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Dated: 29.03.2025

ADB-Funded SMILE Program Set to Transform India’s Logistics Ecosystem

The Ministry of Commerce & Industry has announced the rollout of the Asian Development Bank (ADB)-funded SMILE (Strengthening Multimodal and Integrated Logistics Ecosystem) Program. This ambitious initiative aims to enhance logistics efficiency, cut costs, and support multimodal infrastructure development across the country.

Key Objectives of the SMILE Program:

• Support National Logistics Policy & PM Gati Shakti: SMILE aligns with the broader goals of the National Logistics Policy and the PM Gati Shakti National Master Plan, targeting improved coordination across transport modes and better integration of infrastructure.
• Boost Institutional Framework: It focuses on developing a comprehensive policy framework for logistics at the National, State, and City levels.
• Standardize Warehousing & Assets: The program aims to create unified standards for logistics assets like warehouses, ensuring supply chain efficiency and increased private investment.
• Digitization & Smart Systems: Emphasis is placed on adopting digital tools and smart systems to enhance external trade logistics and lower emissions, making the sector more efficient and environmentally friendly.

Gender Inclusion Measures:

A unique aspect of the SMILE program is its focus on gender inclusivity. It proposes:

• Gender audits of land ports to ensure responsiveness and accessibility.
• Integration of gender inclusion in trade through the National Trade Facilitation Action Plan (2020-23).

Alignment with Atmanirbhar Bharat:

By enhancing domestic infrastructure and enabling greater integration into global supply chains, the SMILE Program directly supports the vision of Atmanirbhar Bharat (Self-Reliant India). The initiative is expected to:

• Improve India’s standing in the Logistics Performance Index.
• Generate job opportunities through expanded infrastructure and investment.
• Promote long-term economic resilience by reducing logistic inefficiencies and fostering digital transformation.

Government Statement:

The Minister of State for Commerce & Industry, reaffirming the government’s commitment to revolutionizing logistics for a competitive and self-reliant India.

Conclusion:

The SMILE Program represents a strategic leap toward building a modern, inclusive, and tech-enabled logistics ecosystem. As it progresses, it holds the potential to transform India into a global logistics and manufacturing powerhouse.

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Source: PIB, Govt. of India

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