In a geographically vast and diverse market like India, manufacturing hubs are often located far from major export gateways and consumer markets. This physical distance creates logistical challenges that can increase transportation costs and extend delivery timelines. Experts note that improving coordination between different transport modes is critical to overcoming these challenges and ensuring smoother movement of goods across the country.

Industry analysts say that multimodal logistics systems can significantly reduce transit times, optimize freight movement, and lower overall logistics costs. By allowing goods to move efficiently through interconnected transport networks, such systems also help businesses improve supply chain reliability and operational efficiency.

As India seeks to strengthen its position in global manufacturing and trade, the development of integrated logistics infrastructure is expected to play a crucial role in supporting domestic producers as well as exporters. Better connectivity between industrial clusters, logistics hubs, and ports can help unlock growth opportunities and enhance the competitiveness of Indian goods in international markets.

Arvind Devaraj, COO, NICDC Logistics Data Services Limited (NLDSL)

Why Multimodal Matters for India

India’s logistics costs have historically been higher than global averages due to fragmented transport modes and an overreliance on road freight. Integrating multiple modes such as rail and waterways with trucking helps utilise the cost and fuel efficiency of rail for long distances while retaining the flexibility of roads for first/last-mile delivery. This balance is vital for connecting hinterland production centres with ports and urban markets.

Digital Enablement Strengthening Multimodal Efficiency

Alongside physical infrastructure, digital integration is becoming a critical enabler of multimodal efficiency. The Unified Logistics Interface Platform (ULIP) facilitates secure, API-based data exchange across government systems and logistics stakeholders, enabling real-time visibility and interoperable coordination across transport modes.

The Logistics Data Bank (LDB) enhances container-level tracking across ports, ICDs, and rail networks, improving transparency in EXIM cargo movement and reducing uncertainty in intermodal transfers. Complementing this, the Track Your Transport (TYT) application supports vehicle and cargo visibility, compliance verification, and trip-level monitoring, strengthening first- and last-mile connectivity within multimodal chains.

Together, these digital interventions help reduce information asymmetry, improve planning accuracy, and support intelligence-led logistics management across interconnected transport networks.

Connecting Growth Markets with Export Gateways

For India’s growth markets including electronics, automotive, textiles, and perishables multimodal logistics bridges the gap between producers and global supply chains. By linking manufacturing clusters in Tier-2 and Tier-3 cities with major ports and inland logistics hubs, multimodal systems help reduce both transit time and inventory costs for exporters, making Indian products more competitive internationally.

Government Initiatives Supporting Integration

Policy measures have played an important role in scaling multimodal logistics in India. The National Logistics Policy (NLP) and PM Gati Shakti National Master Plan aim to unify planning across ministries and projects, creating digital infrastructure and physical connectivity to support multimodal operations. The development of Multimodal Logistics Parks (MMLPs) is central to this vision, bringing rail, road, and ports into shared hubs with tracking and handling facilities designed to streamline freight movement.

Benefits for Regional and Small-Scale Markets

Efficient multimodal logistics can significantly benefit regional and smaller markets that are otherwise cost-constrained. By reducing reliance on costly long-haul trucking and encouraging rail and waterways usage, producers in interior regions gain better access to national and international markets at competitive freight rates, improving profitability and spurring local economic growth.

Challenges on the Path to Seamless Integration

Despite progress, multimodal logistics in India faces persistent challenges. Infrastructure bottlenecks such as port congestion, limited inland waterway capacity, and uneven intermodal terminals constrain seamless transfers. Regulatory complexity across agencies and states also adds to delays and costs, and uneven technology adoption among smaller operators hinders real-time visibility and coordination. Addressing these hurdles is essential to fully realise the potential of multimodal networks.

A Strategic Lever for Sustainability and Growth

Beyond economic efficiency, multimodal logistics supports sustainability goals by enabling a shift away from carbon-intensive road freight towards greener alternatives like rail and waterways. This transition is critical for India’s commitments to reduce emissions and build resilient supply chains. Furthermore, smarter modal integration can help reduce urban congestion and create more predictable transit times, benefiting industries and consumers alike.

Conclusion
Multimodal logistics holds the promise of transforming India’s logistics landscape by bridging the efficiency gap between its growth markets and the broader economy. Through strategic infrastructure development, policy harmonisation, and technology adoption, India can reduce logistics costs, enhance connectivity, and strengthen its role in global supply chains. However, sustained focus on addressing structural bottlenecks from regulatory simplification to last-mile connectivity will be crucial to ensure that multimodal logistics not only bridges gaps on paper but delivers measurable gains on the ground.

Official Go-live of Microsoft Business Central ERP at Novelty Logistics

The integration marks a significant advancement in Novelty Logistics’ digital transformation journey, enhancing operational efficiency, supply chain visibility, and customer service across the Gulf region. The Microsoft ERP system is designed to streamline processes, enable data-driven decision-making, and strengthen the company’s agility in a competitive market.

“We are thrilled to partner with Novelty Logistics on this transformative project. Our expertise in digital transformation enabled Novelty Logistics to take a significant leap in becoming a more agile and responsive organisation,” commented CA Pawan Kumar Rastogi, Director, VTS Infosoft Pvt Ltd. “This integration also marks a milestone in our strategic expansion into the GCC region, reinforcing our commitment to delivering innovative solutions and driving growth across global markets.”

Mr Abdul Majeed, Managing Director at Novelty Logistics, stated, “Harnessing technology to fuel innovation and set new standards of excellence in logistics is the way forward in today’s era. With the new ERP system, we are empowered to deliver unmatched customer service and accelerate our expansion across the region with greater speed and confidence.”

Representing Novelty Logistics Group, Founder Partners Hani Hassan Ali Al-Ghamdi and Abdulla Al Harthi stated, “At Novelty Logistics, the idea of driving innovation and excellence has always been central. We continue to seek ways to deliver seamless transportation and logistics solutions and elevate customer satisfaction. The ERP integration is a strategic step in that direction, and we are excited about the positive impact it will bring to our operations and overall customer experience.”

Abdulla Al Harthi further emphasized, “We are elated to have achieved this milestone and appreciate the efforts of the VTS Infosoft team led by Rahul Agarwal- Practice Head. This is a significant step toward our goal of becoming a leading logistics provider in the Middle East & India.”

About Novelty Logistics

Novelty Logistics is a global transportation & logistics company with a strong presence across the Gulf region. With a focus on innovation, customer satisfaction, and operational excellence, Novelty Logistics continues to expand its footprint and deliver world-class logistics solutions.

Website: www.noveltylogistics.com.

About VTS Infosoft Pvt Ltd

VTS Infosoft Pvt Ltd is a trusted digital transformation partner specializing in ERP implementations, enterprise solutions, and technology-driven innovation. With expertise across industries, VTS Infosoft empowers organizations to achieve agility, efficiency, and sustainable growth.

Website: vtsinfosoft.com.

Sapna Bhambani, SVP of Operations and Country Leader, India at TaskUs, unveils the company’s new EV transportation program in Gurugram, advancing greener commutes and reducing carbon emissions

The EV transportation program starts in Gurugram at the TaskUs Mystiqa site, where approximately 20% of the existing fleet will be replaced with environmentally-friendly electrical vehicles. The company plans to electrify nearly half of its Indian fleet by the end of 2026, targeting an interim milestone of 100 EVs by July and a total of 300 units by year-end. Overall, TaskUs plans to transition 45%-50% of its transportation fleet to EVs this year.

TaskUs estimates that more than 35% of all teammates that use the company’s transportation program will benefit from the introduction of EV transportation. Each EV in the fleet will cut carbon emissions by approximately 3.2 metric tons per year, and this initiative in the first year will reduce carbon emissions by nearly 360 metric tons.

“The TaskUs People-First ethos extends far beyond our immediate team; it embraces the communities and cities where we operate. This initiative represents our dedicated contribution to reducing carbon emission and noise pollution in the urban environments we call home,” said Sapna Bhambani, SVP of Operations and Country Leader, India at TaskUs.

This program marks a significant milestone in TaskUs India’s sustainability journey and reflects the company’s continued focus on operational excellence aligned with environmental responsibility. As TaskUs expands its green initiatives, it remains committed to integrating eco-friendly solutions that support both its growth trajectory and its responsibility to the planet.

For more information about TaskUs’ Environment, Social & Governance (ESG) initiatives and commitment to teammate well-being, please visit TaskUs.com and download our 2025 ESG Report.

India is the second largest operations base for TaskUs with more than 15,000 teammates across 6 cities. TaskUs India was recently certified as Great Place to Work(R) for 2025 and was named one of the Top 10 Inspiring Workplaces in Asia for 2025 by Inspiring Workplaces Group.

About TaskUs

TaskUs is a leading provider of outsourced digital services and next-generation customer experience to the world’s most innovative companies, helping its clients represent, protect and grow their brands. Leveraging a cloud-based infrastructure, TaskUs serves clients in the fast-growing sectors, including social media, e-commerce, AI, gaming, streaming media, food delivery and ride-sharing, technology, financial services and healthcare. As of June 30, 2025, TaskUs had a worldwide headcount of approximately 61,400 people across 30 locations in 13 countries, including the United States, India and Philippines.

Rishabh Gupta, Amit Dhall & Deepanshu Rustagi identified a gap in one way and outstation mobility & founded CabBazar

CabBazar’s growth story mirrors the evolution of intercity travel in India itself. What began as an attempt to simplify outstation cab bookings has now become a full-stack mobility platform catering to metros, Tier-2 cities, and a vast network of Tier-3 towns that are often underserved by large ride-hailing players.

Outstation Taxi matlab CabBazar

YouTube link: youtu.be/NbJQaDxqgPM?si=3QoUQt7GXhXX3Zj9

Pioneering True One-Way Intercity Cabs

One of CabBazar’s most defining contributions to the industry has been the introduction of true one-way intercity cab pricing in India. At a time when travelers were forced to pay for return journeys even when they didn’t need them, CabBazar challenged the norm by allowing customers to pay only for the distance they actually travel.

Another shift shaping intercity mobility is the changing attitude of Gen Z toward ownership. Increasingly, younger travelers are prioritising experiences over assets, choosing flexibility and freedom instead of long-term commitments such as owning a car. One way pricing perfectly suits such travellers best.

This model not only reduced costs for travelers but also set a new industry benchmark. Over the years, one-way intercity cabs have moved from being a niche offering to an expected feature, a shift that CabBazar was instrumental in driving.

Taking this a step further, the platform now enables one-way, multi-city travel, allowing customers to stop at multiple destinations on a single one-way trip. This flexibility has found strong traction among business travelers, families, and long-distance tourists who prefer customized routes over rigid point-to-point travel.

Transparency Over Surprises: The Rise of All-Inclusive Pricing

Pricing transparency remains a key decision factor in India’s highly price-sensitive travel market. CabBazar offers both tax-inclusive and tax-exclusive pricing, giving users control over how they want to plan their expenses.

Interestingly, internal data shows that nearly 5 out of 10 customers now opt for all-inclusive pricing, preferring a single, upfront fare that covers tolls, taxes, and driver charges. The appeal is simple: no last-minute costs, no confusion, and no uncomfortable conversations at the end of a journey.

This shift reflects a broader consumer trend across India’s digital economy, where predictability and clarity increasingly outweigh marginal price differences.

Speed, Scale, and Reliability

In an era of instant gratification, CabBazar has optimized its platform for speed and simplicity. From selecting cities to completing checkout, a cab can be booked in under 30 seconds, making it one of the fastest booking flows in the intercity segment.

Operationally, the company handles 800 to 1,000 rides daily, supported by a large network of verified driver partners. While many mobility platforms remain metro-centric, CabBazar’s strongest presence lies beyond India’s largest cities. Its deep penetration into Tier-2 and Tier-3 locations aligns with industry estimates that a significant share of India’s next phase of travel demand will come from non-metro regions.

Value-Added Services for Real-World Travel Needs

Beyond pricing and availability, CabBazar has focused on solving everyday travel pain points. Services such as assured luggage carriers and pet friendly options ensure that customers travelling with extra baggage or with their furry family are not left guessing about vehicle suitability or extra baggage.

Coupled with a lowest price guarantee, these features have helped CabBazar build trust among repeat users who often compare multiple platforms before booking.

Building from a Tier-2 City, Creating Inclusive Employment

While many startups centralize operations in metros, CabBazar’s primary operational office is located in a Tier-2 city in Uttar Pradesh. This decision has enabled the company to generate meaningful employment outside traditional startup hubs.

Notably, 50% of CabBazar’s workforce comprises women, with a 24×7 customer support team operating from our support office. The company has actively invested in creating a safe, inclusive, and professional work environment, demonstrating how tech-enabled businesses can decentralize opportunity without compromising service quality.

A Bootstrapped, Profitable Growth Story

CabBazar’s journey has been defined by experimentation and resilience. Over the years, the company tested multiple business models before refining its focus on intercity and outstation mobility. Today, it stands as a bootstrapped and profitable enterprise, with profits growing year on year which is a rarity in a sector often driven by heavy discounting and cash burn.

According to Rishabh Gupta, Founder, CabBazar, “India is a price-sensitive market, and it's important to deliver genuine value, not just discounts. Every service we build is designed around how India travels today, focusing on transparency, flexibility, and expanding reliable last-mile connectivity across the country.”

Co-founder Amit Dhall adds, “Being profitable has allowed us to grow sustainably, invest in our people, and build features that genuinely improve the travel experience, especially for users outside metro cities.”

Looking Ahead: Connecting Drivers and Demand More Efficiently

As part of its next phase of growth, CabBazar is working on a B2B marketplace initiative aimed for travel agents, tour companies, drivers, and fleet owners to work together.

CabBazar has over 2.5 Lakh fleet partners and identified a pressing gap of unorganised communication and networking on Whatsapp. TaxiMarket, as a SaaS platform, helps drivers forward a taxi requirement they can’t fulfill and earn commission, in exchange for a small fee.

Ramkrishna Kamath and Monish Nandi, inaugurating the new electric vehicles, purchased with a donation from FedEx

As part of this year’s support, FedEx has funded four electric vehicles (EVs)—two in Panvel, Maharashtra and two in Delhi—dedicated to delivering freshly prepared, hygienic meals to students in government and government-aided schools. Each EV enables the delivery of over 250,000 meals annually, reaching an equivalent number of children depending on route logistics.

Ramesh Chavan and Monish Nandi, inaugurating the new electric vehicles, purchased with a donation from FedEx

Since the beginning of the collaboration in 2022, the initiative has cumulatively supported the delivery of nearly one million mid-day meals across multiple cities. By replacing conventional fuel vehicles, these EVs help The Akshaya Patra Foundation reduce carbon emissions and lower operating costs, allowing more resources to be directed toward expanding meal distribution.

Through the fuel savings alone, The Akshaya Patra Foundation has been able to support an additional 130,000+ meals, amplifying the programme’s reach while contributing to its long-term sustainability. This transition supports The Akshaya Patra Foundation’s long-term sustainability goals by integrating climate-conscious practices into its mission of nourishing children’s futures.

Suvendu Choudhury, Vice President of operations and planning and engineering, India, FedEx, said, “At FedEx, we believe access, whether to markets, opportunities, or nutrition, can transform lives. Our collaboration with The Akshaya Patra Foundation reflects how logistics innovation can advance social progress, helping children access nutritious meals through cleaner, more efficient delivery solutions. By integrating EVs into this initiative, we’re strengthening community infrastructure while contributing to India’s sustainability goals.”

Mr. Dhananjay Ganjoo, CMO, The Akshaya Patra Foundation "We are grateful to FedEx for their sustained commitment to our mission of nourishing children and empowering education. By integrating sustainable mobility solutions like electric vehicles with mid-day meal service, this collaboration not only addresses immediate nutritional needs but also aligns with a greener, more sustainable future. Together, we are ensuring that every meal delivered is a step towards nurturing healthier, more capable citizens of tomorrow."

Through purpose-driven efforts like this, FedEx and The Akshaya Patra Foundation are demonstrating how innovation in logistics can create measurable social impact—bridging the gap between nutrition and learning, and advocating for scalable, sustainable public feeding programmes that support India’s inclusive growth.

About FedEx

FedEx connects people and possibilities around the world through a broad portfolio of transportation, e-commerce, and business services. Its commitment to innovation and technology extends to fostering partnerships that empower the next generation of engineers and entrepreneurs.

Read the 2025 FedEx Economic Impact Report here.

About The Akshaya Patra Foundation

The Akshaya Patra Foundation is a social impact organisation committed to addressing classroom hunger and supporting children’s health and education. As an implementing partner of the Government of India’s PM POSHAN scheme, Akshaya Patra serves 2.35 million mid-day meals to beneficiary children across 25,000+ schools. Additionally, it provides 8 lakh servings under the Morning Nutrition Programme, contributing to improved child health, increased school enrolment, attendance and retention, and better learning outcomes.

Akshaya Patra has established a robust operational network, currently functioning in 78 locations across 16 states and 3 union territories. It has set up 76 state-of-the-art centralised kitchens—globally recognised for their scale, efficiency and food safety standards—and adopted the decentralised model in two locations where setting up centralised infrastructure is difficult due to difficult terrain and road connectivity.

Akshaya Patra continuously forges partnerships and leverages technology to cater to millions of children and has served over 4 billion meals since 2000. The momentous milestone was commemorated at a special event at the UN headquarters in New York on 2 April 2024.

For more details, please log on: www.akshayapatra.org

On the left: Mr. Balfour Manuel, Managing Director of Blue Dart; On the Right: Mr. Pablo Ciano, CEO of DHL E-commerce
 

Strategically located 50 km from New Delhi airport, the Pataudi hub offers seamless multimodal connectivity with Delhi-NCR and key national expressways. Its location enables Centre of Gravity optimization, reducing vehicle movement by 30% and improving throughput speed by 10%, making it a critical logistics hub for North India.
 

Spanning 50,558 sqm, the facility integrates e-commerce, domestic express, and ground shipments under one consolidated operation. With an auto sorter capacity of 200,000 shipments per day and the ability to handle 2,283 tons daily, the Pataudi hub is future-ready till 2033, built with advanced automation, motorized conveyors, and streamlined load handovers that cut dwell time and boost throughput by 10-15%.
 

Commenting on the launch, Balfour Manuel, Managing Director, Blue Dart, said, “The North Integrated Ground Hub is a symbol of sustainability, automation, and scalability, we are enabling faster, more reliable deliveries for our customers while supporting India’s economic and environmental goals. As we continue to expand our network with such state-of-the-art facilities, Blue Dart remains committed to being the Provider of Choice for businesses and communities across the country. This milestone strengthens our role as a trade facilitator, advancing our promise of speed, resilience, and sustainable growth.”
 

The hub has been designed with GoGreen initiatives at its core, including a 600 KVA rooftop solar plant, onsite EV charging, and natural skylights to reduce energy consumption. By consolidating operations and reducing vehicle trips, the facility significantly lowers fuel use and emissions, reinforcing Blue Dart’s commitment to its 2050 net-zero target.
 

