Digital innovation and adoption of latest technologies such as Artificial Intelligence, Block Chain, Internet of Things, process innovation, collaboration, regulated environment, efficient cross border logistics and skilling, will going to transform the future of cold chain storage and logistics in India, discussed experts at the ongoing Cold Chain Unbroken (CCUB) 2024 in Hyderabad. The panel focused on the ‘Evolving cold chain infrastructure in India and Airports becoming the powerhouses.’ Focus was not only laid on improving the infrastructure for cold chain products handling and transportation but also on evolving consumer preferences, tastes and purchasing power which require seamless and resilient supply chain and end-to-end transparency and visibility.

Geodis obtains IATA’s Centre of Excellence for Independent Validators in Pharmaceutical Logistics (CEIV Pharma) certification. With healthcare as a key strategic growth sector, GEODIS is committed to achieving pharmaceutical handling excellence in ensuring safety, security, compliance, and efficiency through a globally consistent and recognized pharmaceutical-product handling standard throughout the region. In the APAC and Middle East region, the newly certified Sydney (Australia) site joins the existing regional network of CEIV Pharma-certified locations in China (PVG), Indonesia (CGK), India (DEL & BOM), South Korea (ICN), Thailand (BKK), United Arab Emirates (DXB) and Singapore (SIN).  GEODIS now operates a total of 29 CEIV Pharma certified sites across its global network spanning the Americas, Asia Pacific, the Middle East, and Europe. These certifications highlight the substantial investment GEODIS has made in its healthcare capabilities, establishing GEODIS as a key provider for pharma and healthcare companies.

“An Open Sky Policy is essential for improving air freight operations by significantly improving market dynamics and operational efficiency. Allowing airlines greater freedom to operate on different routes and eliminating restrictive agreements enables increased competition amongst carriers,” says Nikhil Agarwal, President, CJ Darcl Logistics. He adds, ” This competition often results in benefits for cost-effective and timely cargo operations. Additionally, an Open Sky Policy promotes expanded route networks, enhancing connectivity between major global hubs. This broader network enables more frequent flights and flexible scheduling, crucial for meeting the needs of modern supply chains requiring agility and precision. The ability to adjust routes and frequencies based on real-time demand can shorten transit times and optimize cargo flow, thus improving overall logistics efficiency. Moreover, the increased number of airlines and flights can enhance service levels and provide more options for cargo shippers, ultimately benefiting the global supply chain and stimulating economic growth.”

“In preparation for the upcoming festive season, Amazon India announced the launch of three new fulfillment centers in Delhi NCR, Guwahati and Patna. These new fulfilment centers, along with the expansion of Amazon’s existing fulfillment network, will significantly boost delivery speeds for customers in North and East India. The investment will help sellers across these states better serve their customers by placing selection closer to customers and create thousands of new job opportunities providing an economic impetus to the region. These jobs entail a variety of roles in Amazon’s operations network, including full time and part time opportunities. All these buildings are ready and operational ahead of the upcoming festive season and will collectively support more than 2.5 lakh sellers across Delhi NCR, Bihar and Assam. Most buildings in Amazon’s operations network are designed with state-of-the art technology, efficient building systems to minimize energy usage. They are designed to be net water zero with initiatives such as rainwater collection tanks, recharge wells to replenish water into aquifers, sewage treatment plants etc. As an inclusive place to work, Amazon FCs are designed to make them accessible to people with disabilities.”

“The National Logistics Policy (NLP) has brought remarkable changes to India’s logistics sector. The govt’s focus on developing logistics parks, warehousing, and transportation networks has been crucial in connecting various modes of transport and improving infrastructure,” says Ketan Kulkarni, Deputy Managing Director, Gati Express and Supply Chain. He adds, “This progress is helping reduce transit times and boosting supply chain efficiency across the country. At Allcargo Gati, we are excited about these developments and are closely aligned with the NLP’s vision for a more efficient and sustainable logistics ecosystem. Our efforts in digital transformation and sustainability reflect the policy’s goals, driving us to improve processes, build partnerships, and enhance performance. The Unified Logistics Interface Platform (ULIP) has been a game-changer, enabling real-time data exchange and better integration of digital systems. This is helping optimize supply chain operations and ensure smoother, faster cargo movement, supported by cutting-edge technology and data. As we move forward, Allcargo Gati remains committed to supporting India’s logistics sector, adding Gati Shakti to the logistics needs of Bharat, working towards lower logistics costs and a more connected, efficient, and green network.”

