AIR CARGO FORUM INDIA
Room No. 19, Ground Floor, Project Office, New Udaan Bhawan, Opposite Terminal – T3, I.G.I. Airport, New Delhi - 110037
Tel +91 11 46084295 Email [email protected]
www.acfi.in
ANNUAL REPORT F.Y. 2013 – 2014
2ND ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING (AGM)
[09th July, 2014]
By: Mr. Cyrus N Katgara,
Secretary, ACFI
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Contents
1. Air Cargo Forum India (ACFI) _____________________________________________________________________ 1
2. ACFI Governing Board ______________________________________________________________________________ 2
3. ACFI Members _______________________________________________________________________________________ 2
4. Particulars of Membership ________________________________________________________________________ 4
4.1. Categories of Members: __________________________________________________________________________________ 4
4.2. Types of Membership: ___________________________________________________________________________________ 5
5. Activities undertaken during the year 2013-14 ________________________________________________ 5
5.1. 1st Annual General Meeting (AGM) ____________________________________________________________________ 5
5.2. ACFI Meetings: Internal __________________________________________________________________________________ 6
5.3. ACFI Board Member’s Meetings with External Agencies ____________________________________________ 7
5.4. ACFI Sub-Committees ____________________________________________________________________________________ 8
5.4.1. Sub-Committees Member & Subcommittee Objectives ___________________________________________ 8
5.4.2. Progress made by the Sub-Committees ___________________________________________________________ 15
5.4.2.1. Apparel/Textile Sub-committee __________________________________________________________________ 15
5.4.2.2. Electronic Industry Sub-committee ______________________________________________________________ 19
5.4.2.3. Pharma Export Sub-committee ___________________________________________________________________ 23
5.4.2.4. Auto Industry Sub-committee ____________________________________________________________________ 30
5.4.2.5. Domestic & Transshipment Air Cargo Sub-committee __________________________________________ 35
5.4.2.6. Express Cargo Industry Sub-committee _________________________________________________________ 38
5.4.2.7. Innovation Sub-committee ________________________________________________________________________ 42
5.4.2.8. Process Simplification Sub-committee ___________________________________________________________ 46
5.4.2.9. Non Schedule Airline Flight Operation Sub-committee _________________________________________ 50
5.4.2.10. Perishable Export Cargo Sub-committee _______________________________________________________ 53
5.4.2.11. Service Standard Sub-committee _______________________________________________________________ 56
6. Events Organized by ACFI during the Year 2013-14 _________________________________________ 58
6.1. Air Cargo Security Conference ________________________________________________________________________ 58
6.2. ACAAI & ACFI Joint Symposium _______________________________________________________________________ 60
7. Status of various important activities initiated by ACFI Board with Govt. Agencies ____ 62
TABLE OF CONTENTS
8. Major Achievements of ACFI _____________________________________________________________________ 66
9. Other Activities ____________________________________________________________________________________ 68
9.1. Release of E- News Letters: ____________________________________________________________________________ 68
9.2. Points of Special Mention: Support of DIAL to ACFI Secretariat _________________________________ 69
9.3. Action Plans for F.Y. 2014-15 __________________________________________________________________________ 69
10. Contact Information _____________________________________________________________________________ 70
ACFI - ANNUAL REPORT (2013-2014)
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1. Air Cargo Forum India (ACFI)
The “Air Cargo Forum India” (ACFI) is formed by all the stakeholders in the air cargo
logistics trade viz., Airlines, Airport Operators, Cargo Terminal Operators, Customs
House Agents (CHA), Express Industry and Freight Forwarders with the vision
that :-
“The Air Cargo Forum India (ACFI) envisage to build world class environmental
friendly air logistics industry by innovation, allied action with credibility and
providing business facilitation to boost the Indian economy.
The main objectives of ACFI is to;-
Promote and facilitate cooperation among all stakeholders of the air cargo
logistics system
Promote and facilitate development and improvement in Air Cargo
infrastructure
Work for the, expansion, promotion and modernization of air cargo handing
processes at par with the best international standard and practices
Promote Go Green environment and e-initiatives.
Present Air Cargo Logistic Trade perspective on policy issues to the various
Ministries of Center/ State Government to enable smooth and faster
processing of Air Cargo.
Institute a research wing to sponsor/undertake specific and Cargo Logistic
research projects and technology.
ACFI - ANNUAL REPORT (2013-2014)
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2. ACFI Governing Board
The first ACFI Governing Board Members were formed on 12.01.2012 in terms of
Chapter -3, Para 3.1 Governing Board & Office Bearers, of the ACFI Rules and
Regulations, ACFI Members in its 5th Meeting elected its first President who intern
selected other office bearers to form the first Governing Board of ACFI for a period
of two years 2012-2013 and 2013-2014 as under:
President Mr. Pradeep Panicker, CCO, DIAL
Vice President Mr. Tushar K. Jani, Chairman, DCSC
Secretary Mr. Cyrus N. Katgara, Partner, Jeena & Co.
Treasurer Mr. Yashpal Sharma, Director, Skyways Air Services
Members Mr. Rajesh Goel, CEO, CDCTMIPL
Mr. Mahesh Malik, Vice President, InterGlobe Aviation
(IndiGo Airline)
Mr. Malcolm Monteiro, Sr. Vice President, DHL Express India
Mr. PS Atree, MD, PS Atree & Co.
Mr. Harsh Kumar Pandey, ED – Cargo, Air India
Co-opted Members Mr. Debashis Dutta, Chairman, FFFAI
Mr. R K Saboo, Chairman, EICI
3. ACFI Members
Out of more than 100 selected air cargo logistic agencies including trade bodies and associations who were invited by ACFI board for membership, 55 have become members of ACFI up to year ending 2013-14 as under:
ACFI - ANNUAL REPORT (2013-2014)
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SN Name of Company (M/s) Business Membership
1 CDCTMIPL (CELEBI) Cargo Terminal Operator (CTO) Life time Member
2 Delhi Cargo Service Center India Pvt. Ltd -
DCSC
Cargo Terminal Operator (CTO) Life time Member
3 Delhi International Airport Pvt. Ltd – DIAL Airport Operator Life time Member
4 Jeena & Company Freight Forwarder Ten years Membership
5 DHL Express India Pvt. Ltd Express and Logistics operator Ten years Membership
6 Skyways Air Service Pvt. Ltd Freight Forwarder Ten years Membership
7 FFFAI - Federation of Freight Forwarders'
Associations in India
Association Associate Member
8 EICI - Express Industry Council Of India Express Industry Associate Member
9 Container Corporation of India Ltd. (CONCOR) Logistics Associate Member
10 Global Aviation Services Pvt. Ltd General Sales Agent Associate Member
11 Acumen Overseas Pvt. Ltd General Sales Agent Associate Member
12 Hans Infomatic Pvt. Ltd. IT Services (Air Cargo) Provider Associate Member
13 Allied Aviation Private Limited General Sales Agent (GSA) Associate Member
14 Canan Cargo Freight Forwarder - Non IATA Associate Member
15 Aero Sail Services Pvt. Ltd General Sales Agent Associate Member
16 Pacific Air Logistics Pvt. Ltd General Sales Agent Associate Member
17 InterGlobe Aviation Limited (Indigo Airline) Airline Member
18 GAC Logistics Pvt. Ltd Freight Forwarder Member
19 P S Atree & Company Pvt. Ltd Customs House Agent Member
20 UT Worldwide India Pvt. Ltd Freight Forwarder Member
21 R K Clearing Pvt. Ltd Customs House Agent Member
22 R E Rogers India Pvt. Ltd Freight Forwarder Member
23 Federal Express Corporation (FedEx) Express Industry Member
24 Insynergy Supply Chain Solutions Pvt. Ltd Freight Forwarder & Customs
House Agent
Member
25 Schenker India Pvt. Ltd Freight Forwarder Member
26 Emirates SkyCargo Airline Member
27 Qatar Airways Airline Member
28 Activair Airfreight India Pvt. Ltd Freight Forwarder Member
29 Air India Ltd Airline Member
30 Rahat Cargo Pvt. Ltd Freight Forwarder Member
31 GSEC Limited Custodian (CTO) Member
32 Blue Dart Aviation Ltd Express Industry Member
33 Cargo Channels Private Limited Freight Forwarder Member
34 Nayak Aviation Services Pvt. Ltd Freight Forwarder Member
ACFI - ANNUAL REPORT (2013-2014)
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SN Name of Company (M/s) Business Membership
35 Menzies Aviation Bobba (Bangalore) Pvt. Ltd Cargo Terminal Operator Member
36 NG Pillai Customs House Agent Member
37 Jet Airways (India) Limited Airline Member
38 Amrit Seair Express Pvt. Ltd Freight Forwarder Member
39 S. A. Consultants & Forwarders P Ltd, Freight Forwarder Member
40 GMR Hyderabad International Airport Ltd. –
GHIAL
Airport Operator Member
41 Kempegowda (Bangalore) International
Airport Limited – KIAL
Airport Operator Member
42 Hercules Aviation Pvt. Ltd. Airline/Non Schedule Operator Member
43 Sun Aviation Pvt Ltd. Freight Forwarder Member
44 Blue Bird Logistics (P) Ltd. Freight Forwarder Member
45 Air Shagoon (Network) Pvt. Ltd Airline/Non Schedule Operator Member
46 Vardhman Custom Clearing & Forwarding
Agents
Customs House Agent Member
47 S K Jain & Company Customs House Agent Member
48 JAS Forwarding Worldwide Pvt. Ltd Freight Forwarder Member
49 DHL Logistics Pvt. Ltd Freight Forwarder Member
50 FR8 Integrated Logistics Pvt. Ltd. Freight Forwarder Member
51 Flywell Aviation Pvt. Ltd. Airline/Non Schedule Operator Member
52 Surya Cargo Forwarders Pvt. Ltd. Freight Forwarder Member
53 IRC Supply Chain Solution Limited Freight Forwarder Member
54 Jet Freight Logistics Pvt. Ltd Freight Forwarder Member
55 Samaritan Exim Pvt. Ltd. Freight Forwarder Member
4. Particulars of Membership
4.1. Categories of Members:
Categories of Member Nos. of Members
Airlines (Including NSOs) 08
Airport Operators 03
Associations 02
CHAs 05
CTOs 04
ACFI - ANNUAL REPORT (2013-2014)
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Express Industry 03
Freight Forwarders 23
GSAs 05
IT Service Provider 01
Logistics Providers 01
Total 55
4.2. Types of Membership:
Categories of Membership Nos. of Members
Life Time Membership 03
Ten Years Membership 03
Annual Membership 39
Associate Membership 10
Total 55
5. Activities undertaken during the year 2013-14
5.1. 1st Annual General Meeting (AGM)
The 1st Annual General Meeting of the Air Cargo Forum India (ACFI) was held on
Tuesday, 14th May 2013 at 11.30 AM at Auditorium, Ground Floor, New Udaan
Bhawan, Opposite T-3, IGIA, New Delhi 110037 and following Agenda points were
discussed, deliberated and approved.
a. Secretary’s Report on the activities and achievements of ACFI during its 1st
year 2013-2014. Mr. Cyrus N. Katgara, Secretary ACFI presented full report on
the activities & achievement of ACFI which was accepted unanimously.
b. Auditors Report: The audited Income & Expenditure Accounts and Balance
sheet for the year ended 31.03.2013, as submitted by the authorized Auditor
M/s. Manoj Varshney & Associates of the Air Cargo Forum India – ACFI was
ACFI - ANNUAL REPORT (2013-2014)
Page 6
presented by Mr. Yashpal Sharma, Treasurer ACFI and the same was accepted
and adopted.
c. Appointment of Auditor for the year 2013-2014: M/s. Manoj Varshney &
Associates was appointed as the Auditor of ACFI for the year 2013-14 based
upon their satisfactory performance during previews year 2012-2013 and as
per their willingness to continue their services at the same terms &
Conditions & remuneration as last year.
d. Submission of Performa of Annual Report of ACFI to the Registrar of
Societies
Immediate after the 1st AGM, ACFI Secretariat vide its letter No.