With over 250 ground network routes, eight dedicated freighters, and nationwide reach to over 19,000 pin codes, Blue Dart continues to expand its infrastructure to support India’s growing logistics demand. The launch of the Pataudi facility reaffirms Blue Dart’s leadership in sustainable, technology-enabled, and reliable express logistics solutions for the country.

Namma Yatri, India’s first ride-hailing app built on an open network and known for its commitment to transparency and fairness, has announced a strategic partnership with Truecaller, the global leader in verified communication, to power seamless and trusted interactions between drivers, riders, and support agents.

With mobility being an essential everyday service, Namma Yatri recognizes that trusted communication is the backbone of timely pickups, reliable support, and smooth coordination between riders and auto drivers.

In an industry where every second counts, Namma Yatri is elevating the way drivers, riders, and support teams communicate by leveraging Truecaller’s Customer Experience Solution, including Verified Business Caller ID, Business Profile, Video Caller ID, and most notably, localized Call Reason. Along with this, they are also leveraging Truecaller’s One Tap-OTP-Less Login and SDK integration for vernacular number verification pop-ups, ensuring secure, seamless, and hyperlocal onboarding for users in Tier II cities where Namma Yatri offers its ride services. Through this, the platform is transforming critical customer touchpoints into secure, branded, and contextual conversations.

With Truecaller Customer Experience Solution, Namma Yatri customers can now see the brand’s name, logo, and verification badge when receiving a call, removing ambiguity and significantly increasing calling efficiency and user experience.

What truly sets this partnership apart is the platform’s focus on hyperlocal engagement. For its customer support use case, Namma Yatri has introduced a Kannada Call Reason, which appears on the user’s phone even before the call is answered.

About Namma Yatri

Namma Yatri, a driver-first, zero-commission mobility platform, continues to redefine urban commuting by placing transparency, affordability, and empowerment at the core of its operations. Since its launch, the platform has completed over 9.8 crore rides and rapidly grown into a trusted choice for both drivers and riders, offering a reliable and ethical alternative in the ride-hailing ecosystem.

What makes Namma Yatri stand out is its 100% driver earnings model — ensuring drivers keep the entire fare without any commission cuts. This not only improves driver livelihoods but also encourages better service for passengers. Built on the ONDC open network and supported by the Government of Karnataka, Namma Yatri has emerged as a commuter favorite across cities in Karnataka.

Key Highlights:

• Over 9.8 crore rides completed

• Zero Commission – 100% driver earnings

• Transparent Pricing for commuters

• Driver Empowerment at scale

• Tech-Driven, open network innovation

About Truecaller

We enable safe and relevant conversations between people and make it efficient for businesses to connect with consumers. Fraud and unwanted communication are endemic to digital economies, especially in emerging markets. We are on a mission to build trust in communication. Truecaller is an essential part of everyday communication for over 383 million active users, with more than a billion downloads since launch and close to 50 billion unwanted calls identified and blocked in 2021. Headquartered in Stockholm since 2009, we are a co-founder-led, entrepreneurial company, with a highly experienced management team. Truecaller has been listed on Nasdaq Stockholm since October, 2021. Visit truecaller.com for more information.

For more information, please visit: business.truecaller.com

After successfully transforming fuel accessibility in India, the UAE, and Mozambique, FuelBuddy continues its global journey by entering two of Southern Africa’s most dynamic economies. With Africa's energy demand in 2040 projected to surge by 30% more than it is today, compared to a 10% increase in global energy demand, FuelBuddy is strategically expanding into Zimbabwe and Zambia, poised to expand its presence in fossil fuel and emerging alternative energies in other countries in Africa. The move aims to empower businesses and communities with reliable, safe, and efficient doorstep fuel delivery solutions.

“We are thrilled to bring FuelBuddy’s trusted services to Zimbabwe and Zambia, two vibrant and rapidly developing markets” said, Adnan Kidwai – CEO, International, FuelBuddy. “At FuelBuddy, we believe access to reliable energy is the backbone of economic growth. Our mission is to empower industries and communities by delivering fuel safely, transparently, and efficiently right to their doorstep. By entering these new markets, we are not just expanding our geographical footprint — we are helping businesses reduce operational challenges, improve productivity, and focus on what they do best. From mining and agriculture to logistics and construction, our solutions are designed to meet the diverse needs of critical sectors.” 

FuelBuddy offers a fully digital fuel ordering and delivery experience, ensuring quality, safety, and transparency at every step. With over 500 million litres delivered globally and a strong track record of operational excellence, FuelBuddy is set to address critical fuel and alternate energy supply challenges in these new markets.

Zimbabwe and Zambia have a growing demand for reliable fuel solutions, driven by their rapidly expanding industrial and commercial sectors. By providing convenient and dependable fuel delivery, it aims to reduce operational downtime, improve cost efficiencies and, support sustainable growth.

FuelBuddy’s expansion is a testament to our commitment to innovation and customer-centricity. We look forward to building strong local partnerships, creating employment opportunities, and contributing to the long-term energy resilience in Zimbabwe and Zambia.

Adnan further added, “Additionally, at FuelBuddy we will be expanding our global offering by entering into Retail as well in all geographies and are pursuing strategic opportunities in retail pumps for the same.”

About FuelBuddy
SK Narvar promoted FuelBuddy is a global leader in providing Doorstep Fuel Delivery services focused on providing the right quality and quantity of fuel at the touch of a button. The company has established themselves as an end-to-end service provider emphasising on managing the consumer’s fueling needs through their industry-first IoT and Cloud-enabled products. FuelBuddy launched their services in the year 2017, intending to solve the challenges faced in procurement and storage of fuel like pilferage, theft, spillage, monitoring &, controlling consumption. Beginning with mobile fuel delivery, they have continued to disrupt the status quo, providing their customers the convenience of ordering their fuel from their doorstep globally. In 2021, FuelBuddy acquired Bangalore-based on-demand Fuel Delivery start-up MyPetrolPump. With over 55,000+ satisfied customers and operations in India, UAE, Mozambique, they have served over 500 million litres of fuel to clients such as Varun Beverages (Pepsi), JSPL, Coca- Cola, Amazon, DLF, Infosys, Apparel DIP, Lal’s Group, 2XL Sharjah, Landmark Group, Taj, Hitachi, Amazon, Flipkart, Zomato, Blinkit and Delhivery to name a few. 

Jaideep Mirchandani, Group Chairman, Sky One

Even as AI continues to gain widespread acceptance in aviation systems worldwide, the industry is also rapidly progressing towards agentic AI. While traditional AI tools mainly offer recommendations based on historical data and signals, agentic AI takes a more proactive role by not only making decisions but also executing them and monitoring outcomes in real time.

Airports like Singapore's Changi Airport are exemplifying this shift, and exploring agentic AI to boost operational efficiency, improve customer experience, and reduce the need for human intervention. In India, the first AI-powered airport digital twin was recently launched at Rajiv Gandhi International Airport, Hyderabad. It includes features like intelligent crowd management, flow and queue analytics, real-time operational insights, and optimised backend operations such as smart traffic monitoring.

“The adoption of agentic AI has helped in achieving new standards of customer experience, operational efficiency and making airlines more competitive. Those who adopt them faster will have a competitive edge. Most of these agents are designed to adapt to dynamic scenarios, can respond to passenger feedback and market fluctuations, which helps in revenue optimisation for the carrier while ensuring enhanced experience for the passenger,” says Jaideep Mirchandani, Group Chairman of Sky One.

With the ability to monitor live feeds from terminals, baggage scanners, and access points, agentic tools can detect unusual patterns and anomalies before incidents escalate. “These tools are capable of reading human behaviours by tracking signs such as excessive nervousness and erratic motion, providing an added intelligence layer and flagging potential threats that traditional security systems may overlook. AI agents predict passenger flows, queue congestion, and screening volume, allocating security personnel, adjusting checkpoint openings, and reallocating staff in real time for smoother operations,” adds Mr. Mirchandani.

The AI vision agents can monitor CCTV, detect threats, and alert security teams. They will also support predictive maintenance of aircraft, contributing to safety. However, even as AI agents gain wide acceptance, human supervision remains essential.

“Even if every segment is fully automated, we cannot ignore the necessity of human touch. An AI agent cannot replace human perceptiveness, especially in areas requiring critical decision-making. Both AI agents and human resources, however, will co-exist, complementing each other. While AI tools can assist in various ways, the final resolution may come from humans, offering decisive input and support,” concludes Mr. Mirchandani.

Thiruvananthapuram Gets Smarter with TSCCC Boosting Traffic and Safety

As part of the Smart City initiative, Thiruvananthapuram is witnessing a tech-driven transformation in urban traffic management through the Traffic Safety and City Command Centre (TSCCC). Conceived as an integrated command hub, the TSCCC functions as the nerve centre for regulating traffic, ensuring public safety, and enhancing city-wide surveillance.

After successful installation, extensive field testing and integration, the command centre was formally inaugurated on 6th February 2024 in the presence of Honorable Chief Minister Sri Pinarayi Vijayan, Honorable Minister Sri M.B. Rajesh, Honorable Mayor Smt. Arya Rajendran, Sri Nagaraju Chakilam IPS (IGP & Commissioner of Police), Sri Nidhinraj IPS (Deputy Commissioner of Police), Sri Rahul Krishna Sharma IAS, CEO and other notable dignitaries. The project was fully commissioned and operational sustainability secured via a 5-year Annual Maintenance Contract (AMC) for continuous upkeep and system monitoring.

The utility of the TSCCC extends far beyond traffic management, emerging as a critical asset in law-enforcement and crime prevention. Access to high-quality surveillance footage has significantly enhanced evidence gathering, accelerated probe timelines, and in many cases, proved instrumental in cracking complex cases. In just a short span, police officials have tapped into the system 923 times, procuring video footages to aid major investigations spanning homicides, chain-snatching, robberies, two-wheeler thefts, child abuse cases, accidents, hit-and-run incidents, and missing person reports.

Several advanced technologies work in tandem to make TSCCC a powerful urban management tool in the city. At the heart of the system is the Traffic Control System, deployed across 57 major junctions.

Complementing this is the Intelligent Traffic Management System (ITMS), in operation at 32 high-traffic intersections. The backbone of ITMS includes Automatic Number Plate Recognition (ANPR) cameras for vehicle tracking and Red-Light Violation Detection (RLVD) cameras for enforcing signal discipline. Together, these tools support round-the-clock monitoring and automated violation capture, boosting deterrence against traffic offences.

A robust network of city-wide CCTV surveillance further strengthens visibility and security. With fixed bullet cameras and high-zoom pan-tilt-zoom (PTZ) cameras positioned at 93 strategic points, the system uses AI-driven analytics to detect no-parking violations, wrong-way driving, unattended objects, overcrowding, and even conduct appearance-based searches. This 360-degree monitoring capability has vastly improved situational awareness for both traffic managers and law enforcement agencies.

The TSCCC project is a highly successful initiative and has been seamlessly integrated for the command control centre providing camera feeds 24*7 for the safety and security of the city of Thiruvanthapuram.

As part of the strategic roadmap for the air cargo industry, ACFI is proud to announce landmark partnership with The International Air Cargo Association (TIACA) that will significantly bolster both regional connectivity and global knowledge sharing. Also, soon ACFI will be signing MoU’s with Government of Tripura and Government of Madhya Pradesh.

Speaking at the launch, Mr. Sanjiv Edward, President, ACFI, said, “The Indian air cargo sector is at a pivotal inflection point and undergoing rapid transformation. At this crucial juncture, this knowledge paper outlines the strategic roadmap until 2030, infrastructure requirements, policy reforms, and the initiatives by the air cargo industry to achieve the ambitious target of 10 MTPA of air cargo volumes set by the Ministry of Civil Aviation, Government of India. This paper has laid down a clear action plan for all stakeholders of the industry. India is uniquely positioned to redefine global cargo corridors. With bold policy reforms and strategic investments, we can build a resilient, digitised, and world-class logistics ecosystem.”

Shri. Piyush Srivastava, Sr. Economic Advisor, Ministry Of Civil Aviation said, "Air infrastructure today faces key global dichotomies—demand is rapidly growing in the Eastern Hemisphere, while critical services like manufacturing and MRO remain concentrated in the West. This imbalance is bound to shift. As demand grows, supply will follow. It's not just about 'Made in India'; it's about 'Make in India'—a strategic priority for us moving forward.”

He further added, "The Aviation sector is highly sensitive to global geopolitical shifts. While events like the Red Sea crisis have offered temporary advantages for the Indian air cargo system. But prolonged airspace closures over Pakistan and over three years of the ongoing Ukraine-Russia conflict, have significantly disrupted operations and increased costs. These challenges are not only unpredictable but inevitable. The only sustainable path forward lies in embracing technology, innovation, and disruption.”

Speaking at the launch, Dheeraj Rastogi, Principal Commissioner Customs, Delhi, “India’s customs operations have undergone a significant transformation—from early digitization efforts to the integration of advanced technologies such as artificial intelligence, blockchain, and risk-based segmentation,” stated Mr. Dheeraj Rastogi. These innovations have contributed to a substantial reduction in transaction costs and improved the overall efficiency of cargo processing.”

He further added, “Currently, 52% of air cargo is cleared on the same day, with average clearance time at Delhi Air Cargo reduced from 41 hours to 35 hours. The department remains committed to maintaining a fine balance between revenue mobilization, national security, trade facilitation, and legal compliance. Given the increasing complexities introduced by e-commerce, a collaborative, data-driven approach between industry stakeholders and regulatory authorities is imperative. Our collective goal must be to build a seamless, AI-enabled ecosystem that supports India’s emergence as a global leader in air cargo logistics.”

According to Mr. Glyn Hughes, Director General, TIACA, “With TIACA representing the entire air cargo supply chain and ACFI representing the Indian air cargo industry, it is crucial we work together so that the world can receive Indian exports efficiently and bring the best practices achieved in other countries. Globally, every year, goods worth US$9 trillion are transported through air cargo, accounting for one-third of global trade. India is at the heart of the growing global trade, and we will work toward making air cargo an integral part of it. TIACA, with its global memberships, would be able to act as a support to the Indian air cargo industry in the fields of digitalisation, enhanced usage of modern technology, including AI and adoption of other global standards.”

Together with the Ministry of Civil Aviation, ACFI is shaping a forward-looking roadmap to meet the growing demands of domestic and international logistics. These partnerships reflect ACFI’s unwavering commitment to building a resilient, efficient and globally competitive air cargo ecosystem that supports India’s economic aspirations.

Key findings of the knowledge report

• Capacity Concentration: 82% of air cargo is currently handled by just six airports (Delhi, Mumbai, Bengaluru, Hyderabad, Chennai and Kolkata), amplifying concentration risk and operational inefficiencies.

• Growth Enablers: Digitisation, strategic airport locations in India, integrated multimodal corridors (PM Gati Shakti), and emerging connectivity in tier-2 cities.

• Regulatory Gaps: Scalability of the sector is hindered by fragmented clearance systems, high dwell times (almost 12 hours for exports and 48 hours for imports) and limited transhipment readiness.

• Investment Heatmap: High potential in cold-chain operations, Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) production, automation and freighter fleet expansion.

The secondary airports have the potential to play a critical role. The Government of India’s initiative to significantly enhance air connectivity across India will give the required boost to the air cargo sector. At present, these secondary airports are underutilised due to poor infrastructure and limited airline networks.

The report highlights the strategic action areas to triple air cargo handling to 10 MTPA by 2030. These strategic actions include:

• Creation of transhipment hubs with 24x7 clearance and zero rescreening

• National Unified Digital Clearance Window and Cargo Command Centres

• Freighter acquisition incentives and plug-and-play terminals across regional hubs

• ESG integration via green infrastructure, SAF blending, and inclusive workforce practices

Global Inspiration, Local Action: Drawing on best practices from Singapore, Frankfurt and Dubai, the report advocates for modular warehousing, predictive slot allocation, and unified cargo community systems to manage rerouted and time-sensitive freight.

The paper serves as a call to action for industry, government, and private stakeholders to forge collaborative pathways and enhance India’s role in international trade and economic growth.

Here are the key highlights of the Knowledge Report

Key Highlights of the Knowledge Report India’s Air Cargo Horizon: Seizing Global Reroutes, Regional Dominance and Resilience

Indian Air Cargo Industry

• Target: 10 MTPA by 2030 (from 3.71 MTPA in FY-2025)

• Growth Drivers:

• E-commerce boom

• Greenfield airports (e.g., Jewar, Navi Mumbai)

• Digitised customs, Unified Logistics Interface Platform integration

• High-value cargo (pharma, perishables, electronics)

Infrastructure & Operational Bottlenecks

• 82% of cargo is handled by just 6 airports (Delhi, Mumbai, Bengaluru, Hyderabad, Chennai, Kolkata)

• Secondary airports are underutilised due to poor infrastructure and limited airline networks

• High dwell times: 12 hours (exports), 48 hours (imports)

• Lack of dedicated transhipment zones and automation

Privatisation & Policy Reforms

• Rs. 6–7 lakh crore investment needed for Sustainable Aviation Fuel and infrastructure

• Key initiatives:

• Krishi UDAN 2.0 (50% freight subsidy for agri-perishables)

• 100% FDI allowed in air cargo

• SUGAM (Sustainable Green Airports Mission)

• Dedicated air freight corridors and cargo subsidiaries (e.g., Air India)

Regulatory & Governance Gaps

• Cargo rescreening and high clearance times increase costs

• Fragmented digital systems and inconsistent state regulations

• Only ~10% transhipment share at Delhi vs. ~40% at global hubs

• Limited SAF (Sustainable Aviation Fuel) production and adoption

Building Rerouting Resilience

• India lacks integrator hubs like Singapore (DHL South Asia) or Frankfurt (CargoCity South)

• Best practices from global hubs:

• Zoned infrastructure

• 24/7 customs with fast lanes

• Real-time digital coordination (ACCS, CCS)

• Modular warehousing and predictive slot allocation

Strategic Roadmap to 10 MTPA

• Single-window digital clearance platform

• Transshipment hubs with zero rechecks

• Multimodal integration with Gati Shakti corridors

• Plug-and-play cargo terminals and standalone cargo airports

• IoT enabled cargo visibility and National Cargo Command Centres

• Friegth acquisition incentives

• National air cargo training alliance

Accelerating ESG in Air Cargo

• SAF blending targets: 1% by 2027 → 5% by 2030

• ESG Challenges:

• High SAF cost (2.5x jet fuel)

• Fragmented cold-chain

• Low female workforce participation (<10%)

• Limited automation and skilled talent

• ESG Drivers:

• Green airport infrastructure (solar, EVs, LEED)

• CORSIA-linked emissions reporting

• DE&I initiatives (e.g., IATA’s “25 by 2025”)

Emerging Cargo Hubs

• Navi Mumbai – Focus: Pharma, Perishables, Jewellery Potential: Multimodal Transhipment Hub

• Jewa (Noida) – Focus: Electronics, Apparel Potential: Cold chain, IGI integration

• Hyderabad - Focus: Pharma, Aerospace Potential: Dedicated Pharma infra Chennai - Focus: Leather, FMCG Potential: Cold chain, E-commerce

• Guwahati - Focus: Tea, Perishables Potential: Gateway to North East

Moscow Metro, World’s Longest Circular Metro Line, Celebrates 90 Years of Operation
 

Maksim Liksutov, Deputy Mayor of Moscow for Transport and Industry, said, “The opening of the Metro in 1935 was a historic event for our capital and the entire country. Even then, decades ago, the workers and builders set the highest standards for passenger service. Today, in line with the goals set by Moscow Mayor Sergey Sobyanin, we continue to uphold that standard. More than 65,000 people are currently employed by the Moscow Metro. They not only help serve millions of passengers every day, but also work hard to earn the continued trust of Muscovites, so that each journey leaves a positive impression. I want to thank every employee for their dedication and wish them continued success.”
 

