Sunil Kohli, MD, Rahat Cargo said, “To achieve optimal efficiencies and productive outcomes on the desired levels, it’s imperative that the logistics industry must opt for latest technical and digital tools available such as Paperless processing, Internet of Things(IoT), Artificial Intelligence(AI), Machine Learning(ML), Drones and Robotics technologies etc which would require the industry to invest heavily on training and development programme to their skilled workforce. To further ensure highly productive results out of such technologies, it’s essential that the logistics industry should be equipped with adequate infrastructure which covers smooth roads & state-of-the-art airports to overcome the critical challenges namely capacity shortages, delays in transportation and congestion etc. Since the industry expresses its reluctance towards change due to fiscal implications, the government therefore is expected to step in to provide all possible monetary subsidies apart from infrastructural support to the stakeholders.”

Vipin Vohra, Chairman, Continental Carriers said, “Adopting new technologies in logistics faces hurdles like high implementation costs and resistance to change. However, the long-term efficiency gains far outweigh the initial investment. Industry players must focus on phased implementation, workforce training, and fostering a digital-first mindset. Collaboration with tech providers and government incentives can further ease adoption, ensuring enhanced operational efficiency, cost savings, and seamless cargo movement in a competitive landscape.”

Apollo Hospitals and TECHEAGLE have joined hands to launch India’s first-ever 10-minute Diagnostic Drone Delivery (D3) service. The D3 service aims speed up the transportation of medical samples from collection centres to diagnostic labs. TECHEAGLE’s advanced drone solutions will now be able to transport the biopsy samples in 10 minutes. Vikram Singh Meena, Founder & CEO, TECHEAGLE, said, “Every minute counts in healthcare. While food and e-commerce deliveries happen in minutes, critical medical samples still take hours. That delay can be the difference between life and death. With TECHEAGLE’s AI-powered drones, Apollo Hospitals ensures that liquid biopsy samples—essential for early cancer detection—reach labs in just 10 minutes. The healthcare industry deserves the same speed and efficiency as consumer logistics, and we’re making that a reality

  Kale Logistics Solutions (Kale) has partnered with El Dorado International Airport in Bogota,  in South America, to maximise its cargo operations through the transition to a digital air cargo community system. El Dorado International Airport (BOG) in Bogota, Colombia, facilitates nearly 0.76 million metric tons of cargo movement in Latin America and is one of the 20 most connected airports in the world: offering non-stop international flights to the Americas, Caribbean, and the Middle East. “We are excited to pioneer this digital infrastructure at our airport, we believe the ACS will deliver the efficiency, sustainability, resiliency and visibility benefits to the cargo community, as we aim to build our systems with cutting-edge technology,” said Mr. Fabio Marques da Silva, Chief Operating Officer, at El Dorado International Airport. Kale has been working with the cargo community in Bogota to ensure that all stakeholders are prepared for the development and ready to benefit from the streamlined system. “We at Kale are thrilled to pioneer the development of South America’s first Airport Cargo Community System (ACS) at Bogota. Latin America presents a vast, untapped opportunity for comprehensive digital transformation in logistics. Starting this journey in Bogota, a city that bridges diverse worlds, is truly exhilarating,” said Amar More, President of Kale Info Solutions.”

The CII Institute of Logistics has launched the ‘Logistics for All’ initiative to bring together key stakeholders in the logistics sector, generate employment, and enhance India’s role in global supply chains, said reports. With the rapid growth of e-commerce, manufacturing, and Global Capability Centres (GCCs), India’s logistics sector is expected to create 1.5 to 1.7 crore jobs by 2030. The initiative will focus on bridging the skills gap and adopting new technologies to support this expansion.Currently, jobs in this sector are growing at a rate of 6% to 7% annually, according to the CII Institute of Logistics. “This initiative targets students and professionals from all fields, helping them upskill for future logistics jobs powered by technology,” a CII spokesperson stated.

