Welcome to a special feature where we delve into the innovative world of technology. Today, we have the privilege of engaging in a candid conversation with the visionaries behind Roadcast Technology. These revolutionary pioneers are redefining the landscape of technology with their groundbreaking solutions. Join us as we uncover their journey, their inspirations, and their aspirations for the future.
Exclusive Interview with Roadcast Technology Founders
Let me introduce our esteemed guests for today’s interview:
Firstly, we have Vishal Jain, a co-founder of Roadcast and an experienced finance professional. With a background in Accounting & Finance and Chartered Accountancy, Vishal brings over 12 years of expertise from the computer software industry. He notably led a team of over 50 employees at the internationally recognized advertising firm, DRAFT FCB. His strength lies in leveraging his solid foundation in finance and marketing to successfully deploy Fintech & CRM products.
Next, we have Rahul Mehra, another co-founder of Roadcast. Armed with a degree in mechanical engineering and a professional background in digital product design, Rahul has designed applications for renowned brands like Vodafone and BMW during his tenure at leading advertising agencies including Ogilvy & Mather. His forte is in strategy, product design, and communication.
Finally, we have Anshul Jain, who also co-founded Roadcast. With more than a decade of core IT experience under his belt, Anshul has worked with leading IT enterprises such as Amdocs, Ameriprise, and Indiagames. His strengths are rooted in core IT product development and technology architecture design.
Together, they form the dynamic trio behind the AI-powered digital logistics platform, Roadcast. Let’s delve into their journey and vision for the company.
1. Can you tell us about the journey of Roadcast Technology since its inception in 2015? What have been some of the key milestones?
Roadcast Technology embarked on its journey in 2015 with a vision to revolutionize the logistics sector. The founding team, consisting of Rahul Mehra, Vishal Jain, and Anshul Jain, identified a crucial gap in real-time visibility within the logistics service. The company’s mission was to provide tech-based tools for optimizing fleet management operations. Since then, Roadcast has achieved several key milestones.
Notably, it has witnessed a remarkable 500% growth with revenue soaring from 4Cr to 25Cr in a short period. The company has expanded its global footprint, establishing offices in Vietnam and serving clients in UAE and London. Securing a funding of 2 million dollars from Jubilant Food Works has further fueled Roadcast’s growth.
2. In what ways is Roadcast’s technology revolutionizing the logistics and transportation industry?
Roadcast is at the forefront of transforming the logistics and transportation industry through its innovative technology. The company offers customizable and comprehensive software and hardware technology solutions that facilitate real-time visibility and insights, optimizing fleet management operations. With advanced GPS tracking, route optimization, EV management, fuel monitoring, yard management and more, Roadcast empowers businesses to streamline their operations, reduce costs, and enhance overall efficiency.
For rider management, our comprehensive platform empowers fleet managers to effortlessly set and monitor various aspects, including attendance, order details, cash management, and more. Roadcast helps significantly improve asset, vehicle, and rider visibility, thereby optimizing operations. Our technology has proven instrumental in fleet management for diverse sectors, including collaborations with Delhi Police, UDAAN, Jubilant Food Works, and waste management initiatives in cities like Pune. The company extends its hardware solutions via e-commerce platforms like Amazon, connecting not only with businesses but also consumers seeking devices such as trackers, ID card trackers, e-locks, etc., for seamless day-to-day travel, vehicle management.
3. With India employing 22 million people in logistics, how do you envision the impact of technological advancements on employment in this sector?
Technological advancements in the logistics sector will have a transformative impact on employment. While certain manual roles may evolve, technology-driven solutions like Roadcast’s create new opportunities. As the logistics industry becomes more efficient and sophisticated, there is a growing demand for skilled professionals in areas such as data analytics, AI, and technology management. Roadcast envisions contributing to skill development and job creation by fostering innovation and embracing a technology-forward approach in the logistics ecosystem.
4. How critical is infrastructural development in accelerating India’s GDP growth, and what role does Roadcast play in this?
Infrastructural development is a critical driver of India’s GDP growth, especially in the logistics sector.
In the past few years, India has invested on modernized roads, ports, and warehouses which has facilitated smoother operations, fostering economic growth and global trade. For instance, the PM Gati Shakti program strives for cohesive infrastructure development to cut logistics costs. Its focus lies in enhancing inter-ministerial communication to efficiently achieve the goal of improved logistics infrastructure.