Initially launched with a single line spanning 11.5 kilometers and 13 stations, the Moscow Metro has expanded steadily over the past nine decades. In 2024 alone, the system transported 2.7 billion passengers.
 

Moscow Metro, World’s Longest Circular Metro Line, Celebrates 90 Years of Operation
 

Modernization has been a continuous process. Today, more than 75% of trains are newly developed models equipped with features such as automated speed control, open gangways, and updated safety systems. These advancements enable high-frequency operations, with intervals as short as 90 seconds during peak hours.
 

The system has also implemented digital ticketing solutions, including smart cards, virtual ticket options, and biometric payments, now used in the majority of daily trips. These technologies aim to streamline passenger flow and improve accessibility.
 

Moscow Metro, World’s Longest Circular Metro Line, Celebrates 90 Years of Operation
 

To mark the anniversary, a series of events and exhibitions were organized in the city, highlighting both the history and evolution of the metro system. Public displays featured restored early-generation trains and archival materials documenting the network's development.
 

As one of the world’s most heavily used metro systems, the Moscow Metro continues to play a central role in urban transportation, reflecting broader trends in infrastructure investment, technological integration, and mass transit development over the past century.

PPS Motors inaugurated Uttar Pradesh’s largest and 1st day & night service workshop of BharatBenz in Lucknow covering 60,000 sft at Banthra, JunabGanj on the Lucknow–Kanpur Highway

Strategically located at Banthra, JunabGanj on the Lucknow–Kanpur Highway, this modern 60,000 sq. ft. facility is designed to meet the growing demand for quality commercial vehicle service in the region. With 15 advanced service bays, that can easily cater around 7,500 vehicles per year, and a dedicated team of 85 trained professionals, the workshop is equipped to handle a high volume of vehicle maintenance and repair tasks during the day as well as night hours. The facility also includes air-conditioned driver rest areas to ensure comfort during service wait times. It will play a crucial role in supporting the BharatBenz fleet deployed in infrastructure-heavy zones, including nearby expressway and ring road construction projects. In addition to truck servicing, the workshop will also cater to the needs of bus operators in Lucknow and surrounding districts.

With this addition, PPS Motors has strengthened its extensive BharatBenz network across India. The group now operates 59 touch-points across seven states and union territories - Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, Jammu & Kashmir, Ladakh, Odisha, Assam, and Meghalaya.

Speaking on the occasion, Mr. Rajiv Sanghvi, Managing Director, PPS Motors, said, “We are delighted to further expand our footprint in Uttar Pradesh with the inauguration of this BharatBenz workshop in Lucknow. The new workshop is positioned to serve commercial vehicles operating on one of the state’s busiest transport corridors. As the largest BharatBenz service facility in the state, it reflects our commitment to providing high-quality service support during the day and even in the night hours, to our valued customers in Uttar Pradesh. This facility stands as a testament of our commitment to delivering best-in-class ownership experience, aimed at maximizing vehicle uptime and enhancing our customers’ profitability.”

The new Lucknow facility enhances PPS Motors’ robust network of BharatBenz service centres to 15 across Uttar Pradesh, with upcoming workshops in the state at 10 more locations.

About PPS Motors

PPS Motors is part of a larger automobile group - one of the country's largest spread automobile conglomerates - with a rich experience of 75+ years, operates through 720+ automobile touch-points across 18 states supported by a dedicated team of over 18,000 expert professionals. PPS Motors provides exceptional service and upholds high standards of professionalism. PPS Motors represents a diverse spectrum of auto segments, including 18 brands in passenger vehicles, light and heavy commercial vehicles, and construction equipment. The conglomerate stands as a formidable force representing 20 renowned brands and registered an annual group turnover of INR 18,800 crores in FY 2024.

Team Azuga: Driving success together

“Azuga’s workforce represents top talent, all focussed in pioneering innovative solutions focused on our customer's needs,” said Jeremy Collins, CEO of Azuga. “Our exceptional performance in the Great Place to Work survey, particularly in the Pride Index, is a testament to our commitment to fostering a culture where our employees can thrive—solidifying our position as one of the best software companies to work for globally.”

Azuga’s dedication to its people, collaborative work culture, robust DEI initiatives, career growth opportunities, workplace flexibility and commitment to social responsibility have been pivotal in earning its recognition as a Great Place to Work. The company champions work-life balance and places a high value on employee benefits and drives a culture of innovation.

Expressing pride in the certification, Badrinath A.K., Managing Director—India Operations, shared, "Since Day 1, our teammates have been the heart of our company and we are committed to fostering a culture of respect, transparency and innovation, where they can thrive, grow and feel valued daily. Recognizing these founding principles as a 'Great Place to Work' certified company reflects the hard work, dedication and passion of our team."

Employees appreciate the balance between hard work and well-being, with initiatives that promote teamwork while ensuring personal time. The global fleet telematics Leader got top marks for Pride, Hospitality, Community and Intimacy.

“Great Place To Work Certification is a highly coveted achievement that requires consistent and intentional dedication to the overall employee experience," says Sarah Lewis-Kulin, the Vice President of Global Recognition at Great Place To Work. She emphasizes that Certification is the sole official recognition earned by the real-time feedback of employees regarding their company culture. “By successfully earning this recognition, it is evident that Azuga stands out as one of the top companies to work for, providing a great workplace environment for its employees."

Thomas Kuruvila, Vice President of Human Resources commented on this achievement, "At Azuga, we value employee feedback, which strengthens our supportive culture. Through strong mentorship and open communication, our employees stay motivated and engaged. Being recognized as a Great Place to Work is a significant milestone, and we remain focused on enhancing employee experiences and fostering a positive, collaborative workplace."

For more information about Azuga Telematics, please visit us at www.azuga.com

About Azuga

Azuga, Bridgestone's globally trusted fleet management solution, provides innovative end-to-end solutions for commercial fleets, government agencies, insurance companies and automotive industry suppliers through an integrated approach of hardware technology, fleet management applications, driver gamification, video telematics, and data analytics. The award-winning Azuga Fleet solution powers over 14,000 commercial fleets, from small to large enterprise.

VP ASRTU Ch. Dwarka Tirumala Rao (IPS), & Managing Director Telangana V.C Sajjanar (IPS)

This nationwide initiative underscores ASRTU's commitment to driver welfare and road safety. Organisations are encouraged to facilitate the recognition ceremonies on January 24th, led by their respective heads. “The initiative aims to inspire a culture of excellence and appreciation within the public transport sector,” said Vice President ASRTU Ch. Dwarka Tirumala Rao (IPS).

ASRTU (https://www.asrtu.org/) represents over 1,50,000 buses operated by State Road Transport Undertakings (SRTUs) and SPVs, collectively providing affordable and safe transportation to over 70 million passengers daily. Drivers play a pivotal role, ensuring smooth commutes to workplaces, schools, and other destinations, contributing significantly to the economy and social mobility, says Managing Director Telangana V.C Sajjanar IPS.

“Public transport thrives on the dedication of skilled drivers, who are the backbone of the system,” said T. Surya Kiran, Executive Director, ASRTU. “They ensure millions of people reach their destinations safely and on time, all while navigating challenging road conditions and upholding safety standards. Recognising their contributions is vital to fostering trust and efficiency in public mobility.”

This year’s “Drivers Day” initiative will also launch ASRTU’s efforts to amplify the importance of driver welfare and road safety. A press briefing will highlight key insights from two leading state transporters, showcasing their collective support for this cause.

With this initiative, ASRTU (www.asrtu.org) aims to create a lasting impact, celebrating drivers' vital role in public transport and inspiring the industry to continue fostering excellence and safety.

FedEx International Connect Plus Expands Global Reach, Enhancing access for India’s e-tailers
 

FedEx aims to empower India’s growing e-commerce sector, projected to reach USD 325 billion⁽¹⁾ by 2030. With third-party logistics anticipated to manage nearly 17 billion⁽²⁾ shipments over the next seven years, dependable, flexible, and affordable international shipping has never been more essential. FICP meets this demand by simplifying cross-border logistics and enhancing customer satisfaction with flexible delivery options.
 

“E-commerce is accelerating cross-border trade, and businesses need smart, cost-effective solutions that expand reach without compromising speed and flexibility,” said Nitin Navneet Tatiwala, Vice President of Marketing and Air Network, MEISA, FedEx. “Our focus is on creating efficient, agile supply chain solutions for India’s evolving e-commerce landscape. By combining our advanced physical and digital networks, we aim to better serve our customers—especially the small- and mid-sized businesses that drive growth in today’s competitive economy.”

Other benefits of FICP for E-Commerce

• Seamless E-commerce Integration: Easy integration with major e-commerce platforms ensures a smooth, paperless shipping process for businesses and customers.

• Enhanced Customer Control and Visibility: Through FedEx Delivery Manager®, customers can track shipments and adjust delivery schedules in real-time. Additionally, Picture Proof of Delivery (PPoD)* provides visual confirmation of delivery and reassure recipients that their package has been delivered, boosting convenience and satisfaction.

• Flexible Delivery Options: Customers can select from multiple delivery choices, including residential delivery or pick-up at a nearby retail location or locker.

• Weekend and Evening Delivery^~: Enables delivery at times that best suit customer schedules, avoiding delays.

• Added Savings^{^}: Includes waivers on the ‘Residential Delivery surcharge’ and the ‘Remote Area Delivery’ surcharge, providing additional cost savings for businesses.

FedEx also supports global commerce with a suite of digital solutions designed to streamline logistics. Tools like FedEx Delivery Manager, FedEx One Stop Shop, and the FedEx Import Tool simplify processes with centralized documentation, online payment options, and customized delivery preferences, further enhancing the value and convenience for businesses looking to expand their international reach.

*Availability of services and transfer times may vary depending on origin and destination. For more details, please contact your sales representative or visit fedex.com.

^~Availability of services in select destinations. For more details, please contact your sales representative or visit fedex.com.

^{^} ‘Residential Delivery’ surcharge waiver available in all destinations and ‘Remote Area Delivery’ surcharge waiver applicable for select destinations. For more details, please contact your sales representative or visit fedex.com.

About Federal Express Corporation

Federal Express Corporation is the world's largest express transportation company, providing fast and reliable delivery to more than 220 countries and territories. Federal Express Corporation uses a global air-and-ground network to speed delivery of time-sensitive shipments by a definite time and date.
 

^[1] www.ibef.org/industry/ecommerce

Ms. Martine Aamdal Bottheim (Royal Norwegian Embassy) Mr. Einar Tornes (Wilson ASA) Sh. Madhu S. Nair (CMD, CSL) & Shri Harikumar (CEO, UCSL) at the launch

Ms. Martine Aamdal Bottheim, Minister Counsellor and Deputy Head of Mission at the Royal Norwegian Embassy, had the honors of launching the vessel, accompanied by Mr. Einar Tornes, Chief Financial Officer of Wilson ASA. The event was also graced by the presence of Shri Madhu S. Nair, Chairman and Managing Director of Cochin Shipyard Limited; Shri Bejoy Bhaskar, Director (Technical) at Cochin Shipyard; Shri Harikumar A., Chief Executive Officer of Udupi-Cochin Shipyard Limited; and other senior personnel from the shipyard.

Ms. Martine Aamdal Bottheim (Royal Norwegian Embassy) Mr. Einar Tornes (Wilson ASA) Sh. Madhu S. Nair (CMD, CSL) & Shri Harikumar (CEO, UCSL) at the launch

Wilson ASA, a company headquartered in Bergen, Norway, is the leading short sea fleet operator in Europe and transports about 15 million tonnes dry cargo across Europe. The Company operates a fleet of around 130 vessels ranging from 1500 to 8500 DWT.

Wilson ASA, has further signed a follow on order of 8 nos of 6300 TDW Dry Cargo Vessels as two batches in June 2024 and September 2024, totalling to 14 vessels. The projects are under various stages of construction.

Since takeover of the Yard by Cochin Shipyard Limited, UCSL has successfully delivered two 62T Bollard Pull Tugs to Ocean Sparkle Limited, an Adani Harbor Services Limited Company and two 70T Bollard Pull Tug to Polestar Maritime Limited, UCSL has also received further orders of four 70T Bollard Pull Tugs as repeat orders from Ocean Sparkle Limited (three) and Polestar Maritime Limited (one).

The Vessel has a length of 89.43 Meters, Breadth of 13.2 meters and has a draft of 4.2meters. The Vessels designed by Conoship International, Netherlands are constructed as environment friendly diesel electric vessels for the transport of general cargo in the coastal waters of Europe.

“Udupi-Cochin Shipyard Ltd (UCSL) has established a strong foothold in the international shipbuilding market by building this finest vessel in collaboration with M/s. Conoship International for M/s. Wilson ASA. Both Cochin Shipyard Limited and its subsidiary, Udupi Cochin Shipyard, continue to showcase their unwavering commitment to constructing high-quality ships for the Western European market. The repeat orders from existing clients of Udupi-CSL underscore the trust and confidence that customers place in the yard's capabilities and excellence,” said Mr. Madhu Nair, the Chairman and Managing Director of CSL.

Udupi-Cochin Shipyard Limited, previously Tebma Shipyards Limited was taken over by Cochin Shipyard Limited in 2020 through an NCLT process, and the yard was turned around to a profit making yard in a short period of 3 years. Udupi-CSL today has an order book of more than Rs. 1500 Crores and is the leading subsidiary of CSL.

National Road Safety Mission for Kids Winter Edition Launch: Empowering India's Future on Safer Roads

The National Road Safety Mission for Kids  (NRSM), launched by RD Foundation and Academia Axis Edtech, is on a mission to address this critical issue. Following the overwhelming success of its Summer 2024 Edition, the program is set to return with its Winter 2024 Edition, starting December 1, 2024.

India accounts for 11% of global road fatalities, with youth and two-wheeler riders being among the most vulnerable. This crisis is preventable, and programs like NRSM are at the forefront of change, equipping children and teens with essential skills to stay safe on roads.

Aligned with the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goal 3.6, which aims to halve road fatalities by 2030, NRSM is fostering a culture of safety and responsibility among the next generation.

A Look Back: Summer 2024 Success
The Summer Edition saw participation from 900+ schools. The program culminated in the National Road Safety Olympiad, where students demonstrated their understanding of road safety through interactive assessments.

Feedback from educators, students, and parents highlighted the program's effectiveness in teaching critical road safety skills, emphasizing the need for continued efforts to instill safe road habits early.

Winter 2024 Program Highlights

• Student Registration (November 29–December 15, 2024):

Students from Grades 1 to 12 can enroll for free in the learning program.

• Learning Phase (December 1, 2024–January 18, 2025):

A six-week, self-paced, age-appropriate online curriculum, designed to make learning engaging and impactful.

• Final Assessment (January 18, 2025):

A free assessment for all students to evaluate their knowledge and readiness.

• National Road Safety Olympiad (January 19, 2025):

An optional, paid Olympiad providing students with an exciting opportunity to test their road safety knowledge and win accolades at state and national levels.

• Interactive Learning for All Ages:

The curriculum includes gamified modules to make learning fun and engaging. Senior students (Grades 11–12) will benefit from advanced simulations based on real-life accident cases, helping them identify hazards and understand the nuances of road safety before they start driving.

The Broader Impact
Beyond educating students, the program engages families, creating a ripple effect that extends to communities. By incorporating road safety lessons into holiday homework, NRSM ensures maximum participation and involvement.

Join the Mission
The Winter 2024 Edition is set to reach over 2 million students, culminating in Feb 2025,  making road safety a way of life for the upcoming generation of young citizens.

For registration and more details, visit www.nationalroadsafetymission.org.

Kapsch TrafficCom reports findings of Road User Charging (RUC) Proof of Concept (PoC) in Oslo, Norway. The initiative tested innovative solutions for distance-based road pricing with GNSS (Global Navigation Satellite System) technology as a sustainable alternative to traditional fuel taxes. This approach aims to address the decline in fuel tax revenues resulting from the shift to electric vehicles while ensuring fairness and accessibility for all road users.

Carolin Treichl, EVP EMENA at Kapsch TrafficCom, highlighted the project's innovation, "With this PoC, we are bringing together satellite tolling technology and Cooperative Intelligent Transport Systems in a way that has not been done before in Europe. With over 2 million kilometers of trips processed and a rate accuracy exceeding 99%, the PoC demonstrated the viability of a low-cost, flexible, and scalable RUC system that is based on GNSS technology."

As countries worldwide, including Norway, advance their transition to electric vehicles (EVs), governments face significant challenges in maintaining infrastructure funding. Fuel tax revenues – a primary source of road maintenance funding – are projected to decline by more than 85% in Norway by 2050. Recognizing this issue, the Norwegian government has prioritized studying and implementing sustainable road usage charges based on the "polluter pays" principle.

The PoC leveraged a smartphone-based application paired with the GNSS tolling technology developed by Kapsch TrafficCom. The cloud-based, device-agnostic approach of Kapsch TrafficCom processes road usage data, calculates charges based on predefined tariffs, and delivers results with maximum accuracy, even in Norway's challenging road environments.

Results and Insights
The PoC encompassed:

• Over 2 million kilometers of real and simulated trips

• 80 million position data points processed, achieving a 99.5% rate accuracy

• Successful adaptation to diverse conditions, including urban congestion, tunnels, and remote areas

These results underscore the system's scalability, making it a sustainable solution for nationwide implementation. The PoC also aligns with broader trends in mobility, including demand management and connected vehicles. Its cloud-based architecture reduces CO₂ emissions by 85% compared to traditional systems, supporting global sustainability goals.

More information: Press | Kapsch TrafficCom.

“At FedEx, we have a vision to make supply chains smarter for everyone by leveraging advanced data and technology to better serve our customers and their customers, thereby extending our reach and impact,” said Raj Subramaniam, President and CEO, FedEx Corporation. “The ‘FedEx Effect’ represents our relentless commitment to excellence, economic growth, and the communities where we live and work.”

