Adding Wheels To Logistics.. GATISHAKTI

The roadmap to Viksit Bharat, or Developed India, encompasses the ambitious initiatives of the Indian Government, notably the PM Gati Shakti Yojana and the National Logistics Policy. Launched in 2021, the PM Gati Shakti Yojana represents a comprehensive National Master Plan (NMP) aimed at transforming the country's infrastructure landscape. Its core objective revolves around fostering better coordination among various ministries, departments, and agencies to expedite infrastructure projects. The overarching goal is to streamline processes, enhance collaboration across sectors, and ensure timely completion and efficient utilization of resources, thereby catalyzing economic growth and development throughout India.

Complementing the PM Gati Shakti Yojana, the National Logistics Policy (NLP) was introduced in September 2022. This policy outlines a vision for developing a technologically enabled, integrated, cost-efficient, sustainable, and trusted logistics ecosystem in the country. By addressing key challenges such as high logistics costs and inefficiencies in the supply chain, the NLP aims to bolster overall economic growth. Through the implementation of best practices and the integration of advanced technologies, the policy seeks to position India as a global logistics hub, capable of competing on the international stage.

While the PM Gati Shakti Yojana primarily focuses on the development of integrated infrastructure, the NLP places equal emphasis on enhancing efficiency in services, such as processes, digital systems, and regulatory frameworks, as well as optimizing human resources. Together, these initiatives provide a robust framework for creating a data-driven decision support mechanism to foster an efficient logistics ecosystem in India. By leveraging technology and adopting innovative solutions, the aim is to reduce logistics costs and enhance efficiency across the board.

Technology plays a pivotal role in both the PM Gati Shakti Yojana and the National Logistics Policy. The PM Gati Shakti Yojana, for instance, incorporates a digital component in the form of a Geographic Information System (GIS) platform. This platform integrates geopolitical data related to the country's infrastructure and planning portals from various ministries and departments, facilitating better planning, monitoring, and execution of infrastructure projects. Similarly, technology adoption in logistics operations enables real-time tracking, route optimization, inventory management, and digital documentation, resulting in improved efficiency and cost savings.

Key technologies such as the Internet of Things (IoT), Artificial Intelligence (AI), blockchain, and digital platforms are essential for modernizing infrastructure and logistics in India. Embracing these advanced technologies is crucial for staying competitive and driving innovation in the logistics sector. Furthermore, the implementation of technology solutions can streamline tax compliance processes, such as electronic invoicing and automated tax filing systems, thereby reducing the administrative burden associated with indirect taxes.

Looking ahead, provided the current Governement comes to power, a 100-day agenda has been put forth to further strategize the country's development path. This agenda encompasses various priorities, including the formulation of a national plan for 2047, the completion of key infrastructure projects such as the Udhampur-Srinagar-Baramula rail link, and the approval of major railway corridor programs under the PM Gati Shakti Yojana. Additionally, trade agreements, such as the proposed Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) with the United Kingdom (UK) and Oman, are also on the agenda, along with addressing long-pending policies such as the e-commerce policy.

In conclusion, the PM Gati Shakti Yojana, bolstered by the National Logistics Policy, heralds a new era of transformation and growth in India's logistics sector. By embracing innovation, investment, and collaboration, these initiatives have the potential to unleash the full economic potential of the nation, driving prosperity and development for generations to come. As India marches towards becoming a $5 trillion economy, a robust and efficient logistics infrastructure will undoubtedly serve as a cornerstone of its success story.