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Over 550 delegates, government leaders and industry stalwarts unite around the vision — “One Fraternity, One Vision: Logistics Driving India Towards Viksit Bharat”
Mumbai, 17 June 2026 — The Brihanmumbai Custom Brokers’ Association (BCBA), established in 1939, successfully hosted the second edition of The India Logistics Conclave 2026 at The Taj Mahal Palace, Mumbai, drawing more than 550 delegates, invitees and guests from across the customs, ports, shipping, trade and logistics ecosystem. Anchored in the theme “One Fraternity, One Vision — Logistics Driving India Towards Viksit Bharat,” the day-long Conclave brought senior government leadership and industry stalwarts onto one platform to chart the road to a developed India by 2047.
The proceedings began at 09:45 a.m. with the ceremonial inauguration of the CBIC Pavilion, followed by the Inaugural Session. In a defining moment, Shri Vivek Chaturvedi, Chairman, Central Board of Indirect Taxes & Customs (CBIC), delivered the welcome address live online, sharing the Board’s vision for a modern, trust-based and technology-led customs administration — received by the fraternity as a source of great strength and inspiration.
The inaugural dais featured an eminent gathering of dignitaries. These included Shri Yogendra Garg, Member (Customs), CBIC; Shri Anupam Prakash, Joint Secretary, Customs; Shri Sushil Mansing Khopde, IPS, Additional Director General of Shipping; Shri Sunil Jain, IRS, Director General of Valuation; Capt. BVJK Sharma, Chief Executive Officer, Navi Mumbai International Airport; Capt. Deepak Tiwari, Managing Director, MSC India and Chairman, CSLA; Shri Om Hisaria, Senior Executive Vice President, Reliance Industries Limited; and Mr Mukesh Oza, Group President & CEO, Samsara Group. They were joined on the dais by BCBA President Mr Sanjeev Harale and Senior Vice President Mr Paresh Thakkar.
“To see this fraternity stand shoulder to shoulder with the highest offices of government and industry, under one roof and one vision, has been deeply humbling,” said Mr Paresh Thakkar, Senior Vice President, BCBA. “What we have built over two editions is not merely an event, but a platform where the customs broker’s voice is heard, respected and woven into the national agenda. That is the legacy we intend to carry forward.”
The intellectual heart of the Conclave lay in its four business sessions, each a moderated plenary of national stature.
Session 1, “India 2030, 2035, 2047 — A Roadmap for Viksit Bharat,” was moderated by Mr Shantanu Bhadkamkar and brought together Shri Yogendra Garg, Member (Customs), CBIC; Mr Shailesh Haribhakti, eminent voice on economy and governance; Capt. Deepak Tiwari of MSC India and CSLA; Dr Prasad Pradhan, senior strategy and resilience advisor; and Mr Rahul Ahluwalia, Director & Co-Founder, Foundation for Economic Development.
Session 2, “Building India’s Digital Spine — Customs & Trade,” was moderated by Mr Dushyant Mulani. The panel comprised Shri Anupam Prakash, Joint Secretary, Customs; Shri Gaurav Dayal, IAS, Chairman, Jawaharlal Nehru Port Authority; Shri Parvinder Singh, Managing Director, Hans Infomatic; Mr Kunal Maheshwari, Director, Softlink Global; Mr Faisal Khan, Foundation for Economic Development; and Mr Amit Kamat, Chairman, FFFAI.
“Custom Brokers are now playing a nodal role in India’s EXIM Logistics, they are quiet backbone of India’s trade, and forums like this one finally give that contribution the recognition it deserves,” said Mr Dushyant Mulani, Immediate Past President, BCBA. “Keeping National interest of being Globally Competitive it is imperative that government and trade sit at the same table as partners to conceptualise further trade facilitation measures to ensure the entire ecosystem moves faster — and that partnership is the real achievement of this Conclave.”
Session 3, “Geopolitics and the New Geometry of Trade,” was moderated by Mr Tej Contractor and featured Dr Pritam Banerjee of the Indian Institute of Foreign Trade; Mr Sachin Vijan, Vanguard Logistics Services; Mr Fardeen Malbarwalla, Galaxy Freight; Mr S. Mahesh Mahalingam, Head — EXIM, Larsen & Toubro; and Dr Rumki Majumdar, Director & Economist, Deloitte India.
Session 4, “Policy and Infrastructure — Building India’s Futuristic Logistics Ecosystem,” was moderated by Mr Mihir Parekh of the Foundation for Economic Development, who served as moderator cum panellist. The session brought together Shri Unmesh Sharad Wagh, IRS, Commissioner General, JNCH; Shri Ravish Kumar Singh, IRTS, Deputy Chairman, JNPA; Shri Sagar Rameshrao Kadu, Director (Logistics Division), DPIIT; Dr Rekha Raikar Kumar, Senior Advisor, Land Port Authority of India; and Mr Rajiv Chohan, Aegis Vopak Group.