ACFI/Reg.Off./ 01/2013/20 dated 28th May’2013 submitted the Performa of
Annual Report of ACFI for the FY 2012-13 duly signed by ACFI President, to
The Registrar of Societies, District of South West, Govt. of NCT of Delhi and
duly acknowledged.
5.2. ACFI Meetings: Internal
During the year ACFI has held following meetings.
i. ACFI Governing Board Meeting - 07 (Total – 25)
ii. ACFI Sub-committee Meetings - 30 (Total – 49)
iii. ACFI Conference on “Air Cargo - 01
Security Supply Chain – Future outlook”, and
ACFI Joint Symposium with ACAAI - 01 (Total – 04)
ACFI - ANNUAL REPORT (2013-2014)
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5.3. ACFI Board Member’s Meetings with External Agencies
SN Date Meetings With Particulars of the Meetings
1 20.09.2013 3rd Air Cargo Logistics
Promotion Board
meeting, MoCA
President ACFI took up 15 air cargo
logistics related issues were taken up
& discussed
2 01.10.2013 Member Customs, CBEC ACFI team took up Cargo Policy
related (procedural & systems related)
issues
3 10.01.2014 Economic Advisor, MoCA Courtesy meeting of President ACFI
along with President ACAAI and an
idea of holding a joint symposium by
ACAAI & ACFI was mooted.
4 24.02.2014 Meeting with DGFT, MOC ACFI Board Members took up Air
Cargo Policy & Process related issues
5 04.03.2014 4th Air Cargo Logistics
Promotion Board
meeting, MoCA
President ACFI took up some new &
follow-up of actionable points
discussed in the 3rd ACLPB meeting.
6 19.03.2014 Secretary, MoCA and
Joint Secretary, MoCA
Courtesy meeting of President ACFI
with the new Secretary Civil Aviation
& an invitation for attending the Joint
Symposium to be held in the month of
May’2014.
7 24.03.2014 Chairman, AAI President ACFI requested Chairman
AAI to consider Airport Authority of
India’s membership of ACFI
ACFI - ANNUAL REPORT (2013-2014)
Page 8
5.4. ACFI Sub-Committees
In order to sustain continuous growth in the movement of air cargo and express
business in India and to bring the Indian air cargo industry at par with world
standard, ACFI has established following nine industry specific sub-committees
headed by senior experts and supported by active members of ACFI with a brief
scope of works as under;-
a. Study the subject matters/issues in detail, collect facts & figures.
b. Undertake survey if possible
c. Contact industry leaders for their inputs
d. Consolidate target issues
e. Prepare committee’s report on target issues with recommendation, facts and
figures
f. Put up the issue based proposal to ACFI Board for approval on the format
decided, for taking up with the concerned authorities.
5.4.1. Sub-Committee Members & Subcommittee Objectives
SN Name of Sub Committee
Sub Committee Objectives Sub Committee Members
1 Pharma Export Work closely with Pharma
sector industry stakeholders
to improve their
competitiveness in global
market. Identify procedures
and policy changes required
and additional infrastructure
facilities required for the
growth of Pharma Exim Trade.
Chairman:
1) Yuvraj Sharma, UT
Worldwide
Dy. Chairman:
2) Saurabh Trikha, Cargo
Channels
Members:
3) Deepak Sharma, Celebi
4) Gitika, Cargo Channels
ACFI - ANNUAL REPORT (2013-2014)
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SN Name of Sub Committee
Sub Committee Objectives Sub Committee Members
5) Manoj Kumar, TNT India
6) Nitin Mittal, DIAL
7) Rakesh Prasher, Ranbaxy
8) Ritu Sharma, DIAL
9) Sumit Mathur, Swiss
WorldCargo
10) Venu Bangera, DCSC
11) Vikas Kukreja, Ascent Air
(Group Condorde)
12) Yashpal Taneja, FedEx
2 Auto Industry Work closely with Auto
Industry sector and Identify
areas of their concerns related
to air logistic chain of
operations for improvement
and enable them improve
their competitiveness in the
international market. Identify
additional infrastructure
facilities required for the
growth of Auto Industry for
smooth transportation and
movement through air.
Chairman:
1) Cyrus N Katgara, Jeena &
Company
Dy. Chairman:
2) N.G. Pillai, N.G. Pillai
Members:
3) Pradeep Panicker, DIAL
4) Dharmesh Kumar, Honda
Cars
5) K K Sharma, Minda Group
6) R Hari Kumar, Maruti
Suzuki
7) Rajendra Varma, DCSC
8) Rammohan Krishnaswamy,
Jet Airways
9) Sankat Kanchan, DHL
Express
10) Umesh Sobti, Celebi
11) Vivek Bhati, DIAL
12) Yashpal Taneja, FedEx
ACFI - ANNUAL REPORT (2013-2014)
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SN Name of Sub Committee
Sub Committee Objectives Sub Committee Members
3 Domestic &
Transshipment
Cargo
Study the existing challenges
of Domestic & Transshipment
cargo Operations and suggest
standardize, process
improvement and
infrastructure facilities
required to boost the domestic
cargo and transit cargo
movement by air.
Chairman:
1) Mahesh Malik, IndiGo
Dy. Chairman:
2) J.M. Nair, Blue Dart Aviation
Members:
3) Akash Bansal, OM Logistics
4) Arvind Nayak, Nayak Group
5) Edmund Evans Jones,
Global Aviation Services
6) Nitin Kapoor, DHL Express
7) Nitin Sareen, DHL Express
8) Rammohan Krishnaswamy,
Jet Airways
9) Rishi Herenz, DIAL
10) Sushant Nigam, DIAL
11) V Raghuraman, SpiceJet
12) Vikrant Kapoor, DCSC
4 Express Cargo
Industry
Identify and resolve the
challenges of Express/Courier
industry and suggest process
and policy changes required if
any in order to bring further
growth in the Air Express
Business.
Chairman:
1) Vijay Kumar, EICI
Dy. Chairman:
2) Manoj Kumar, TNT India
Members:
3) Pritam Banerjee, DHL
Express
4) NG Pillai, NG Pillai
5) Rajeev Khanna, Jeena & Co.
6) Vijay Kr. Sharma, DIAL
7) Vimal Rawat, FedEx
ACFI - ANNUAL REPORT (2013-2014)
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SN Name of Sub Committee
Sub Committee Objectives Sub Committee Members
5 Process
Simplification
- Group -1
Export
- Group -2
Import
Identify bottlenecks in the
existing clearance procedures
of international air cargo and
supply chain management.
Devise strategy to improve
dwell time of Import & Export
and simplify process under
the following three categories
of activities.
1. Process/ Documentation
improvement within air
cargo Stakeholders
2. Improvement in the
regulatory processes –
Policy changes
3. Joint Monitoring
mechanism of
implementation of
recommended procedures.
Group 1 – Export Committee
Chairman:
1) Rajeen Khann, Jeena & Co.
Dy. Chairman:
2) Sushant Nigam, DIAL
Members:
3) Dinkar Singh, DHL Express
4) Halim Modassir, Emirates
5) MD Kala, DIAL
6) Parvinder Singh, Hans
Infomatic
7) Anthony Demello, Celebi
8) Sanjiv Edward, DIAL
9) AK Jain, Orient Craft
10) Venu Bangera, DCSC
11) Manoj Kumar, TNT India
12) Rohit Sehgal, Skyways Air
Services
13) Varun Singhi, GAP Inc.
Group 2 – Import Committee
Chairman:
1) RK Mehrotra, RK Clearing
Dy. Chairman:
2) PS Atree, PS Atree & Co
Members:
3) Sanjiv Edward, DIAL
4) OP Sharma, DIAL
5) Anurag Saini, Celebi
6) Bhawani Singh, DCSC
7) Sanjiv K Jain, Vardhman
ACFI - ANNUAL REPORT (2013-2014)
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SN Name of Sub Committee
Sub Committee Objectives Sub Committee Members
Customs
8) Vikas Maini, IRC Supply
Chain
9) J Ramakrishnan, LG
Electronics
10) Ravi Chadha, Samsung
India
11) Manoj Marya, Sony India
12) Balagopal Balachandran,
Qatar Airways
13) Sumit Kapoor, DHL
Express
14) Shoby Charian, DHL
Express
6 Innovation Study and identify possible
new innovations that can be
introduced in the entire
logistics supply chain
infrastructure facilities and
processes to bring smooth,
safe and faster processing and
handling of air cargo thru
ought the air cargo logistics
chain, while complying with
the policies in vogue.
Chairman:
1) Sanjiv Edward, DIAL
Dy. Chairman:
2) Arun Kumar, Insynergy
Supply Chain
Members:
3) Cyrus N Katgara, Jeena &
Co.
4) Yashpal Sharma, Skyways
Air
5) Halim Modassir, Emirates
6) MD Kala, DIAL
7) Vijay Kr. Sharma, DIAL
8) Rishi Herenz, DIAL
9) Ravi Bhatnagar, Celebi
10) Venu Bangera, DCSC
ACFI - ANNUAL REPORT (2013-2014)
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SN Name of Sub Committee
Sub Committee Objectives Sub Committee Members
11) Dinkar Singh, DHL
Express
12) Vipan Jain, Lufthansa
Cargo
13) Sunil Kumar V, IndiGo
14) Vijay Kumar, EICI
15) Parvinder Singh, Hans
Infomatic
7 Perishable
Export and
Import Cargo
Study closely with the
industry stakeholders of
perishable cargo export and
identify its challenges and
devise solutions for
improvement within partners
in the industry or in the
processes and policies of
Government/ regulatory
agencies to improve logistics
supply chain in the
transportation and storage of
perishables to maintain the
competitiveness of products
and services in the
international market.
Chairman:
1) Venu Bangera, DCSC
Dy. Chairman:
2) Sunil Kohli, Rahat Cargo
Members:
3) Cyrus Katgara, Jeena & Co
4) Deepak Sharma, Celebi
5) Arvind Goyal, Canan Cargo
6) Urmi Walia, DIAL
7) Bhawani Singh, DCSC
8) Saket Saran, Air India
9) MS Unni, Air India (On
behalf of Mr. Saket Saran)
8 Service
Standard in the
Air Logistics
Industry
Mapping of services provided
by the entire air cargo logistics
trade partners including the
govt. agencies and standardize
them at par with international
level so that the international
Chairman:
1) Edmund Evans Jones,
Global Aviation Services
Dy. Chairman:
2) OP Sharma, DIAL
Members:
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SN Name of Sub Committee
Sub Committee Objectives Sub Committee Members
products moving across the
air gateways become more
competitive in the
international market and help
the Indian gateway airports to
become major hub airports of
Asia & Asia Pacific region.
3) Pradeep Panicker, DIAL
4) Arun Kumar, Insynergy
Supply Chain
5) Bhawani Singh, DCSC
6) Rajeen Khanna, Jeena & Co.
7) Sushant Nigam, DIAL
9 Non Scheduled
Flight
Operations
Work closely with the industry
stakeholders including govt.
agencies and identify the
challenges being faced by the
non-schedule operators in
India and devise solutions for
improvement within partners
in the industry or policies of
Government/ regulatory
agencies to improve
competitiveness of Indian
operators and the product
they carry in the international
market.
