Warehousing Association Of India Conducts Workshop

The Warehousing Association of India (WAI) in collaboration with Asian Development Bank (ADB) under the aegis of the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT) conducted “Workshop on Empowering Women in Logistics and Standardization, Grading and Rating of Warehouses in India” on 14 Dec 2023 in New Delhi. The workshop represented by a diverse group of industry and government stakeholders as well as international organizations (World Bank, IFC, and CUTS Int’l) focused on discussing and exchanging ideas on the need for diversity and inclusion in the logistics industry and importance of standardization of warehouses following grading and rating systems.

Sumita Dawra, Special Secretary, Dr. Jivisha Joshi Gangopadhyay, Deputy Secretary, and Mr. Surendra Ahirwar, Joint Secretary of Logistics Divisions, DPIIT honored the occasion by articulating their views and vision for the logistics industry. Mr. Hoe Yun Jeong, Deputy Country Director and Mr. Nilaya Mitash, Principal Operations Coordination Specialist (Regional Cooperation), India Resident Mission (INRM), ADB also honored the occasion with welcome remarks and moderating panel discussions.

Manu Raj Bhalla, President of Warehouse Association of India spoke about the launch of 2nd and 2023 version of e-Handbook for Warehouse Standards covering topics on automation, AI and sustainability. He expressed his gratitude to all the contributors to the handbook for helping India achieve the distinction of only country to have such a comprehensive guide for warehouse developers and operators for building and operating world-class warehousing facilities and operations.

The workshop also unveiled a framework for Standardization, Grading and Rating Systems for Warehouses in India. Such a system will enable differentiation between Warehouse classes enabling users to make the best fit choices based on their operational and product requirements. Such recognized rating system will attract greater investment in Grade A warehouses, as it will improve the return on Investment, reduce finance as well as insurance costs. Mr. Bhalla sought support from industry participants for their contribution to achieve the distinction of once again being globally first to have a grading and rating systems for standardization of warehouses in India.

The event was a resounding success, bringing together diverse voices and expertise to drive positive change in the logistics and warehousing sectors. As the industry continues to evolve, initiatives like these play a pivotal role in shaping a more inclusive, diverse, and standardized logistics landscape.