On completion of two years of National Logistics Policy, Nikhil Agarwal, President, CJ Darcl Logistics said, “NLP has been a boon for India in its aspiration to become a $7 trillion economy by 2030. Reducing logistics cost, enhancing infrastructure and trading operations in the policy are planned to make India as a global logistics hub. In the last two years, the policy has handled fundamental issues by leveraging technology, advocating for a multi-modal transport system, and enhancing the business environment. This policy has been effectively implemented across diverse ministries and has provided the logistics sector with a solid foundation of structural improvements and systemic transformations. The policy has provided unprecedented business opportunities and supply chain enhancements through government-led industrial collaboration and stakeholder coordination, which could help India actualize its dream of transforming into a developed country by 2047. The changes in policy goals towards innovation, sustainability, and improving infrastructure are gradually pushing the country towards a more competitive logistics environment. In this regard, CJ Darcl commends the government for their continued support to the logistics industry through the National Logistics Policy initiative. The application of technologies and more focus on implementation of sustainable measures allowed for the better management of complexities and disruptions. As for the future, we believe that the next stage of the development of NLP will provide further refinements and the scope for improvement in service provision and customer acquisition.”

Xerrxes Master, President, Association of Multimodal Transport Operators of India (AMTOI) says, “Transporters and LSPs face several pain points when it comes to moving cargo via roads in India. These challenges stem from the country’s vast geography varied infrastructure, regulatory landscape and operational complexities. It includes poor road infrastructure, uneven road quality, congestion in urban areas, regulatory & compliance issues, multiple permits and taxes, overloaded regulations, corruption at check points, fuel cost & fluctuations, fuel price volatility, fuel theft & pilferage, driver shortage & retention, lack of skilled drivers, poor driver working conditions, cargo damage & theft, risk of theft especially of high-value goods, damage to goods, inadequate insurance coverage, limited technology adaption, lack of visibility to most transporters, inefficient route planning, delays at checkpoints and borders, time-consuming border crossings, toll booth delays, inconsistent last mile connectivity, difficulties in rural areas, lack of proper warehousing and distribution hubs, environmental and weather challenges, weather-related disruptions, environmental regulations, competition & cost pressures, competition, unpredictable demand.”

Accio Robotics, a Warehouse Robotics specialising in warehouse fulfillment solutions, and SCM Champs, a US-based firm renowned for its expertise in SAP and supply chain consulting services have collaborated to transform the landscape of warehouse management, integrating world-class robotics solutions with advanced SAP warehouse management systems. Pranav Srinivasan, Co-founder of Accio Robotics, said, “We are excited about this strategic partnership. The integration of AccioOS with SAP warehouse management systems positions us as a key player in global warehouse automation. Together, we are looking forward to delivering a seamless, cutting-edge solution that will help our clients enhance efficiency and simplify their supply chain processes”. Prabhjot Singh, CEO and Founder of SCM Champs Inc, added, “At SCM Champs, we specialize in optimizing SAP supply chain execution processes by enhancing operational efficiency through services like strategy refinement, ERP integration, and implementation. Our focus areas include SAP Warehousing, Transportation, Logistics, Visibility, and Traceability. By joining forces with Accio Robotics, we are able to offer our clients an unprecedented level of automation, efficiency and enhanced productivity, made possible through the seamless integration of AccioOS with SAP warehouse management systems.

Cathay Cargo has refreshed its Cathay Courier solution for urgent, small shipments and has added transparency to its existing features of speed, guaranteed capacity, dedicated handling and customs clearance.  Cathay Courier offers businesses speed, flexibility and access to the wider Cathay network for their shipments with high priority for “flown as booked” assurance. It can either be an airport-to-airport solution or with first and last-mile collection and delivery as required.  There is also real flexibility with a booking window that closes 240 minutes before departure. The acceptance window for documents and shipments of up to 32kg closes 90 minutes before the flight takes off, while shipments can be retrieved 90 minutes after wheels down. As part of the refresh, Cathay Courier now features greater visibility for customers who require piece level details, offering enhanced track-and-trace options to customers during the shipment journey. This makes it ideal for high-value or bespoke e-commerce shipments, personal effects and documents. The Cathay Courier solution is offered in partnership with Linex, Cathay Cargo’s exclusive general sales agent. Linex is part of the Lenton Group, which has global expertise and experience in courier and cross-border e-commerce shipments. As well as dedicated acceptance procedures and customs handling, including its own customs lines, the solution can also offer first and last mile collection and delivery if required, while flights benefit from Cathay’s extensive network and frequent schedules. Cathay Cargo has been able to add this piece-level tracking benefit by integrating systems with Linex. This will greatly enhance tracking when shipments are in Cathay Cargo’s care. Customers will be able to track shipments on the Linex systems at piece level, or at air waybill level on the Cathay Cargo website …

Uniworld Logistics recently completed a notable project cargo movement involving the transport of specialised machinery from Spain to an industrial site in South of India. This project required meticulous planning due to the large and delicate nature of the equipment. The logistics team coordinated multi-modal transportation, utilising sea freight for the bulk of the journey and specialised road transport for the final delivery. They handled all necessary customs documentation and compliance, ensuring smooth transit across international borders. The project was completed on schedule, demonstrating Uniworld’s expertise in managing complex logistics operations efficiently.