Chairman:
1) Sujeen Paulose, Hercules
Aviation
Dy. Chairman:
2) Franklin Henry, Flywell
Aviation
Members:
3) Ravi Nayar, Sun Aviation
4) Edmund Evans Jones,
Global Aviation Services
5) Sanjay Aiyer, Blue Bird
Logistics
6) Rishi Herenz, DIAL
7) Bhawani Singh, DCSC
8) Rishabh Birla, Air Shagoon
9) Sanjiv Mansukhani, DCSC
10) MD Kala, DIAL
ACFI - ANNUAL REPORT (2013-2014)
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5.4.2. Progress made by the Sub-Committees
5.4.2.1. Apparel/Textile Sub-committee (Now merged with Procedures
Simplification)
Total Nos. of meeting held: 03 (Three)
SN Issues Taken up Progress Achieved
1 Operational Issues:
a. Safety & security of cargo
should be given top most
priority during transportation
from shipper’s end till the
shipment is uplifted at the
airport.
i. 4 Nos. of night vision cameras have been
installed by DIAL at the air side between
cargo terminal & T2. Out of which two
cameras are working and rest two are
not working due to non-availability of
UPS supply. P&E team has been
coordinated for necessary action in this
regard.
ii. Security within cargo terminal, CTOs
have confirmed having taken adequate
security arrangement with security
gadgets placed.
b. Upkeep of the cargo storage
places like shipper’s go-
down, freight forwarders
warehouse & at cargo
terminal should be kept in
neat & clean condition to
avoid any discrepancies with
the shipments due to animal
waste, spiting of PAN & bird
poo. The working force also
needs to be educated &
trained on this aspect.
i. Awareness trainings have been impacted
by some airlines to the trade workers on
regular basis.
ii. CTOs are ensuring regular cleaning of
storage places & imparting awareness
training to their work forces. As per the
feedback of users there is a sign of
improvement.
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SN Issues Taken up Progress Achieved
c. Proper manning of cargo
terminal work places by CTO
manpower particularly during
shift change (7 - 9 PM) to
ensure uninterrupted cargo
operation.
It was informed by CTO s that there is a sign
of improvement. The issue is being further
closely monitored by DIAL.
d. Export cargo should be
admitted on 24x7 basis to
avoid artificial rush during
peak and uninterrupted
processing.
i. On implementation of 24x7 w.e.f. 1st July’
2013 clearance of all the goods by
Customs the issue has been resolved.
ii. Road show is being organised by the DIAL
on the 24x7 for awareness & seeking
cooperation of the stakeholders.
e. Pasting of ‘X’ Ray screening
stickers compulsorily be
stopped as it creates logistic &
other discrepancies.
The issue has been resolved and official
circular has also been issued by the CTOs to
this effect.
f. CTO should have proper
arrangements at the parking
area for repacking of damaged
packages noticed at the truck
dock and similar facility at the
bonded area, with all types of
packing material available.
Celebi would examine the
issue and come back with
solutions.
Celebi (CTO) is working on this aspect and
would like to re-view based on the
requirement so that new vendor can be
proposed for this job. Few areas within the
parking side shortlisted for this purpose.
g. Customs should allow MOT
for shipments as and when
requested by the CHA.
In view of 24x7 clearance by Customs there is
no MOT now. The issue is closed.
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SN Issues Taken up Progress Achieved
2 Policy Related Issues;-
a. BCAS Policy on Known
Shipper Concept & Regulated
Agent Policy may be revisited
by all stakeholders &
deliberated upon for
adoption. It was decided to
hold a meeting with the BCAS
officials for more
clarifications and then taking
up with the shippers & freight
forwarders.
On adoption of this policy
processing of export cargo
will be speed up & minimize
hold up of shipments for X
Ray Screening at the airport.
i. Comments from trade are yet to be
received. A joint meeting was proposed
with other subcommittees viz. Electronics
and Auto Industry where this issue was
also discussed in order to conclude this
issue.
ii. A joint meeting of all the three
subcommittee heads/members and
representatives from DIAL Security,
Airlines (Bar India Cargo), BCAS,
Shippers, Freight Forwarders was held on
6th Sep’2013 at 3PM.
Suggestions made by the members
attended shall be forwarded to BCAS for
consideration.
b. Govt. to consider movement of cargo carrying vehicles without any restrictions to avoid unnecessary waiting time & peak time rush. A meeting shall be organized with Additional Commissioner Police Traffic. The committee will also examine the previous permissions issued by traffic department to selective agencies to their selective trucks to ply on the roads uninterruptedly.
i. ACFI has taken up the issue in the 2nd Air Cargo Logistic Promotion Board meeting of MoCA.
ii. DIAL has taken up with the Airport Traffic Police for uninterrupted movement of cargo carrying vehicles within airport premises.
iii. ACFI has also taken up with Additional Commissioner Police Delhi Traffic supporting with justification of implementation of 24x7 clearances by Customs. It is proposed that at least smaller vehicles like TATA 407, TATA Ace and Tempo etc. with special sticker may be allowed during peak hours.
ACFI - ANNUAL REPORT (2013-2014)
Page 18
SN Issues Taken up Progress Achieved c. Export Classification issues
which attracts drawbacks
needs simplified at policy
level to avoid discretionary
powers with the Customs
officers & other harassments.
Committee’s experts shall
prepare a document on this
issue for taking up further.
This issue will be discussed in the next
meeting wherein exporters will be invited for
discussion and more clarity.
d. 24x7 clearance of export
cargo by customs for all the
export shipments.
i. Customs have Implemented w.e.f. 1st
July’2013 However it has been seen that
there is no encouragement from Customs
side and therefore only 40% out of the
export cargo arrived during night are
being processed by Customs.
ii. ACFI has taken up this issue with
Chairperson, CBEC to enhance
clearance %tage during night.
e. Adoption of RMS in export by
customs or green channel to
star exporters to
avoid/reduce examination
process & fast clearance.
After taking up at ACLPB & Member
(Customs) by ACFI, Customs have introduced
RMS in Export in Air cargo Complexes (Delhi)
w.e.f. 24.01.2014 wide Public Notice 17/2013
and Corundum No. PN-2/2014 dated
20.01.2014
f. Committee will study on the
packaging issue particularly
on the introduction of euro
pallets in export compulsorily.
This issue has been transferred to Innovation
sub-committee for necessary action.
ACFI - ANNUAL REPORT (2013-2014)
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5.4.2.2. Electronic Industry Sub-committee (Now merged with Procedures
Simplification)
Total Nos. of meeting held: 03 (Three)
Opportunity Available for India;-
Over the last couple of decades India has been the epicenter of consumer demand
fuelled by a phenomenal GDP growth. While demand increased across all sectors,
demand for high technology products, specifically electronic products has
registered significant growth. Going by current estimates, the demand for
electronics hardware in the country is projected to increase from USD 45 billion ( in
2009) to USD 400 billion by 2020 (Source: Task Force Report of Dep’t. of Electronics
& IT).
The estimated production will reach USD 104 billion by the year 2020, creating a
gap of USD 296 billion in demand and production. This creates a unique
opportunity for companies in the Electronic System, Design & Manufacturing sector
to look at India as their next destination to cater to the domestic Indian demand as
well as act as an exports hub.
There is an immense pressure on the logistics chain for catering to the production
lines as most of the Companies are switching over to Just in Time (JIT) Inventory to
bring down their costs like warehousing, working capital, etc.
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SN Issues taken up Progresses Achieved
1 Part Delivery:
With the result of short landings
of part import shipments the
importers are not able to take
part delivery, Lengthy Customs
procedures takes minimum two
working days to resolve a single
case, finally resulting heavy
production loss and payment of
huge demurrages charges.
Proposal-
a. Part Delivery process to be made simpler. b. The Dy. Commissioner Customs (Shed)
may be authorized to allow part delivery. Based on the paper prepared by Mr. R K
Mehrotra a letter has been written to
Chairperson CBEC vide ACFI letter dated 13th
Aug’2013 for consideration at par with the
procedures being adopted at other world
class airports abroad.
Mr. RK Mehrotra's Study.pdf
2 24x7 Customs Clearance
Scheme in Import:
i IGM/ Inward date updating.
To promote 24x7 clearances
as declared
by the CBEC. The trade is
facing the problems of getting
IGM/Inward date updating by
the airline/consolidators
after regular office hours.
This has to be addressed
immediately.
With the consistent efforts of CTOs & DIAL,
90% of segregation of import flights have
been achieved through EDI. DIAL team also
examining possibility of improving the
inward entry process of Customs in a time
bound manner.
Mr. Tarun
Sabharwal's Study.pdf
ii Issuance of Delivery Orders,
after regular office hours.
The airlines/consolidators should align with
the demand of 24x7 clearances and make
arrangements for delivery orders physically
and as well as EDI system after office hours.
DIAL Convener through AOC/CAFAC has
apprised & requested airlines & agencies to
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SN Issues taken up Progresses Achieved
make arrangements for issuing D.O.s during
odd hours to assist the importers clearance
on 24x7.
iii Customs Officers on duty for
24x7 clearances may be made
available to the
Importers/CHAs with name,
designation and mobile nos.
DIAL/CTO operation team has taken up with
Customs and monitoring regularly to facilitate
the agencies.
Situation has improved as per information
from CTO/DIAL
iv Paperless Transaction-
Electronic Customs Out of
Charge (OoC) message be
sufficient to Custodian issue
gate pass. No hard copy of
Customs Out of Charge (OoC)
needed.
v Hard Copy of Delivery Order
(DO) be dispensed with when
Dos are sent electronically by
airlines & console agents to
Custodian.
Towards paperless concept Customs as per
their latest P.N. 02/2013, out of charge final
printouts of B/E’s will not require signature
of Customs Officers.
An step forward to this initiative of Customs
to allow Custodian;-
a) To issue Gate passes and Delivery of the
goods without hard Copy of custodian’s
copy of Customs Out of Charge (OoC) as
the data of out of charge bills of Entry is
available on the custodian EDI system for
any verification without which custodian
will not be able to generate gate passes
against that consignment.
b) Similarly when delivery orders issued by
the airlines/ consolidators are transmitted
electronically to the custodian the
procedure of insisting hard copy of
delivery order can be dispensed with. This
will be a step further towards achieving
paperless transaction and faster delivery
of cargo.
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SN Issues taken up Progresses Achieved
Above issues have been taken up by
DIAL/ACFI innovation Subcommittee with DG
System who has promised for taking up at
Board level.
ACFI has taken up with DG System & copy to
Chairperson CBEC on above issues.
The system of printing hard
copies of B/Es for EXIM trade
may be discontinued. Instead it
should be made available on
customs ICEGATE system/
website for verification by all
authorized users such as
Importer, Exporter, Bank, CHA
and other Govt. Agencies. The
operating part of this system
may be decided by the DG
System or as may be decided by
CBEC.
This being a policy issue matter has been
taken up with DG System by DIAL/ACFI
Innovation subcommittee for consideration
who has promised to take up with Board.
Letter to this effect has been issued by ACFI to
DG System copy to Chairperson CBEC.
vi Printing hard copy of gate passes may be dispensed with
Point dropped as the time is not ripe for introduction of this very advance system.
vii Restriction of transportation of cargo carrying vehicles presently the air cargo movement to and from cargo terminal, IGIA, takes place as per the NO Entry system for commercial vehicles. Presently only from 10 PM to
i. ACFI took up with Mr. Anil Shukla Additional Commissioner Traffic Police vide letter dated 7th Sept’2013 to allow smaller sized vehicles during the no entry time in order to maintain air cargo business throughout the day. Particularly at a time when Customs are working on 24x7 basis.
ACFI - ANNUAL REPORT (2013-2014)
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SN Issues taken up Progresses Achieved
6 AM and from 11AM to 5 PM the commercial vehicles including cargo carrying vehicles movement on the city road is allowed. This is a Major Bottleneck for the smooth & evenly movement of cargo vehicles thru-ought the day.
