Softlink Global expands its office space in Chennai as part of Softlink’s growth strategy, designed to enhance service efficiency by providing closer proximity to clients, reducing response times, and tapping into the local talent pool. Proximity with Softlink’s Mumbai HQ will also contribute significantly for collaboration and meeting the specific needs of South India. Amit Maheshwari, Founder and CEO of Softlink Global, emphasized the significance of the new office, stating, “The opening of our larger Chennai office represents our vision to bring superior technology solutions closer to our customers in South India. Coordinating closely with our headquarters in Mumbai, the Chennai team will drive efficiency and productivity in the region while working in tandem with our other offices to ensure a cohesive approach to achieving our strategic objectives.” “Our vision for the future of logistics goes beyond merely expanding office spaces. We are committed to advancing logistics technology through ongoing product innovation and skill development via Softlink Academy. With a three-decade legacy of progress, our focus remains on preparing ourselves and our partners for the future,” added Amit. Notable personalities attended the inauguration ceremony, including R. Srinivasa Naik, Principal Commissioner of Customs, Airport Chennai, G. Raghushankar, Executive Director of International Clearing & Shipping Agency (India), CMR Ananth Sairam, PRO CCBA and Partner at M/s Chettinad Sairam Logistics, RN Sekar, President of CCBA and Proprietor of Trident International, S. Nataraja, Secretary of CCBA and Proprietor of Paramount Forwarders and Divakaran Nair, Vice President of CCBA and Director of Transpower Maritime India along with partners, employees, and industry representatives. Demonstrating the importance of the occasion, Softlink Global’s Founder & CEO Amit Maheshwari, Chief Growth Officer Kunal Maheshwari and Director Arun Ashan …

Kirby Building Systems India inaugurated its 50,000 MT capacity facility at Halol, Gujarat, doubling the business’ Halol Pre-Engineered Steel Building (PEB) capacity to 100,000 MT per annum within a span of 15 months since the inauguration of this facility in February 2023. This milestone enables Kirby India to reach a total installed capacity of 300,000 MT per annum when paired with the two facilities at Hyderabad and Haridwar, each having 100,000 MT installed capacity. The three state-of-the-art facilities are strategically located at south, north and west with the newest plant at Halol having advanced fabrication technologies such as CNC Laser Cutting Machine, CNC Plasma Cutting Machine, CNC Drilling Machine, CNC Controlled Laser Guided Welding Machine and other equipment. These advanced machineries provide high quality products to all our customers, with faster deliveries that consistently deliver projects on schedule. Mahmoud Samara, CEO – inaugurated the expansion along with Hashim Gillani, President – Industrial Group, Yogesh Kumar, Vice President Finance – Retail & Industrial, and other members of senior management from Alghanim Industries and Kirby India. This strategic expansion further cements Kirby India’s position as the leader in the PEB space thereby enabling the business to provide cost-effective, high-quality PEB solutions that meet global standards. As the market leader in the PEB industry for over 25 years, Kirby India’s impact on the construction landscape is undeniable. Serving over 10,000 customers focusing on innovation and sustainability, Kirby’s advanced facilities and proprietary technologies deliver precision-engineered steel structures that meet the growing demands of India’s infrastructure boom. This Halol facility is the first PEB plant in the world to achieve Platinum Rated Green Building Certification which is a testament to our commitment to green building …

Kamesh Peri, CEO, Celebi Delhi Cargo Terminal Management India says, “The initiatives like PM Gati Shakti and the National Logistics Policy (NLP) have clear goals and are poised to transform India’s cold chain sector. The PM Gati Shakti-National Master Plan aims to enhance multi-modal connectivity, addressing critical gaps in infrastructure such as underdeveloped roads and inefficient ports. This initiative, along with the NLP’s focus on reducing logistics costs from 13-14% of GDP to 8%, will drive the growth of the cold chain market, potentially increasing its value from Rs 2 lakh crore in 2023 to Rs 5 lakh crore by 2032. Granting infrastructure status to warehousing and cold chains ensures better credit flow, further supporting this growth. Moreover, digital initiatives like the Unified Logistics Interface Platform (ULIP) offer real-time tracking and transparency across the supply chain. This enhances efficiency and reliability, essential for temperature-sensitive cargo. Innovations such as active and passive cold chain solutions, ice batteries and cube packaging improve temperature control and product preservation, crucial for reducing spoilage and maintaining quality. These comprehensive measures collectively strengthen the cold chain infrastructure, ensuring a more resilient and efficient logistics network in India.”

  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.”