The report highlights FedEx's role in strengthening India's logistics infrastructure and promoting seamless global trade. FedEx directly contributed 0.1% to net economic output in the Transportation, Storage, and Communications sector in the region. In addition, FedEx indirectly contributed an estimated USD 280 million to the region’s overall economy in FY 2024. Key investments included modernizing the gateway facility at the New Delhi Cargo Complex, which enhanced export capabilities and reduced transit times for Indian exporters, helping them reach global markets in just two to three days. FedEx introduced the FedEx Import Tool (FiT), a centralized digital platform that streamlines document management and customs clearance, empowering Indian businesses with more efficient import processes. FedEx further demonstrated its commitment to innovation by investing USD10 million in Centers of Excellence at IIT Bombay and IIT Madras, utilizing India’s technological expertise to build smarter, more resilient supply chains.

“At FedEx, we’re proud to be part of India’s aspiration to lead on the global stage,” said Kami Viswanathan, regional president, FedEx MEISA. “Whether it’s helping businesses diversify into emerging technologies, supporting India’s dynamic youth, or connecting the country’s digital innovations to the world. Through sustainable solutions and our enhanced infrastructure, we are committed to contributing to both India’s economic and environmental progress.” 

FedEx is actively supporting the Government of India’s sustainability goals through partnerships that foster positive change in communities. Through support of the World Resources Institute (WRI) and its Mobility and Access Program (MAP), FedEx is helping public transportation systems in India become more efficient, safer, and more sustainable—aligning with the country’s goal of deploying 50,000 electric buses by 2027.
 

Additionally, by donating electric vehicles to the Akshaya Patra Foundation, FedEx helps the NGO save on fuel costs, allowing them to provide meals to 550,000 additional children throughout the academic year. FedEx also promotes circularity by upcycling old uniforms into school bags for underserved communities.

Globally, in FY2024, FedEx contributed over USD 85 billion in direct economic impact and its indirect contributions to total worldwide net economic output reached an estimated $39 billion. FedEx contributions accounted for approximately 0.9% of overall net economic output in the Transportation, Storage, and Communications sector, as defined by the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD). These contributions demonstrate the company’s broad-reaching impact across various sectors, creating value and fostering growth around the world.
 

Read the full FY 2024 FedEx Global Economic Impact Report and explore the FedEx Effect in communities and regions around the world at fedex.com/economicimpact.

About FedEx Corp.

FedEx Corp. (NYSE: FDX) provides customers and businesses worldwide with a broad portfolio of transportation, e-commerce, and business services. With annual revenue of $88 billion, the company offers integrated business solutions utilizing its flexible, efficient, and intelligent global network. Consistently ranked among the world's most admired and trusted employers, FedEx inspires its more than 500,000 employees to remain focused on safety, the highest ethical and professional standards, and the needs of their customers and communities. FedEx is committed to connecting people and possibilities around the world responsibly and resourcefully, with a goal to achieve carbon-neutral operations by 2040.

To learn more, please visit fedex.com/about.

Following the successful ASHA Conference in 2023, this expanded event brings together industry leaders, innovators, and policymakers to shape the future of urban air transportation. With support from the Government of India and the Ministry of Civil Aviation, the 4-day expo will showcase cutting-edge technologies in UAVs, drones, eVTOL aircraft, and Advanced Short Haul Air Mobility.

"The Urban Air Mobility Expo 2025 represents a crucial milestone in India's journey toward revolutionary urban transportation solutions," said Amit Dutta, Chairman CII Task Force on Advanced Air Mobility and MD, Hunch Mobility. "India's unique landscape and diverse mobility needs make it the perfect environment for pioneering Urban Air Mobility (UAM) innovations. As urbanization accelerates, this platform will drive solutions to critical challenges like congestion and pollution. By blending global expertise with local innovation, we are not just imagining the future of mobility – we are actively creating it."

India, as the world's third-largest aviation market with 341.05 million passengers, is set to take the lead in the Urban Air Mobility (UAM) revolution. The country’s commitment to electric air mobility and the increasing use of UAVs in areas like precision agriculture, infrastructure inspection, and disaster management highlight its readiness for technological advancement. With substantial opportunities in pilgrimage travel, air ambulances, last-mile deliveries, and mega-events, India is emerging as a significant hub for UAM innovation, paving the way for a transformative shift in the mobility sector.

The event features comprehensive conferences addressing critical industry topics, including policy frameworks, ecosystem development, and regulatory roadmaps. Attendees will experience live demonstrations of eVTOLs and drones, alongside exhibits from leading OEMs and suppliers. The conference program will deep dive into crucial areas such as UAM policy development, infrastructure requirements, manufacturing opportunities, and urban air traffic management systems.

Industry professionals can participate through various channels, with exhibition space available at USD 200 per sqm for raw space and USD 220 per sqm for built-up booths. Conference registration is open to delegates at INR 2500 per day for Indian participants and USD 250 per day for international delegates.

The Urban Air Mobility Expo 2025 will serve as a pivotal platform for the global UAM community to network, explore partnerships, and collaborate on innovative solutions that will define the future of urban transportation.

To view, Air Mobility Brochure, click here.

For more information and registration details, visit - urbanairmobilityexpo.in;

About CII

The Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) works to create and sustain an environment conducive to the development of India, partnering Industry, Government and civil society, through advisory and consultative processes.

CII is a non-government, not-for-profit, industry-led and industry-managed organization, with around 9,000 members from the private as well as public sectors, including SMEs and MNCs, and an indirect membership of over 365,000 enterprises from 294 national and regional sectoral industry bodies.

For more than 125 years, CII has been engaged in shaping India’s development journey and works proactively on transforming Indian Industry’s engagement in national development. CII charts change by working closely with Government on policy issues, interfacing with thought leaders, and enhancing efficiency, competitiveness, and business opportunities for industry through a range of specialized services and strategic global linkages. It also provides a platform for consensus-building and networking on key issues.

Through its dedicated Centres of Excellence and Industry competitiveness initiatives, promotion of innovation and technology adoption, and partnerships for sustainability, CII plays a transformative part in shaping the future of the nation. Extending its agenda beyond business, CII assists industry to identify and execute corporate citizenship programmes across diverse domains including affirmative action, livelihoods, diversity management, skill development, empowerment of women, and sustainable development, to name a few.

For 2024-25, CII has identified “Globally Competitive India: Partnerships for Sustainable and Inclusive Growth” as its Theme, prioritizing 5 key pillars. During the year, it would align its initiatives and activities to facilitate strategic actions for driving India’s global competitiveness and growth through a robust and resilient Indian industry.

With 70 offices, including 12 Centres of Excellence, in India, and 8 overseas offices in Australia, Egypt, Germany, Indonesia, Singapore, UAE, UK, and USA, as well as institutional partnerships with about 300 counterpart organizations in almost 100 countries, CII serves as a reference point for Indian industry and the international business community.

About Hunch Mobility

Hunch Mobility is a leading urban air mobility (UAM) platform revolutionizing transportation in India through advanced solutions like short-haul air mobility and private charter services. Focused on reducing travel time and enhancing connectivity, Hunch Mobility provides efficient options for businesses and individuals. Through strategic partnerships and a commitment to innovation, sustainability, and efficiency, Hunch Mobility is shaping the future of urban transportation. 

Praveen Kumar, an employee of Zenplus Fleet, successfully administered CPR on a fellow passenger who was having a heart attack while flying from Mumbai to Chennai. This life-saving initiative demonstrates the relevance of CPR training and Zenzo EMS's (Zenplus Fleet's subsidiary) commitment to providing people with essential emergency response skills.

Zenplus Fleet Employee Mr. Praveen Kumar with Flight Attendants

The flight which was scheduled to fly directly from Mumbai to Chennai was unable to reach its destination on time due to an air show rehearsal in Chennai, leading to its diversion to Madurai for an emergency landing. Shortly after the aircraft landed, a 65-year-old passenger suddenly passed out. Praveen Kumar, trained in providing life-saving medical aid during emergencies, realized the gravity of the situation and offered to help immediately. With the help of the cabin crew, Praveen administered CPR. Through his ardent efforts, the passenger regained consciousness, demonstrating the life-saving potential of CPR. The passenger was then immediately taken to the emergency department for further medical treatment. Praveen's prompt intervention and presence of mind resulted in the passenger's recovery.

"Praveen Kumar's heroic actions exemplify the spirit of Zenzo's mission: to drive purpose and prioritize community safety," said Sweta Mangal, Group CEO of Zenplus Private Limited. "This incident highlights the indispensable value of CPR training and its profound impact in emergencies."

Manish Sacheti, CEO of Zenplus Fleet, added, "This incident showcases the preparedness and dedication we strive for in our team. Praveen's actions truly reflect our commitment to ensuring that our employees are not just skilled professionals but also responsible guardians ready to act in critical moments."

Proud to have trained tens of thousands in life-saving techniques, Zenzo equips people to act boldly and professionally when it counts the most. Through practical training programs, Zenzo ensures that more individuals are prepared to become guardians on the go and capable of making a difference in crucial situations.

About Zenzo

Zenzo Healthcare is one of the leading new-age healthcare providers in India. With a vision of sparking a revolution in healthcare, Zenzo's 5G ambulance services are operational in 500 cities, going beyond saving lives and creating a ripple effect of care and resilience. With actions driven by empathy, Zenzo aims to develop individualized care that offers each person fast, reliable and advanced healthcare support. By bringing advanced and efficient ambulance services for individuals and corporations, the company aims to create a society that values healthcare and is, in turn, empowered by it.

About Zenplus Fleet

Zenplus Fleet Management Pvt Ltd is more than a conventional fleet management company. As Uber's strategic partner, the company effectively uses new and advanced technology for efficient operations, evolving and improving the transportation landscape. Beyond transportation, the company focuses on prioritizing driver empowerment and establishing sustainable long-term revenue streams, thereby supporting the livelihoods of its driver partners.

For further information, please contact: ajit.pal@zhl.in

Mr. Dhiman Roy of GreenH, Mr. Vinod Agarwal of GR Infraprojects Ltd., Mr. Romen Rawat from Indian Railways, and Mr. Anselmo Andrade of H2B2

The event was graced with the presence of Mr. Vinod Agarwal, Chairman and Wholetime Director of GR Infraprojects Ltd., along with Mr. Anselmo Andrade, CEO and Founding Partner of H2B2 Electrolysis Technologies and Mr. Romen Rawat, Chief Project Manager/Hydrogen Trainset, Indian Railways.

This 1 MW PEM electrolyser will be installed at the hydrogen production and refueling station at Jind, Haryana, and will supply hydrogen to India’s first hydrogen train under the prestigious Indian Railways’ “Hydrogen for Heritage” initiative. The electrolyser will operate round the clock producing approximately 430 kg/day of hydrogen at a delivery pressure of 40 bar (g) and purity as per ISO 14687 suitable for Fuel Cell applications. The refueling infrastructure at Jind will also have a 3,000 kg hydrogen storage, hydrogen compressor, and two hydrogen dispensers with pre-cooler integration, allowing for quick refueling of the trains.

Mr. Dhiman Roy, CEO and Director, GreenH Electrolysis Pvt. Ltd. said, “We are extremely proud to announce the launch of our first 1 MW PEM electrolyser. This marks a significant milestone in our growth journey in India and underscores our commitment to the country’s Make in India initiatives and India’s energy transition journey. With the support of our parent companies, GR Promoter Group and H2B2 Electrolysis Technologies we are well poised to play an important role in India’s green hydrogen plans as part of our efforts to answer the clarion call of our country to go green and clean. This milestone is only the beginning and as an organisation, each member of the GreenH family is excited to work towards laying the foundation for a sustainable tomorrow.”

Anselmo Andrade, CEO and Founding Partner, H2B2 Electrolysis Technologies, said, “Congratulations to the GreenH team on the unveiling of its first PEM Electrolyser in India. As a global leader in the hydrogen sector through water electrolysis, we are a proud partner in this significant development. We look forward to enhancing our partnership with GreenH and are confident that our technological expertise will enable GreenH to effectively meet the growing demand for renewable hydrogen in the country.”

Ashwin Agarwal, Director, GR Promoter Group. said, "India’s green hydrogen segment is witnessing significant growth and is expected to play a pivotal role in its energy transition efforts. This electrolyser, developed for Indian Railways’ prestigious ‘Heritage for Hydrogen’ project, signifies an important milestone in GreenH’s journey and the progress of the sector in the country.”

The recent Government policies and schemes have been a catalyst for India’s green hydrogen story, encouraging innovation and attracting investments. Green hydrogen has the potential to decarbonise hard-to-abate sectors, thus helping reduce carbon emissions. Backed by the experience of H2B2 Electrolysis Technologies, and GR Promoter Group, GreenH is committed to contributing to the Indian Government's Green Hydrogen Mission and the country’s endeavours to achieve its energy transition goals.

About GreenH

GreenH Electrolysis is a leading green hydrogen technology company manufacturing electrolysers in India. It is a joint venture between H2B2 Electrolysis Technologies and GR Promoter Group. GreenH offers a complete range of solutions to suit varied client requirements including plug & play electrolysers, integrated solutions for large capacities, and development of green hydrogen plants. For more information, visit www.greenh.in

About H2B2

H2B2 Electrolysis Technologies is a global, vertically integrated provider of renewable hydrogen energy systems, services, and equipment, with its own proprietary water electrolysis technology. H2B2’s suite of products and services span the production and transport of hydrogen, from design through operation. Hydrogen is commercialized across a variety of sectors such as industrial, energy storage, mobility and residential.

For more information, visit www.h2b2.es.

About GR Promoter Group

GR Promoter Group through their flagship company G R Infraprojects Limited, have a stronghold in integrated EPC and project development with more than two decades of experience in design, construction and O&M of various road, railway, metro, and power transmission & distribution projects pan India. With the in-roads into the green Hydrogen domain, they are now extending their footprint into the energy development business.

Kapsch TrafficCom is proud to announce that the Bulgarian "Nationwide Tolling & E-Vignette System" was awarded the prestigious Road Finance Excellence Award by the International Road Federation (IRF).

This recognition underscores the innovative design, exceptional implementation, and the positive impact of the GNSS (Global Navigation Satellite System)-based tolling system on the country's transportation infrastructure. The award ceremony took place on September 26, 2024, during the IRF Europe & Central Asia Congress Gala Dinner in Plovdiv, Bulgaria.

Georg Kapsch, CEO of Kapsch TrafficCom, explains, "The award highlights the capabilities of our GNSS technology to cover thousands of kilometers of road. We are bringing together our extensive global experience with the local market expertise of our partners. This allows us to deploy our solution in a way that fits local needs while delivering a flexible, scalable, future-proof and sustainable system for financing infrastructure while at the same time reducing CO₂ emissions by optimizing traffic flow."

The Bulgarian Nationwide Tolling System
Launched in 2019 in partnership with Bulgaria's Road Infrastructure Agency (RIA), this project transitioned the country's tolling system from time-based vignettes to a distance-based model for heavy goods vehicles (HGV) using cutting-edge satellite tolling technology. The system covers over 16,000 kilometers of roads, managing electronic tolls for trucks and e-vignettes for passenger vehicles. By 2020, GNSS tolling for all HGVs was introduced, generating a 10% revenue increase from e-vignettes and additional gains from enhanced enforcement measures.

Kapsch worked closely with the RIA and consulting teams, coordinating seven specialized working groups for road infrastructure, data centers, tolling, enforcement, and payment systems. Over 500 authority staff were trained, and the project's scope includes 24/7 technical support and maintenance. The system also integrates various sales channels, including web platforms, mobile apps, and self-service terminals.

The International Road Federation (IRF) is a global, not-for-profit organization dedicated to promoting safe, sustainable, and efficient road networks worldwide. The recognition by the IRF marks another milestone in the successful deployment of tolling systems by Kapsch TrafficCom around the globe.

Partnership between Aramex and Smartt AI

Through this partnership, Aramex will offer its customers access to Smartt AI’s advanced e-commerce solutions, enabling businesses to optimize their logistics operations.

AI-driven e-commerce solutions
Businesses can enhance service quality and operational growth by integrating Aramex’s leading fulfilment and last-mile delivery services with Smartt AI’s seamless, plug-and-play e-commerce platform. Aramex will introduce a preferential pricing model, offering a 60% discount on standard rates along with an additional 10% discount exclusively for Smartt AI customers. The initiative aims to provide significant cost savings for logistics and e-commerce businesses, setting a new benchmark for value and service in the industry. The partnership will also feature a unified dashboard for enhanced tracking and management, allowing businesses to monitor logistics operations in real-time. With integrated Application Programming Interfaces (APIs), Aramex and Smartt AI will streamline operations and improve transparency across the entire customer journey.

Expanding across the region
While initially focusing on the UAE, the partnership plans to expand into the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and other regional markets. The expansion will allow Aramex customers to leverage the combined strengths of both companies as they scale operations across the Middle East. Lour AlMukhaimer, Channel Manager – Business Development, SMEs & Partnerships, Cash and Retail Outlets at Aramex, said, “This collaboration reflects our commitment to innovation and excellence, and we are confident it will significantly enhance the services we provide to our customers.”

Kartik Jobanputra, Founder and CEO at Smartt AI, commented, “By integrating our AI-driven e-commerce solutions with Aramex’s extensive logistics network, we are poised to deliver exceptional service quality and operational efficiency. This partnership not only benefits our customers but also demonstrates our shared vision for driving digital transformation.”

Take a sneak peek at Norwegian Luna, Norwegian Cruise Line’s next ship in its cutting-edge fleet – debuting 2026
 

At almost 322 metres long, 156,300 gross tonnes, and accommodating approximately 3,550 guests at double occupancy, Norwegian Luna will boast an overall 10 percent size and capacity increase from Prima Class ships, Norwegian Prima^® and Norwegian Viva^®. Norwegian Luna will be designed as a twin sister-ship to Norwegian Aqua, the Company’s latest new vessel due for delivery in March 2025. Both ships are currently being built by renowned Italian shipbuilder Fincantieri, with interior designs across the ship created by world-class architects AD Associates, Piero Lissoni, Rockwell Group, SMC Design, and Studio Dado.
 

“Inspired by the relationship between the moon and the tides of the ocean, we are excited to introduce Norwegian Luna as the vessel that perfectly complements her sister ship, Norwegian Aqua,” said David J. Herrera, president of Norwegian Cruise Line. “The debut of Norwegian Luna truly showcases our ongoing commitment to providing guests more of what they enjoy and value – a brand-new ship with the latest, innovative offerings sailing to the beautiful, tropical destinations of the Caribbean. It’s important to give our guests more to see, more to do, more to enjoy on board and ultimately more out of their cruise vacation. We can’t wait for them to experience Norwegian Luna!”

“Norwegian Luna is the second vessel in our acclaimed Prima Plus Class, representing the continued evolution of our fleet. This Class offers everything Indian cruisers love – more space to relax, diverse dining options, upscale health & wellness facilities, and world-class entertainment venues,” said Ben Angell, Vice President and Managing Director, Norwegian Cruise Line Asia-Pacific. “With the launch of Norwegian Luna we continue to deliver more opportunities for our guests to embark on the holiday of their dreams across a choice of 400+ destinations.”
 