However DCP Traffic (VIP Delhi) has responded wide letter dated 09.10.2013. i. No-Entry restriction will continue
because of peak time rush of traffic. ii. Cargo terminal is approachable from NH-
8 and Dwarka BPCL side. There is no restriction and no entry timing on the road from Centaur hotel to cargo terminal.
5.4.2.3. Pharma Export Sub-committee
Total Nos. of meeting held: 06 (Six)
SN Issues Taken Up Progresses Achieved
1 It was decided that three
groups shall study following
topics;-
I. Implementation of Pharma
processing policy
uniformly at all the
airports to begin with
Mumbai & Delhi.
II. ADC office should extend
paper acceptance timing of
1230 hrs. on all normal
days and accept the papers
on Saturdays also and
work full normal day.
ACFI took up with DGHS & then in the 2nd Air
Cargo Logistics Promotion Board meeting of
MoCA,
ACFI suggestions were accepted by DGHS and
immediately implemented w.e.f. 1st May’2013
vide its notification dated 18.04.2013, at Delhi
and uniformity of procedures at Mumbai & Delhi
was achieved for the clearance of Pharma
shipments.
The new procedure of applying advance NOC is
working satisfactorily at Delhi Airport which
saves waiting time of Pharma trucks for 2 to 4
hours.
However it was informed by Dr. Mathur of Dr.
Reddy’s Lab Hyderabad that drug molecules of
less than 4 years approved by the DGHS does
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SN Issues Taken Up Progresses Achieved
not require any NOC, as per the DCGI guidelines.
DGHS may inform Customs not to insist ADC’s
NOC for these products.
It was also suggested that the reputed Pharma
exporters may be given a status of accredited
agency under Import & Export RMS regulation
of Customs for giving green channel status.
a. Out-bond clearance
procedures of Pharma
shipments which have
already been cleared at
different SEZs etc.
i. In order to have seamless clearance of
Pharma goods for export some action as
per public notice no. 29/2008 dated
21.11.2008 issued by Commissioner of
Customs Export, ACC Mumbai should be
insisted at Delhi.
ii. Subcommittee shall prepare paper for
taking up with Customs
Mumbai Customs
Notiffication ADC NOC .pdf
b. In-Bound Clearance
procedures of Pharma
shipments at Delhi Airport
i. The study group also felt a need of action as
per public notice no. 31/2012 dated
07.09.2012 issued by Commissioner of
Customs Import; Mumbai may also be
taken up with Delhi Customs for similar
action.
ii. Subcommittee shall prepare paper for
taking up with Customs.
ADC_NOC_BOM
customs.pdf
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SN Issues Taken Up Progresses Achieved
c. Clearance procedures
being followed for Pharma
shipments at Hyderabad
Airport. Best practices may
be adopted at other
airport.
i. It was brought out by Mr. Prasher of
Ranbaxy & Dr. Mathur of Dr. Reddy’s Lab
Hyderabad that there is no set procedures
being followed with regard to Pharma
export at all the airports uniformly. For
example at Hyderabad no such practice of
prior NOC is being followed. The Customs
officer decides at his own shipments
randomly for forwarding ADC NOC.
ii. Hence there should be a common
procedure which needs to be followed at all
the airports uniformly.
iii. It was also decided to initiate action for EDI
connectivity between Customs & ADC for
online transmission of NOC between ADC &
Customs.
iv. Before the matter is taken up further, it was
decided that Mr. Nitin Mittal shall revisit the
procedure at Hyderabad airport and seek
the help of Dr. Ravi Prakash Mathur. The
target will be to bring uniformity in
procedures at 6 major airports.
2 Current procedure of Customs
clearance based on FOB value
above INR 1,00,000/- is being
done by Customs DC or above
level. The need for moving
such Pharma consignment
through a normal customs
clearance mode.
i To enhance the power of Customs Supdt. Up
to Rs. 10,00,000/- and DC/AC beyond Rs.
10,00,000/- needs to be reviewed.
Considering that existing system is very old
and before taking up the matter to
appropriate authority, we need supporting
datas/statistics with regard to enhancement
of Pharma Export over a period of time.
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SN Issues Taken Up Progresses Achieved
ii DIAL team shall give support in making the
data available for making justification paper
to Customs.
3 To retrieve the documented
regulatory circulars
identifying the need to have
manual AWB marking on
every export consignment
causing heavy delay in export
procedure by at least 3 – 4
hours.
The matter has been considered by DIAL the
custodian and Circular has been issued in this
regard for making the marking of AWB on the
packages optional.
Point Closed
4 Regulating cases regarding
release of pending Export
Promotion Shipping Bills
against samples withdrawn by
customers at Delhi Airport.
The subcommittee shall obtain detailed inputs
from the exporting community of Pharma goods
and prepare a detailed report on this issue
which may be taken up with Customs
5 Need of proper storage facility
of Pharma products under the
requisite temperature range
in the warehouse before
clearance and after
palletisation.
Though both the CTOs have facilities for storage
of Pharma shipments at the cargo terminal &
have appropriate procedures to handle the
same, a group headed by Mr. Guneet Malik, Virsa
Logistics comprising of members from shippers
(Ranbaxy, Dabar & Deva) & CTOs (Celebi &
DCSC) shall access the requirement of
infrastructure facilities required for
transportation of Pharma Products from Cargo
Terminal to the Air Craft under temperature
controlled environment. And put up the same to
the Sub Committee for further discussion.
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SN Issues Taken Up Progresses Achieved
Regarding proper unitization under
temperature controlled environment following
were decided for compliance by all;-
a. Mixed loading of Pharma Cns. with general
cargo,
Top-up shall be carried out inside the cold
storage facilities to maintain the required
temperature of Pharma Shipments.
b. In case the loaded Units could not be
accommodated inside the storage facilities
under temperature controlled environment
the top-up shall be under taken only at the
last moment before taking the ULD to Air
Craft. The DIAL was requested to issue an
Operational Circulars or SOP in this regard to
both CTOs & airlines for compliance.
c. CTO/DIAL shall issue SOP ON ABOVE.
6 For taking samples, the Agent
opening part of the packaged
Pharma consignment on the
instructions of the Customs
personnel needs to be
checked and regulated.
It was decided that following procedures shall
be strictly followed;-
i. The package shall be opened only with
the help of authorized packers of CTOs,
ii. Open the boxes from the top of the
package and take the samples as required
by the Customs for examination without
damaging the outer coverage of the
packages.
iii. After taking the samples/ inspection the
packages repack/ closed with the help of
the tap indicating the remark that “This
Package was opened for Customs
Examination
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SN Issues Taken Up Progresses Achieved
iv. SOP shall be issued by CTO/DIAL &
circulated
7 Deployment of Customs
Officer at APEDA and General
Warehouse.
Mr. Prasher pointed that at present only one
Customs official is deputed for both DCSC and
Celebi warehouse which causes lots of delay
especially in the clearance of Pharma export.
Separate customs officials are required to be
deployed at both the ware houses for smooth
functioning of Pharma Export. This issue needs
immediate attention by Customs.
DIAL to take up at Chief Commissioner level.
8 Pharma specific SOPs
required to be prepared &
issued by CTOs to all the
agencies
It was deliberated that there is a need to
undertake a study on process mapping and
comparison at par with the international
standard. For this people need to be exposed to
see a world class facility. Also there is a
requirement to study of equipments for
maintaining cool chain from shipper’s end up to
the aircraft. For the consideration of the
stakeholders in the supply chain.
After long deliberations, a team comprising the
representatives of Airlines, FF, CHA CTIOs, DIAL,
Shippers as indicated below was constituted to
map everything from shipper’s end to aircraft.
1. Mr. Vikas Kukreja
2. Mr. Maneesh
3. Mr.Guneet Malik
4. Ms. Ritu Sharma
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SN Issues Taken Up Progresses Achieved
5. Mr. Venu Bengera
6. Ms. Deepak Sharma
7. Mr. Rakesh Prasher
In the mean-time an IT company Stellium Inc.
had volunteered for undertaking Process
Mapping study on Pharma export, free of cost
who gave its first introductory presentation on
9 To organize an Awareness
workshop by ACFI for all
agents, freight forwarders and
airlines to explain the
categories of Pharma handled
at the airport, and the
methods of safe and secure
handling.
Following action plan was decided;-
a) Members to forward their suggestions if any
to the workshop organizing team
b) Team to consolidate the points for taking
action.
c) The Organizers shall come out with a plan of
action including venue, date, list of invitees
for the workshop and materials to be
deliberated, in the next sub-committee
meeting
Mr. Yuvraj Sharma & Ms. Neetu Chadha, UT
Worldwide will submit proposal by September
end to board.
ACFI - ANNUAL REPORT (2013-2014)
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5.4.2.4. Auto Industry Sub-committee
Total Nos. of meeting held: 03 (Three)
S. No. Issues Taken Up Progresses Achieved
1 A. AIR EXPORT POINTS:-
i. PDA Account not
accepted after 5.00 PM
DIAL/ CSC/ CELEBI
must accept the PDA
deposit even after 5.00
PM
Both CTOs Celebi and DCSC confirmed that the
PDA Accounts shall be kept operational upto
6.00 PM and Beyond 6.00 PM all the mode of
payments except cash will also be accepted.
Issue Closed
ii. Location of Import
clearance not accepted
after 3.30 PM Which
should be accepted at
least upto 6.30 PM as
sometimes the customs
officer finalization
assessment order will be
given around 5.00 – 6.00
PM
As per CTOs the present timing for generating
location slips for examination/ clearance was
upto 4.30 PM beyond which permission of
Customs is required. Both the CTOs will take up
the matter with Customs to allow for
examination up to 5.30 PM as the gate pass is
being issued up to 7.00 p.m.
Issue Closed
iii. Due to non-availability
of IGM & its
regularization later on
flight checking gets
delayed due to which
subsequent process of
import cargo clearance
process & release get
disturbed. Transfers of
IGM information in
customs EDI Systems/
Both CTOs Celebi and DCSC have confirmed that
all data feeding and flight checking is done
within parameters and as per agreed SLA. It
was explained by CTOs that there were
complaints on Customs part 2-3 months back
due to lack of customs systems but currently no
irregularities of this nature have been reported
in the recent past. However In case of any
difficulty same should be brought to the notice
of the in-charge import of the respective cargo
terminal operators for timely solutions and
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S. No. Issues Taken Up Progresses Achieved
Airline get delayed in
some cases.
assistance.
Issue Closed
iv. Damage of
Cargo/Pallets; there
should be clear cut
procedure to be defined
for reporting damage to
the goods/ pallets,
before release.
Appropriate damage
reporting slip to be
issued, if the pallet is
damaged before
examination.
It was informed that Mr. Ramesh Mamidala,
COO, Celebi, has already clarified in the last
CAFAC/AOC meeting and the action plan in this
regard has been communicated to all associated
members.
Issue Closed
v. In case of system failure
DIAL should take
permission rather than
individual importers
from customs to
smoothen procedures.
Although it’s already in practice. Both the CTOs
have agreed to initiate action for taking
Customs permission through DIAL officer
whenever there is a need of manual gate pass
due to customs system failure.
Issue under the observation of DIAL team
vi. Once the cargo is "Out of
Charge" printing of BE
copies should be
facilitated properly
without delay.
CTOs have provided 08 printers in service
condition to Customs in Import and 02 printers
on standby basis for printing out of charge &
other customs documents. CTOs will further
coordinate with the Customs for smooth
functioning of these printers.
