‘States to compete on new logistics index’

The government is working on creating a logistics index that would score States on their performance in the sector, Commerce Minister Suresh Prabhu said on Thursday. He added that the sector was one of the key thrust areas for the government.

“A logistics index is being developed for every State so that they can compete in this area,” Mr. Prabhu said, speaking at the Global Logistics Summit organised by industry body FICCI.

“With many ministries dealing with logistics, the need was felt for a nodal, coordinating agency for synergy among its various segments.” “The challenge for us is how to integrate these various modes into one actionable pathway,” he added.

‘Logistics as subject’

“So, the multi-modal transport issue is now being addressed by the new logistics division under the Commerce Ministry. It is the first time that logistics as a subject is being dealt with at the level of the Government of India,” the Minister said.

Mr. Prabhu said that the logistics industry would serve as a key element that would allow entrepreneurship to blossom further in the country.

“One of our key target areas is to digitise entire processes in logistics and how we can utilise existing infrastructure to bring out the best efficiency,” he said. “Logistics is a key thrust area for the government to work in through which society will benefit, businesses will develop, international trade will rise and new investments will flow into the country.”