Electric traction motors normally convert electrical energy into mechanical energy to move a train.
During regenerative braking, this process is reversed.
The traction motors operate as generators while the train slows down, converting part of its kinetic energy into electrical energy.
Where the railway electrical system can accept it, the recovered electricity can be fed back into the traction network.
Modern Indian electric locomotives and trainsets use regenerative braking to improve energy efficiency and reduce reliance on friction brakes.