close
close

Logistics sector seeks infrastructure, economic corridor and digital boost

Logistics sector seeks infrastructure, economic corridor and digital boost

Ahead of the general budget, the country’s logistics sector has called for a push towards infrastructure, multimodal transport cum economic corridor development approach and green energy and electric vehicle ecosystem. The sector has also called for investments in technology and digitalisation for smooth functioning of the sector.

“We are optimistic about the government’s commitment to strengthen the logistics sector. A focus on infrastructure development, streamlined regulations, upskilling programmes for the workforce and enhanced investment in technology will be crucial in driving efficiency and sustainability in our industry,” said Vineet Agarwal, managing director, Transport Corporation of India (TCI).

“We look forward to policies that support innovation, facilitate ease of doing business and create a robust framework for the growth of the logistics and transport sector,” Agarwal added.

“Building on the foundation of the interim budget, we envisage that this budget will significantly boost infrastructure investments, particularly in multimodal transportation and advanced warehousing. We expect continued emphasis on green energy and strong EV infrastructure, accelerating our journey towards green logistics. Focus on automation and digitalisation across the logistics value chain will be crucial to achieve higher efficiencies and lower costs,” said Rampraveen Swaminathan, MD and CEO, Mahindra Logistics.

The industry representatives also stressed on the need to undertake an economic corridor development approach for logistics in the country. “Building on the positive steps taken in the interim budget, it is essential to prioritise a well-distributed allocation for the logistics sector in the upcoming budget,” said Harpreet Singh Malhotra, CMD, Tiger Logistics.

“This should ensure continued transformation at all levels. Infrastructure development, dedicated economic/freight corridors and continued investment in seamless customs processes and multimodality are all critical for a more efficient and integrated logistics network. Such a comprehensive approach will be instrumental in propelling the overall transformation of the sector and India’s economic growth,” Malhotra added.

Besides measures to facilitate investments in the sector, players have also called for accelerating the existing policies announced for the sector. “Accelerating the National Logistics Policy and projects like ONDC, ULIP and Direct Freight Corridor is essential for creating a unified logistics ecosystem. Addressing skill development in the sector is vital to meet the demands of modern logistics. Setting up a comprehensive regulatory framework to support the gig economy and formalising last-mile delivery employment must remain a priority in budget allocation. These initiatives will help create a fair, inclusive and innovative logistics landscape,” Swaminathan said.