The 9th SIAM Automotive Logistics Conclave, organized by the Society of Indian Automobile Manufacturers (SIAM), brought together industry experts to discuss ways to enhance India’s logistics performance with a focus on sustainability and efficiency. The conclave witnessed active participation from esteemed speakers, including senior government officials, logistics heads of automobile companies, and experts from the automobile supply chain.
Under the theme “Road to Sustainability: The Future of Automotive Logistics,” the conclave’s first session delved into “Automotive Logistics: Practices for Enhancing Efficiencies.” Mr. Ashish Choudhary, Operating Officer at Honda Motorcycle & Scooters India Pvt. Ltd, emphasized the importance of implementing disruptive technologies to improve efficiency in the automotive business. He stressed that technologies like Google Maps can play a vital role in achieving the highest level of efficiency and ensuring in-time delivery. Mr. Jasjit Sethi, CEO of TCI Supply Chain Solutions, highlighted the significance of cutting-edge technologies such as GPS tracking systems and the need for collaborations between the automotive industry and logistics solutions providers to enhance efficiency.
The second session, titled “Enabling Seamless Goods Transportation in Inter & Intra State Routes,” focused on the importance of drivers’ abilities and wellbeing. Mr. Anil Chhikara, Deputy Commissioner of the Transport Department, Government of NCT of Delhi, stressed the need to educate drivers about rules and regulations, improve infrastructure on highways, and comply with government regulations to ensure seamless transportation. Mr. Achal Paliwal, General Manager at Tata Motors Ltd., highlighted the significance of treating drivers with care, providing requisite facilities, and equipping vehicles with eating and sleeping amenities for their comfort and welfare.
During the third session on “Synergies between Rail & Road Logistics,” Mr. S. P. Singh, Joint Secretary (IAHE & Logistic) from the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways, emphasized the government’s focus on infrastructure, information, IT, and integration to improve the effectiveness of India’s supply chain. He highlighted the push for digitization and creating a suitable information system to assist the industry in determining the shortest distance through integration. Mr. Prakash Gaur, CEO of National Highway Logistics Management Limited, stressed the importance of a multi-stakeholder approach to meet consumer demands and create a robust logistics ecosystem.
In the concluding session, Mr. Vinod Aggarwal, President of SIAM and CEO & MD of Volvo Eicher Commercial Vehicles Ltd., emphasized the need for efficiency and long-term sustainability in the Indian automobile industry. He highlighted the importance of focusing on lowering logistics costs and addressing issues faced in increasing efficiency, such as time-consuming tasks like cargo loading and unloading. Additionally, the industry must address the driver shortage by enhancing amenities like insurance and working conditions.
Mr. E Srinivas, Joint Secretary (Logistics) from the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT), Ministry of Commerce & Industry, praised India’s progress in the World Logistic Performance Index (LPI) where the country climbed six places to reach the 38th position. He attributed this achievement to the government’s constant efforts and futuristic initiatives, such as PM Gatishakti and National Logistic Policy (NLP), which aim to create a robust logistics ecosystem while reducing costs.
Mr. Amit Kumar Ghosh, Additional Secretary (LA & Highways) from the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways, highlighted the importance of implementing state-of-the-art technologies to reduce transportation costs and improve efficiency. He emphasized the need for seamless toll systems and initiatives like air-conditioned cabin trucks to elevate the reputation of the driving profession.
During the conclave, the automobile industry presented recommendations for improving logistics efficiencies, sharing valuable insights from Mr. Rakesh Sen, Chairman of SIAM Logistics Group & Vice President of Mahindra & Mahindra Ltd, and Mr. Tapan Ghosh, Co-Chairman of SIAM Logistics Group & Vice President – Sales, Hyundai Motor India.
The 9th SIAM Automotive Logistics Conclave showcased the industry’s commitment to driving sustainable and efficient practices in the Indian automobile logistics sector. By leveraging technology, enhancing drivers’ wellbeing, and fostering collaboration between stakeholders, India aims to establish itself as a global leader in automotive logistics.
The Society of Indian Automobile Manufacturers (SIAM) is a not-for-profit apex national body representing all major vehicle and vehicular engine manufacturers in India. SIAM works towards supporting sustainable development of the Indian Automobile Industry, fostering global standards of quality, and facilitating the competitiveness of the sector. With a vision to emerge as a destination of choice for automobile design and manufacture, SIAM plays a crucial role in driving the industry’s growth and innovation.
