Balagopal Balachandra, National Head – Air Freight, FEI Cargo said, “Skilled people in dangerous goods handling and cold chain logistics are vital because these jobs directly impact safety, product quality, and customer trust. When staff are properly trained, shipments move with fewer errors, risks are reduced, and sensitive goods like medicines and perishables reach customers in perfect condition. To build this capability, India has stepped up several initiatives like DGCA and IATA approved training for DG handling, specialised cold chain courses through NSDC and the Logistics Sector Skill Council, and government support via MoFPI  (builds and supports the food and cold chain ecosystem) and PMKVY ( trains people with the skills needed to work in these sectors) to improve practical training. Many companies are also investing in in-house academies and apprenticeships. Together, these efforts help create a safer, more efficient, and globally competitive logistics ecosystem.”  

Kamal Jain, Director, Cargomen Logistics said, “India faces a critical skills gap in dangerous goods handling and temperature-controlled logistics. While IATA and FIATA certifications exist, uptake remains limited. Government training centers and industry bodies offer courses, but standardised, large-scale programs are insufficient. WorldSkills standards and emerging Cold Chain Task Forces address this partially. However, we need coordinated efforts: structured apprenticeships in ports and airports, mandatory certifications for handlers, industry-academia partnerships, and dedicated training institutions. Closing this gap is essential for India’s EXIM growth and global logistics competitiveness.”

Arun Kumar, Managing Director, InSynergy Supply Chain Solutions said, “The logistics industry urgently needs trained and certified manpower to handle dangerous goods and perishable cargo, both of which demand a highly professional, safety-driven approach. Improper handling can lead not only to massive financial losses but also to serious risks to life, property, and the environment. As cargo volumes rise and supply chains grow more complex, skill development, continuous training, and strict adherence to global standards are essential to ensure compliance, minimise accidents, and protect the integrity of sensitive shipments.”

C K Govil, CMD, Activair Airfreight said, “India’s expanding cargo sector demands highly skilled manpower, especially in dangerous goods handling and cold chain logistics. To address this, the Government, regulators, and industry bodies are promoting specialised training through DGCA-approved DG courses, IATA certifications, and dedicated skill centres under the Skill India and Logistics Skill Council framework. These initiatives enhance safety, compliance, and temperature-controlled efficiency, ensuring India is equipped for the next phase of logistics growth.”

M Afzal Malbarwala, MD, Galaxy Freight said, “Industry is keenly focused on the significant skill gap in cold chain and dangerous goods logistics, crucial for pharmaceutical expansion. Under the National Logistics Policy, initiatives leverage the Logistics Sector Skill Council (LSC) to drive targeted programs like Reefer Operator training. This integrated focus on certification, industry-academia partnership, and updated technical expertise is vital for reducing risk, minimising high-value wastage, and ensuring safe, globally competitive operations.”

Rajen S Bhatia, Managing Director, Tulsidas Khimji said, “India’s logistics growth relies heavily on highly skilled manpower, especially in dangerous goods handling and cold-chain operations. Government agencies and industry bodies are enhancing capabilities through IATA and DGCA aligned training, digital SOPs, and specialised programmes under PMKVY and the Logistics Skill Councils. These initiatives strengthen compliance, safety, and temperature-controlled cargo integrity crucial for pharmaceuticals and perishables while underscoring that safety is paramount importance when cargo is transported by air and preparing India for the next phase of cargo expansion.”  

Mumbai Cargo Service Center Airport bagged the Best International Air Cargo Terminal Operator Award at the India Cargo Awards, recognising its outstanding performance and commitment to excellence in cargo handling. This prestigious accolade highlights the company’s dedication to innovation, operational efficiency, and high service standards, further strengthening its position as a leading player in the global air cargo industry.  

According to WorldACD’s latest analysis, Airfreight volumes from Southeast Asia to the US surged in October, marking the strongest rise this year amid a continued manufacturing shift from China. WorldACD data shows Asia-Pacific tonnages to the US up six per cent year-on-year in week 46, with Southeast Asia leading at 40 per cent growth. Momentum, however, remains uneven across the region.    

The air cargo sector is set for a major industry meet as freight forwarders, airlines, airports and tech innovators gather for the India International Cargo Show (IICS) in Mumbai from 10–13 December 2025. The event will spotlight global airfreight trends, featuring service upgrades, network expansions, infrastructure improvements, and new digital, automation-led solutions. The air cargo industry is gearing up for one of its most anticipated annual gatherings, as freight forwarders, airlines, airports, and technology innovators prepare to come together at the upcoming India International Cargo Show (IICS) in Mumbai from 10–13 December 2025. Recognised as a premier meeting point for logistics decision-makers, the event will highlight the latest advancements, challenges, and opportunities shaping global airfreight. This year’s exhibition brings an impressive lineup of participants, including leading international forwarders showcasing new service capabilities, cargo airlines presenting network developments, and major airports unveiling infrastructure upgrades designed to enhance cargo flow. Attendees can look forward to panel discussions, keynote presentations, and product demonstrations focused on digital transformation, sustainability, e-commerce growth, and the future of global logistics. With the industry continuing to evolve in response to shifting trade patterns and customer demands, the exhibition provides a vital space for collaboration and strategic dialogue.    

MOVIN, the logistics joint venture between InterGlobe Enterprises and UPS, has launched MOVIN Healthcare, a specialised vertical for India’s expanding healthcare logistics needs. It will cater to pharmaceuticals, Medical Technology (MedTech), diagnostics, and labs with secure, real-time monitored shipments, 24×7 control tower oversight, priority handling, and comprehensive carrier insurance for end-to-end protection.