Norwegian Luna’s hull art will showcase a vibrant dreamscape by ELLE, the highly acclaimed street artist from Napa, Calif., who has partnered with popular brand names such as Nike, Reebok and Ralph Lauren. Entitled ‘La Luna,’ the artwork is a visual exploration of humanity’s deep-rooted connection with the celestial forces in space as human beings are intrinsically linked to the ebb and flow of the moon. ‘La Luna’ will display proudly on the bow of the ship, leading guests on an extraordinary voyage and an epic journey of discovery.
 

“I’m thrilled to partner with Norwegian Cruise Line who has been known for showcasing stunningly designed hull art across its entire fleet,” said ELLE. “It’s been an incredible experience crafting this piece and knowing my 1,056-foot piece of artwork will sail across the seas, traveling the globe for all to see.”
 

Mirroring the upscale design and structure of Norwegian Aqua, Norwegian Luna will thrill and exhilarate guests with the NCL exclusive Aqua Slidecoaster, a first-of-its-kind hybrid rollercoaster and waterslide that will debut next year on Norwegian Aqua and become the longest and fastest slides at sea. Complete with exhilarating dual slides and a magnetic lift that propels adventurous guests through two different courses, this attraction will feature three stories of exciting twists and turns around the ship's funnel. Norwegian Luna will also feature a digital sports complex, the Glow Court, offering a variety of interactive guest activities by day and then transforming into a nightclub in the evening. Guests will also be able to continue to enjoy some of their favourite onboard experiences aboard Norwegian Luna, including The Drop, NCL's 10-story free-fall slide, and the Stadium, an outdoor space offering complimentary activities.
 

Norwegian Luna will boast the all-new luxurious Three-Bedroom Duplex Haven Suites in the Brand's premium keycard-access-only-complex, The Haven by Norwegian^®, which were first announced to debut on sister ship Norwegian Aqua. These expansive two-story suites will feature separate living and dining areas; three bathrooms; a balcony; and three bedrooms. Haven guests will continue to enjoy 24-hour butler service and a dedicated concierge team as well as access to a sprawling sundeck; an infinity pool overlooking the ship’s stern; an outdoor spa complete with a glass-walled sauna and cold room; two hot tubs; a private lounge; and an exclusive bar pouring rare spirits and vintages.
 

A variety of NCL’s elevated guest experiences will also make their comeback on Norwegian Luna including Ocean Boulevard, the 46,000 square foot outdoor walkway which wraps around the entire ship to bring guests closer to the sea; Vibe Beach Club, the adults-only, open-air lounge; Infinity Beach which provides sweeping views of the ocean; and an expansive, upper pool deck equipped with day beds for soaking up the sun. 
 

Guests aboard Norwegian Luna can also enjoy the new dining and bar experiences of the Prima Plus Class such as Sukhothai, the Company’s Thai specialty restaurant with an eclectic menu of traditional and creative offerings and Indulge Food Hall with 10 different food stations including the plant based Planterie location. Returning NCL signature specialty and complimentary venues include Cagney’s Steakhouse; Le Bistro, the elevated French restaurant; and Onda by Scarpetta, the high-end Italian venue. In addition to the culinary offerings, guests can indulge in bar and lounge favourites for delicious imbibes at Whiskey Bar, Belvedere Bar, and Metropolitan, NCL’s modern Sail & Sustain cocktail bar which won the 2024 Vibe Vista Award for “Best Beverage Menu.”  
 

Additional guest experiences aboard Norwegian Luna will be unveiled in the upcoming new year. For more information or to book a cruise with NCL, please visit www.ncl.com.
 

Watch Norwegian Luna™ | Shine Brighter | Norwegian Cruise Line: www.youtube.com/watch?v=FWkLwnv43fc.
 

About Norwegian Cruise Line

As the innovator in global cruise travel, Norwegian Cruise Line has been breaking the boundaries of traditional cruising for 57 years. Most notably, the cruise line revolutionised the industry by offering guests the freedom and flexibility to design their ideal holiday on their preferred schedule with no assigned dining and entertainment times and no formal dress codes. Today, its fleet of 19 contemporary ships sail to 450 of the world's most desirable destinations, including Great Stirrup Cay, the company's private island in the Bahamas and its resort destination Harvest Caye in Belize. Norwegian Cruise Line not only provides superior guest service from land to sea, but also offers a wide variety of award-winning entertainment and dining options as well as a range of accommodations across the fleet, including solo-traveller staterooms, club balcony suites, and The Haven by Norwegian®, the company's ship-within-a-ship concept.

On this development, Balfour Manuel, Managing Director, Blue Dart, said, "By expanding our direct reach to more pin codes, we enhance accessibility and empower SMEs and MSMEs to connect and expand their business to both domestic and international markets. This aligns with the spirit of India's 78th Independence Day theme and highlights our commitment to growth, operational excellence, and a customer-centric approach as our key market differentiator."
 

Blue Dart offers an extensive service network of secure and reliable express delivery services, covering over 56,000 locations nationwide. This expanded direct reach reinforces Blue Dart’s commitment to customer satisfaction by connecting to more geographies directly and facilitating business growth. The company’s robust infrastructure includes a fleet of 8 Boeing aircraft, over 33,000 on-ground vehicles including 480+ E-vehicles, and 2,253 facilities nationwide, guaranteeing swift and secure deliveries. Blue Dart, as part of the DHL Group’s DHL eCommerce Solutions division, leverages the world's largest express and ground network to extend its reach to over 220 countries and territories globally.
 

Blue Dart’s comprehensive service offerings empower SMEs and MSMEs by providing the essential logistics support needed to expand their services and direct reach even the most remote areas. By enhancing the operational capabilities of small and medium-sized enterprises, Blue Dart enables them to thrive in competitive markets. The company plays a crucial role in facilitating business operations across various sectors, including E-commerce, Pharmaceuticals & Medical Devices, BFSI, Consumer Electronics, and Automotive, among others.
 

Blue Dart Express Ltd., South Asia's premier express air and integrated transportation & distribution company, offers secure and reliable delivery of consignments to over 56,000+ locations in India. Blue Dart is a provider of choice for its stakeholders due to its customer centric approach and aims to further strengthen this partnership. As part of DHL Group’s DHL eCommerce division, Blue Dart accesses the largest and most comprehensive express and logistics network worldwide, covering over 220 countries and territories, and offers an entire spectrum of distribution services including air express, freight forwarding, supply chain solutions, customs clearance etc.

The Blue Dart team drives market leadership through its motivated people, dedicated air and ground capacity, cutting-edge technology, wide range of innovative, vertical specific products and value-added services to deliver unmatched standards of service quality to its customers. Blue Dart's market leadership is further validated by its position as the nation’s most innovative and awarded express logistics company for exhibiting reliability, superior brand experience and sustainability which include recognition as one of ‘India's Best Companies to Work For’ by The Great Place to Work® Institute, India, ranked amongst ‘Best Multinational Workplaces in Asia’ by The Great Place to Work® Institute, Asia, voted a ‘Superbrand’ and ‘Reader’s Digest Most Trusted Brand’, listed as one of Fortune 500’s ‘India's Largest Corporations’ and Forbes ‘India's Super 50 Companies’ to name a few. Blue Dart’s Diversity and Inclusion initiatives have also led to it being recognized as one of India’s ‘Best Workplaces for Women’ in 2021 and ‘Best Organisations for Women’ in 2022 by the Economic Times.

Blue Dart fulfils its social responsibility of climate protection (GoGreen), disaster management (GoHelp) and education (GoTeach) through its GoPrograms.

Tricity Metro on the horizon: Infrastructure development in Tier 2 cities at full swing​
 

The allocated land will serve as the site for the depot, which is crucial for the maintenance and operation of the metro trains. This development is expected to streamline the implementation of the metro project, facilitating better connectivity and reducing traffic congestion in Tricity and its neighbouring regions. The establishment of the depot will ensure the smooth functioning of the metro system, contributing significantly to the project's overall success.

The Chandigarh Tricity Metro project is a visionary public transportation initiative aimed at providing efficient, reliable, and eco-friendly urban mobility solutions. By enhancing connectivity, reducing traffic congestion, and creating job opportunities, the metro system is poised to significantly improve the quality of life in Tricity and its neighbouring regions. The project encompasses state-of-the-art metro trains, advanced infrastructure, and seamless integration with existing transportation networks. It is set to become a cornerstone of Tricity's urban landscape, supporting the city's sustainable growth and development for years to come.

Key Industry Leaders Comment on the Development
Piyush Kansal, Executive Director of Royale Estate Group, emphasized his enthusiasm for the project, stating, "We welcome this much-needed project whole-heartedly. The Tricity Metro will introduce an efficient and environmentally sustainable transportation alternative, significantly enhancing regional connectivity and mobility. The metro will catalyze substantial opportunities in real estate. Enhanced connectivity along metro routes typically stimulates residential, commercial, and mixed-use development investments. These not only enhance property values but also foster economic growth, create employment opportunities, and elevate the overall quality of life for residents. By reducing dependence on private vehicles, the metro system will contribute to a greener urban environment and promote sustainable living practices. This initiative is poised to play a pivotal role in shaping the future of urban mobility, positioning Tricity as a benchmark region for sustainable development."

Prateek Mittal, Executive Director of Sushma Group, highlighted the broader implications of this move, stating, "The Tricity Metro project is poised to revolutionize urban mobility in the region. The establishment of the depot is foundational, ensuring the seamless operation and maintenance of the metro, which will significantly enhance the daily commute experience for thousands of residents. This development underscores the government's steadfast commitment to enhancing public transportation and elevating urban living standards. The metro's introduction is expected to reshape the Tricity by reducing traffic congestion, lowering pollution levels, and fostering sustainable urban development. The enhanced connectivity and accessibility the metro system provides will also attract investments in commercial and residential sectors, driving economic growth and creating new opportunities for local businesses and residents."

Mr. Mukul Bansal, Managing Director of Motiaz, expressed his enthusiasm about the project, stating, "The Punjab government's decision to allocate land for the metro depot marks a significant step forward in enhancing urban infrastructure. This initiative promises to substantially elevate the quality of life for residents by providing a reliable and efficient mode of transportation. The introduction of the metro system is poised to be a transformative development for Tricity, easing daily commutes and catalyzing sustainable urban growth. The metro project is set to create new investment opportunities across the Tricity. Improved connectivity and enhanced infrastructure typically attract investments in real estate, commercial ventures, and ancillary services, thereby boosting the region's economic activity and employment prospects."

Tejpreet Singh, Managing Director of Gillco Group, highlighted the transformative impact of the metro project on urban development, stating, "The introduction of the metro system is crucial in addressing traffic congestion and promoting sustainable urban development. This land allocation underscores the government's commitment to enhancing Tricity's economic landscape while improving the daily lives of residents. The metro will provide civilians with a convenient and efficient transportation option, enhancing connectivity across the Tricity and facilitating easier access to employment, education, and recreational opportunities."

With the land for the depot now secured, the Tricity Metro project is set to progress towards its next phases. The successful implementation of the metro system will bring the vision of a state-of-the-art public transportation solution closer to reality, promising a brighter and more sustainable future for the residents of Tricity and beyond.

Antara Catamarans at Odisha's  Bhitarkanika National Park

Crisscrossed by four rivers: Brahmani, Baitarani, Dhamra and Patasala, the Bhitarkanika National Park has the single largest population of estuarial crocodiles in the world, 8 species of kingfishers and over 300 varieties of birds. The landscape comprising the delta and mangrove clusters is complex and beautiful, a real draw for nature and wildlife lovers.

So, get ready for an extraordinary cruising expedition as the catamarans navigate through India’s second largest mangrove in India after Sundarbans in the Bay of Bengal and unveil the hidden treasures of this enchanting and undiscovered region. 

Starting 1st August, 2024, the MV Mahanadi and MV Bhitarkanika will offer 2 night/3 day itinerary - Amazon of the East sails every Thursday and Saturday and 3 night/4 day itinerary- Cruising in Bhitarkanika every Monday. Embarking at Gupti, just over a 3 hour drive from Bhubaneswar airport, you cruise through Dangamal exploring Bhitarkanika and then returning to Gupti. The cruise is priced at INR 29,500/- [plus 5% GST] per person per night on twin sharing/double occupancy.

Join Antara’s expert guides on immersive excursions, be it bird watching, nature walks, or exploring hidden villages. Every moment promises discovery and awe-inspiring encounters with the natural wonders of Odisha in India. 

Highlights of the sustainable nature safari

• Crocodile Watch 

• Birding 

• Nature Photography 

• Star Gazing

• Visit to Dangamal WildlifeMuseum 

• Animal Sighting 

• Boating 

• Forest Trekking

“The rivers in Bhitarkanika National Park form a rich and diverse ecosystem, supporting an abundance of flora and fauna. From dense mangroves and meandering rivers to exotic wildlife and serene landscapes, every corner of this park tells a story of nature’s wonder. However, dipping into these intricate ecosystems comes with the responsibility of protecting them and Antara River Cruises is both community inclusive and sensitive to the planet’s challenges. Our catamarans present the first hybrid solar electric and fuel powered cruise in India,” said Raj Singh, Chairman, Exotic Heritage Group, promoters of Antara River Cruises.

Small pleasures on the Antara catamarans:
Comfort and Elegance: The catamarans, 17 metres long and 6 metres wide, travelling at 5 knots per hour, boast a perfect blend of comfort and elegance offering panoramic views. Featuring two identical cabins, each with, private 3-fixture bathrooms and wardrobes with common spaces to lounge and dine and an airy sundeck. The Antara catamarans redefine expedition cruising in Odisha offering a tranquil home as you cruise through the wetlands.

Culinary Delights: Indulge your palate with a selection of local and international cuisines that complement the surroundings. Wake up to a breakfast with a view or enjoy a sundowner as you gently traverse the Pathsala River or indulge in a high tea as the sight of the distant Bay of Bengal mesmerises you. Traditional fare awaits you at meal times giving you the flavours of the region.

Scenic Routes: Glide through the rich and unique mangrove ecosystem with creeks, mudflats, and estuaries of Odisha presided over by the majestic Sundari tree, immersing yourself in the unparalleled beauty of dense mangroves, vibrant landscapes, and rich biodiversity that the ‘mini Amazon’ is renowned for. As you lounge on the sun deck or in the comfort of your room, marvel at the flora and fauna enlivening the banks and the constantly changing view along the crisscrossing rivers of the park. Let your camera capture the many varieties of kingfishers caught in the act of snapping up their breakfast fish or a bask of crocodiles having a lazy morning. Ride a small boat through a tangle of breathing roots with a naturalist, perhaps spotting a fishing cat’s luminous eyes amidst the gloom, and immerse yourself in the thrilling stillness of unspoiled nature. 

Sustainability on board the Antara Catamaran

• The catamarans present the first hybrid solar electric + fuel powered cruise in India

• Avoid single use plastic

• Bio-chemical toilets and water purifying plants on board

• Source all ingredients from local markets

• Follow strict animal welfare guidelines

• Encourage local Odia artisans and crafts for décor and retail

Bhitarkanika National Park: the hidden treasure of history and biodiversity: Bhitarkanika is a 672 sq km large, ecologically significant and protected sanctuary. It was birthed when the king of the ancient kingdom of Kanika meticulously carved a labyrinth of creeks, not only as a defence against sea pirates, and safeguarding his kingdom’s flourishing commerce, but also as a secret spot for his hunting escapades. These wild, intricately designed waterways, complex to outsiders, are entered through the Khola gate. Khola means to ‘dig the earth’, signifying the land's excavation. See the mangroves, creeks and mudflats and their salt-tolerant species and the ubiquitous Sundari tree. This thriving mangrove ecosystem protects the coastline from erosion and is a nurturing ground for an array of marine and land species, including the formidable saltwater crocodile, graceful Indian pythons, elusive king cobras, a plethora of avian species, including migratory birds from Central Asia and Siberia, elegant spotted deer, and robust wild boars.

The Antara Story: Antara believes the best way to see South Asia is from the river. What began in 2003 as a dream for travel industry pioneer and naturalist Raj Singh has today turned into Antara’s thoughtfully designed, well-appointed fleet of nine ships that sail South Asia’s most iconic rivers. Antara offers its guests beautiful perches on moving water from which to enjoy vibrant and meditative landscapes, people, crafts and wildlife. Our philosophy is to bring the region’s indigenous environments and cultures to the world, sustainably, and with its renowned hospitality, in ships that are designed with thought, luxury and care. Antara cruises encompass the Ganga, the Padma and the Brahmaputra River systems to make the world’s longest river cruise. In 2024, Antara commenced sailing the four rivers that inundate Bhitarkanika National Park, India’s second largest mangrove forest.

For more information on Antara River Cruises please visit: www.antaracruises.com.

The Vande Bharat Express, renowned for its speed, safety, and comfort, is a flagship project under the Indian Railways' modernization plan. By integrating Uniproducts' state-of-the-art insulation technology, these trains will offer an even quieter and more temperature-controlled environment, enhancing passenger comfort during long journeys.

"We are thrilled to partner with Integral Coach Factory for the Vande Bharat project," said Mr. Sunil Pahilajani, CEO of Uniproducts India at Uniproducts. "Our advanced thermal and sound insulation solutions are engineered to meet the stringent requirements of modern high-speed trains. This collaboration underscores our capabilities in delivering high-performance products and our dedication to supporting the Indian Railways in its mission to provide world-class travel experiences."

Uniproducts' insulation parts are designed to arrest heat and noise levels, ensuring a comfortable and health-friendly environment for passengers. The company's technological strength and cost efficiency were instrumental in securing the development order from the Integral Coach Factory.

With production already commenced, Uniproducts is committed to delivering these insulation parts in a timely manner, aligning with the development and delivery timeline set by the Integral Coach Factory. Moreover, Uniproducts' insulation products are not only high-performance but also sustainable and environmentally friendly, contributing to the long-term goals of reducing carbon footprint.

Beyond the railway sector, Uniproducts sees potential applications for its insulation technology in industries such as automotive, metro, and more. This collaboration with Indian Railways not only signifies business growth for Uniproducts but also reinforces its commitment to serving the nation with innovative, made-in-India solutions.

The June 2024 edition of Shriram Mobility Bulletin, released today includes interesting data about the latest state of the automobile and logistics sector. The bulletin compiles sales and rental figures for May 2024 and compares them to relevant figures from relevant periods to provide a complete picture.

The intense summer heat exerted its influence on fleet occupancy rates, which dropped to almost 60% as loaders and drivers decided to avoid working during the day in different parts of India. High summer temperatures, along with fewer public infrastructure projects, caused a drop in truck rental rates along the major routes. A significant downturn in rental rates was observed in the routes spanning Delhi-Kolkata-Delhi, Delhi-Chennai-Delhi and Mumbai- Kolkata-Mumbai.

But as India gets ready for what is expected to be an ample monsoon season, tractor sales significantly increased in May. Sales of agricultural tractors increased by a significant 24% in May 2024, indicating strong demand attributable to pre-monsoon buying. Meanwhile, sales of commercial tractors increased by 20% in the same time frame, exhibiting strong month-over- month growth.
 

