CONCOR, India’s leading logistics provider, has evolved from a rail operator to a multimodal giant. Under CMD Sanjay Swarup, it established 15 multimodal logistics parks, integrated AI systems, and embraced sustainable practices, securing the 248th rank on the 2023 “Fortune India 500” list.
CONCOR ranked 248th on the “Fortune India 500″ list of 2023
- NETWORK EXPANSION
Since 1989, the company has grown from seven ICDs to 66 locations nationwide, significantly boosting India’s logistics network.
- GLOBAL COLLABORATION
The partnership with Russian Railways advances the International North-South Transport Corridor, connecting India and Russia via multimodal routes.
- MULTIMODAL EXCELLENCE
The company excels in container transportation with its extensive rail network and multimodal capabilities.
- DIGITAL ADVANCEENTS
The Digital Booking Platform and FMLM app offer online container booking, real-time updates, and reliable services.
- PAPERLESS INNOVATIONS
Adoption of a paperless e-office and AI-based systems, including mobile apps, enhances decision-making and sustainability.
- SUSTAINABILITY FOCUS
Deploying 100 LNG-powered trailers and building an LNG station at MMLP Khatuwas are key steps toward advancing eco-friendly practices.
Container Corporation of India (CONCOR) has long been at the forefront of providing end-to-end logistics solutions, particularly for piecemeal cargo, enhancing the logistics ecosystem in India. At the helm of this dynamic organisation is Sanjay Swarup, the current Chairman and Managing Director (CMD), whose leadership has been pivotal in driving CONCOR’s success. Sanjay Swarup, an accomplished leader with over three decades of experience in both the public sector and government, gives us insights into what inspired him to join CONCOR. He was drawn by the company’s adaptability, vibrancy, and its mission to revolutionise logistics. His decision to join was motivated by the opportunity to contribute to a company that was not only transforming the logistics landscape but also setting new benchmarks for efficiency and service.
With a background in Electronics and Communication Engineering from IIT Roorkee and a Post Graduate Diploma in Public Policy and Management from IIM Bangalore, Swarup brings a rich blend of technical expertise and strategic insight. His career began at Bharat Heavy Electricals (BHEL), followed by significant roles at Indian Railways, where he developed expertise in operations, commercial management, safety, and IT functions. As Director of International Marketing & Operations at CONCOR, Swarup managed around 80 percent of the company’s business, overseeing marketing, infrastructure development, and strategic planning.
In its 35-year journey, CONCOR has evolved into a major end-to-end logistics solutions provider
Under his leadership, CONCOR has achieved remarkable milestones, including the design and operationalisation of 15 greenfield multimodal logistics parks (MMLPs). His efforts in implementing IT initiatives such as the Know Your Container Location (KYCL) system and AI-based Terminal Management Systems (TMS) have streamlined operations, improved efficiency, and set new industry standards. Swarup’s strategic vision also led to successful negotiations and partnerships, including the International North-South Transport Corridor (INSTC) MoU with JSC Russian Railways (RZDL), which has enhanced intermodal operations and fostered international trade. His leadership has not only advanced CONCOR’s position as a market leader but also brought significant administrative and financial efficiencies, reflecting his deep commitment to driving the logistics industry forward.
Humble beginnings
Container Corporation of India Ltd. (CONCOR) was founded in March 1988 under the Indian Companies Act and began its operations in November 1989. Initially, it started with just seven Inland Container Depots (ICDs) acquired from Indian Railways. Over the years, CONCOR has expanded its network to 66 ICDs, Container Freight Stations (CFSs), and Domestic Container Depots across the country. The company has grown into a conglomerate, encompassing 16 companies, including four subsidiaries, ten joint ventures, and two joint working groups. This transformation from a rail-based operator to a leading multimodal logistics provider has positioned CONCOR as a key player in the Indian logistics industry.
Expanding horizons
In its 35-year journey, CONCOR has evolved into a major end-to-end logistics solutions provider. While the Export-Import (EXIM) segment constitutes about 80 percent of its operations, CONCOR also plays a significant role in domestic trade, with nearly 47,000 containers connecting cargo clusters nationwide. The company’s operations are centred on rail transportation, but it also offers a wide range of value-added services, including warehousing, first- and last-mile connectivity, stevedoring, cold chain logistics, customs facilitation, palletisation, and fumigation. In July 2014, CONCOR was awarded the prestigious ‘Navratna’ status by the Ministry of Heavy Industries and Public Enterprises, Government of India. Despite global challenges, CONCOR achieved its highest-ever throughput of 4.72 million TEUs in the fiscal year 2023-24, reflecting an 8.25 percent growth over the previous year.
Innovation and sustainability
The integration of AI and digital solutions has revolutionised CONCOR’s terminal operations.
CONCOR continues to lead the logistics sector with its fleet of nearly 380 high-speed container rakes, enabling efficient movement of time-sensitive cargo. The company has established 16 Multi-Modal Logistics Parks (MMLPs) at strategic locations, including four on the Western Dedicated Freight Corridor (DFC). Conscious of the need to reduce its carbon footprint, CONCOR has deployed 100 LNG-powered trailers and plans to add 200 more. The company has also adopted a paperless ‘e-office’ environment to enhance decision-making and contribute to sustainability. Information technology plays a crucial role in its operations, with recent initiatives including an AI-based Terminal Management System at ICD Tughlakabad and the launch of a digital booking platform and First/Last Mile (FMLM) service mobile app. These platforms offer customers real-time information, transparent booking processes, and enhanced service reliability. CONCOR’s commitment to innovation and sustainability is further demonstrated by its ranking of 248th on the “Fortune India 500″ list of 2023.
