Dr.G.R.Balakrishnan
Feb 15 2025
Logistics News (Roadways & Railways)
LogiMAT 2025 saw industry veterans come together for a key discussion on ‘The Road to Digital Transformation: AI, IoT, and Workforce Readiness in Logistics’. Moderated by Amit Maheshwari, Founder & CEO of Softlink Global and a logistics visionary himself, the discussion delved into how AI, IoT, and Blockchain are shaping logistics and what it takes for companies to keep pace.
The panel included Dushyant Mulani - Chairman, FFFAI, Abbas Panju - MD, India at UPS Express; Ravi Kumar Thummalapalli - MD, Envirotainer, Kamal Jain - Director, Cargomen Logistics and Mahesh Vadela - MD, HMDA Truck Doc Logistics.
Key Highlights from the Discussion:
1. Industry Readiness for Digital Transformation – Only 35% of logistics companies currently have integrated digital systems, raising concerns about whether the sector is fully prepared to embrace AI-driven innovations
2. AI and IoT in Logistics – The discussion explored how AI-powered automation and IoT- enabled smart logistics solutions can enhance efficiency, visibility, and decision-making
3. Reskilling & Workforce Transformation – Addressing concerns about job displacement due to automation, the panel emphasized the importance of upskilling, reskilling, and reorienting the workforce to align with evolving technologies
4. Human-Tech Synergy – While digital advancements are revolutionizing the industry, human expertise remains irreplaceable, reinforcing the need for a balanced approach between automation and workforce empowerment
Expert Insights from the Panel Discussion:
Dushyant Malani, Chairman, FFFAI:
;A century-old company like ours has evolved with every technological leap. The key is to adapt without losing sight of industry fundamentals. Logistics is not just about moving goods—it’s about moving forward with innovation."
Kamal Jain, Director, Cargomen Logistics
The question isn't whether technology will change logistics; it's how quickly we adapt to it. Those who embrace digital transformation today will lead the industry tomorrow." The discussion at LogiMAT India 2025 reinforced that while AI, IoT, and automation are set to redefine logistics, a human-centric approach remains essential for successful implementation.
Amit Maheshwari:
This is the third time in my career I have been this excited about technology—first with Windows, then with the internet, and now with AI. While buzzwords like AI, IoT, and Blockchain are shaping the logistics industry, the real question is: Are we ready for this transformation? Technology alone is not enough; without skilled professionals to drive it, even the most advanced systems fall short.
Discussions like these are crucial as the logistics industry stands at the crossroads of innovation and workforce evolution. The insights shared at LogiMAT India 2025 highlight the need for a strategic approach to digital transformation—one that balances technology adoption with skill development to drive long-term success.