Fuel sales and FASTag collections also saw a substantial rise in May 2024 due to the rush of vacationers and election campaigners hitting the road. There was a notable 6% increase in toll revenues from month to month, which suggests that there are more cars on the highways. The amount of fuel consumed surged by 5% month over month to 3.45 million tons, the highest level since May 2023.

This increase can be attributed to the heightened presence of wheels on the road due to election campaigns and people venturing out during the holiday season. Similarly, diesel consumption also witnessed a substantial uptick, rising by 6% month-over-month to 8.39 million tonnes.

The infra-activities saw a dip in that period. However, the demand for summer essentials like air conditioners, coolers, refrigerators, and the plentiful array of seasonal fruits kept transportation trucks active.

There was a significant increase in bulk cargo volume at major ports, rising by 7% compared to the previous month and 6% compared to the same period last year, totaling 71.9 million tonnes. The Kolkata Dock System handled the least amount of bulk cargo, while Kandla's Deendayal Port handled the most. Containerized cargo also saw growth, reaching 1081 TEUs (in thousand nos.) with a 5% month-over-month and year-over-year increase. This increase in the volume of container freight indicates a rebound, particularly in light of the 6% decrease in April, which suggested a strengthening trend in trade activity.

"The oppressive summer heat reduced fleet occupancy to 60%, but the promise of a good monsoon boosted tractor sales in May. Holiday travelers and election campaigners, along with increased export-import activities, drove up fuel consumption and FASTag collections. Despite a dip in public infra-activity, the demand for summer goods kept our trucks rolling, showcasing the indomitable spirit of our logistics network," said YS Chakravarti, MD & CEO of Shriram Finance Ltd.

Shriram Mobility Bulletin is an initiative by Shriram Finance Ltd to provide stakeholders with a picture of India’s economy. Monthly, the company compiles statistical data about the logistics and automobile sector through its nationwide network of fleet owners & vehicle dealers. The data is analysed to unearth interesting & vital trends.

About Shriram Finance

Shriram Finance Limited is the flagship company of the Shriram group which has significant presence in Consumer Finance, Life Insurance, General Insurance, Housing Finance, Stock Broking and Distribution businesses. Shriram Finance Limited is one of India’s largest retail asset financing Non-Banking Finance Companies (NBFC) with Assets under Management (AUM) above Rs. 2.24 trillion. Established in 1979, Shriram Finance is a holistic finance provider catering to the needs of Small Road Transport Operators and small business owners and is a leader in organised financing of pre-owned commercial vehicles and two wheelers. It has vertically integrated business model and offers financing number of products which include passenger commercial vehicles, loans to micro and small and medium enterprises (MSMEs), tractors & farm equipment, gold, personal loans and working capital loans etc. Over last 45 years, it has developed strong competencies in the areas of loan origination, valuation of pre-owned commercial vehicles and other assets, and collections. It has a pan India presence with network of 3,082 branches and an employee strength of 74,645 servicing to 83.97 lakhs of customers.

Hari Marar, MD & CEO, BIAL and Anil Jain, MD, Refex Group along with other officials at the flag off Electric Airport Taxis from Refex eVeelz begin operations at Bengaluru Airport
 

Sharing more details about the sustainability initiatives, Hari Marar, Managing Director & CEO of Bangalore International Airport Ltd, said, “At BIAL, our commitment to environmental sustainability drives us to continually innovate. The introduction of the EV taxi fleet and the tree planting drive are significant strides towards reducing our carbon footprint and enhancing the green spaces within the airport. As many as 100 trees have been planted in the campus showcasing our dedication to nurture and revitalise the surroundings and also create greener spaces. With a strong focus on providing sustainable ecological solutions, these dual initiatives will positively contribute to the ecosystem and improve the overall experience for the passengers and the local community.”
 

Passengers can book the new EV Taxis, either at the airport taxi stands in both terminals or through the BLR Pulse mobile application. While the teal-coloured SUVs echoes BLR Airport’s unwavering dedication to sustainability, the pink ones are for female passengers, also operated by female drivers. As an enhanced safety measure, each female passenger is provided with a ‘Pink Card’ with contact numbers of duty manager, local police and ambulance services.
 

Speaking on the occasion, Anil Jain, Managing Director, Refex Group said, “Refex’s Green Mobility vertical is on a mission to provide reliable, safe and cleaner options of commute through Refex eVeelz. Our 100% company owned and leased EV fleet, our driver partners, and our processes provide a safe and eco friendly commuting experience.”
 

With Refex eVeelz fleet in action, over 50 percent of the fleet at the airport has become electric. The carbon emissions from the BLR airport will be reduced drastically and this will prove beneficial to the immediate airport surroundings and beyond.
 

Bangalore International Airport Ltd continues to work towards attaining its long-term vision of transitioning all vehicles at BLR Airport to sustainable options. The successful implementation of semi-robotic aircraft towering vehicles and EV vehicles on both airside and landside is contributing to broader environmental goals, fostering a greener future for all.

About Refex eVeelz

Refex eVeelz by Refex Green Mobility Limited is one of India’s all-electric 4-wheeler fleet which has been launched in Bengaluru. They offer 100% EV fleet, drivers, infrastructure and technology for a safe commuting experience. Refex Green Mobility Limited (RGML) & Refex EV Fleet Services Private Ltd. (REVFSPL) together constitute Refex Group’s Green Mobility vertical, which is one of India’s leading business organisations serving multiple business verticals. Within a short span since its launch in March 2023, Refex eVeelz has covered more than 75 lakh kilometres which translates to abating nearly 3.75 lakh kgs of CO2 equivalent. The end-to-end monitoring via a command-and-control centre and the tech-based routing, alerts, and notification are some of its key features. Refex eVeelz offers e-mobility solution to passengers (corporates and individuals) 100% electric vehicles, technology platform and support teams.

About Refex

Refex Group is one of India’s leading business organizations that started as a Refrigerant Gas refilling and bottling company, and has now been operating for over two decades expanding into Renewables, Ash and Coal handling, Medical Technologies, Pharmaceuticals, Green Mobility, Airports and Transportation, among other such business verticals. It has been a 21-year journey of learning, serving stakeholders, building resilience, and agility that Refex has traversed where it has aimed for excellence. The organisation relies on a strong foundation of principles such as integrity, diversity, dedication, commitment, and competitiveness, and keeps its customers’ and shareholders’ interest at the core.

According to ancient Indian texts, the Kumaon region of Uttarakhand is known as Manaskhand. Uttarakhand Tourism Development Board and IRCTC have jointly started a special tourist train named Manaskhand Express to promote lesser known destinations of the Kumaon region of Uttarakhand, whose first journey was successfully operated with 280 tourists on 22.04.2024.
 

Second journey of Manaskhand Express Bharat Gaurav Tourist Train from Pune to Uttarakhand
 

After the successful operation of the first journey of the train, now the second journey started from Pune on 22.05.2024 with 302 tourists, which will reach Tanakpur Railway Station in Uttarakhand on 24.05.2024. The tourists were welcomed in traditional Marathi way, with Drums and Musical instruments, Aarti was performed in the traditional manner, Tilak was applied and flowers were showered. The tourists were quite enthusiastic about this tour and expected to see some of the new destinations through this tour package.

In this journey of 10 nights/11 days, all the tourists will be taken to various tourist places of Kumaon region like Purnagiri Temple, Hatkalika Temple, Kasar Devi, Katarmal, Kainchidham, Chittai Golu Temple, Jageshwar Dham, Sharda Ghat, Patal Bhuvaneshwar Temple, Nanakmatta Gurudwara, Bhimtal, Nainital, Almora, Chakori, Tea Garden of Champawat, Baleshwar Temple, Mayawati Ashram etc. will be visited. Besides, Uttarakhandi cuisine will also be served to all the passengers traveling in the train.

Train travel is in 3AC Train. However, only four persons in one Coupe have been booked to enhance comfort of the tourists. The train’s exterior is showcase of Uttarakhand’s rich natural, cultural, architectural and spiritual heritage. The pantry car coach depicts various dishes from Uttarakhandi Cuisine, one of the coaches depicts various folk festivals, on another coach there are people wearing different attire from the State. Various temples and other places of importance are also depicted on the coaches.

The train is equipped with an air-conditioned pantry car which will serve various dishes including Uttarakhandi cuisine to the tourists during the journey. After deboarding at Tanakpur the tourists will be taken to various destinations where they will stay at hotels/homestays and visit various places as per the Itinerary with nights halts at Tanakpur, Champawat/Lohaghat, Chaukori, Almora and Bhimtal.

Shri Sachin Kurve, Secretary Tourism/Chief Executive Officer, Uttarakhand Tourism Development Board said that in view of the immense success of the Manaskhand Express operated in the first phase and the enthusiasm of the tourists, the department has started the Manaskhand Express from Pune in the second phase also.

Shri Kurve said that this unique initiative of Uttarakhand Tourism Development Board is the first-of-its-kind in India, in which efforts are being made to promote tourism in lesser known places through tourist train.

FedEx Cares volunteers and Safai sathi’s tackle beach pollution in Mumbai

These initiatives use a collective impact model, collaborating with non-profits, government stakeholders, community members, FedEx Cares volunteers, and 'Safai sathi’s’, to tackle beach pollution in Mumbai. These joint efforts resulted in the collection of more than 18 tons of waste, of which over 12 tons were recycled over the past one month, supporting the Municipal Corporation's objectives to restore the city's coastlines and promote responsible waste management. Beyond cleanup, the project educates beachgoers about biodiversity and engages community volunteers in discussions on the ecological importance of their contributions. Additionally, FedEx organized immersive shore walk sessions facilitated by local nonprofits. These sessions have been designed to enhance understanding of the area's unique coastal ecosystems and encourage proactive conservation efforts.

Suvendu Choudhury, Vice President Operations, India and Customer Experience, MEISA, FedEx, stated, “Protecting India’s immense biodiversity requires conscientious efforts. Making smarter choices, using resources wisely, and managing our waste better are crucial for reducing our impact on natural resources. Through our initiatives, we are committed to building a better, brighter world for our customers, communities, and the planet."

The commitment to environmental stewardship extends to other major cities like Delhi, Bengaluru, and Hyderabad, where FedEx Cares volunteers have participated in mural painting projects. These artistic initiatives aim to raise awareness and educate students and the broader community about crucial environmental concepts.

Reaching our FedEx enterprise goal to achieve carbon neutral global operations by 2040 requires innovation and collective action link to AMEA business insights website could go here. To help deliver a more sustainable future, FedEx supports global initiatives with nongovernmental organizations and conservation groups around the world to help communities reduce pollution, congestion, and CO₂ emissions.

About FedEx Express

FedEx Express is the world's largest express transportation company, providing fast and reliable delivery to more than 220 countries and territories. FedEx Express uses a global air-and-ground network to speed the delivery of time-sensitive shipments by a definite time and date.

FedEx Express press releases are available here

RAILOFY, a leading innovator in train travel solutions, is excited to announce the latest enhancement to its WhatsApp Bot: live train running status check. Through this, passengers can now check the live status of their train directly through RAILOFY's WhatsApp Bot, without the hassle of visiting other sites.
 

RAILOFY Launches Hassle-Free Train Live Running Status on WhatsApp
 

Imagine this: you're on your way to the station, eagerly anticipating your train arrival. Instead of worrying about delays or changes, or waiting for websites to load, you simply send your PNR number to RAILOFY's WhatsApp number 9881193322. Within seconds, you receive a friendly message back, sharing the live status of your train. It's like having a travel companion right in your pocket, keeping you informed and reassured every step of the way.
 

“Our aim at RAILOFY is to provide passengers with seamless travel experiences, and the addition of train status checking to our WhatsApp Bot is a significant step in that direction," said Hrishabh Sanghvi, Founder at RAILOFY.
 

In addition to checking train status, RAILOFY's WhatsApp Bot offers a range of other essential services, from ordering delicious meals to booking tickets and more. RAILOFY’s WhatsApp Bot is a one-stop companion for all railway travel needs. This comprehensive suite of features saves time, reduces hassle, and ensures a smooth travel experience for passengers.
 

RAILOFY's commitment to making train travel seamless extends beyond their WhatsApp Bot. The recent launch of Confirm Travel Guarantee, a warranty service that assists users to convert their waitlisted or RAC tickets to confirmed, provides peace of mind and eliminates the uncertainty of travel plans.
 

For more information about RAILOFY's WhatsApp Bot, Confirm Travel Guarantee, and other services, please visit www.railofy.com/live-train-running-status.

(L) Fleet of Dalmia Logistics & Transport (R) drivebuddyAI ADAS installed on the wind shield of the truck

Mr. Naman Dalmia, the esteemed partner of Dalmia Transport, expressed his enthusiasm regarding the adoption of drivebuddyAI's cutting-edge ADAS product. He articulated his confidence in the platform's ability to revolutionize trucking operations by enhancing driver management and real-time risk aversion measures mainly due to driver fatigue, excessive phone usage, seatbelt non-compliance and overall driver behaviour, thus providing safer transit of goods and fostering a secure ecosystem for all stakeholders involved.
 

"Incorporating drivebuddyAI's Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) into our fleet serves multiple strategic purposes," stated Mr. Naman Dalmia.

Advanced Driver Assistance System (ADAS) technology help reduces fleet’s chances of causing, or being involved in, vehicular accidents. ADAS has advanced safety features such as collision avoidance system, blind spot detectors, driver drowsiness detection, which benefit both commercial and private vehicles and is revolutionizing fleet management in the process. In addition, ADAS works with video-telematics to monitor drivers’ behaviour when on the road. AI Dashcams provide drivers with real-time audio warnings while segmenting and tagging recorded incidents, allowing us to monitor fleet from the cloud management portal.
 

“We can easily identify new or risky driving behaviours. We can use the data to coach our drivers and help them improve. AI data equips our drivers with the skills to undo bad habits while mitigating future consequences. Data can also be leveraged to execute e-training modules, which can be shared with the drivers to help them develop good skills and increased confidence on the road.” added Naman while explaining the need to equip the fleet with ADAS & Surveillance cameras.
 

“We believe that we have the recipe to optimize fleet operations while improving the behaviour of the drivers over the period of time consistently with AI assistance, pro-active fleet monitoring & coaching drivers to help them overcome their limitations and leverage technology at its maximum level to reduce accidents and hence improve the TAT resulting efficiency for a fleet is the real ROI in logistics operations,” said Nisarg Pandya while interacting the usefulness of ADAS.
 

Dalmia Group since incepted in 1987 by Mr. Anil Dalmia – Mr. Naman’s father has seen exponential growth working with prestigious groups like Aditya Birla group and brands like Hindalco, Ultratech Cement. Later joined by Mr. Naman who’s an IT graduate and enthusiast ventured into the business in 2017. He believes that in the last ten years technology has played an important role in streamlining fleet operation with the adoption of advance GPS Tacking which helps in monitoring harsh breaking, sharp turns, over speeding, geofencing, route planning, tyre pressure monitoring, load monitoring, fuel utilization and theft detection. With the integration of ADAS in the vehicles it has enhanced passenger, pedestrian, and driver safety and make driving more convenient.
 

Both Naman & Nisarg firmly believes that with the right implementation of ADAS in the trucking industry can reduce driver fatigue by 80% & improve overall behaviour or risk reduction by 73%, improves TAT by 25-30% and reduces operating losses by 25% makes the implementation of ADAS & Surveillance cameras for the fleet more viable financially.
 

“My experience and interest in information technology helped me in transforming end to end material handling and logistics operation to a fully digitized process. My initiatives has earned me accolades and appreciation from the industry experts. My fleets are fully equipped with advanced GPS tracking, fuel monitoring, tyre pressure monitoring, Tyre RFID Tracking, Load monitoring, ADAS and DMS. Our control tower which operates 24 x 7 x 365 monitors the movement of each and every vehicle providing on road support to the vehicles and delivery update to the customer,” said Mr. Naman Dalmia describing his enthusiasm about technology implementation in fleets.
 

“Dalmia Logistics specifically operate in building and construction domain providing primary and secondary transportation and handling services to Ultratech Cement Limited. On an average we handle and transport more than 65,000 Metric Tonnes of material per month. Integrating Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) and surveillance technologies into fleet vehicles can indeed provide several advantages that may help a logistics company gain a competitive edge. It can position your logistics company as an industry leader, offering superior safety, efficiency, and reliability compared to competitors who may not have invested in these advanced capabilities. Remember, successful implementation requires proper training, maintenance, and data analysis. Leapfrogging the competition involves not just adopting technology but leveraging it effectively!” said Naman Dalmia in response to how ADAS can help the fleet leapfrog the competition.
 

“We have undergone a comprehensive three-month validation process of drivebuddyAI's innovative ADAS technology. We chose drivebuddyAI for its unparalleled expertise in AI-driven solutions for the transportation industry. The comprehensive suite of products offered by drivebuddyAI, including its advanced ADAS and driver management capabilities, stood out as a perfect fit for our evolving needs. drivebuddyAI's team make sure that the solution is installed and implemented in way it can provide the best results. With the help of video telematic and data, the team provides training and feedback to the drivers and create e-training modules, which can be shared with the drivers to help them develop good skills and increased confidence on the road,” said Naman while sharing his reason to choose drivebuddyAI for the ADAS requirements.
 

“We are excited for this partnership. India is evolving in safety aspects everywhere with consideration of Euro NCAP rating for buying a car to investing in AI products to ensure safety & operations optimization and leveraging data to coach drivers and take data driven decision to run logistics operations shows the maturity in the market and young enthusiasts like Naman Dalmia are taking the industry on the heights of leveraging technology & AI. We are happy to extend our services in Kanpur & nearby regions of UP & MP with Dalmia Logistics ensuring safety, driver behaviour improvement via ADAS & coaching."
 

About drivebuddyAI
drivebuddyAI HQ in Ahmedabad & office in Delhi is a leading provider of AI-driven ADAS products for the commercial transportation industry. Leveraging cutting-edge technology, drivebuddyAI empowers transportation companies to optimize operations, enhance safety, and drive sustainable growth. With a commitment to innovation and excellence, drivebuddyAI is shaping the future of transportation. drivebuddyAI is one of the leading ADAS providers in India serving to customers in e-commerce, chemical Hazmat Transport, Employee Transportation etc across India. drivebuddyAI’s ADAS products are of indigenous innovation with their own designed hardware & AI learnt from India’s data to serve for Indian ecosystem and for that have been awarded with many patents as well. drivebuddyAI is a group companies of Roadzen Inc (Nasdaq: rdzn), a leading insurtech company focused on AI for Insurance products and services delivering backbone for insurers to leverage AI & Computer Vision.

SKF Heroes of the Road

In the automotive aftermarket where long hours, complex repairs, and lack of appreciation are prevalent, SKF India aims to shine a spotlight on the invaluable contributions of mechanics through this inspiring musical tribute.

Alagesan Thasari, Director for Automotive India and Southeast Asia, commented on the initiative, "With 'Heroes of the Road', SKF India reaffirms it’s commitment to the automotive industry and the dedicated mechanics who keep it running smoothly. This song is our way of honoring their tireless dedication and unwavering commitment to excellence."

