Ritika
Research scholar, Department of Economics, Galgotias, New Delhi, Delhi
This study examines the transformation of cold chain logistics in India’s seafood industry in the post-COVID-19 era, highlighting how the pandemic exposed structural vulnerabilities and accelerated systemic reforms. The seafood sector, heavily dependent on temperature-sensitive logistics, faced severe disruptions due to lockdowns, labor shortages, and transportation bottlenecks, leading to substantial economic losses and supply chain breakdowns. The research adopts a case study approach, focusing on industry responses such as digitalization, decentralized storage infrastructure, and collaborative logistics models. Special emphasis is placed on the adaptive strategies of firms like Avanti Feeds Ltd., which leveraged IoT-enabled monitoring systems, cloud-based inventory management, and regional processing hubs to enhance resilience. Government interventions, particularly through schemes like PMMSY, played a critical role in strengthening infrastructure and supporting recovery. The study further explores the integration of sustainability practices, including solar-powered cold storage and green refrigeration technologies. Despite progress, challenges such as fragmented logistics networks, power instability, and skill gaps persist. The findings underline the importance of technological innovation, public-private partnerships, and policy support in building resilient and sustainable supply chains. The research contributes to the broader discourse on supply chain resilience and offers strategic insights for industries dealing with perishable goods in volatile environments.