Air India has signed up Menzies Aviation to provide cargo handling services at four locations. The deal will see Menzies provide cargo warehouse services at Kuwait International Airport (KWI), Dallas Fort Worth International Airport (DFW), Sydney Airport (SYD) and Melbourne Airport (MEL). Teams at the four locations are likely to handle approximately 9,000 tonnes of cargo in the first 12 months of the new agreement, said reports. The tie-up is part of a wider deal that includes a mixture of passenger, ramp, de-icing and cleaning services at London Heathrow (LHR), Copenhagen Airport (CPH), Toronto Pearson International Airport (YYZ), Kuwait International Airport (KWI) and Los Angeles International Airport (LAX). Last year, the Gurugram-based airline handled 250,000 tonnes of cargo and in 2023 added 100 aircraft to an existing order for 470 new aircraft.

Kempegowda International Airport Bengaluru (KIAB/BLR Airport), operated by Bangalore International Airport Limited (BIAL), has partnered with Menzies Aviation to redefine domestic cargo operations with the launch of India’s largest Greenfield Domestic Cargo Terminal (DCT) in terms of designed capacity. This 245,000 square feet state-of-the-art facility signifies a major milestone in BLR Airport’s cargo handling capabilities, offering enhanced infrastructure and streamlined processes to meet the growing demands of the domestic market. It will play a key role in connecting industries, strengthening supply chains, and driving innovation toward a more sustainable future for domestic cargo and regional trade, positioning BLR Airport as a leader in cargo handling. Bigger, Better and Advanced Spanning over 7 acres, the DCT features a peak handling capacity of approximately 360,000 metric tons, with a potential to expand to 400,000 metric tons. With around 42truck docks, more than 400 specially designed cargo bins, conveyors aligned with X-ray machines, approximately 30 ULD build-up and breakdown stations, along with real-time data capture using 40 handheld terminals and self–service kiosks for agents, the facility will ensure seamless cargo movement while reducing turnaround times. Equipped with cutting-edge technology and digital solutions, the terminal introduces upgrades like real-time shipment tracking, data analytics tools, and enhanced communication systems integrated with barcodes and QR codes. This integration enables seamless data exchange with airline systems, improves process timelines, and reduces human touchpoints, ensuring faster and safer cargo handling. The emphasis on digitalisation will streamline operations, enhance visibility across the supply chain, and elevate the overall cargo handling experience for airlines, cargo agents, and end users. Special Cargo at DCT BLR Airport has established a strong reputation as a leading hub for perishables. The airport is already …

Kamesh Peri, CEO, Celebi Delhi Cargo Terminal Management India said, “The industry’s traditional image as less glamorous compared to sectors like technology and finance deters potential candidates, especially younger professionals. The skills gap is further exacerbated by the rapid technological advancements in logistics, which require new, tech-savvy skills that current job seekers often lack. High employee turnover and the rising cost of labor also add to the recruitment challenges, making it difficult for companies to retain talent. To address these issues, there is a pressing need for targeted training programs, improved employer branding, and strategic HR practices that align with the evolving demands of the logistics sector. In the Indian logistics market, the challenges in hiring trained professionals are multi-faceted. Firstly, there is a significant shortage of qualified candidates, with the sector struggling to fill roles due to a scarcity of skilled talent. This gap is compounded by a highly competitive job market where specialised knowledge in supply chain management, technology integration, and regulatory compliance is in high demand. Additionally,      

Jalpa H Vithalani, Director, Global Aviation Services said, “Adopting new technologies in air cargo faces multiple constraints, including high implementation costs, integration challenges with legacy systems and regulatory complexities. Additionally, industry-wide awareness is needed to highlight the long-term cost savings, efficiency gains and security enhancements that digital transformation offers. Investments in training and standardised digital infrastructure will drive widespread adoption. However, the air cargo industry is moving towards integrating digital platforms and blockchain to enhance transparency and security. Blockchain enables real-time, tamper-proof tracking of shipments, reducing fraud and ensuring data integrity. Digital platforms streamline documentation, automate processes and enhance efficiency through AI and IoT-driven analytics, reducing delays and operational bottlenecks.”

Vandana Singh, Director, Global Corporate Key Account Management, Saudia Cargo said, “The airfreight industry faces several challenges, including high implementation costs, fragmented infrastructure and a lack of standardised platforms. However, as emerging technologies demonstrate not only their investment potential but also long-term benefits—such as increased profitability, enhanced operational efficiency and improved customer satisfaction—they are gaining widespread acceptance. Additionally, educating industry stakeholders before and after integration will be crucial for seamless adoption and sustained success.”