FTCCI hosts 2nd edition of intl conference on Shipping & Logistics

Hyderabad, Mar 22  The Federation of Telangana Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FTCCI), with the backing of the MSME Department of the Government of India, organized the second edition of the international conference on Shipping and Logistics (ICSL) at HICC, Madhapur here on Friday.
In his keynote address, D. Vishnuvardhan, Special Secretary (Investment Promotion & External Engagement) and Vice Chairman & Managing Director of Telangana State Industries Infrastructure Corporation (TSIIC), emphasized the pivotal role of global trade control in shaping cities and civilizations. He highlighted logistics as the lifeblood of global trade, acknowledging the emergence of new power centres and the disruptive impact of geopolitical dynamics on supply chain management.
Dr Vishnuvardhan further underscored the government's commitment to reducing logistics costs to enhance global competitiveness, citing flagship projects like Bharatmala and Sagarmala aimed at bolstering road connectivity and modernizing ports across the country. He stressed the importance of technological adoption and support for logistics startups to navigate industry challenges effectively.
Addressing Telangana's unique challenges, Dr Vishnuvardhan mentioned the state's landlocked status and outlined initiatives to address infrastructure needs, including the establishment of dry ports and integrated industrial townships. He also highlighted ongoing infrastructure projects like the Regional Ring Road to facilitate smoother logistics operations.
Sanjay Swarup, Chairman & Managing Director of Container Corporation of India (CCI) Limited, emphasised the significance of technology infusion in logistics to enhance efficiency and reduce costs. He outlined CCI's initiatives, including AI-based container management and the introduction of LNG trucks and EVs for sustainable logistics solutions.
Pradeep Panicker, CEO of GMR Hyderabad International Airport Ltd, highlighted the growing importance of air cargo and the development of aerotropolis settlements around major airports. He discussed plans to expand cargo terminal capacity at GMR Airport to handle increased volumes efficiently.
Kamal Jain, Chairman of FTCCI's Shipping & Logistics Committee, emphasised the conference's focus on exploring opportunities and addressing challenges for landlocked Telangana. The conference comprised sessions covering various aspects of logistics management, attracting over 400 delegates from across India.
The conference served as a platform for multidisciplinary discussions and the exchange of innovative ideas to enhance logistics management in the industry, against the backdrop of global geopolitical complexities and technological advancements.