As Telangana sharpens its focus on industrial expansion and export growth, logistics has emerged as a strategic pillar of development. At the centre of this transformation is Auszad Shaik, Vice President – Logistics & Supply Chain, Department of Industries, Commerce & Export Promotion, Government of Telangana, who is helping shape the state’s long-term logistics roadmap.
“Logistics is no longer just a support service — it is a growth multiplier,” says Auszad. “If we want manufacturing to compete globally, we must reduce logistics costs, improve speed, and build seamless connectivity to markets.”
According to him, Telangana’s strategy goes beyond simply attracting industries. “Our vision is to create an integrated ecosystem where manufacturing, infrastructure, and logistics move in sync. That alignment is what drives competitiveness and investor confidence,” he explains.
Policy-Backed Growth Model
Auszad highlights that Logistics Policy 2.0 is the foundation of this transformation. The policy is designed to establish Telangana as a leading inland cargo and logistics hub in India. It follows a comprehensive six-pillar approach that focuses on multimodal infrastructure, digital and smart logistics systems, regulatory simplification, sustainable practices, workforce development — including greater participation of women — and strong investment promotion.
“Logistics Policy 2.0 gives us clarity of direction. It is not just about infrastructure — it is about building a future-ready, technology-driven ecosystem,” he notes.
Complementing this is the Integrated Logistics Master Plan (ILMP), which provides a coordinated, long-term roadmap aligning freight corridors, industrial clusters, and transport networks. The ILMP guides the phased development of logistics parks, multimodal logistics hubs, dry ports, air-cargo facilities, and seamless first- and last-mile connectivity.
“The ILMP ensures that we develop assets ahead of demand. We are planning freight flows and infrastructure scientifically rather than reacting to growth,” Auszad adds.
Expanding Multimodal Infrastructure
Under his leadership and coordination, Telangana is building a strong backbone of integrated logistics parks and inland freight hubs. Projects such as the Mangalapally Logistics Park and Batasingaram Logistics Park have already laid the groundwork for organised logistics infrastructure in the state.
The government now plans to develop 10 to 12 additional logistics parks, along with dry ports and bonded warehousing zones. A key upcoming project is the Mega Multimodal Logistics Park at Manoharabad–Medak, which will integrate road and rail freight, container handling, warehousing, and value-added services within a unified platform.
“Multimodal integration is the future. When road, rail, and air systems work together, industries benefit from lower transit time and better reliability,” he says.
Industrial corridors such as the Hyderabad–Nagpur Industrial Corridor are also being synchronised with logistics infrastructure, helping reduce transit times and freight costs for manufacturing clusters.
Strengthening Air Cargo and Exports
Auszad emphasises that air cargo plays a crucial role in Telangana’s export competitiveness. The Rajiv Gandhi International Airport (RGIA) in Hyderabad has become one of India’s leading air-cargo hubs, particularly for pharmaceuticals, life sciences, electronics, and perishable goods.
In 2024, RGIA handled approximately 1.8 lakh metric tonnes of cargo, recording strong year-on-year growth driven by international volumes.
“Air cargo connectivity is vital for time-sensitive and high-value exports. Our aim is to strengthen last-mile connectivity to airports and expand regional aviation to support decentralised industrial growth,” he explains.
Digital and Skill-Driven Ecosystem
Technology and workforce readiness are also central to Auszad’s vision. Telangana is promoting digitisation and automation across logistics operations through digital platforms, automation-ready parks, and robust digital infrastructure such as T-Fibre and e-governance systems.
“The next phase of logistics growth will be powered by digital platforms, automation, and data-driven decision-making,” Auszad says. “We are ensuring that our workforce is trained and ready for this transformation.”
Skill development programs, including initiatives aimed at increasing participation of women in logistics, are being prioritised to ensure the availability of a diverse and future-ready workforce capable of managing advanced supply-chain systems.
Investor-Friendly Approach
Auszad points out that Telangana’s investor-friendly ecosystem is a major advantage. The state’s TG-iPASS single-window clearance system ensures fast and predictable approvals, while proactive infrastructure creation delivers logistics assets ahead of demand.
“Speed, certainty, and preparedness define Telangana’s approach. Investors know that approvals are timely and infrastructure is being built proactively,” he notes.
Sector-focused industrial clusters in life sciences, aerospace and defence, and export-oriented manufacturing further enhance cost competitiveness and strengthen supply-chain integration.
Vision for the Next Five Years
Looking ahead, Auszad Shaik envisions Telangana evolving into a fully integrated, digitally enabled multimodal logistics network.
“Over the next five years, Telangana will transition from being a strong manufacturing hub to becoming a globally connected logistics and trade gateway for South and Central India,” he says.
With policy clarity, infrastructure momentum, and technology-led integration, Telangana is positioning itself as one of India’s most dynamic logistics destinations — a transformation being steered by leaders like Auszad Shaik at the forefront of the state’s supply-chain strategy.
