Chandranath Dey, India Head – Operations & Business Development, Logistics & Industrial, India, JLL says, “PM Gati Shakti Master Plan aims to break departmental silos and institutionalise holistic planning for stakeholders across major infrastructure projects. This integrated approach is likely to reduce implementation delays and cost overruns, further enhancing the efficiency of the logistics sector. Overall, these policies are expected to create a more efficient, standardised, and technologically advanced logistics ecosystem in India, which should significantly boost the country’s competitiveness in global trade and manufacturing.”

Akash Singh, Partner, Kearney says, “India ranks 38th in the Logistics Performance Index, much lower than USA (17th) and China (19th) due to lagging logistics infrastructure and services. The average speed on India’s NHs is 30-35 kmph compared to ~90 kmph in USA, service levels in Railways are low and multi-modal infrastructure is limited. To achieve the target of USD 30 trillion GDP by 2047, the logistics sector will need to support 4x+ growth in freight movement. Under PM GatiShakti, plans of infrastructure ministries are being integrated using GIS-technology. Ministries have laid out plans to increase access-controlled highways to 50,000 km (12x), port capacity to 10,000 MTPA (4x), develop 21 greenfield airports, energy/ mineral/ cement railway corridors and 35 multi-modal logistics parks for providing connectivity to industrial nodes. Capex by the central government has grown to Rs. 11.1 Lakh Cr. (5x in 11 years). To leapfrog the leading economies, infrastructure will need to precede the freight growth and develop by 2037 supported by government capex and private investment. National Logistics Policy focuses on improving efficiency in processes, digital systems, and regulatory framework. Unified Logistics Interface Platform has democratized access to government datasets for logistics and LEADS is pushing the States. Sustained initiatives across logistics infrastructure and services by all stakeholders will help achieve the vision of ‘Viksit Bharat’.” —

  Vinet K Chadha, MD, Combined Logistics Solutions says, “PM Gati Shakti Master Plan is a very important initiative for developing country like India. It is targeting the ideal and the perfect sectors which will boost manufacturing like electronics, renewable energy , pharmaceuticals etc . At its core, the plan focuses on enhancing our infrastructure and logistics. By improving transportation networks—such as roads, railways, and ports—we can significantly reduce logistics costs and delivery times, making our manufacturing sector much more competitive. This will also make an attractive proposition for businesses to set up their warehouse in India, ultimately positioning India as a global manufacturing hub.”     National logistics policy – One of the most notable impacts will be the reduction of logistics costs, which currently account for a substantial percentage of GDP. Another key impact is the integration of technology and digital solutions into logistics operations. Incorporating sustainability , will make India green in the logistics sector well and will also keep India up to date with the world trends.       The world is moving towards “Smart logistics” and now so will India. Both of these initiative’s impact will be seen long-term. Despite being the 5th largest economy in the world , India is still a developing nation – Its journey towards a developed country will definitely be fast forwarded through these master plans.    

Mahendra Shah, CMD, V Trans Group says, “We segregate the needs of transporting hazardous goods and ensure that required safety measures are taken as per the instructions received from the client. This includes that our vehicles are equipped with comprehensive spill response kits and PPE, ensuring that drivers are fully prepared with clear protocols for any incident. Additionally, we plane the routes to avoid crowded areas, and our drivers undergo rigorous training in handling dangerous goods and emergency response, empowering them to act decisively in critical situations. Real-time GPS tracking allows for immediate intervention during emergencies or route deviations. Training programs at our CHEMSTORE are very important and effective. These programs are specially designed for handling dangerous goods. Our rigorous, hands-on approach ensures employees retain critical safety protocols with thorough assessments and real-world application. Frequent emergency drills validate rapid, effective responses to incidents such as spills and fires. High employee confidence in managing hazardous materials, coupled with the consistent and proper use of PPE, highlights the program’s excellence in cultivating a robust safety culture and ensuring strict regulatory compliance.”

Anoop Chauhan, Vice President – Contract Logistics & Cold Chain, Subcontinent DP World says, “We prioritise the highest level of safety, visibility and security for all our customers’ cargo. Our 5 million sq ft of warehouse facilities, strategically located across the country, are equipped with state-of-the-art fire safety systems and are safe-guarded 24/7 by advanced surveillance. Our Warehouse Management System/Transportation Management System seamlessly integrates with customer systems, enhancing control, transparency, and operational agility. This robust infrastructure ensures fully secured Supply Chain Management across key sectors like Technology, Healthcare, Cold Chain, Auto, Chemicals and more.”  