The song will be available in multiple languages including Hindi, Bengali, Punjabi, Telugu, Kannada, Gujarati, and Malayalam, to resonate with mechanics from different regions of India. SKF India encourages Automotive Distributors (ADs), retailers and mechanics to join the movement and celebrate "Heroes of the Road".

Video Link: Heroes of the Road

In addition, SKF India is also running a nationwide truck activation campaign, "Install Confidence, Install SKF” to empower commercial vehicle mechanics. The campaign spans across more than 50 cities in 18 states to engage with more than 5000 mechanics. The primary objective of the initiative is to create awareness about SKF offerings for commercial vehicles demonstrating their pivotal role in streamlining the lives of mechanics while championing sustainability within the automotive sector.

SKF is a world-leading provider of innovative solutions that help industries become more competitive and sustainable. By making products lighter, more efficient, longer lasting, and repairable, we help our customers improve their rotating equipment performance and reduce their environmental impact. Our offering around the rotating shaft includes bearings, seals, lubrication management, condition monitoring, and services. Founded in 1907, SKF is represented in approximately 130 countries and has around 17,000 distributor locations worldwide. Annual sales in 2023 were SEK 103,881 million and the number of employees was 40,396.

For more information, please visit www.skf.com/in

 ® SKF is a registered trademark of the SKF Group. 

Started in July 2017 by Anup Agarwal and Manisha Sharaf, SuperProcure is a real-time Transport Management System (TMS) and collaborative platform for manufacturing and infrastructure companies. It has evolved from a freight e-negotiation product to an end-to-end logistics and supply chain platform to enable shippers digitise their manual transport management process.

Team SuperProcure - from left to right - Manisha Sharaf, Varun Biyani and Anup Agarwal
 

According to Prajakt Raut and Pankaj Bansal, Co-founders and Managing Partners of Caret Capital, “Logistics process automation is a source of competitive advantage for enterprises. Companies recognise that traditional methods of managing enterprise transport requirements are just not relevant for today’s market dynamics and are fast adopting TMS. Given this, SuperProcure’s value proposition has strong tailwinds. They have several large marquee enterprises as their clients, which they have won despite competition from some of the most popular TMS systems globally.”

SuperProcure provides enterprises with instant digitisation of their current manual transport management process. Even if the enterprises have ERPs and TMS, the interactions with over 22 stakeholders involved in the logistics processes are outside the enterprise tech. In such a scenario, SuperProcure’s product provides comprehensive modules for every process, workflow & decision point involved in the transport management activity.

A unique feature of SuperProcure is the engagement of over 11,000+ verified transporters, which enables enterprises to do spot procurement of freight alongside the traditional model of only long-term contracts. This results in not just operational efficiencies but cost savings as well. More importantly, it helps organisations become more nimble in their logistics operations.

Founders Anup Agarwal, Manisha Sharaf and Varun Biyani stated that, “We are in a Digital Economy. People expect orders to be delivered faster and at the best price. Today enterprise success & customer service is directly tied to efficiency in logistics management and real time collaboration across the supply chain. SuperProcure has been playing a critical role in empowering manufacturing organisations with technology to optimise logistics processes. Caret Capital & Lumis Labs are thought leaders in the supply chain and we are very happy to have them as our investors and guide in this journey.This is a validation of the team's effort and our belief that TMS adoption can help optimize ~15% of logistics spent for enterprises. in India alone the potential saving is 1% of India GDP ~ $30billion.”

About Caret Capital

Caret Capital is a sustainability fund that invests across Mobility, Distribution and Employment. Caret 360 is the CXO community initiated by Caret Capital to help startups and industries discover each other. 

Caret Capital’s portfolio comprises startups that are transforming three key aspects of the value chain - Goods and Services Supply Chain, Human Capital Supply Chain and Assets and Infra Supply Chain: Stylumia, an AI-enabled demand forecasting platform for global fashion and lifestyle brands; Unstop, a platform for companies to identify, curate, hire and onboard freshers; Omnivio, an omnichannel Control Tower (CT) platform for modern retailers and omni-brands; Celcius, India’s first asset-light cold supply chain solution provider; Xindus, a technology startup that simplifies exports; Tusker, a rural logistics consolidation and distribution platform; Just Deliveries, an intra-city logistics platform for perishable; Conmove, a container logistics platform; Spareshub, a B2B distribution platform for auto spares and accessories; Citrus Freight, India's 1st container booking platform for perishables; and MoooFarm, a dairy agri-tech startup.

FASTagPro remains unprecedented leader in FASTag recharge category

One Vehicle, One FASTag Nationwide:

The 'One Vehicle, One FASTag' initiative, spearheaded by the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI), has been fully implemented nationwide as of April 1, 2024. This pioneering concept is designed to combat the misuse of FASTags, discouraging the practice of employing a single FASTag for multiple vehicles or associating multiple FASTags with a single vehicle.

FASTag, renowned for its seamless cashless payment system, offers a myriad of benefits, including savings on fuel and time, as vehicle owners no longer need to halt at toll plazas. Since the mandatory rollout of FASTag in February 2021 across the National Highways and Expressways, its adoption has been nothing short of remarkable. The program has garnered widespread public acceptance, with approximately 8.5 crore NETC FASTags issued nationwide. Presently, the country witnesses over 1 crore FASTag transactions daily, amounting to a staggering Rs. 140 crores.

But does the concept of 'One Vehicle One FASTag' have any implication for vehicle owners regarding recharge? The answer is clear No, the ‘One Vehicle One FASTag’ concept indicates that a vehicle owner is permitted to have only one active FASTag for one vehicle. All the FASTags linked to a single vehicle except the latest one will get deactivated. Acquiring multiple FASTags for a single vehicle is not permitted in the current regime. Users have the flexibility to recharge their FASTag conveniently through FASTagPro (www.fastagpro.com).

About FASTagPro

FASTagPro is India's first dedicated FASTag recharge platform, offering safe, secure, and simple transactions. With over 1 million users trusting and preferring FASTagPro, it has established itself as the market leader in the industry. FASTagPro prides itself on its transparent transaction and GST invoicing system, guaranteed 3-day TAT for service requests, and its commitment to user privacy and security.

Key Features of FASTagPro

Since our inception, FASTagPro has epitomized safety, security, and simplicity in the domain of FASTag recharges. With over 10 lakh individuals placing their trust in us, FASTagPro has emerged as the undeniable market leader. Our commitment to excellence is unwavering, and we continuously strive to exceed the expectations of our users with our technology. Every single FASTag recharge is safe, secure and simple at FASTagPro (www.fastagpro.com).

• Seamless FASTag recharges without the need for logging in.

• Lightning-fast recharge process in under two minutes.

• Accessibility from anywhere, even a few miles away from a Toll Plaza.

• No minimum balance requirement.

• Supports all payment methods – UPI, Net Banking, Cards, Wallets.

• Hassle-free recharge process with just vehicle number and mobile number.

• Zero storage of OTPs, bank accounts, or card details for enhanced user safety.

• GST invoice and payment history at fingertips.

At FASTagPro, security isn't just a feature; it's a promise. We take pride in providing an absolutely safe and secure platform, where user data is never compromised or saved. Our dedication to privacy ensures that your information remains confidential and protected at all times.

GST Billing for Convenience

FASTagPro distinguishes itself by offering comprehensive GST bills for every transaction. This unique feature simplifies FASTag recharges for Corporate Houses and Business Entities, ensuring seamless financial management. By providing transparent and compliant billing, FASTagPro enhances convenience and efficiency, aligning seamlessly with the needs of modern enterprises. Embracing innovation and customer-centricity, FASTagPro redefines the landscape of FASTag recharge services, facilitating smooth and hassle-free transactions for individuals/businesses across the nation.

The Future With FASTagPro

What sets FASTagPro apart is not only as India’s only independent platform but also its transparency. As India's only independent platform and FASTag recharge service provider, we empower users with full visibility into their transactions and invoices. With us, there are no hidden fees or surprises—just transparent, hassle-free service.

"At FASTagPro, we are committed to revolutionizing the FASTag recharge experience for our customers," says Vinay Modi, Co-founder & CEO, SevenM Technologies Private Limited (Parent Entity of FASTagPro). "Our platform offers not only convenience and security but also a level of transparency and reliability that is unmatched in the industry. We are thrilled to be recognised as India's only independent platform for FASTag recharge service, and we look forward to continuing to serve our customers with excellence." "Our secured & transparent transaction and invoice system reaffirms our commitment to integrity and trustworthiness. We prioritise our users' needs above all else."

With FASTagPro, users experience a high level of security and simplicity unmatched by any other platform. Our dedication to safety and security ensures that every transaction is shielded from any potential risks. Unlike other platforms, FASTagPro does not store any user data, ensuring complete peace of mind for our customers.

FASTagPro stands apart with its guaranteed 72-hour Turnaround Time (TAT) for any service requests, ensuring that our users are never kept waiting. This commitment to efficiency reflects our unwavering dedication to customer satisfaction and convenience.

"Our platform isn't just about recharging FASTags; it's about redefining the entire experience," continued Vinay Modi. "We empower our users with the confidence that they are using the best platform available. At FASTagPro, we lead, others follow."

With over 1 million users placing their trust in FASTagPro, it's clear that our platform has become the preferred choice for FASTag recharges nationwide. As we continue to innovate and evolve, FASTagPro remains steadfast in our mission to provide the ultimate solution for all FASTag recharge needs.

To learn more about FASTagPro, visit www.fastagpro.com.

Disclaimer:
This Press Release is solely for the purpose of brand awareness of FASTagPro, from the house of SevenM Technologies. It contains no controversial content or mention of other brands intended to evoke adverse reactions.

India ranks number one in the world for road accident deaths, a heartbreaking reality: 17 people, tragically, die on our roads every single day. Even worse, 29 children lose their lives in road accidents daily. These are unacceptable numbers, and This is a frightening reality that we can't ignore.

Why is this important?

• A National Crisis: Over the past decade alone, a staggering 13 lakh+ people have perished in road accidents. This is a national crisis demanding immediate attention.

• Young People at Risk: Many road accident victims fall within the 18-25 age group. This includes teenagers who might just be starting to ride bicycles or two-wheelers, making them especially vulnerable.

• Two-Wheeler Dangers: Over 60% of young accident victims are two-wheeler riders. These vehicles offer little protection, highlighting the importance of proper training and safety awareness for young riders.

(Data Source – Reports by Ministry of Roads and Transport, Govt. of India)

Program Highlights:

• Student Registration Begins April 1st, 2024: Schools across India can register students in Grades 1 through 8 for the National Road Safety Mission for Kids and Youth starting April 1st, 2024 till April 30, 2024

• Interactive Curriculum (self-learning phase May 1st – June 14th): From May 1st to June 14th, 2024, participating students will learn from an engaging curriculum tailored to their age groups during summer vacations. This curriculum focuses on equipping students with essential knowledge and skills for safe road usage.

• National Road Safety Olympiad (June 15th): On June 15th, 2024, a nationwide competition, the National Road Safety Olympiad, will be held. This event allows students to demonstrate their understanding of road safety concepts in a stimulating environment.

This program aligns with the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goal 3.6 goal of reducing road accident deaths and injuries by 2030. Together, let's make our roads safer for all!

Learn More: visit www.nationalroadsafetymission.org.

Mr. Siddharth Gupta

In an exclusive interaction, Mr. Siddharth Gupta and Dr. Vibhor Mishra, principal consultant of the project, shed light on the inception, vision, and unique features of Porter Buddy, and how it stands to benefit both passengers and porters.

What inspired the inception of Porter Buddy?

“The idea for creating an aggregator platform between coolies and passengers was born out of my own experiences and observations at railway stations. I noticed the chaos and stress passengers face while trying to find a reliable porter amid the heavy crowds. Additionally, coolies often struggled to find steady work throughout the day and it still is a job considered to be of lesser dignity. This imbalance struck me as a problem ripe for a technological solution, leading me to this unique idea, which was further nurtured and given a final shape as ‘Porter Buddy’ under mentorship of 3EA”.

3EA is a strategic management consulting group that caters to bootstrapped and funded start- ups, esteemed organizations, reputed MNCs and SMEs and delivers result-driven leading- edge solutions.

How does this transformation impact the roles and perceptions of Coolies?

“Porter Buddy reimagines the entire porter service ecosystem. While "coolie" may have sounded neutral once, it carries a heavy burden from the past, the British used it to belittle and take advantage of Indian workers. It's a constant echo of an exploitative system. "Porter," in contrast, portrays someone with a specific skill set offering an important service. Instead of the traditional method where passengers and porters haggle over prices, we are introducing a seamless, app-based booking system. This eradicates the need for last-minute negotiations and provides clear, upfront pricing. More so, it’s about elevating the status of porters, transforming them into service professionals who are respected and fairly compensated. This platform is about bringing dignity and order to a system that has been neglected for too long.” - Dr. Vibhor Mishra, CEO, 3EA.

How do you anticipate that Porter Buddy will revolutionize the dynamics between railway passengers and porters, and what professional benefits does this predict for both parties involved?
“The impact will be profound”, Mr. Gupta said, “The bigger picture is to redefine the railway experience. For passengers, it’s about convenience and security - knowing that a verified, professional porter is just a few clicks away, with no hidden costs or uncertainties. For porters, it’s transformative - they become part of a digital economy, with steady jobs, predictable income, and a newfound respect in society. It’s about shifting from a chaotic service exchange to a dignified, mutually beneficial relationship.”

What all is this platform offering to enhance the passenger’s convenience apart from the usual luggage carrying facility?
“Porter Buddy is aiming to serve railway stations across the country, and is set to address needs of both travelers and porters. For passengers, Porter Buddy offers convenience and peace of mind. They can book a porter in advance from within the train, ensuring that help is waiting for them upon arrival. Particularly for the benefit of elderly passengers, specially abled, or anyone carrying heavy luggage, Porter Buddy comes with wheelchair and trolley facilities which can be accessed by customers at the time of booking. Mr. Gupta continued, “One of the unique standout features is that we’re integrating features that cater to the broader needs of railway passengers. This includes options for porters to perform additional tasks, passengers can request porters to purchase items such as medicines, eatables or anything available at or nearby station premises for customers at the time of booking. This adds an extra layer of convenience, especially for those who might have forgotten to pack something important.”

How will you establish the trust factor for your service?

“Security and trust are paramount. It's also about establishing a feedback loop, ensuring quality control and accountability. Our platform will provide real-time tracking of services & chat support ensuring transparency and safety for both parties. Every porter on our platform will undergo a rigorous background check and training process to ensure they meet our standards of professionalism and integrity. Furthermore, Passengers can see ratings and reviews for each porter, helping them make informed decisions,” - Mr. Siddharth Gupta.

What do you feel about the acceptance of your proposed business model by three target audiences- Indian railways, travelers and most importantly coolies?
“Entire idea behind this unique business model is to elevate the lifestyle of coolie, create an impact in their social status and a new vertical for their earning. There will be a new perception about ‘a coolie’ as ‘a platform service provider’ which will bring respect and new earning opportunities for him. During our detailed and exhaustive research for the development of business model and three-year business plan, we have trusted upon the values for all three target beneficiaries. We are going to help Indian railways to regularize standard tariff for coolie. We will facilitate travelers by a new service that can help them to avail any product at platform for their requirement. Moreover, coolies are aimed as main target beneficiary segment as my project will bring respect and money both for them. This model can follow the pattern already established and set by Ola, Uber, Zomato etc.”

“Porter Buddy is a timely solution that addresses a long-standing challenge for train travelers. It's a disruptive force poised to transform the Indian railway experience. By integrating technology with human-centric services, Porter Buddy aims to bring order, dignity, and convenience to the chaotic experience of railway travel, setting a new standard for service and efficiency in one of India's most traditional and unorganized sectors,” Dr. Vibhor Mishra concluded.

A "Well-Known Mark" brings forth a multitude of benefits, further amplifying Blue Dart’s competitive edge in the market. This acknowledgement ensures enhanced protection under the Trademarks Act, safeguarding the brand from unauthorized use or infringement, even from marks that are deceptively similar, even if used for different goods or services. This protection not only secures Blue Dart's intellectual property rights but also maintains market clarity, preventing consumer confusion. Additionally, being recognized as a well-known mark significantly increases the brand's value, strengthening trust and credibility among customers and stakeholders even further.

Balfour Manuel, Managing Director, Blue Dart Express Limited, expressed his pride in the company's achievement, stating, “This milestone reaffirms Blue Dart's eminent position in the logistics industry and emphasizes its commitment to excellence. As the company continues to innovate and redefine standards, it remains dedicated to delivering unmatched service and value to its customers."

Notably, Blue Dart was also recently conferred with the Top Employer 2024 in India by The Top Employers Institute, the Best Express Cargo Service Provider at the Indian Cargo Award 2023, and India’s Top Value Creator 2023 by Dun & Bradstreet, among other awards.

About Blue Dart

Blue Dart Express Ltd., South Asia's premier express air and integrated transportation & distribution company, offers secure and reliable delivery of consignments to over 56,000+ locations in India. Blue Dart is a provider of choice for its stakeholders due to its customer centric approach and aims to further strengthen this partnership. As part of DHL Group’s DHL eCommerce division, Blue Dart accesses the largest and most comprehensive express and logistics network worldwide, covering over 220 countries and territories, and offers an entire spectrum of distribution services including air express, freight forwarding, supply chain solutions, customs clearance etc.

The Blue Dart team drives market leadership through its motivated people, dedicated air and ground capacity, cutting-edge technology, wide range of innovative, vertical specific products and value-added services to deliver unmatched standards of service quality to its customers. Blue Dart's market leadership is further validated by its position as the nation’s most innovative and awarded express logistics company for exhibiting reliability, superior brand experience and sustainability which include recognition as one of ‘India's Best Companies to Work For’ by The Great Place to Work® Institute, India, ranked amongst ‘Best Multinational Workplaces in Asia’ by The Great Place to Work® Institute, Asia, voted a ‘Superbrand’ and ‘Reader’s Digest Most Trusted Brand’, listed as one of Fortune 500’s ‘India's Largest Corporations’ and Forbes ‘India's Super 50 Companies’ to name a few. Blue Dart’s Diversity and Inclusion initiatives have also led to it being recognized as one of India’s ‘Best Workplaces for Women’ in 2021 and ‘Best Organisations for Women’ in 2022 by the Economic Times.

Blue Dart fulfils its social responsibility of climate protection (GoGreen), disaster management (GoHelp) and education (GoTeach) through its GoPrograms.

The company posted Rs. 82 crores profit after tax for the quarter ended December 31, 2023. Revenue from operations for the quarter ended December 31, 2023, stood at Rs. 1,383 crores.

Reflecting on the company's performance, Balfour Manuel, Managing Director of Blue Dart Express Ltd., said, "In the post-pandemic era, as global trade normalizes, we continue to navigate challenges such as higher interest rates and increasing costs. Despite these hurdles, we not only surpassed pre-pandemic revenue levels but also have continued to invest in capacities and strengthened our position as the provider of choice for our customers. Our commitment to customer-centricity remains our top priority, driving our success."

