Building Ecosystem for the Economy Drivers: Our ‘Desh Chaalak’

~ Penned by Ms. Mansi Nagri, Associate Vice President – Marketing, Communications & Sales Excellence, Mahindra Logistics Ltd. ~

India’s economy thrives on its expansive road network, with the trucking industry playing a pivotal role in driving growth. The Indian Road freight transport market is projected to reach $236 billion by 2030, growing at a robust CAGR of 9%. This essential sector, responsible for moving over 50% of the country’s freight, serves as the backbone of the nation’s supply chain. At the core of this industry are our ‘Desh Chaalak’ – the road warriors who keep the wheels of the economy turning.

Our ‘Desh Chaalak’ are the very soul of India’s road transportation network. They traverse vast distances, diverse terrains, and challenging conditions, often spending extended durations away from home – missing celebrations and festivals – while ensuring the seamless movement of goods across the country. Their tireless efforts sustain supply chains, connecting India and enabling delivery of good and services. As the demand for logistics services rises, driven by the rapid growth of e-commerce and the broader economy, it is crucial to acknowledge and support these often-overlooked contributors who keep the economy moving forward.

Recognizing the importance of driver welfare, the government has introduced several significant measures to improve working conditions. These include mandating air-conditioned cabins in all trucks by 2025, establishing 1,000 state-of-the-art rest facilities nationwide, and implementing a GPS-based electronic toll collection system. These initiatives demonstrate a strong commitment to streamlining goods movement in India, reducing wait times, and enhancing overall efficiency.

While government initiatives provide a solid foundation, there is a growing need for collaboration between organisations and brands to create a more supportive environment that addresses the financial, welfare, and emotional needs of our ‘Desh Chaalak’. Financial stability is a key factor in elevating careers in logistics and transportation. Offering fair compensation, benefits, and welfare programs can make the industry more rewarding, transforming driving into a respected profession and making it a more attractive career choice – especially considering that for every 1000 trucks, there are only about 700 drivers.

At Mahindra Logistics, we understand how drivers are the backbone of the logistics industry and hence, we work towards building an ecosystem that supports the driver community through skill development, wellness, family welfare, and emergency assistance. Our program, Samantar, is a comprehensive driver welfare program designed to enhance working conditions and provide critical support to drivers.

Looking ahead, we recognize that the demand for skilled truck drivers is expected to surge, with the number of trucks projected to more than quadruple to approximately 17 million by 2050. This growth will require millions of new drivers to support the expanding economy. By fostering this ecosystem, we aim to bridge the driver shortage, reshape the profession’s future, and elevate its status.

Countries like the United States and parts of Europe have recognised the importance of a driver-friendly environment, with modern trucks offering enhanced comfort, safety, and advanced technology, elevating trucking to a respected and well-compensated profession. By building this ecosystem for Desh Chaalak, we can revolutionize India’s supply chain network. This ecosystem will not only help retain experienced personnel but also attract new talent, ensuring a sustainable workforce. Prioritizing driver well-being will be a catalyst fuelling India’s economic growth.