught Lane, Barakhamba, New Delhi, Delhi 110001