Post Budget reaction from FedEx Express, Godrej & Boyce & Mahindra Logistics Ltd.

Quote by Kami Viswanathan, President – MEISA, FedEx Express:

“The 2024 interim budget’s increased capital expenditure for infrastructure development is a strategic and commendable move. It promises to accelerate economic growth and positively impact the logistics sector. The emphasis on expanding air connectivity, along with the development of existing airports and the establishment of new ones, is a pivotal step that aligns with our advocacy for efficient multimodal logistics.

The government’s commitment to the PM Gati Shakti National Master Plan, is encouraging. These initiatives aim to enhance logistics efficiency and reduce costs, aligning with our objectives of service excellence and innovation in logistics. Additionally, the ‘Amrit Kaal’ initiative, which focuses on empowering MSMEs and boosting their global competitiveness, is set to benefit the broader logistics sector.

FedEx welcomes the forward-looking approach of the 2024 interim budget, reflective of the ‘Viksit Bharat’ vision. We remain committed to actively contributing to India’s growth journey, aligning our efforts with the government’s vision for a smarter and more sustainable logistics infrastructure in India.”

Quote by Mr. Anil G Verma, Executive Director and CEO, Godrej & Boyce:

The Interim Budget 2024 is extremely well thought of and clearly a step towards the vision of Developed India @ 2047. The FM has stayed away from populist measures in an election year and needs to be congratulated for the same.

By limiting the deficit to 5.1% of the GDP which should be achievable given the rather conservative tax receipts, fiscal prudence has been given the due importance. Lower borrowings and thus lower borrowing costs will help prioritize domestic spends and guard against external shocks.

The increased capital expenditure of Rs 11.11L Cr, constituting 3.4% of the GDP, bodes well for the infrastructure led GDP growth and will also crowd in the private sector investments as we are now witnessing improvements in consumer sentiments (and demand). 

The focus on sustainability through rooftop solarization, adoption of E-buses, capacity enhancements in renewable energy and coal gasification are a must, given the impact of greenhouse gases.

The continuation of emphasis on women, youth, farmers, and the underprivileged through skilling and welfare measures and financial assistance under PM-KISAN is to be lauded. This will ensure that India moves forward as a whole.

Quote by Mr. Rampraveen Swaminathan, Managing Director and CEO of Mahindra Logistics Ltd:

“The Union Budget 2024’s pivotal focus on infrastructure development, aligns seamlessly with our vision for enhanced logistics efficiency. The government’s commendable commitment to supporting EV manufacturing and charging infrastructure is a significant stride towards sustainable mobility. We appreciate and commend the government’s efforts towards Green Energy, aligned with the Nation’s commitment for ‘net-zero’ by 2070.

The announcement of three major economic railway corridor programs, spanning energy, mineral, and cement corridors, port connectivity corridors, and high-traffic density corridors under the PM Gati Shakti initiative, is poised to be transformative. These corridors not only promise to decongest high-traffic areas but also elevate the safety and speed of passenger trains. The integration of dedicated freight corridors is poised to catalyse GDP growth and significantly reduce logistics costs. With an increased outlay in FY25 and the expedited development of various infrastructure projects, the government’s proactive approach is set to spur economic growth. The India Middle East Europe Economic Corridor announcement is particularly game-changing, strategically positioning India on the global trade map. We at Mahindra Logistics, eagerly anticipates actively participating in and benefiting from these initiatives, ushering in positive transformations in the logistics and transportation sector.”