Competitive edge
CONCOR stands out in the container transportation and logistics sector due to its unmatched rail network and multimodal capabilities. With the largest fleet of container rakes and domestic containers in India, CONCOR operates the most extensive network of container terminals nationwide. This robust infrastructure allows for the swift movement of containers between origin and destination points, serving both EXIM and domestic markets. The company’s efficiency is evident in its low dwell time for import-laden containers, thanks to its large fleet and extensive terminal network. Additionally, CONCOR’s three Multi-Modal Logistics Parks (MMLPs) at Khatuwas, Dadri, and Swarupgunj are connected to the Dedicated Freight Corridor (DFC), with the Vernama (Vadodara) MMLP set to join soon. This connectivity enables double-stack train operations, significantly reducing transit times and logistics costs for customers.
Digital transformation
Container Corporation of India Ltd. (CONCOR) has embraced technology to enhance its operations significantly. Over the past three decades, CONCOR has integrated advanced digital solutions and artificial intelligence (AI) to streamline its processes. This transformation began with the launch of an AI project at the flagship terminal in Tughlakabad, designed to meet the increasing demands of the digital age. The project utilises cutting-edge technologies, including automation and machine learning, to align with the Indian government’s vision of modernising the transport and logistics sector.
The integration of AI and digital solutions has revolutionised CONCOR’s terminal operations. Centralised business and front office applications have been introduced to automate gate movements, optimise yard planning, and improve container location tracking with 3D accuracy. The implementation of these modules has resulted in faster gate entry and exit, automated job order creation, and real-time monitoring of container locations. Additionally, real-time views of warehouse occupancy and space utilisation have enabled better space management and operational efficiency. The use of real-time analytics allows for quicker decision-making and increased transparency, optimising resource utilisation and availability.
CONCOR has also launched a digital booking platform and a First/Last Mile (FMLM) transportation mobile app, allowing customers to book containers online and access end-to-end, door-to-door services. The introduction of an e-forwarding note facility at all EXIM terminals across the country further enhances convenience and efficiency. These advancements contribute to faster service, more reliable deliveries, and a more transparent supply chain, ultimately leading to an improved overall experience for customers.
Expanding global reach
Container Corporation of India Ltd. (CONCOR) has significantly advanced its international operations through its collaboration with Russian Railways. The International North-South Transport Corridor (INSTC) is a 7,200 km multi-modal network that connects India to Russia via Iran, combining sea, rail, and road routes. Currently, containerised cargo travelling through the Suez Canal takes between 40 to 50 days. Once the INSTC is fully operational, this transit time is expected to be reduced to approximately 30-35 days, offering a more efficient alternative. Additionally, this route holds potential for extension to Scandinavian countries, including Norway, Finland, Denmark, and Sweden.
In 2020, CONCOR entered into a service agreement with RZD Logistics, a joint stock company of Russian Railways. This agreement covers the transportation of cargo between India and Russia under a single invoice, ensuring a seamless logistics experience for customers in both countries. This collaboration aims to streamline cargo movement and improve efficiency across the corridor.
CONCOR is closely monitoring the progress of the INSTC project, particularly in light of the evolving geopolitical landscape. As the project advances, CONCOR is prepared to expand its operations to enhance service offerings and strengthen its presence in international markets. This proactive approach ensures that CONCOR remains well-positioned to meet the growing demands of global trade and provide top-notch logistics solutions to its customers worldwide.
Pioneering logistics excellence
Container Corporation of India Ltd. (CONCOR) has been a key driver in advancing India’s logistics and transportation industry. Since its inception in 1989, when it inherited just seven Inland Container Depots (ICDs) from Indian Railways, CONCOR has grown significantly. Today, it operates 66 locations across the country, creating a vast and efficient network.
CONCOR’s strategic partnerships with both public and private entities have been instrumental in establishing terminals at key locations. From Baddi in Himachal Pradesh to Cochin in Kerala, and Amingaon in Assam to APSA in Gujarat, CONCOR has led the way in building crucial logistics infrastructure. This network has not only improved trade efficiency but also spurred economic growth in surrounding areas, with new industries emerging around CONCOR’s terminals.
Investing in technology and sustainability, CONCOR has implemented cutting-edge IT solutions, including AI, at its flagship ICD Tughlakabad terminal. The company is also pioneering environmental initiatives with the upcoming completion of its first in-house LNG station at MMLP Khatuwas, promoting green fuel use in its operations. These efforts highlight CONCOR’s commitment to setting industry standards and driving progress in the logistics sector.
Leading sustainability efforts
CONCOR is committed to sustainability with several key initiatives. It has deployed 100 LNG-powered trailers for first- and last-mile services, with plans to add 200 more. An in-house LNG station is under construction at MMLP Khatuwas, set to be the first of its kind in Northern India. Additionally, CONCOR was a pioneer among Indian PSUs in adopting a paperless office solution during the pandemic. This transition has boosted productivity and significantly reduced paper consumption, reflecting the company’s dedication to environmental responsibility and operational efficiency.
Strategic vision and commitment
Sanjay Swarup expresses gratitude to stakeholders for their support over the past 35 years. He highlights CONCOR’s commitment to delivering top-tier service while upholding principles of transparency and strong corporate governance. As CONCOR continually evaluates its processes, the company aims to meet both current and future logistics demands.
Swarup emphasises the company’s strategic partnerships that facilitate seamless end-to-end logistics services both within India and internationally. With these initiatives, CONCOR is well-positioned to retain its leadership role in the Indian logistics industry.
