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Experts discuss advancements & challenges in cold chain management at NAB-CCM launch
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Shardul Nautiyal, Mumbai
February 18 , 2025
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The launch of the National Accreditation Body for Cold Chain Management (NAB-CCM) marked a significant milestone in ensuring ethical practices and compliance in pharmaceutical cold chain logistics. A panel of industry experts convened to discuss the evolving landscape of cold chain management in India, emphasizing the importance of good distribution practices, regulatory frameworks, and technological advancements.
The panel discussion featured prominent voices in the industry, including Nigel Dsouza (Aramex Logistics - Moderator), Ravi Kumar Tummalapalli (Envirotainer - Packaging), Pankaj Menta (Carrier Transicold - Refrigeration Technology and Systems), Ryan Viegas (Independent Consultant - Pharma Expert), and Rituparna Chaturvedi (Healthcare Logistics Expert).
The discussion centred on crucial aspects of cold chain logistics, such as policy frameworks, the need for a standardized curriculum in life sciences and healthcare education, and the role of accreditation bodies in maintaining compliance.
One of the key challenges highlighted was the lack of end-to-end monitoring in cold chain logistics, leading to disruptions that impact the potency and efficacy of pharmaceutical products. The experts also emphasized the growing role of artificial intelligence and predictive analytics in optimizing supply chain operations and ensuring real-time tracking of temperature-sensitive goods.
With the Indian cold chain sector evolving rapidly, stakeholders underscored the increasing importance of stringent temperature control measures to maintain drug efficacy. The discussions reinforced the necessity of establishing a certifying or accreditation body for cold chain management to standardize operations across the industry.
NAB-CCM aims to address these challenges by introducing specialized training programs and certifications to equip professionals with the required expertise. The courses launched include:
• Vocational course: Designed for individuals with a 10+2 qualification seeking entry-level roles in cold chain logistics.
• Foundation programme: Tailored for graduates from diverse backgrounds to build a strong understanding of cold chain management.
• Certification programme in cold chain management: Aimed at professionals seeking industry accreditation.
• Executive programme in cold chain management: Targeted at final-year students and professionals aspiring for leadership roles.
• Cold chain compliance auditing programme: Developed with expert input to enhance compliance auditing skills.
• Masterclass in cold chain management: A refresher course for industry professionals to update their knowledge and skills.
Avinash Verma, founder of NAB-CCM and a leading expert in pharmaceutical and life science cold chain management, emphasized the importance of structured education in the field stating, "We are committed to bridging the knowledge gap in cold chain compliance by providing specialized training and certifications. Our initiative is not just about offering courses but about creating a robust framework for compliance, ensuring ethical practices, and standardizing the industry."
Sarvesh Chaubey, co-founder of NAB-CCM, highlighted the role of stakeholders in making this initiative successful and said, "This programme is only possible with the support of stakeholders across logistics, warehousing, and refrigeration technology. We aim to create a well-informed workforce that can handle real-world challenges effectively."
The structured learning pathways offered by NAB-CCM are designed to bridge the existing knowledge gap and establish a standardized approach to cold chain compliance. Industry experts noted that the success of this initiative hinges on active collaboration between logistics providers, warehousing operators, and refrigeration technology specialists.
A key concern raised during the event was the slow pace of policy implementation in the cold chain sector. Despite growing awareness, regulatory frameworks remain underdeveloped, lacking clear enforcement timelines. The panelists urged policymakers to expedite decision-making and establish comprehensive guidelines for the industry.
In response to these concerns, NAB-CCM reassured stakeholders that they are working closely with certification bodies like FCC to streamline audits and ensure faster regulatory approvals. By fostering a culture of compliance and ethical practices, NAB-CCM aims to drive improvements in cold chain logistics and set new benchmarks for the industry.
Dignitaries in the event also included chief guest of the event Prof Anirudha B Pandit, vice chancellor (president), Institute of Chemical Technology, Mumbai, Guest of Honour of the event Prof Ravindra D Kulkarni, vice-chancellor (VC), University of Mumbai (MU) and Salil Javeri, brand ambassador of Ambarnath Municipal Council, Swacha Survekshan.
Ashish Chauhan, founder of Bluetech Media, set the stage for the event with a welcome note, highlighting the significance of the discussions and the imperative for industry-wide collaboration in fostering safety and sustainability.
As NAB-CCM’s initiatives gain momentum, industry stakeholders remain optimistic about the future of cold chain management in India. With structured education programs, enhanced regulatory frameworks, and the integration of cutting-edge technology, the sector is poised to achieve higher efficiency, ensuring the safe and effective distribution of temperature-sensitive pharmaceuticals.
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