The Indian government is set to reduce logistics costs from the current 13-14% of GDP to a global benchmark of around 8%, with the Central Warehousing Corporation (CWC) playing a pivotal role in this strategic shift, Union Food Minister Pralhad Joshi said.
Speaking at CWC’s 69th Foundation Day, Joshi emphasized that initiatives such as the National Logistics Policy and PM Gati Shakti Programme are crucial in achieving this cost reduction. “CWC, as a leading warehousing entity, will support these objectives by focusing on modern infrastructure, operational efficiency, and digital transformation,” he stated.
CWC, established in 1957, has grown into a key logistics service provider, managing an extensive network of over 700 warehouses with an operational storage capacity of 148.29 lakh metric tonnes, according to an official statement.
As part of the government’s Atmanirbhar Bharat initiative, CWC is fostering efficient supply chains by encouraging private sector participation and technological advancements. The minister highlighted CWC’s asset monetization strategy, which has successfully mobilized Rs 820 crore from 18 locations under the government’s asset monetization plan.
Additionally, Joshi commended CWC’s digital initiatives aimed at enhancing operational efficiency, transparency, and accountability. He noted that with the rapid expansion of e-commerce and the government’s continued focus on infrastructure, the warehousing and logistics sector is emerging as a critical driver of economic growth.
CWC plays a key role in government programs such as the Pradhan Mantri Garib Kalyan Anna Yojana (PMGKAY) and Pradhan Mantri Annadata Aay Sanrakshan Abhiyan (PM-AASHA), ensuring seamless warehousing, handling, and transportation of essential commodities like food grains, pulses, cotton, and groundnuts.
Ministers of State for Food and Consumer Affairs BL Verma and Nimuben Jayantibhai Bambhaniya, who were also present at the event, reiterated CWC’s commitment to strengthening India’s food security through efficient storage and distribution systems.
CWC Managing Director Santosh Sinha outlined plans for modernizing traditional warehouses in Tier-I and Tier-II cities and expanding cold storage facilities under the Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model. He also highlighted CWC’s achievements, including the addition of over 120 lakh sq ft of storage capacity in 2024-25 and the storage of 70 lakh cotton bales and 1.90 crore bags of groundnuts during the current season.
With its ongoing modernization and strategic initiatives, CWC is poised to play a crucial role in transforming India’s logistics landscape, ensuring cost efficiency and robust supply chain management across sectors.