Last-mile connectivity key to cutting logistics costs: Shantanu Thakur

Strengthening last-mile connectivity and enhancing real-time logistics planning will be crucial for lowering logistics costs and improving the ease of doing business in India, said Shantanu Thakur, Minister of State for Ports, Shipping, and Waterways, at the “Gati Se Pragati Conclave 2025” hosted by PHD Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PHDCCI).

Thakur stressed that better connectivity to remote towns and rural regions would not only yield economic dividends but also foster social upliftment. Citing the Chenab Bridge in Jammu and Kashmir as a case in point, he said that infrastructure development plays a transformative role in regional growth.

“Vocal for Local can only succeed with a robust logistics infrastructure,” Thakur stated, pointing to the PM Gati Shakti National Master Plan as a strategic framework to eliminate supply chain bottlenecks and empower Indian producers to connect with global markets.

Bhibhu Prasad Tarai, Member of Parliament and member of the Standing Committee on Industry, underlined the need for integrated water, air, and road transport systems to achieve India’s 2047 development vision. “Farmers, youth, and women are the cornerstones of inclusive development, and seamless connectivity is vital to their progress,” he said.

Adding to the momentum, Praveen Kumar, Managing Director of the Dedicated Freight Corridor Corporation of India (DFCCIL), noted that over 96% of the DFC network has been commissioned, calling the corridors the “spinal cord” of India’s logistics system. He emphasized their potential to boost high-load capacity, decongest passenger lines, and support sustainable freight mobility. Kumar urged businesses to leverage the DFC for efficient goods movement and data-backed logistics planning.