The logistics industry in 2024 showcased agility amidst global challenges. Sasi Nair, President, Northern India Steamer Agents Association, highlights resilience, sustainability, and collaboration as the cornerstones of a future-ready logistics sector aligned with India’s vision for growth and excellence.
Infrastructure development plays a vital role in the growth of the logistics sector
2024 brought significant geopolitical uncertainties that affected global trade, especially in the EXIM and logistics sectors. Despite these challenges, India’s logistics industry displayed remarkable resilience, adapting swiftly to maintain seamless supply chain operations. The country’s logistics sector embraced agility, leveraged technological advancements, and relied on innovative solutions to meet the demand for uninterrupted trade. The lessons learnt from the post-COVID era further prepared the sector to navigate unforeseen disruptions, reinforcing its adaptability for future challenges.
Setting measurable goals
Looking ahead to 2025, achieving a sustainable and efficient supply chain requires a unified approach, with stakeholders embracing digital transformation and committing to environmental responsibility. Synergy among logistics providers, technology companies, and other partners is critical. Equally important is the readiness to develop alternative plans in case of unexpected events. The China+1 policy, as well as potential shifts under a new U.S. presidency, presents new avenues for trade that India can harness to strengthen its supply chain position. With proactive planning and flexible strategies, the industry can take full advantage of these opportunities.
Contributing to the Viksit Bharat vision
Infrastructure development plays a vital role in the growth of the logistics sector and is crucial for realising India’s Viksit Bharat Vision 2047. The government’s initiatives, such as PM Gati Shakti and the National Logistics Policy, are key steps in enhancing India’s logistics infrastructure. These efforts aim to improve connectivity, reduce logistical costs, and make transportation more efficient. Stakeholders in the sector, from shipping lines to customs agents, are actively investing in expanding capacities and incorporating advanced technology. This concerted effort aligns with India’s vision of a developed and resilient logistics infrastructure by 2047.
Cost vs Customer
The logistics sector’s success depends on its ability to balance cost efficiency with customer satisfaction. Infrastructure projects such as Dedicated Freight Corridors, Inland Waterways, and multimodal logistics parks will contribute significantly to cost savings while enhancing service reliability. Furthermore, the expansion of sea and air port capacities will further support this dual objective. With improved infrastructure, logistics companies will be able to offer more reliable and cost-effective solutions, ensuring customers receive quality service while maintaining competitive costs.
Building future ecosystems
Building a robust logistics ecosystem requires collaboration between policymakers, technology providers, and logistics companies. Regular dialogues under the guidance of policymakers can foster innovation and streamline procedures. Learning from global best practices and benchmarking against developed nations will further enhance India’s logistics capabilities. The goal is to lower logistics costs, a key barrier to competitiveness, by fostering teamwork among stakeholders and aligning efforts toward a unified vision.
Sasi Nair envisions a logistics industry that thrives on resilience, sustainability, and collaboration. By leveraging technology, infrastructure, and teamwork, India is well-positioned to overcome challenges, achieve global benchmarks, and contribute to the ‘Viksit Bharat’ Vision for 2047.
