Pratik Bijlani –
The Association of Multimodal Transport Operators of India (AMTOI) marked another chapter in its journey on 21st August, when it held its 27th Annual General Meeting at the Royal Bombay Yacht Club, Mumbai. Bringing together members, industry leaders and stakeholders from the multimodal transport and logistics fraternity, the evening combined a change in leadership with a wider conversation on family businesses, integrated logistics and India’s evolving transport ecosystem.
The AGM saw Mr Devpal Menon take charge as President, with Mr Haresh Lalwani as Vice President, Mr Prashant Popat as Honorary Secretary and Mr Ravindra Gandhi as Honorary Treasurer for the 2026–27 term. The new leadership assumes responsibility at a time when multimodal connectivity is increasingly central to India’s ambitions for more efficient and competitive logistics.
Chief Guest Mr Farhad Forbes, Co-Chairman of Forbes Marshall, used the occasion to turn the spotlight on another important contributor to the Indian economy—family-owned enterprises. Drawing on the strengths and complexities of family businesses, he highlighted the importance of strategy, financial discipline, governance, succession planning and long-term thinking. He also urged families to balance tradition with innovation and equality with merit, while preparing the next generation through education, collaboration and humility. As Forbes noted, “Family businesses combine long-term vision, strong values, financial prudence and deep industry understanding. With effective governance, collaboration and proper preparation of the next generation, they can preserve their legacy, embrace innovation and continue driving India’s economic growth for generations to come.”
Guest of Honour Capt BVJK Sharma, CEO of Navi Mumbai International Airport, brought the discussion back to the logistics sector, arguing that the future would be shaped not by individual modes but by their integration. With ports, airports, roads, railways, warehouses and digital platforms increasingly interconnected, he highlighted initiatives such as PM GatiShakti, the National Logistics Policy, Dedicated Freight Corridors and logistics parks as important building blocks for a more seamless network. Envisioning Mumbai and Navi Mumbai as major integrated logistics gateways, he said, “The future of logistics lies in integration—connecting ports, airports, roads, railways and digital platforms into one seamless ecosystem. India must move from individual modes to integrated networks and transform logistics from a cost into a competitive advantage.”
The evening also witnessed the release of the AMTOI Journal, adding another dimension to the Association’s role as a platform for industry knowledge and professional exchange.
A highlight of the AGM was the presentation of the P. K. Srivastava Award for Excellence in Multimodal Transport to Mr. T. Venkataraman. Instituted in memory of AMTOI’s first President, the late Shri P. K. Srivastava, the biennial award recognises outstanding contribution to India’s multimodal transport and logistics sector. Though unable to attend the ceremony in person, Venkataraman conveyed his appreciation through a recorded message, describing the recognition as both an honour and a responsibility. “I am deeply honoured to receive the P.K. Srivastava Award for Excellence in Multimodal Transport. This recognition is both a privilege and a responsibility, and I remain grateful to the industry, its leaders and colleagues who have shaped my journey,” he said.
AMTOI also acknowledged long-standing member companies through Citations of Honour and Certificates of Loyalty, recognising their continued association with the organisation. The evening concluded with a networking dinner, bringing together the Association’s members, industry leaders, government representatives and distinguished guests.
As AMTOI begins its new leadership term, the 27th AGM reflected an industry increasingly defined by integration, collaboration and long-term thinking—principles that will be critical as India seeks to build a more seamless and globally competitive multimodal logistics ecosystem.
Marex Media