Issue Closed
ACFI - ANNUAL REPORT (2013-2014)
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S. No. Issues Taken Up Progresses Achieved
B. AIR EXPORT POINTS:-
i. X-RAY facilities for big
boxes/ pallets. X-RAY -
for big boxes / pallets,
shipment is taking
longer time as compared
to normal x-ray and due
to this delay, shipment is
not being handed over
to airline on time. Also it
is taking additional time
for Loading/ unloading
bigger size of boxes/
pallets into x-ray
machine due to shortage
of equipment.
It was decided that;-
a. In future Shippers/Agents will send Pre Alert
notice 48 hrs. in advance to both CTOs about
the odd sized/big shipments along with
weight & dimension of boxes/ pallets for
making advance arrangements and to avoid
any delay.
b. Then it would be the duty of the CTOs to
make proper arrangement for proper
offloading & screening of such pkgs. as and
when such shipments arrive at the terminal.
c. It was also decided that the shipper/Agent
should use open trucks for bringing odd
sized cargo, for smooth offloading at the
cargo terminal and during rainy season the
same may be covered by tarpaulin sheets to
protect the cargo from rain.
d. It was decided that DIAL shall examine the
requirement of big size X-Ray Machine
(Gama Ray) for screening odd sized/ULDS
for installation at the cargo terminals. ii. Special equipment for
Off-loading purpose
Special equipment; for
bigger size/weight of
boxes/pallets, are not
enough for off-loading
purposes and due to this
shipment is getting
delayed
e. Both the CTOs have confirmed that they have
sufficient number of equipment for loading
offloading of any size, weight of packages.
Pre alert notice from the CHA/Exporters will
facilitate smooth & timely action by CTOs.
DIAL shall monitor the confirmation of
CTOs
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S. No. Issues Taken Up Progresses Achieved
iii. Admittance Time
restriction for Export
Cargo / Vehicle may be
upto 6.30 p.m.
Keeping in mind the peak time rush & Customs
time restrictions on examination process, both
the CTOs have agreed to extend the entry time
for export vehicles up to 5 p.m. only.
Issue Closed
iv. Return of Defective auto
parts to be duty free. It was informed by Mr. Yashpal Taneja of FedEx
that in the last Customs PGC meeting, when this
issue was being discussed, Customs have
already agreed to consider the suggestions of
the trade/exporter to deal with such issues.
The Auto exporters i.e. Honda & SUZUKI may
forward their suggestions if any to Customs in
this regard.
In case the issue needs to be further escalated
at Customs Board level ,ACFI will step in.
2 Other Important Issues Progress Achieved
a. Action to bring
improvement in the
Service Standard
Members desired that benchmarking of
standard of services provided in cargo handling
at International level is required to be
established for implementation by all the
stakeholders in the logistics chain. In this
direction ACFI should take some initiative.
ACFI shall initiate action on this matter soon
b. Need of a dedicated
Helpline/ Helpdesk at
Cargo Terminal
Members observed that there is a need of a
dedicated helpline Service/ Desk to be
established by both the CTOs at their respective
cargo terminals, approachable to the needy
customers & users of the cargo terminal for
resolving their day to day issues.
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S. No. Issues Taken Up Progresses Achieved
DIAL Cargo to pass instruction to CTOs for
compliance
c. X-Ray Screening
Machines
i. Requirement of Regular maintenance of X-ray
machines was expressed by the members for
smooth & uninterrupted x-ray screening
process.
ii. Need of bigger size of x-ray machines for
screening BUP/Odd size CNs. As per BCAS
guidelines such Odd size packages shall be
either physically checked or kept for more
than 24 hrs. for cooling.
DIAL is examining the possibility to install
bigger sized X Ray Machines
In view of above it was suggested by Mr.
Kunwar that the shippers/agents may consider
to adopt BCAS guidelines of non -
shipper/regulated agents security regulations
issued during 2008. Which will facilitate
smooth handling and security of all types of
cargo without undergoing X-ray screening at
cargo terminal.
BCAS circular no. 08/2008 dated 10.09.2008 on
Comprehensive security procedure in respect of
cargo, express cargo, mail & Courier bags was
made available to all members for their
information & forwarding feedback if any.
d. Need of research &
development (R&D) The members also expressed need of research &
development (R&D) for bringing more
innovation in the processing clearance and
infrastructure facilities required for hassle free
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S. No. Issues Taken Up Progresses Achieved
transportation of Auto shipments.
ACFI Innovation Subcommittee to take up
this issue.
e. Refund of duty Members pointed out about consistent delay in
refund of duty under section 74 by Customs.
Due to which lots of harassment is being faced
by Shippers.
Society of India Automobile Manufacturers
(SIAM) to take up with Customs copy to ACFI.
5.4.2.5. Domestic & Transshipment Air Cargo Sub-committee
Total Nos. of meeting held: 05 (Five)
SN Issues Taken Up Progress Achieved
1 Domestic Air Cargo
Handling
a. A proposal of creating
common user domestic
cargo area for preparation of
RFC operation shall be
examined by a team headed
by Mr. Sanjiv Edward on
29th Apr, 2013.
i. DIAL’s suggestion for creating common user
domestic cargo area for preparing RFC of
domestic cargo, near Centaur Hotel was not
accepted by DACAAI they wanted area near
cargo terminal or opposite parking area.
ii. It was decided that DIAL shall re-examine
the request of DACAAI and come back with
an alternate area for this purpose and then
the subcommittee shall engage DACAAI in
finalization of the proposal.
b. Domestic airlines will be
imparting Awareness
training program to
agencies.
Jet Airways, Spice Jet & IndiGo imparting
training program to the trade.
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SN Issues Taken Up Progress Achieved
c. Attempt will be made to
create a certifying agencies
to regulate agencies booking
domestic cargo by a team;-
DACAI, Blue Dart. CTOs &
Domestic airlines
i. The issue was deliberated at length. The
document on certain parameters provided
by Indigo has been circulated among
members to study & finalize.
ii. The sub-committee with smaller group of
members Airlines, CTOs & Blue Dart will roll
out final proposal.
d. More CCTVs to be installed
by CTOs/ DIAL to plug the
pilferages
Mr. Vikrant Kapoor informed that within the
DCSC premises from truck doc at city side till air
side boundary wall area, CCTVs have been
installed.
It was opined that CCTV to cover the apron area
& the perimeter road where the domestic cargo
is transported may not be possible to cover all
areas. Frequent patrolling by the Airline
security may be a possible way to deter the
pilferages at this area.
Four Night vision cameras at air side Cargo
Terminal to T2 have been installed by DIAL
e. To plug pilferages and a
meeting with security
agencies shall be organized.
To sort out the security issues, a meeting of
Security heads of airlines, CTOs Raxa, and DIAL
Security along with their Ops. Managers were
held on 21.08.2013. During the meeting it was
informed by all the members that-
i. The theft & pilferage cases in the past &
present have been under control.
ii. More vigilance has been exercised.
iii. It was recommended that CISF to frisk
people & vehicles while coming out of all
air side gates of the airport.
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SN Issues Taken Up Progress Achieved
2 Domestic Air
Transshipment
Clarity on the Prevailing
Transshipment process
needed
Need of a Single
Transshipment Bond for Pan
India operations.
How to stop pilferages a
Team of IndiGo, DHL & DIAL
to be formed and Other
Airlines will be invited for
their comments/ suggestions
It was decided that ;-
a. A team Mr. Hari, Mr. Nigam, Mr. Rishi & Mr. J
M Nair, will compile the documents in two
parts viz. Bond and Process.
b. The issue of break bulk and transshipment
cargo procedures will also be reviewed by
the said team.
c. After identifying and listing out agenda the
same will be circulated by the said team
among members for discussions by the
group.
3 Points to be deliberated –
Reg. BCAS Issues
Clarity on AVSEC circulars
concerning Domestic
operations.
Security & safety of domestic
cargo issues
Issuance of pass by BCAS to
contract employees
After internal meeting of Security Head of
Airlines, CTOs, DIAL & RAXA held on
21.08.2013 the issue of frisking by CISF to all
the people & vehicle while coming out of the air
side gate shall be taken up with BCAS/CISF by
DIAL.
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5.4.2.6. Express Cargo Industry Sub-committee
Total Nos. of meeting held: 02 (Two)
SN Issues Taken Up Progresses Achieved
1 Inter-state tax issues –
International operations should be treated differently from the state tax formalities completion perspective as data for all such import and export shipments is already getting captured in Govt. systems (EDI) which is not the case with domestic movements. It was stressed to take up the matter with respective VAT Commissioner and appraise the problem being faced by trade and its adverse impact on transaction cost.
It was decided that a detailed note on the issue will be prepared by Mr. Manoj Kumar, TNT and Mr. Dinkar Singh, DHL and the same will be circulated to all the members.
2 Shortage of Customs Officers –
It was pointed out that there is a general shortage of Customs Officers across all the major international air cargo ports in the country. It has been seen that there is major shortage of customs officers at Chennai and Bangalore Air Cargo Terminal.
The issue was deliberated at length in the ACFI Board meetings also. Board was in the opinion that the strength of Customs officers in the express terminal & as required in the cargo terminal should be studied in terms of the processes & work load at these respective terminals.
3 24 x 7 exports clearance needed for all duty drawback shipping bills also – As per the current circular / directive from customs, only free shipping bills are allowed to be cleared during night from Delhi Cargo Terminal. This limitation makes the entire process extremely rigid for operators and they are unable to utilize the facility fully.
On account of Customs working on 24 x 7 for processing all types of export cargo this Issue is closed
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SN Issues Taken Up Progresses Achieved
4 Return To Origin (RTO) cases needs more simplification of processes – It was highlighted that shipments required to be Returned to Origin for various reasons takes more than a month’s time due to lack of clarity on the process, high discretionary powers, no uniformity in the approach to handle such cases. The issue has already been taken up with the Jt. Secretary, Customs but no avail.
Most of the return of shipments to be destined to origin or alternate destinations arises broadly in the following 3 circumstances for both express and formal cargo Shipments.
a) Misrouted Import shipments
At times due to sorting errors, certain shipments arrive in India even though they are destined for some other destination and arrive in India due to an error.
Such shipments come to the notice prior to presentation for formal customs clearance and are generally not presented for customs clearance after they arrive. Such shipments, however, are reflected in the IGM in the express and cargo mode and pre alert Bill of Entry in the express/courier mode. In order to return such shipments to the actual destination or origin we are required to seek permission of the customs authorities. This, however, raises a challenge as an IEC number is required for re-export of such a shipment. In the absence of any importer and in the absence of clear guidelines for handling such shipments it becomes a challenge to send these shipments back or to reroute them.
In view of the above it is suggested that the following process may be followed:
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SN Issues Taken Up Progresses Achieved
As such import shipments are reflected in the IGM, in order to re-export them before they enter the DTA, the form in the enclosed format may be used whereby the customs officers may verify the existence of the misrouted shipments in the IGM or amended IGM and could grant permission for return to origin after seeking details of the flight number on which the shipment is proposed to be exported and sent back. The same could reflect in the EGM and sent back and upon verification of the EGM the status of the shipment could be closed.
Permission could be granted subject to fulfillment of the following conditions.
A letter from the airline or express company asking for rerouting of the shipment
Submission of the Form and explanation
b) Abandoned shipments
At times the importer of an import shipment refuses to clear the import shipment or if cleared by the express company refuses to accept the shipment after advancement of customs duties by the express company and in such case the shipper may ask for recall of the shipment.
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SN Issues Taken Up Progresses Achieved
A similar process as outlined above could be followed for such shipments subject to fulfillment of following conditions.
A letter from the origin shipper asking for recall of the shipment
Authorisation in favour of the express company through whom the shipment was brought to India with instructions for return or rerouting as the case may be.
Based on the fulfillment of the above conditions the permission can be granted by customs officers to send the shipment back to origin or to an alternate destination as per the shipper's instructions.
c) Rerouting of shipments.