The Valedictory Session, themed “Logisticians — Building a Better India,” offered an inspiring close. It was led by Mr Dhimant Parekh, Founder & CEO of The Better India — the world’s largest positive-impact storytelling platform — and Mr S. Ramakrishna, Past Chairman of FFFAI, who reflected on conviction, reinvention and the logistician’s role in nation building.
“This Conclave reaffirmed that the customs broker and freight forwarder are not mere facilitators, but true partners in India’s growth story,” said Mr Sanjeev Harale, President, BCBA." The participation of the highest echelons of government and industry, and the warmth of over 550 delegates, is a powerful testament to the strength of our fraternity and our shared resolve to drive India towards Viksit Bharat.”
The Conclave was made possible by the generous support of its partners. The BCBA extends profound gratitude to the Jawaharlal Nehru Port Authority (Platinum Sponsor); Navi Mumbai International Airport and MPRS Shipping (Diamond Sponsors); Softlink Global Private Limited (Gold Sponsor); and Reliance Industries Limited (Silver Sponsor). The Association also acknowledges Parekh Global (Lunch Sponsor); Conex CFS, Polaris CFS and Globicon CFS (Delegate Kit Sponsors); Galaxy Freight (Seat Sponsor); Mumbai Cargo Service Center (Lanyard Sponsor); and Unifo (Hi-Tea Sponsor); and DBS Bank (Banking Partner). The BCBA further thanks our Bronze and Associate Sponsors, along with its Media Partners and supporting organisations, whose collective faith — despite a challenging global environment — was vital to the success of the event.
As the second edition closed, the BCBA expressed deep appreciation to every delegate, dignitary, speaker, moderator and partner who made the day a success. The Association reaffirmed its commitment to serving as a unifying voice for the fraternity and advancing the national conversation on India’s logistics future.
About BCBA: The BCBA, established in 1939, is one of India’s oldest and most respected representative bodies for customs brokers, serving as a unifying voice for the customs, trade and logistics fraternity.
For media enquiries, please contact the BCBA.
Hellmann Worldwide Logistics has expanded its presence in the United States with three new branches in Indianapolis, the Columbus metropolitan area and the San Francisco Bay Area, taking its nationwide network to 12 locations. The expansion aims to strengthen customer proximity, deepen industry-specific expertise and support the company's long-term growth strategy in one of the world's largest logistics markets. The move forms part of Hellmann's Forward2030 strategy, which focuses on high-potential markets and selected industries. Established in the US in 1988, the company is strengthening its capabilities across international air freight, sea freight and domestic road transport to meet the evolving requirements of businesses and supply chains. The new locations have been planned around the needs of specific industry segments. The Indianapolis branch, which is already operational, will cater to the automotive supply chain, particularly Tier 1 and Tier 2 suppliers. Its services will include international air and sea freight alongside domestic road transport, supporting the movement of components and other automotive shipments. The Columbus office in Ohio will focus on the fashion and retail sectors, while the new branch near San Francisco International Airport will serve customers in technology, semiconductors, electronics, cloud infrastructure and renewable energy. These locations are expected to strengthen Hellmann's ability to deliver integrated, industry-focused logistics solutions across key US growth markets. The expansion comes amid substantial demand for logistics services in the US. According to Hellmann, business logistics costs in the country reached approximately US$2.4 trillion in 2025, equivalent to around 7.8% of gross domestic product (GDP). Rising trade volumes are also increasing the need for dependable international transportation, customs expertise and integrated supply chain solutions. Commenting on the expansion, Mario Stecher, Managing Director, US, Hellmann Worldwide Logistics, said the new locations would bring the company closer to customers while strengthening its industry expertise. Peter Hüwel, Regional CEO, Americas, highlighted the company's US Accelerator Programme as a framework for translating market opportunities into regional growth by combining global network capabilities with local market knowledge. With the additional branches, Hellmann aims to reinforce its competitive position in the US and build a stronger foundation for long-term growth through specialised logistics services and closer customer engagement. 𝐒𝐭𝐚𝐲 𝐓𝐮𝐧𝐞𝐝 𝐭𝐨 CARGOCONNECT 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐥𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐬𝐭 𝐮𝐩𝐝𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐬!
