Smart Logistics to Give New Momentum to the Mining Sector.

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Mumbai, Maharashtra/ New Delhi, 12th of July, 2026 : India’s mining and metals sector has the potential to significantly strengthen its global competitiveness, provided logistics is viewed not merely as a transportation function but as a strategic enabler. Experts at FICCI’s Enhancing Competitiveness of Mining & Metals conference emphasized that while India’s freight costs are already competitive with many global peers, fragmented multimodal networks, inadequate connectivity to mines, and excessive dependence on road transport continue to hinder the sector’s growth. The conference highlighted the need for modern technologies, dedicated freight corridors, and digital solutions to transform the industry’s logistics ecosystem.

Former NITI Aayog member Dr. V. K. Saraswat stated, “Logistics must be recognized as a strategic determinant of competitiveness for the mining and metals sector.” He noted that inadequate first- and last-mile connectivity to mines, over-reliance on road transport, and existing mineral transportation challenges are driving up operational costs. He recommended a 10-point national strategy that includes dedicated mineral freight corridors, conveyor systems, slurry pipelines, port mechanization, and greater digitalization.

According to the joint FICCI-Deloitte report, India’s freight tariffs are broadly aligned with global benchmarks, but its fragmented logistics network continues to erode the country’s competitive advantage. Devendra Kumar, Additional Member (Traffic), Railway Board, said that Indian Railways is expanding its end-to-end logistics services and that freight trains up to two kilometers in length could operate on Indian tracks in the future. The conference also underscored that achieving the vision of Viksit Bharat 2047 will require a substantial increase in freight capacity along with the development of modern, sustainable logistics infrastructure.