There are instances when an import shipment may be required to be rerouted to a destination other than the origin on account of the requirement of the shipper of the abandoned or misrouted shipment to alternative destination other than the origin. This is true of certain category of shipments which are required on an urgent basis due to scarcity e.g. aircraft parts which have to be sent to the location of wherever the aircraft operation requires them to be sent. In such cases too, the above outlined procedure could be followed.
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SN Issues Taken Up Progresses Achieved
As there are no specific guidelines on the aforementioned issues there is no uniform procedure that is adopted and the same leads to major delays. It is hence requested that the circular also stipulate a timeframe of a maximum of 3 working days to process such requests.
5 Uniformity of Transshipment Procedures at all the international airports needed: It was pointed out that transshipment in Delhi is different of Mumbai and Bangalore different procedures are being followed.
At present there are no such differences exist.
Issue is closed.
5.4.2.6.7. Innovation Sub-committee
Total meetings held; - 03 (Three)
SN Ideas Status Action By
1 Shipper built units As informed by Customs/ CISF, this
framework currently does not exist.
Framework (both import and export)
Needs to be drafted and presented to
Customs, CISF and BCAS.
A small group of officials was formed
to prepare paper.
Mr. Vipan Jain, Mr.
MD Kala, Mr. Vijay
Sharma & Mr.
Halim Modassir
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2 Known Shipper
concept explore
benefits and
involve BCAS
Proposed through ACLPB.
This policy was brought by BCAS to
avoid ‘’X-Ray screening’’ by Security
agencies at the Airport (Cargo
Terminal) and facilitate faster
processing and reduce delay.
Till now no shippers have obtained
Known Shipper status and only
Terminal Operators like DCSC are only
certified under regulated agent
category of BCAS. There are no takers
of BCAS policy for the last six years.
It was decided at this stage, to
identify Shippers who will be willing
to apply for “Known Shipper” status.
Mr. Sanjiv Edward/
both Cargo
Terminal
Operators Celebi
and DCSC
3 Explore areas for
ACFI to get into
Certification
Point deferred Mr. Sanjiv Edward
and Joint Team
4 Recommend Value
added products at
Cargo Terminals
(Export/ Import)
The point was deferred, will be taken
up shortly again.
Joint Team
Focus Group 1 – Implement Smart Gate
SN Ideas Status Action
5 Replicate Smart
Gate Concept Agencies which needs to participate in
this initiative;
i. APHO
ii. Animal Quarantine
iii. Plant Quarantine
Focus Group 1
Lead
Mr Vijay Kumar.
Facilitation
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iv. ASI
v. Apparel Control.
vi. Certificate of Origin
vii.Min. of Telecom
Pilot for Delhi Airport
It was decided to have form a “Group
on Smart Gate” whose scope will be
to “pursue Engagement with
Agencies for brining on common IT
Platform”
Mr. Yashpal
Sharma
Members
Mr. MD Kala,
Mr. Venu Bangera,
Celebi – TBA, Mr.
Dinkar Singh
Focus Group 2 – Process Review for Elimination of Paper
SN Ideas Status Action
6 Process review
for Elimination
of Paper
The Scope of the Process Review
group would be to conduct Process
Analysis of both Export & Import
process & identify areas to
i. Remove redundant process.
ii. Replace manual process with
Electronic Transactions
iii. Recommend implementable
plans/polices to remove
paper from the process
Focus Group-2
Lead
Mr. Cyrus Katgara
Facilitation
Mr. MD Kala
Members
Mr. Vijay Sharma
Mr. Venu Bangera
Celebi – TBA
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Focus Group 3 – E-Freight
SN Ideas Status Action
7 E-Freight
Implementation
The Scope of this group is to pursue
the IATA initiative for E-Freight i.e.
removing transactional hard copy
documents and replacing with
Electronic messages/
Focus Group 3
Lead
Mr. MD Kala
Facilitation
Mr. Arun Kumar
Members
Members from
current JWG
already
constituted for E
Freight
Focus Group 4 – Benchmarking
SN Ideas Status Action
8 Benchmarking
IGIA Paperless
Initiative
Scope of this group is to Benchmark
the IGIA Paperless Initiative with other
industries i.e. Banking , Telecom etc. to
i. Identify Implementable Best
Practices from other
Industries.
ii. Identify & engage with
Government initiative e.g. E-
Governance
Focus Group 4
Lead
Rishi Herenz
Members
Mr. Venu Bangera,
Sunil Kumar,
Celebi TBA, Arun
Kumar
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Other Points
SN Ideas
9 Removal of Delivery Order hard copy – It was agreed to implement and
suggested to the E-Freight Focus Group to explore this and revert with
recommendation to implement
10 Wi-Fi at Cargo Terminal – It was decided to explore possibility of Wi-Fi access
at both Cargo Terminal – Mr. MD Kala/Venu Bangera/Rajesh Goel
11 It was decided to conduct review meeting of Innovation Sub-Committee on every
2nd Thursday of every month from 1100 hrs. to 1300 hrs.
5.4.2.8. Process Simplification Sub-committee
Total Nos. of meeting held: 04 (Four)
SN Issues Taken Up Progresses Achieved
1 Implementation of automated
message transmission of LEO/
acceptance (location slip) to
airlines & freight forwarders by
CTOs, in the exports processing
The new process was made compulsory since
22nd July all the airlines registered for the new
process of automated messaging of LEO/
Acceptance.
It was decided to hold an awareness program
at cargo terminal where DIAL will give on line
presentation/-demonstration of transmission
of electronic messaging of LEO/Location Slip to
the staff of Airlines, CHA and FFs will be
organized.
It was also suggested that the message
integration at the end of FFs & Airlines may be
considered for the benefits of these
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SN Issues Taken Up Progresses Achieved
stakeholders.
- DIAL has started giving facility of new
features as demanded by airlines. The same
may also be considered for FFs also.
- In regard to few agencies still insisting
examination other than the examination
area it was decided that the circular issued
by Celebi on the introduction of new
examination area for export shall be further
circulated by DIAL along with a request to
all to follow.
2 Areas of improvement to be
identified in the import
processes for further
automation;-
i- Customs examination process
ii- Issuance of Gate Pass
The issue was deferred to next meeting as the
group of members is yet to consolidate points
in Import for total paperless. The team shall
undertake study & proposal may be finalized at
least before the next meeting of the
subcommittee.
3 In cases where due to any reason
E-payment of duty has been paid
twice, the additional duty, after
proper verification, should be
refunded to the same bank
account automatic. This practice
is common in other institutes. It
should not go to the manual
refund route.
Letter to DG System copy to Chairperson CBEC
has been issued.
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SN Issues Taken Up Progresses Achieved
4 The custom registered Bank
Guaranties and various Bonds
other than License Bonds should
be incorporated in system. This
will help the custom for better
managed monitoring and
reference by trade.
Proposal on this policy prepared by Mr.
Mehrotra letter to DG System copy to
Chairperson CBEC has been issued.
5 Digital Signature should be made
mandatory for all users of
ICEGATE.
Proposal on this policy prepared by Mr.
Mehrotra letter to DG System copy to
Chairperson CBEC has been issued. This issue
also has been taken up at the ACLPB meeting.
6 To streamline the system, so that
in cases, where E payment duty
challan is available, but not
showing in the system, clearance
should not be delayed.
Proposal on this policy prepared by Mr.
Mehrotra letter to DG System copy to
Chairperson CBEC issued.
7 The custom registered licenses
and its credit or debit status
should be available on system.
This will help the user for
correct and timely filing of
document through ICEGATE.
Proposal on this policy prepared by Mr.
Mehrotra letter to DG System copy to
Chairperson CBEC issued.
8 The custodian should not insist
for issue of gate pass for hard
copy of out of charge Bill of
Entry since the same in soft
available on custodian E-system.
Proposal on this policy prepared by Mr. Nigam
DIAL letter to DG System copy to Chairperson
CBEC has been issued.
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SN Issues Taken Up Progresses Achieved
9 Custom O/C Bill of Entry
printout may be made available
at CHA end. This is because the
O/C computer printout does not
have any custom officer
signature as per the Public
Notice 02/2013 dated
26.02.2013 issued by the
Commissioner of Customs
(Importer and General) N.C.H.
Delhi.
Proposal on this policy prepared by Mr.
Mehrotra letter to DG System copy to
Chairperson CBEC has been issued.
10 Dispensation of hard copies of
Delivery Order and Out of
Charge Order too.
Proposal on this policy prepared by Mr. Nigam
DIAL, letter to DG System copy to Chairperson
CBEC has been issued dated 3rd Sep’2013.
11 Filing of two separate bonds by
Airlines for carriage of incoming
TP and also outgoing TP
consignments also. A common
bond should do well.
A paper shall be made by Mr. Nigam for taking
up with Customs.
12 Remove the need for IFO
signature e.g. Al import
consignments
IGM filing is done electronically as per Section
30 of Customs Act, since the data is already fed
into the system requirement of IFO signing on
the segregation report is redundant. Point
transferred to Innovation subcommittee for
necessary action.
13 Post-dispatch documentation
D-60
This point has been transferred to Innovation
Subcommittee for further necessary action.
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SN Issues Taken Up Progresses Achieved
14 Remove the need for Gate Pass
Officer
Bill of entry copy, duty payment receipt and
TSP charges are good enough documents to
ascertain circulars and payment status of any
shipment that makes the additional activity of
Gate Pass before shipments is moved out as
non-value add to the entire process.
Point transferred to Innovation subcommittee
for further necessary action.
5.4.2.9. Non Schedule Airline Flight Operation Sub-committee
Total meetings held – 01 (One)
S. No. Issues Taken up Deliberations Action By
1 a) Recognition of Non Schedule Airline
b) Areas Identified for Solution: BCAS Issues
It was brought out by Mr. Paulose that in-spite of YA permission issued by DGCA for each flights of the non-schedule airlines and contributing a sizable amount of business and revenue to the stakeholders of the logistics trade & industry, the non-schedule operators are yet to get due recognition at par with an airline by all concerned and agencies like BCAS, Customs and Airport operator/CTO etc.
It was pointed out that BCAS passes/permissions for seeking access of the airport operational points for the employees of the non-schedule operators are being issued at the last minute.
Mr. Sujeen Paulose and Mr. Henry.
ACFI Secretariat
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S. No. Issues Taken up Deliberations Action By
C. Customs Issues
d. Airport Operators/ Custodians/ CTOs
The delay is on the flimsical grounds of the authorities which create uncertainties and delay in flight operation. It was stressed upon by the members that BCAS should lay down a clear procedure for issuance of passes to the employees of the Non schedule operator against the YA permission & requests made by the operators. The passes should be issued well in advance (at least one day before) the departure of the flight.
It was pointed out that Customs do not allow centralized registration of non-schedule airlines in their system as being done for scheduled airlines. Due to this problem non-scheduled operators have to register at each airport and face lots of hardships. - It was therefore,
recommended that non-scheduled operators must be allowed centralized one time registration by Customs in the Customs system so that the hardships are minimized.
- It was explained that there
was no clear SOP issued so far by the Airport Operators/Custodians/CTOs
ACFI Secretariat
DIAL/Celebi/ DCSC
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S. No. Issues Taken up Deliberations Action By
the operations of non -schedule flights which should include the issues like processing of odd sized cargo (entry along with the vehicle/passes, clearance and loading inside the terminal or at the apron). This needs to be issued for the information and smooth operation in consultation with airport security and Customs so that there is clarity in the processing by each one involved in the operation.