Surendra Bhatia, SVP – Global Airfreight, Freight systems shares, “For the purpose of safeguarding resources and preserving operational effectiveness, warehouse cargo safety must be guaranteed. Some of the key tactics include adequate instructions for staff education, emergency protocols and safe handling practices. Operation of forklifts and equipment with verified operators with necessary certification and training. Optimisation of warehouse layout, with clear pathways to create spacious aisles to allow workers and forklifts to move around safely. Zoning to reduce the chance of accidents. Utilising technology inventory management systems to keep track of inventory. CCTV surveillance to keep an eye and discourage misbehaviour or theft. Safety gear to ensure all workers are wearing proper personal protective equipment (PPE). Continual upkeep of equipment, through routine maintenance on all equipment. Examine the storage racks for wear and tear checks. Readiness for emergencies to create and disseminate a concise emergency response plan. Ensure first aid supplies are easily accessible and teach employees the fundamentals of first aid. Frequent evaluations and safety audits to find possible risks. Labelling and load limits. safe access management with limitations on access and visitor protocols must.”

Sandeep Chadha, Founder & CEO, Warehouster says, “To ensure cargo safety in warehouses, companies must implement strict security protocols, invest in real-time tracking systems, and utilise advanced monitoring technologies like RFID and IoT sensors. Regular staff training on proper handling and storage techniques is crucial to preventing damage. Additionally, emergency preparedness plans and regular safety audits can help mitigate risks, ensuring both the protection of cargo and the smooth operation of the facility.”

The International Air Cargo Association (TIACA) signed MoU with the King Salman International Airport (KSIA) to collaborate towards enhancing the profile of cargo and logistics within the region and globally by leveraging the irrespective strengths towards promotion, training and capacity building, innovation, and sustainability leadership.  The primary objective of the MoU is to support the profile of cargo and logistics within the region and also globally. “This signing of this MoU is important to the industry as it signals the strong support of the association’s mission not only to unite the industry but to set the vision for the air cargo industry, disseminate and enhance knowledge and promote and encourage business, social and technological innovation. We are excited to get to work with our colleagues at KSIA and appreciate their vision to further air cargo not only within their region but also globally.” stated Steven Polmans, TIACA Chair. Marco Mejia, Acting CEO of KSIADC, said: “This strategic membership marks a significant milestone for KSIA and its partners as they collectively strive to enhance Saudi Arabia’s position as a global logistics powerhouse. KSIA remains dedicated to its mission of delivering a world-class airport, logistics, and cargo solutions; and fostering Saudi Arabia’s economic development.” “Over the last few years, TIACA has been focused on spotlighting the importance of air cargo across the globe, the training of the future of the next leaders, creating a sustainable future and shining a light on innovation within the industry. The signing of this MoU couldn’t be more of a natural step and we look forward to working with KSIA to accomplish the tasks at hand.” stated Glyn Hughes, Director General, TIACA.

DHL Express and DHL Global Forwarding are furthering their sustainability goals through a contract renewal with IAG Cargo, to use an additional 60 million liters of Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) on behalf of DHL. The new contract covers 2024 and 2025 emissions and will result in a reduction of greenhouse gas emissions of approximately 165,000 metric tons of CO2e. The annual emissions reduction would be equivalent to removing a B747-400 freighter from DHL’s intercontinental operations from the UK to US – which makes the partnership the largest SAF agreement between an airline and a customer to date and underlines DHL’s leading role in sustainable air freight solutions.  The SAF used in this collaboration is certified by International Sustainability & Carbon Certification (ISCC) and is derived from sources such as used cooking oil and food waste. Compared to conventional jet fuel, this type of SAF has been proven to achieve around 80% lower lifecycle emissions. The SAF used will mainly be delivered to London Heathrow. “We strongly believe that collaboration is the foundation of a more sustainable future. Both DHL and IAG Cargo share a strong commitment to carbon footprint reduction. We are pleased that we can now mark another milestone on our journey towards more sustainable air freight,” said Travis Cobb, EVP Global Network Operations & Aviation at DHL Express.

According to the latest report by Savills India, “The industrial and logistics sector demonstrated remarkable resilience in Q3 2024, achieving an impressive absorption of 17.5 million square feet up from 11.4 million square feet in Q3 2023.” This represents a substantial Y-o-Y increase of 53.5%, solidifying India’s status as a burgeoning hub for industrial and logistics operations. Tier I cities led the charge in absorption, accounting for 14.0 million square feet (80%) of the total, while Tier II and III cities contributed 3.5 million square feet (20%). This growth was driven primarily by sustained demand from the third-party logistics (3PL) sector, which comprised 38% of total absorption, alongside manufacturing at 16%. Notably, there was a sharp rise in demand from the fast-moving consumer goods (FMCG) and fast-moving consumer durables (FMCD) sectors, contributing 17%. In addition to strong absorption rates, the sector witnessed a fresh supply of 19.3 million square feet in Q3 2024, reflecting a 9% year-on-year growth compared to Q3 2023. Tier I cities accounted for the majority of this supply, with 16.4 million square feet (85%), while Tier II and III cities contributed 2.9 million square feet (15%). Grade A spaces accounted for 54% of the total absorption, reflecting changing occupier preferences, especially toward sustainable and ESG-compliant spaces, the report added.