In a historic moment for India's maritime and port logistics in supply chain, the world’s largest container ship, MSC IRINA, arrived at the newly inaugurated Vizhinjam International Seaport on Monday. This landmark berthing follows the port’s dedication to the nation by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on May 2 and signifies India’s growing capability in shipping ports and freight handling at a global scale. MSC IRINA boasts a record-breaking capacity of 24,346 TEUs (Twenty-foot Equivalent Units) and operates under one of the main service lines of Mediterranean Shipping Company (MSC), connecting Asia to Europe. This direct connectivity to major European ports such as Valencia, Barcelona, and Gioia Tauro is expected to significantly reduce shipping costs and delivery lead times for Indian exporters and importers alike. According to Binu K.S., Managing Committee Member of the Kerala Steamer Agents Association, the arrival of MSC IRINA not only enhances India's Exim trade capabilities but also strategically positions Vizhinjam as a preferred transshipment hub. This is a critical step in easing port congestion in India, particularly at traditional ports struggling with capacity issues.
In a landmark step to modernize India’s logistics landscape, the Center for Transportation Research and Management (CTRAM) an autonomous body under the Ministry of Railways as entered into a strategic partnership with Aviral Consulting Pvt. Ltd., a leading name in logistics and supply chain management. The collaboration aims to drive knowledge-based and outcome-driven solutions for India’s fast-evolving logistics and supply chain ecosystem. The Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was officially signed by Shri Amit Kumar Singh, Executive Director at CTRAM, and Dr. Vikash Khatri, Founder of Aviral Consulting, in the presence of Dr. Surendra Ahirwar, Executive Director, Traffic Commercial and Gati Shakti (Traffic), Ministry of Railways. This public-private partnership seeks to address key national priorities in areas such as:• Multimodal Transport Integration• Rail Freight Share Expansion• Sustainability in Logistics• Smart Logistics Frameworks• Skill Development Initiatives
In a groundbreaking move that redefines how storage capacity is measured, AAJ Supply Chain Management is set to build India’s tallest warehouse, revolutionizing the landscape of warehouse supply chain management and warehouse infrastructure in the country. Located in Gurugram, Haryana, this state-of-the-art facility will feature a peak height of 68 feet (21 meters) and a clear height of 60 feet (18.5 meters). Despite having a modest footprint of 100,000 square feet, the vertical design will enable warehouse storage for up to 30,000 pallet positions, making it nearly three times more efficient than current industry standards. This innovative step challenges the traditional square footage-based assessment and positions AAJ at the forefront of warehouse supply chain and logistics solutions. The project, developed in partnership with Welspun One as a Built-to-Suit (BTS) facility and facilitated by JLL India, is expected to become operational in 2025. The warehouse is designed to support multi-client, 3PL operations and promises to be a boon for SMEs and growing enterprises, helping drive down logistics costs while improving operational efficiency. It also aligns with the growing demand for advanced warehousing management systems and scalable warehousing and distribution networks in India. By integrating vertical capacity and digital-first processes, this facility marks a significant leap in warehousing and distribution India trends making AAJ Supply Chain a key player shaping the future of warehouse infrastructure and logistics excellence across the country. The Letter of Intent (LOI) was officially signed earlier this year, and the industry eagerly awaits the launch of this pioneering project in 2025.
India is urgently working to establish alternative rare earth magnet supply chains with five strategic partner nations Vietnam, Indonesia, Japan, the US, and Russia as China tightens its export control on this critical electronic supply chain component. With the rare earth magnets being essential for electric vehicle (EV) production and clean energy technologies, this supply chain disruption poses a major threat to India's automotive ambitions and future supply chain tracking capabilities. Currently, India imports approximately 809 tonnes of rare earth magnets annually, primarily from China. As the country advances its supply chain management development program and strengthens its digital supply chain infrastructure, securing a stable and diversified source of rare earth magnets has become imperative. Parallel dialogues are also underway with Chinese Embassy officials to maintain temporary access to these components while new SCM innovations in India are explored. This effort is part of India's broader strategy to future-proof its supply and chain management systems and participate in global chain supply management ecosystems. With the Future of Supply Chain Management being driven by geopolitical shifts and technological advancement, this move is expected to be a key discussion point at the upcoming Supply Chain Leadership Summit and other Best Supply Chain Events in India. India’s proactive steps in securing critical materials reflect its growing emphasis on electronic supply chain management, supply chain financing, and robust supply chain demand planning to ensure a resilient and self-reliant industrial future.
On the morning of June 6, a container barge named Marco Polo 802 ran aground off Tanjong Beach, Sentosa, but was safely towed to an anchorage later for inspection and investigation, according to the Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore (MPA). The incident caused minor damage to a section of the floating security barriers near the beach. In its official statement, MPA confirmed that there were no injuries, pollution, or impact on navigational safety. The barge remained stable throughout and Sentosa Beach remains open to the public. The Police Coast Guard is now assessing the barrier damage and will oversee repairs while increasing patrols in the area. The event highlights the importance of efficient port logistics and maritime safety protocols, particularly in high-traffic coastal areas. As global shipping routes grow more congested, particularly in regions like India, incidents like these reinforce the need for smart port infrastructure, timely response systems, and robust freight handling capabilities. With no oil spill or shipping disruption reported, the swift containment of the situation reflects Singapore's strong maritime governance and its commitment to maintaining smooth port operations within the broader supply chain ecosystem.
Atif Ali Khan
Associate Director Sourcing & Procurement, MetLifeAnil Pandita
Senior Director-Sourcing & Procurement, JLL IndiaSaahil Goel
MD & CEO, ShiprocketVineet Kumar
Head Supply Chain Excellence, Deepak Fertilisers And Petrochemicals Corp. Ltd.Increase your brand visibility and thought leadership in Industry
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