2 Action Plan for solution
In Order to address each of the
above points and taking them
forward it was agreed that:
a) Mr. Sujeen Paulose and Mr. Henry shall prepare a document (presentation/ write up) well before the next subcommittee meeting about the basics of the non-schedule operation including its contribution to the industry and the nation so that the same could be helpful in presenting their request to the concerned authorities. The above said paper shall be provided to the ACFI secretariat within next two weeks so that the same is presented to the sub-committee in its next
Mr. Sujeen Paulose & Mr. Henry
ACFI Secretariat
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S. No. Issues Taken up Deliberations Action By
meeting. Thereafter, the same shall be presented to ACFI Board for approval and taking up further to the concerned authorities.
b) It was also agreed by DIAL and the non-schedule operators that a scheduled meeting once in a month (first Friday of the month) shall be held to review airport operational issues pertaining to both the stakeholders and resolve the burning issues locally. It was decided that the first review meeting among Operators/DIAL/CTOs shall be held on 7th Feb’2014 at 1100 hrs.
Mr. M.D. Kala DIAL
Mr. Sujeen Paulose
5.4.2.10. Perishable Export Cargo Sub-committee
Total Meetings Held – 01 (One)
SN Issues Taken Up Action Required to be taken by the sub-
committee Head
1 Special Focus on the
following category of
perishables needs to be
given to promote export;-
Mango, Karela & Okra.
It was informed that these categories of
perishable commodities are required to be
given special focus because of its growth
potential for export from northern India. An
adequate facility for testing/treatment plants
shall be required for expeditious clearance.
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SN Issues Taken Up Action Required to be taken by the sub-
committee Head
2 Non Availability of Plant
Quarantine Official at
Saharanpur station (Mandi
Parishad Complex) on
regular basis
There is only one Treatment Plant and
Machinery installed in the entire northern
region at Saharanpur (U.P.). Due to the
shortage of Quarantine officials, the trade has
to engage officials from Delhi as and when
their shipments are processed for export at
Saharanpur. This is a big hurdle for export of
mango from northern India.
3 Need of installation of MORE
Laboratory & Testing Plants
in the Norther Region.
Laboratory for VHT and Radiation Test
particularly for US bound export shipments is
required to be installed at Saharanpur &
nearby Delhi.
Proper Testing plant/Laboratory in more
numbers as well as SOP in respect of Mango,
Okra and Karela is required to be installed/
issued by the concerned authorities as there
is only one testing lab i.e. Delhi Testing Lab
(DTL) which is inadequate and charging at a
very higher rates for certification.
4 Provisions in the present
Customs EDI System for
exemption of examination of
Perishable cargo.
As per the Customs notification perishables
are exempted to Customs examination until
there is specific information but the present
Customs EDI system invariably asks for
examination of certain packages as per
system design. Therefore provisions for
exemption of Customs examination for
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SN Issues Taken Up Action Required to be taken by the sub-
committee Head
perishables should be included in the
Customs EDI system to plug this requirement.
5 HS Code problem HS Code issued by the Ministry of Commerce
only is being accepted by the Customs.
Whereas, APEDA is insisting its own HS Code
for the purpose of grant of incentives. As the
APEDA HS codes are not acceptable to the
Customs authorities the exporting community
faces problem to resolve this issue. This issue
needs to be discussed with the APEDA for
amicable solution.
6 Presence of Meat Exporters
in the meeting.
In the next sub-committee meeting some of
the leading meat exporters as well as
vegetable exporters are required to be invited
for discussions on their issues if any. Ms. Urmi
will provide the name, contact no. and email-
ID of such exporters to ACFI.
7 Data on Perishable cargo In respect of all the perishable products
moving out and in to IGIA as well as on all
India basis shall be arranged by Ms. Urmi to
ACFI secretariat.
8 Augmentation of
Infrastructure facilities at
the airport for maintaining
cool chain till perishables is
Infrastructure for maintaining cool chain
while transportation of perishables from
cargo terminal to aircraft bays should be
strengthened by CTOs against reasonable
cost. As a short term solution adequate
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SN Issues Taken Up Action Required to be taken by the sub-
committee Head
loaded on the aircraft. numbers of Thermal Blankets could be
arranged by the CTOs
9 Need of Cold storage facility
at Domestic Cargo Terminal.
For handling & storage of perishable cargo at
domestic cargo terminal proper
infrastructure facilities should be made
available as a short term & long term plan.
5.4.2.11. Service Standard Sub-committee
Meetings held – 01 (One)
SN Issues Taken Up Actions to be taken
1 Basics principles of Service
standard
A public commitment to a measurable level of performance that the customers can expect under normal circumstances in terms of timeliness, accuracy and appropriateness etc. as has been described by industry stalwarts.
Service Standard in the Air Logistics Industry may dwell upon the service standards of the following main six stake holders in the industry.
i) Shipper/ Importers ii) Freight Forwarders including
(Transporters)/ Express Operators iii) Clearing Agents iv) Airport Operator v) Terminal Operators vi) Airlines
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2 Approach to achieve the
goal
As part of action plan to map, benchmark and
monitor the Service Standards within India as
well as at International level, the members
decided that we should know first the complete
processes and responsibilities involved by each
player in the air logistics industry viz starting
with the Shipper in export till the airlines uplifts
the goods and vice versa for import on arrival
till collected by the consignee.
And then recommend the service levels in term
of time taken for completing each activity in
India and comparing with international level.
3 Participation of all the
members of stakeholders in
the air cargo logistics
industry
It was also felt that this Sub-committee does not
have a Freight Forwarder or CHA for mapping
each process they undergo and therefore
suggested to induct one expert from one of the
big freight forwarder of ACFI member. In this
regard Mr. Rajeev Khanna from Jeena & Co. was
requested to be part of this subcommittee.
4 Collection of inputs
regarding documents &
processes of entire flow of
operation
Need to identify the requirements that the
Shipper has to provide, all documents and
physical goods, and its role in the processes,
Freight Forwarders & CHA’s role preparing
documents, involvement in the processes and
physical presentation of cargo for clearance of
goods through Customs till hand over to the
cargo terminal operator /airline. Mr. Rajiv was
requested for the above inputs.
Airline following certain standard of SLAs with
their GSAs & ground handlers also needs to be
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studied for working out a composite standard.
The airline related inputs shall be arranged by
Mr. Jones
As regards Inputs viz. Copies of the approved
SLAs under implementation by each CTOs, IATA
standard Document formats wherever
applicable, role/part of Customs and Security
the same will be made available by Mr. Bhawani
Singh, DCSC and Mr. O P Sharma, DIAL to ACFI
Secretariat by 24.01.2014 positively.
On receipt of the above information, the same
will be consolidated and compiled by the
ACFI Secretariat for further discussion by the
subcommittee.
6. Events Organized by ACFI during the Year 2013-14
6.1. Air Cargo Security Conference
Theme - “Air Cargo Supply Chain Security – Future Outlook”
On 27th November, 2013 Air Cargo Forum India (ACFI) organized a half day
conference on ‘’Air Cargo Supply Chain Security – Future Outlook” at Hotel
Radisson, Blu Plaza, New Delhi to give focus on the overall security scenario in the
aviation industry particularly on Security related issues and challenges in Air Cargo
Supply Chain for the benefit of entire Air Cargo Logistics trade & Industry
stakeholders. It was the 2nd Air Cargo event successfully organized by ACFI since its
inception in Oct’2012.
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The key objective was to bring together all the stakeholders of air cargo supply chain and create awareness of Security related challenges, risks and mitigation and compliance to global regulations to facilitate global model, and application of technology in securing air cargo supply chain.
Participants: The event had an overwhelming participation of more than 100
participants which included Govt. Officials from various ministries, Customs, BCAS,
CISF, Members of Trade Associations like Air Cargo Agents Association (ACAAI) its
national President and Chairman Northern Region, Chairman Bar India Cargo NR,
EICI & DACAAI, major Exporters and Importers, members of air cargo supply chain
stakeholders Airlines, IATA accredited Freight Forwarders, Cargo Terminal
Operators, Integrators, Courier & Express Operators, Technology and Equipment
Suppliers, Airport Operators, General Sales Agents, Customs House Agents (CHAs).
The dignitaries who spoke on this occasion were; Mr. Pradeep Panicker, President
ACFI, Mr. SIS Ahmed, Director, GMR Group (Former Director General CISF and
CRPF), Mr. Blase D’Souza, Director Materials, Ingram Micro India Ltd., Mr. Rajinder
Chana, First Secretary, Aviation, Department for Transport, British High
Commission, New Delhi, Mr. Vipan Jain, Chairman, Bar India Cargo NR, Regional
Manager – Logistics, South Asia & Middle East – Lufthansa.
Speakers delivered lectures on the following topics Customer Perspective on Future Security Requirements and Preparedness
Securing without Slowing-Government Perspective
IATA - Secured Freight Initiative
International Security Practices and Adaptability in India
Airport Perspective on Air Cargo Security Challenges
ACFI Update – was given by Mr Cyrus Katgara Secretary ACFI highlighting following achievements achieved within a period of last one year from its inception.
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6.2. ACAAI & ACFI Joint Symposium:
Theme – “Progressing Air Cargo – Challenges and Opportunities”
First time in the history of air logistics supply chain industry in the country when
the two premier associations ACFI & ACAAI came together and jointly organized a
most successful air cargo symposium with the theme on ''Progressing Air Cargo-
Challenges and Opportunities'' on 26th Mar'2014 at Shangri- La's Eros Hotel, New
Delhi under a joint coordination group of both ACFI & ACAAI. This happened due to
the foresighted visions and leaderships of the Presidents of both these associations.
The Presidents of both Associations Mr. Pradeep Panicker President ACFI & Mr. S.L.
Sharma President ACAAI, jointly welcomed the guests with their respective
welcome addresses. The event had participation by key decision makers from the
government the Economic Advisor MoCA, Jt. Secretary (SCOPE) Ministry of
Commerce, Controller of Certifying Authorities, Ministry of Communication &
Information Technology, from Airlines, Freight Forwarders, Cargo Terminal
Operators, Airport Operators, Customs House Agents, and Express Operators etc.
with more than 200 delegates from across the country to participate in the
deliberations. The business sessions were so designed to ensure that this
symposium will be highly beneficial to all the stakeholders of Air Cargo Logistics
trade and to prepare it to convert the challenges into opportunities for growth.
The event has touched upon the future outlook of Air Cargo Business and was able
to bring to the fore the current challenges being faced by the Air Cargo Supply Chain
and opportunities available to the business. The focus has been on Go Green- the
paperless regime & how the regulatory regime shall be providing a favourable
platform to the industry for growth while also bringing forward the industry
expectations from them. The symposium also brought a flavor of innovations by
young entrepreneurs & professionals which showed the vision of 2050 fostering
growth of air logistics industry phi-nominal and liked by one and all.
The dignitaries who spoke on this occasion were Mr Pradeep Panicker, President
ACFI, Mr SL Sharma, President ACAAI, by Mr. Amber Dubey, Partner and Head –
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Aerospace and Defence, KPMG India, Mr M. Kannan the Economic Adviser, Ministry
of Civil Aviation, Mr. J.K. Dadoo, Jt. Secretary (SCOPE) Ministry of Commerce, Prof. G.
Raghuram from IIM (Ahmadabad), Mr. Rafeeque Ahmed President Federation of
Indian Export Organisation (FIEO), Mr. T.A. Khan Controller of Certifying
Authorities, Ministry of Communication & Information Technology, Mr. Vipan Jain,
Chairman Bar Cargo & Regional Manager Logistics, Lufthansa Cargo, Mr. Keshav
Tanna, Vice President FIATA, Mr. Pravin Singh, Area Commercial Head (Manager)
South Asia British Airways (Cargo), Mr. B. N. Puri, Member Secretary National
Transport Development Policy Committee and Mr. Tushar Jani, Chairman Delhi
Cargo Service Center.