Discussing the business outlook, he emphasized, “The growth opportunities and continued focus on customer centricity have enabled us to continue to invest, aligned with our strategic focus on People, Process and Technology. This is complemented by a Last In-First Out approach, further reinforcing our market leadership.”

Exceptional Service Quality, coupled with automation and technology, continues to be pivotal in providing customers with a seamless, one-stop solution for all their logistics requirements. The company handled 919 lakh shipments, weighing 314,239 metric tonnes, in the Quarter ended December 31, 2023.

Blue Dart was recently recognized as India's Top Value Creator 2023 in the transport and logistics category, highlighting its commitment to excellence. The company has not only established itself as the Provider of Choice but also stands out as an Employer of Choice and an Investment of Choice for all its stakeholders. Blue Dart continues to set a precedent in the industry, dedicated to delivering outstanding value and upholding its leadership position.

Blue Dart Express Ltd., South Asia's premier express air and integrated transportation & distribution company, offers secure and reliable delivery of consignments to over 56,000+ locations in India. Blue Dart is a provider of choice for its stakeholders due to its customer centric approach and aims to further strengthen this partnership. As part of DHL Group’s DHL eCommerce division, Blue Dart accesses the largest and most comprehensive express and logistics network worldwide, covering over 220 countries and territories, and offers an entire spectrum of distribution services including air express, freight forwarding, supply chain solutions, customs clearance etc.

The Blue Dart team drives market leadership through its motivated people, dedicated air and ground capacity, cutting-edge technology, wide range of innovative, vertical specific products and value-added services to deliver unmatched standards of service quality to its customers. Blue Dart's market leadership is further validated by its position as the nation’s most innovative and awarded express logistics company for exhibiting reliability, superior brand experience and sustainability which include recognition as one of ‘India's Best Companies to Work For’ by The Great Place to Work® Institute, India, ranked amongst ‘Best Multinational Workplaces in Asia’ by The Great Place to Work® Institute, Asia, voted a ‘Superbrand’ and ‘Reader’s Digest Most Trusted Brand’, listed as one of Fortune 500’s ‘India's Largest Corporations’ and Forbes ‘India's Super 50 Companies’ to name a few. Blue Dart’s Diversity and Inclusion initiatives have also led to it being recognized as one of India’s ‘Best Workplaces for Women’ in 2021 and ‘Best Organisations for Women’ in 2022 by the Economic Times.

Blue Dart fulfils its social responsibility of climate protection (GoGreen), disaster management (GoHelp) and education (GoTeach) through its GoPrograms.

The corridor valued at a cost of Rs. 135 crore spans at a length of 1,450 meters and is 11 meters wide
 

Sanctioned in 2011 and currently in progress at a cost of Rs. 135 crore, the elevated corridor spans an impressive length of 1,450 meters and is 11 meters wide, featuring a median for enhanced safety. Complementing the main carriageway are 8-meter wide service roads, designed to facilitate smooth movement for two-wheelers, autorickshaws, and cars. The strategic location of the corridor, positioned between the Rajiv Gandhi statue and the ORR Theatre in Ambur town, addresses the historically accident-prone nature of the area due to congested neighborhoods and nearby public utilities.

With approximately 40% of the construction work already completed, the project is advancing at a rapid pace. Once finished, the elevated corridor is expected to be expanded to six lanes, a move envisioned by road development authorities officials to minimize travel time between Bengaluru and Chennai. This development is set to significantly enhance the travel experience for over 75,000 vehicles, primarily trucks and container lorries, that navigate this bustling stretch on a daily basis.

The impact of the elevated corridor on Ambur's growth is multifaceted. Beyond easing transportation, the corridor's proximity to Ambur town's bustling market, government hospital, and bus terminus is expected to foster easier access for residents and visitors. This infrastructural boon is anticipated to stimulate trade, tourism, and employment opportunities, thereby positively influencing the local economy.

Real Estate Developments

As Ambur undergoes a slew of developments, the town is also witnessing a surge in real estate prospects. The completion of the elevated corridor is poised to transform Ambur into an attractive real estate hub, triggering high demand for both residential and commercial estate projects. The town's strategic location and improved connectivity make it an appealing choice for real estate investors and developers looking to capitalize on the burgeoning growth.

In particular, the residential real estate sector in Ambur is experiencing a paradigm shift with the introduction of plotted developments. Unlike traditional living spaces, these plotted developments offer added benefits of world-class amenities and smart futuristic features. This new phase in residential real estate development aligns with the evolving needs and aspirations of the residents, further enhancing Ambur's allure as a modern and vibrant urban center. These developments are further expected to skyrocket the land appreciation rates to a major extent as well, making it a major real-estate investment hub.

In conclusion, Ambur's journey towards becoming a mega city is propelled by transformative projects such as the elevated corridor. As these developments unfold, the town is set to become a hotspot for real estate investment, offering a blend of connectivity, amenities, and futuristic living options that will attract residents and businesses alike.

TANVI Thakur

The presence of industrial corridors, acting as an economic ecosystem, fosters heightened economic activity within the transportation corridor. Like a vital artery, it serves as the central hub of economic vitality in the region.

In 2022, the Government of India greenlit 8 projects to develop industrial corridors between major hubs in the country. These projects will take place under the National Industrial Corridor Development and Implementation Trust (NICDIT).

One of these projects is the 96-km Chennai-Bengaluru Industrial Corridor (CBIC). This project is already underway and is scheduled to be completed by 2025. With the completion of the project, the travel time between Chennai and Bengaluru will be cut to two to three hours. 

“The project will also increase economic activity in the region by opening up new areas for industrial development. There is potential for manufacturing facilities, warehousing facilities along the corridor. Also, the project will be closer to the port and will facilitate easy cargo movement on the corridor,” Suresh Krishna, State President of CREDAI, Tamil Nadu, told The Hindu.

The CBIC will go through cover Chennai, Sriperumbudur, Ponnapanthangal, Ranipet, Vellore, Chittoor, Bangarupalem, Palamaner, Bangarpet, Hoskote, and Bengaluru. 

CBIC: Prime Investment Destination

The Chennai Bangalore Industrial Corridor (CBIC) stands as an enticing prospect for investors, offering a multitude of advantages. Positioned at the onset of a major industrial corridor, Chennai promises abundant job opportunities. Escaping urban congestion, many are gravitating towards the city's outskirts, lured by available land parcels, ideal for realizing their dream homes. 

This burgeoning industrial landscape has given rise to a thriving economy, with job prospects that foster personal and professional growth. Renowned for its top-notch infrastructure and connectivity, Chennai boasts an exemplary transportation system. This includes ongoing initiatives, including metro expansions toward Parandur, which promise enhanced accessibility for suburban residents, significantly reducing travel times.

Furthermore, Chennai's strong economic foundation, fueled by diverse industries like manufacturing, automotive, IT, and logistics along the CBIC, continues to bolster its status as the state's economic hub.

The plan is to extend the ongoing Poonamallee-Sriperumbudur line by 28 km to end at the Parandur airport. Reports state that the Chennai metro rail is the first to get the approval to have a metro line running from the city to the new airport.

As opposed to metro stations being situated every 800 m to 1 km in Phase 1 and other lines, the Poonamallee to Parandur stretch will have stations at a distance of 7-10 km between each other. To compensate for the distance and time taken, the trains will be designed to be faster and the train coaches and tracks may also be modified for increased efficiency.

Officials said that there will be a station located inside the airport for easy access to the terminals.

A reason for multiple stops in Parandur is the plan to develop an Aero city which will be a township that will house educational institutions, aviation ancillary units, hotels, and a Maintenance Repair and Overhaul (MRO) centre for the airport.

A Metrorail official said, “In Parandur, there won’t be just an airport, it will be an airport city. So we will have to provide multiple stations. Our consultant is doing the study. The initial report is likely to be ready in April.”

Corridor-4 in the Spotlight

In 2021, there were talks of a proposal to extend Corridor-4 from Poonamalle bypass to Tirumazhisai. It was later decided in 2022 to extend the Corridor to Parandur

In 2021, there were talks of a proposal to extend Corridor-4 from Poonamalle bypass to Tirumazhisai. It was later decided in 2022 to extend the Corridor to Parandur. This extension will have the metro rail run through Tirumazhisai, a satellite town with companies and neighbourhoods cropping up frequently. 

Tirumazhisai has made tremendous development over the last couple of years. With Kuthambakkam bus terminus, Chennai Outer Ring Road, Pattabiram New Tidel Park - 3, and the proposed Parandur airport making waves, Tirumazhisai has turned out to be the centre for housing developments. 

Therefore, CMRL’s plan of extending Corridor-4 through Tirumazhisai is brilliant due to its rapid development of communities. 

A discounted rate can be availed on all Merry Express gift shipments for both domestic and international destinations, providing customers with a comprehensive solution for all their logistics needs. While there is a flat 40% off on domestic shipments between 2 -10 kgs, and up to a 50% discount on international shipments on specific weights in the range of 3 -25 kgs across India. This offer is applicable for both domestic priority and international shipments, with conditions applied. 

As a customer centric company, Blue Dart has been working on enhancing its products and services, providing added value to its customers during this festive season. With the 'Merry Express' offer, customers can spread the joy of the festive season by sending gifts to over 56,000+ locations within India, as well as to 220 countries and territories worldwide. The company employs technology and automation to ensure speed, safety, and reliability in seamless deliveries, enabling it to consistently deliver excellence at every touchpoint.

For service inquiries, customers can contact the Customer Care Number - 1860 233 1234 or email at customerservice@bluedart.com. To find the nearest Blue Dart counter, please visit www.bluedart.com or use the 'My Blue Dart' mobile application, available on the Apple Store and Play Store.

About Blue Dart Express Ltd
Blue Dart Express Ltd., South Asia's premier express air and integrated transportation & distribution company, offers secure and reliable delivery of consignments to over 56,000+ locations in India. Blue Dart is a provider of choice for its stakeholders due to its customer centric approach and aims to further strengthen this partnership. As part of DHL Group’s DHL eCommerce division, Blue Dart accesses the largest and most comprehensive express and logistics network worldwide, covering over 220 countries and territories, and offers an entire spectrum of distribution services including air express, freight forwarding, supply chain solutions, customs clearance etc.

The Blue Dart team drives market leadership through its motivated people, dedicated air and ground capacity, cutting-edge technology, wide range of innovative, vertical specific products and value-added services to deliver unmatched standards of service quality to its customers. Blue Dart's market leadership is further validated by its position as the nation’s most innovative and awarded express logistics company for exhibiting reliability, superior brand experience and sustainability which include recognition as one of ‘India's Best Companies to Work For’ by The Great Place to Work® Institute, India, ranked amongst ‘Best Multinational Workplaces in Asia’ by The Great Place to Work® Institute, Asia, voted a ‘Superbrand’ and ‘Reader’s Digest Most Trusted Brand’, listed as one of Fortune 500’s ‘India's Largest Corporations’ and Forbes ‘India's Super 50 Companies’ to name a few. Blue Dart’s Diversity and Inclusion initiatives have also led to it being recognized as one of India’s ‘Best Workplaces for Women’ in 2021 and ‘Best Organisations for Women’ in 2022 by the Economic Times.

Blue Dart fulfils its social responsibility of climate protection (GoGreen), disaster management (GoHelp) and education (GoTeach) through its GoPrograms.

Tata Ace EV Fleet

Vikash Mishra, Founder and CEO of MoEVing, said, "This milestone is a testament to our dedication to innovating sustainable EV-based logistics solutions for India. Our rapid deployment of Tata Ace EVs, supported by our customers and partners, is a leap towards an emission-free logistics sector, in step with the national vision that forecasts up to 4% GDP savings in logistics costs and 10 GT of CO2 reduction by 2030. We extend our gratitude to Tata Motors for crafting a sustainable intra-city mobility solution and to our leasing partners StrideOne and Gensol EV lease for their invaluable support."

In just 90 days, MoEVing has achieved a remarkable feat by deploying 100 Tata Ace EVs, affirming the vehicles' efficacy and suitability for India's multifaceted logistics needs. Serving diverse sectors across major cities, these EVs represent a strategic leap toward greener, more efficient urban freight solutions. MoEVing has deployed these vehicles with over 10 customers, operating across major urban centres, including Delhi NCR, Kolkata, Mumbai, Pune, and more, serving sectors as varied as FMCG and e-commerce to oil and gas. The strategic choice of choosing Tata Ace EV as a green and smart transport solution developed for a wide variety of intra-city applications makes it the perfect fit for India’s complex logistics demands.

Commenting on the collaboration, Mr. Vinay Pathak, Vice President & Business Head - SCVPU, Tata Motors, said, “At Tata Motors, we aim to deliver zero-emission cargo mobility across length and breadth of our nation. With our rich collaboration with MoEVing, we have embarked on a common goal of electrifying India’s last-mile delivery with Ace EV and deliver top-notch value proposition to all stakeholders. We congratulate MoEVing on achieving the historic feat of deploying 100 units of Tata Ace EV. We look forward to reaffirming our partnership to democratise zero-emission e-cargo mobility solutions across the country, for a safer, smarter and greener future.”

Since its inception in 2021, MoEVing’s vision of an all-electric delivery fleet has swiftly materialised, with over 2000 electric vehicles deployed and 30 charging hubs established. The MoU with Tata Motors to deploy 5000 Tata Ace EVs by 2025 demonstrates the scalable commitment of both entities. The feedback from extensive vehicle pilots has been instrumental in the commercial rollout earlier this year, reinforcing the synergy between technological advancement and operational excellence.

MoEVing, a pioneering force in EV logistics, is driving the transition to electric mobility in India's urban freight sector. With a robust technological platform, extensive operations, and strategic partnerships, MoEVing is at the forefront of India's green logistics revolution, contributing to a reduction in logistics costs and CO2 emissions.

About MoEVing

Founded in January 2021, MoEVing aims to transform the logistics space via emission free transport. On the demand side, the company provides solutions to e-commerce, e-grocery, consumer goods, logistics, and courier companies to optimise their logistics costs and meet their goals of reducing carbon emissions. On the supply side, MoEVing works with OEMs, driver-cum-owners, and financial institutions to help address various constraints that are coming in the way of EV adoption. Vikash Mishra, founder and CEO of MoEVing has extensive experience in the consulting, energy and mobility industry both in India and abroad. As on date, MoEVing operates more than 2000+ electric vehicles and 30 charging hubs across 16 cities in India. 

The company posted Rs. 71 crores profit after tax for the quarter ended September 30, 2023. Revenue from operations for the quarter ended September 30, 2023 stood at Rs. 1,324 crores.
 

Commenting on the company's performance, Balfour Manuel, Managing Director, Blue Dart Express Ltd., stated, "Our ability to maintain resilience has once again been demonstrated, thanks to our robust air and ground infrastructure, comprehensive solution portfolio, and extensive reach. Even amid sluggish global economic growth, we've not only exceeded pre-pandemic revenue but also solidified our position as the Provider of Choice for our customers. Understanding their needs remains our priority, driving our pursuit of operational excellence and expanding our customer base across India.”
 

Speaking about the business outlook, he says, “Even though we are keeping a close eye on our costs in the current business environment, our strengthened earnings power puts us in a position to continue investing significantly in future growth. Through these initiatives, we are strategically positioned for sustained growth and remain committed to leveraging technology and exploring new opportunities.”
 

The Company continues to invest significantly towards enhancing capacity, digitalisation and automation of processes. The two B737-800 aircraft procured during the year 2022-23 amounting to Rs. 400 crores got inducted during the previous quarter has supported capacity requirements during current.
 

India's economic recovery from geopolitical uncertainties in the world is progressing well, and this trajectory is set to further strengthen with the recent developments in India's logistics industry. Blue Dart’s presence in Tier I and II markets across India has improved. This move has also accelerated the company's reach by providing strategic, scalable solutions to large customers, enabling economies of scale with end-to-end service offerings. On August 15th, the company announced the inauguration of 15 company-owned retail stores, 15 franchise collection centres, 15 express selling agents, and 15 regional service provider franchisees.
 

Exceptional Service Quality remains one of the major pivots, alongside automation and technology, providing customers with a one-stop, hassle-free solution to all their logistics requirements. In its journey to delight customers, the company carried 918 lakh shipments weighing 307,480 metric tonnes during the Quarter ending September 30, 2023.
 

Focusing on its mission of Excellence, Simply Delivered, the organization has set in motion several technological initiatives that lead the company towards its Limitless Growth Strategy. During the quarter, Blue Dart was recognized as the Best Cargo Service Provider at the Indian Cargo Awards 2023.
 

The company also received UNFCCC Certification for its Climate Neutrality Efforts as a step towards its sustainability roadmap. In order to sustainably improve productivity, additional funds were invested in automation and digitalization initiatives. The company is working on sustainable solutions to reduce carbon emissions, including deploying electric vehicles, reducing paper consumption, green facilities, etc. To date, the company has planted 6,66,000+ Trees to offset its carbon footprint. As part of its ESG journey, Blue Dart is dedicated to upholding the highest standards of compliance.
 

The organization has set a precedent well within its second quarter of the financial year 2023-24 by continuing to be a Provider of Choice, an Employer of Choice, and an Investment of Choice for all its stakeholders.
 

Blue Dart Express Ltd., South Asia's premier express air and integrated transportation & distribution company, offers secure and reliable delivery of consignments to over 55,000+ locations in India. Blue Dart is a provider of choice for its stakeholders due to its customer centric approach and aims to further strengthen this partnership. As part of DHL Group’s DHL eCommerce division, Blue Dart accesses the largest and most comprehensive express and logistics network worldwide, covering over 220 countries and territories, and offers an entire spectrum of distribution services including air express, freight forwarding, supply chain solutions, customs clearance etc.

The Blue Dart team drives market leadership through its motivated people, dedicated air and ground capacity, cutting-edge technology, wide range of innovative, vertical specific products and value-added services to deliver unmatched standards of service quality to its customers. Blue Dart's market leadership is further validated by its position as the nation’s most innovative and awarded express logistics company for exhibiting reliability, superior brand experience and sustainability which include recognition as one of ‘India's Best Companies to Work For’ by The Great Place to Work® Institute, India, ranked amongst ‘Best Multinational Workplaces in Asia’ by The Great Place to Work® Institute, Asia, voted a ‘Superbrand’ and ‘Reader’s Digest Most Trusted Brand’, listed as one of Fortune 500’s ‘India's Largest Corporations’ and Forbes ‘India's Super 50 Companies’ to name a few. Blue Dart’s Diversity and Inclusion initiatives have also led to it being recognized as one of India’s ‘Best Workplaces for Women’ in 2021 and ‘Best Organisations for Women’ in 2022 by the Economic Times.

Blue Dart fulfils its social responsibility of climate protection (GoGreen), disaster management (GoHelp) and education (GoTeach) through its GoPrograms.