Meghalaya has been categorised an “aspirer” in the logistics index chart 2023, according to a report released by the Commerce and Industry Ministry today.
The index is an indicator of the efficiency of logistical services necessary for promoting exports and economic growth and aims at enhancing focus on improving logistics performance across states, which is essential for improving the country’s trade and reducing transaction cost.
According to the fifth LEADS (Logistics Ease across Different States) 2023 report, Meghalaya’s performance assessment is below the average of North-East Group for most of the indicators across pillars, except for availability of packaging facilities.
The report suggested collaboration with industry stakeholders to develop a comprehensive, data-driven logistics master plan in order to enhance infrastructure across the state.
“This plan would serve as a framework for identifying existing gaps and strategies to implement the proposed interventions. State may also undertake an evaluation of the feasibility and demand for developing logistics infrastructure at Mahendraganj to facilitate EXIM cargo transportation to Bangladesh which could help reduce traffic congestion at ICP Tetrapole,” it suggested.
Except for quality of transport services, the state stands below the average performance in the group under the assessment for all the logistic service indicators.
“The State should enhance mobile connectivity across the region to improve the availability of track and trace services. Additionally, State should prioritise addressing skill gaps by collaborating with private stakeholders to devise and develop logistics-related training programs and courses to provide industry ready manpower,” the report said.
Furthermore, assessment for all the operating and regulatory environment indicators shows that except for grievance redressal the state stands below the average of the group.
Pointing out that Meghalaya is in the process of finalisation its logistics policy the report said, to enhance the logistics sector, the state could explore measures to encourage regular dialogues with private stakeholders, ensuring effective communication and education about the various initiatives undertaken. Additionally, examining successful initiatives implemented by other states can provide valuable insights for further improvements in the logistics sector, it added.
The states of Manipur and Mizoram have similar ranking as that of Meghalaya.
From among the group, Arunachal Pradesh and Nagaland have been categorised as fast movers in the ranking while Assam, Sikkim and Tripura have been categorised as achievers.
LEADS was conceived on the lines of the Logistics Performance Index (LPI) of the World Bank in 2018. While the LPI relies entirely on perception-based surveys, LEADS incorporates perception and objectivity, thereby enhancing the robustness and comprehensiveness of this exercise.
The report assesses states’ performance across the key pillars of Logistics Infrastructure, Logistics Services and Operating and Regulatory Environment, and empowers the state/UT governments by providing region-specific insights for informed decision-making and comprehensive growth.
It is based on a pan-India primary survey conducted between May and July 2023, covering over 7,300 responses across 36 states/UTs.
Additionally, over 750 stakeholder consultations, facilitated by National, Regional, and State Associations, significantly contributed to this comprehensive evaluation.