The conference covered almost all the issues of air logistics trade under following
four sessions;-
Business Session – 1 : Outlook for Air Cargo Industry
Business Session – 2 : Regulatory Policies as Catalyst to Growth
Business Session – 3 : The World of Logistics 2050
Business Session – 4 : Preparing Infrastructure to meet Air Cargo Growth
The events went very well with an active participation of all members of the Air
Cargo Fraternity. As a special gesture “Two Lucky Draw Air Tickets” for two couples
were sponsored by InterGlobe Air Transport Ltd (Indigo Air Lines) for sectors
DELHI- MUMBAI-DELHI and DELHI-BAGALORE-DELHI
The comments received from the industry about the above joint symposium was
overwhelming as under;-
ACAAI & ACFI jointly organised the first grand event with absolute professionalism.
Sincere efforts and perfect planning delivered an excellent symposium. It has been a
dream come true to see the bonding & joining hands between ACAAI & ACFI on one
platform during the subject symposium. Needless to mention that togetherness of
these two trade bodies has been a bold step which is capable of doing wonders
towards the betterment of the air cargo sector. The move was truly appreciated to
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give a signal that a united force of ACAAI & ACFI would definitely yield considerable
fruitful results for the cargo fraternity. All the sessions conducted have been
extremely interesting and informative.
7. Status of various important activities initiated by ACFI Board with Govt. Agencies
Status of various important activities initiated by ACFI Board with various Govt.
Agencies and its achievements
SN Air Cargo Logistics Issues Taken-up with Authorities
Status
1 Advance Clearance facility of Pharma shipments at par with Mumbai Airport
DGHS - dated 27.02.2013
2nd ACLPB – dated 28.03.2013
Drug Controller General issued order dated 18/04/2013 for issues of advance NOC of ADC before the arrival of goods to airport. And the new procedure was implemented at IGIA May 2013.
This has saved unnecessary holding time of Pharma shipments at the cargo terminal.
2 Cost Recovery Charges on the Custodian
ACLPB – dated 28.03.2013
CBEC vide its Circular 16/2013 customs waived cost recovery charges for the air cargo complexes handling more than 12,000 Mt. of cargo and 35,000 numbers of BE/SB per annum.
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SN Air Cargo Logistics Issues Taken-up with Authorities
Status
3 Suggestions on Customs Brokers regulations including implementation of Digital Signature.
Chairman, CBEC
Dated 21.05.2013
Follow up stage
4 Maintenance of CHA records in soft copy in place of hard copies (Sec. 18 of CHALP 2004)
Member, Customs
Dated 28.05.2013
Follow up stage
5 24x7 Customs clearance of all Export/ Import Shipment
ACLPB – dated 28.03.2013
CBEC, dated 17/06/2013
CBEC Issued order 21/05/2013implemented on w.e.f. 01/06/2013 at Chennai, Delhi, Mumbai and Bangalore.
6 Follow up action on the minutes of 2nd meeting of ACLPB held on 28.03.2013 regarding 15 Issues raised by ACFI & Discussed in the said meeting.
Economic Advisor, MoCA dated 04.07.2013
Follow up stage
7 Solutions for Part Shipments cases & Part Delivery of import shipments as per International practices- i. Short Term Solutions - DC
should be allowed to permit in place of Add. Comm. Save at least 1 – 2 days.
ii. Long Term – As per Airports in US and EU countries through systems by filing permit document in their EDI System.
Chairman CBEC, dated 13.08.2013
3rd ACLPB Meeting
dated 20.09.2013
Once again President ACFI took up in the 4th ACLPB held on 4th Mar’2014
For consideration by CBEC.
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SN Air Cargo Logistics Issues Taken-up with Authorities
Status
8 Dispensation of Delivery orders hard copy of accept soft copy of D.O./ House D.O.
DG System, dated 03.09.2013
Follow up stage
9 Traffic restriction on movement of cargo carrying vehicle – Allow small Vehicle (TATA 407, TATA ACE, TEMPO)
Within Airport Area free movement of cargo carrying vehicle
DC (Police), HQs.
Dated 07.09.2013
Response on
DCS & VIP, New Delhi
Dated 09.10.2013
i. DCP Traffic (VIP Delhi) has responded wide letter dated 09.10.2013.
ii. No-Entry restriction will continue.
iii. Cargo terminal is approachable from NH-8 and Dwarka BPCL side. There is no restriction and no entry timing on the road from Centaur hotel to cargo terminal.
10 Up-gradation of Customs IT Systems to avoid frequent break downs.
Points related to Customs EDI Systems (05 Issues) and Customs Process improvement (09) was taken up.
Secretary, Revenue
Dated 26.09.2013
Follow up meeting with Member Customs on dated 01.10.2013 by ACFI Board members and latter dated 11.02.2014.
11 Follow-up action with Member Customs subsequent to meeting dated 01.10.2013.
a. Points related to DG Systems;
Member, Customs
Dated 04.10.2013
3rd ACLPB meeting 20.09.2013.
Follow up Meeting with member Customs held on 01.10.2013.
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SN Air Cargo Logistics Issues Taken-up with Authorities
Status
i. Paperless/Digital Signature Implementation
ii. Automatic refund of Double paid customs duty
iii. Bounds and B.G. to be filed through EDI
iv. Transshipment EDI Module to expedited
b. Procedure Points related
to Customs; i. E-records Maintenance ii. Part Shipment
Clearance of Import Cargo
iii. Dispensation of gate officers
iv. Dispensation of Custodian copies of Customs Out of Charge
Advance filing of B/E based on MAWB/ HAWB.
4th ACLPB meeting 04.03.2014.
12 Introduction of RMS in Export
2nd ACLPB Meeting dated 28.03.2013
Customs Introduced RMS in Export in Air cargo Complexes (Delhi) w.e.f. 24.01.2014 wide Public Notice 17/2013 and Corundum No. PN-2/2014 dated 20.01.2014
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SN Air Cargo Logistics Issues Taken-up with Authorities
Status
12 Promoting Indian Airports as Major Air Cargo Hubs
Economic Advisor, MoCA, wide latter 13.02.2014
Follow up stage
13 Review of BCAS Known Shipper and Regulated Agents Concept Policy of 8/2008
4th ACLPB meeting 04.03.2014.
BCAS to submit report to MoCA.
8. Major Achievements of ACFI during last two years
28 logistics industry specific issues have been taken up with various
government authorities (Secy. Revenue MoF, Chairman CBEC, Member
Customs, DG System, BCAS, and ACLPB) and being continuously pursued with
them for consideration.
13 internal issues pertaining to members of the logistics industry have
already been resolved internally with the assistance of members Cargo
Terminal Operators (CTO).
ACFI had also forwarded 44 recommendations related to Air Cargo Logistics
Industry, to Chairman CBEC on the policy changes in the existing Customs
Act-1962 for consideration.
ACFI an apex body of entire members of air cargo logistics trade & industry
has been invited to be a part of the regular meetings of the Air Cargo Logistic
Promotion Board (ACLPB) constituted by Ministry of Civil Aviation under the
Chairmanship of Secretary, Civil Aviation. ACFI has taken up 15 issues
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pertaining to air cargo logistics industry in the ACLPB meetings & all these
points have been discussed & deliberated.
ACFI among few other trade bodies can claim a share in the successful
implementation of 24x7 clearances of all export goods by Customs
implemented w.e.f. 1st July’2013 as this was one of the 28 issues raised by
ACFI at various levels of government departments & forums.
Standardization of Export clearance procedure for Pharmaceutical Goods
uniformly at all the airports in India has been accepted by DGHS based on
ACFI representation to DGHS & at ACLPB, & implemented at IGIA w.e.f.
Apr’2013 thus saving 3-4 hours waiting time of the Pharma shipments at the
cargo terminal.
First time in the country a Paperless Export Cargo Acceptance System
(PECAS) has been introduced for acceptance of Export Cargo and successfully
implemented at IGIA through online transmission of LEO and Location Slip
(Acceptance) messages by the CTOs to Airlines & freight forwarders w.e.f.
22.07.2013. This paperless process also saves 2-3 hours of process time of
export cargo at the cargo terminal.
In order to give special focus on each specific issues of logistics industry and
their timely solutions, ACFI has established following 11 Sub Committees
headed by its specialists members, with a specific objectives given to each
subcommittees to achieve.
a. Process Simplification
b. Apparel & Textile
c. Pharma Export
d. Auto Industry
e. Electronics Industry
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f. Express Cargo Industry
g. Domestic & Transhipment Cargo
h. Perishable Export/Import Cargo
i. Non Scheduled Flight Operation
j. Service Standard in the Air Logistic
k. Membership
Case studies prepared by the respective subcommittees are put up to ACFI Board
for approval & taking up with the concern agencies & authorities for solution. With
the result more than 28 issues pertaining to air logistics industry & trade has been
taken up by ACFI Board with the concern government authorities.
9. Other Activities
9.1. Release of E- News Letters:
ACFI has released following three (03) E-News Letters through its website
www.acfi.in during the year under report, covering important events &
achievements of ACFI for the information & knowledge of all air cargo logistics
trade & industry members.
a. April’2013 Issue - Covering the first Event of ACFI on the theme of “Air Cargo Today to Tomorrow” which was held on 5th March, 2013 at Westin Hotel, Gurgaon, aiming at better future of air cargo in spite of number of challenges at present.
b. Sep’2013 Issue – About the establishment of eight Industry Specific sub-
committees by ACFI to resolve issues, bring improvements related to Air Logistics Trade & Industry and achievements of ACFI.
c. Dec’2013 Issue - Covering the features of the maiden event organised by ACFI on the theme of “Air Cargo Supply Chain Security – Future Outlook” at Hotel Radisson, Blu Plaza, New Delhi on 27th Sep’2013 with the objective to
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give focus on the overall security scenario in the aviation industry particularly on security related issues and challenges in Air Cargo Supply Chain for the benefit of entire Air Cargo Logistics trade & Industry stakeholders.
9.2. Points of Special Mention: Support of DIAL to ACFI Secretariat
The support of Delhi International Airport (P) Limited (DIAL) to ACFI
Secretariat is commendable. ACFI Secretariat which is functioning from its
registered office at Room No. 19, Ground Floor, Old Project Office, New Udaan
Bhawan, Opposite T-3, IGI Airport, New Delhi-110037 has been provided by
Delhi International Airport Ltd.(DIAL) free of cost, right from the inception of
ACFI i.e. Sep’2011 with all office equipments & furniture (One room and one
work station with full furniture viz table and chairs, one HP Printer, Two
Telephone, one laptop, two Elmira).
Apart from above DIAL conference rooms & auditoriums are being used by
ACFI regularly for its Board meetings, subcommittee meetings & AGMs.
ACFI Governing Board placed its appreciation & gratitude on record in various
ACFI Board meetings about above valuable support extended by DIAL to ACFI.
9.3. Action Plans for F.Y. 2014-15
i. Celebration of ACFI Annual Day and release of the first ACFI Year Book on 10th
October, 2014.
ii. Establishment of ACFI Regional Branches at Bangalore(Southern Chapter)
and Mumbai(Western Chapter).
iii. February, 2015 – ACFI Conference on Perishable cargo including Pharma,
Exhibition & Networking Dinner.
iv. Air Cargo Fraternity Interaction with Industry Leaders/ Senior Government
Officials. March’2015
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10. Contact Information
AIR CARGO FORUM INDIA Room No. 19, Ground Floor, Project Office, New Udaan Bhawan, Opposite Terminal – T3, I.G.I. Airport, New Delhi - 110037
Tel +91 11 46084295
Email ID: [email protected]
www.acfi.in
Mr. K. S. Kunwar, Director General
+91 9810155688
Mr. D. R. Juyal, Director
+91 9818417788