The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has stepped up its focus on cold chain compliance, directing food business operators (FBOs) to maintain prescribed temperature conditions while handling, storing and transporting perishable food products, including khoa, paneer, meat and fish. The advisory, dated October 15, 2026, aims to strengthen food safety and protect public health by addressing gaps in temperature-controlled supply chains. The directive covers the entire supply chain, from procurement and sourcing to manufacturing, packing, storage, transportation, distribution and delivery to consumers. FSSAI has reiterated that maintaining appropriate temperatures throughout these stages is essential to prevent microbial growth, product deterioration and food contamination. Temperature Control and Hygiene Under Scrutiny According to the regulator, certain perishable food commodities are not consistently handled, stored or transported under suitable temperature conditions. Such lapses can accelerate spoilage and increase the risk of foodborne illness, making effective cold chain management a critical requirement for food businesses. Under the conditions of licence specified in Schedule 4 of the Food Safety and Standards (Licensing and Registration of Food Businesses) Regulations, 2011, operators must comply with prescribed temperature and hygiene requirements across the supply chain. The latest advisory reinforces these existing obligations rather than introducing an entirely new regulatory framework. FSSAI has also directed businesses to use clean, covered and hygienic vehicles suitable for transporting food products. Appropriate food-grade packaging and secondary packaging materials must be used, while products must be protected from dust, moisture, pests, physical damage and cross-contamination during storage, loading, unloading and transit. Gunny bags and unsuitable non-food-grade coverings must be avoided. Traceability and Enforcement Measures The advisory emphasises the importance of maintaining records and ensuring consignment traceability. Food business operators must keep relevant documentation, including invoices and other supporting records, and produce them before the competent authority whenever required. These measures are intended to improve accountability and help officials identify potential breaches in the handling and movement of perishable goods. FSSAI has called on food safety authorities across states and Union Territories to maintain strict vigilance through inspections and transportation checks. The regulator has warned that violations may invite appropriate enforcement action, including the seizure and destruction of non-compliant food products under applicable provisions of the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006, and associated regulations. Implications for Food Supply Chains The advisory places renewed emphasis on reliable refrigeration, hygienic transport infrastructure and consistent temperature monitoring across India's food distribution network. Dairy processors, meat and fish suppliers, distributors, retailers, cold storage operators and logistics providers will need to ensure that their handling practices and transport arrangements meet the prescribed requirements. For the logistics sector, the directive reinforces the importance of strengthening refrigerated transport, improving storage practices and maintaining end-to-end visibility of temperature-sensitive consignments. These capabilities are particularly important during periods of heightened demand, when increased shipment volumes and multiple handling points can raise the risk of temperature deviations. By reinforcing existing compliance requirements, FSSAI aims to reduce spoilage risks and improve food safety from source to consumer. Effective implementation will depend on consistent monitoring, appropriate infrastructure and accountability among all participants in the perishable food supply chain. 𝐒𝐭𝐚𝐲 𝐓𝐮𝐧𝐞𝐝 𝐭𝐨 CARGOCONNECT 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐥𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐬𝐭 𝐮𝐩𝐝𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐬!
Blue Dart Express has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with India Post to further extend its delivery reach. Building on Blue Dart’s extensive national network, the collaboration will strengthen last-mile connectivity for businesses and customers across Tier III and Tier IV towns and remote locations. The expanded coverage will be introduced in a phased manner. The collaboration brings together Blue Dart’s express logistics capabilities and India Post’s extensive postal network to provide customers with access to a wider range of markets. Shipments to these additional locations will be delivered through India Post’s network, complementing Blue Dart’s infrastructure. The partnership creates a scalable model for extending market coverage through the complementary strengths of both organisations and the efficient use of existing infrastructure. Commenting on the partnership, Sh. Harpreet Singh, Member (Operations), Department of Posts, “On World Post Day, this partnership bodes well for both organisations. The Department of Posts is committed to this partnership and looks forward to it. The Department has strong last-mile connectivity, and we will offer all possible support to make this partnership stronger. We look forward to a much broader and constantly evolving partnership ahead.” Highlighting the strategic significance of the collaboration, Balfour Manuel, Managing Director, Blue Dart, said: “With a legacy spanning over 42 years, Blue Dart has grown alongside Indian businesses, building a trusted national network that supports the country’s commerce. As the economy expands and customer expectations evolve, this strategic partnership has an important role to play in strengthening parcel delivery. Our collaboration with India Post builds on this foundation, combining the strengths of two established institutions to support businesses in reaching more customers across smaller towns and remote locations across the country.” Speaking on the opportunities for customers, Dipanjan Banerjee, Chief Commercial Officer, Blue Dart, said: “For SMEs, e-commerce sellers and enterprises, reaching customers beyond established markets is an increasingly important driver of growth. Across Bharat’s smaller towns, demand for greater product choice creates opportunities that businesses need dependable logistics to realise. Our collaboration with India Post strengthens our delivery reach across Tier III and Tier IV towns, enabling customers to enter new markets, deepen their presence and serve locations that were previously harder to reach.” Therefore, this MoU builds on the longstanding relationship between the two organisations and their shared focus on customer service. The expanded coverage will offer greater delivery accessibility and convenience, supporting the growing participation of smaller towns and remote communities in India’s commerce. 𝐒𝐭𝐚𝐲 𝐓𝐮𝐧𝐞𝐝 𝐭𝐨 CARGOCONNECT 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐥𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐬𝐭 𝐮𝐩𝐝𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐬!