Upcoming projects like Mumbai trans harbour link, aqua lines etc will help in further accelerating India’s GPD by contributing to economic growth. Roadcast plays a pivotal role by providing technology solutions that optimize fleet management. In sync with initiatives like the National Logistics Policy (NLP), Roadcast contributes to creating a seamless and cost-effective logistics network. By enhancing efficiency, reducing transit times, and enabling real-time monitoring, Roadcast’s technology aligns with the goals of infrastructural development, positively impacting economic growth.
5. The logistics industry in India is projected to grow significantly by 2025. How is Roadcast positioning itself to capitalise on this potential growth?
The shipping and logistics sector plays a crucial role in India’s economic landscape, making a substantial contribution to the nation’s gross domestic product (GDP). As per December 2023, India’s logistics cost to GDP is 16 percent which is further likely to fall to a single digit in 2024.
Roadcast is strategically positioning itself to capitalise on and contribute to the projected growth of the logistics industry in India. With an industry-agnostic approach, Roadcast’s tech-based tools cater to the diverse needs of businesses, including last-mile delivery, waste management, and public sector collaborations. The company’s expansion into global markets and active involvement in technological advancements, such as AI, ML, and data analytics, positions it as a key player ready to leverage the anticipated growth in the logistics sector.
6. How has the National Logistics Policy (NLP) launched in 2022 influenced Roadcast’s strategy and operations?
The National Logistics Policy (NLP) has significantly influenced Roadcast’s strategy and operations. The policy’s emphasis on a unified legal framework and a single-window e-logistics market aligns with Roadcast’s mission to provide a comprehensive platform for fleet management. By supporting the One Nation, One Contract paradigm and simplifying trade procedures, the NLP enhances Roadcast’s ability to streamline operations, collaborate with diverse stakeholders, and contribute to the growth of the logistics ecosystem.
7. Given that the unorganised sector makes up over 90% of the logistics industry, what are your suggestions for improving communication between various stakeholders?
Improving communication within the logistics industry, especially in the unorganised sector is crucial for efficiency and growth. Roadcast suggests implementing digital platforms and technology solutions to bridge communication gaps. By encouraging the adoption of unified digital interfaces and communication tools, stakeholders can seamlessly exchange information in real-time. Roadcast’s technology-driven framework serves as a model, facilitating secure, confidential, and instant information exchange among manufacturers, government bodies, customs, shippers, and service providers.
As per making our platform more user-friendly, it can be customized according to local languages. Users can seamlessly navigate and interact with the platform in their preferred language, enhancing accessibility and ensuring a tailored experience that caters to diverse linguistic preferences. We have also strategically cultivated a team for local language support. Users facing challenges can comfortably engage with our support team in their local language, eliminating communication barriers and facilitating a smoother resolution process.
8. Could you elaborate on how a technology-driven framework can facilitate secure, confidential, real-time information exchange among manufacturers, government bodies, customs, shippers, and service providers?
By leveraging advanced technologies like blockchain, encryption, and secure APIs, a technology-driven framework facilitates real-time tracking, monitoring, and data sharing. Manufacturers, government bodies, customs, shippers, and service providers can access pertinent information securely, enhancing transparency and collaboration. This framework not only streamlines operations but also ensures compliance with regulatory standards and data security protocols.
9. What do you believe will be the impact of the Unified Logistics Interface Platform (ULIP) on the logistics industry, and how is Roadcast preparing for this?
The Unified Logistics Interface Platform (ULIP) is anticipated to have a transformative impact on the logistics industry, promoting cost efficiency and enterprise productivity. Roadcast is actively preparing for this shift by staying at the forefront of technological advancements. The company is investing in research and development of AI and ML-based technologies, data analytics infrastructure, and talent acquisition to align with the goals of ULIP. Roadcast aims to be a key contributor to the industry’s evolution through seamless integration with emerging platforms like ULIP.
10. How do you think the implementation of ULIP will change the landscape of the logistics industry, particularly in terms of cost efficiency and enterprise productivity?
The implementation of ULIP is expected to bring about a paradigm shift in the logistics industry. ULIP’s unified interface will streamline processes, reduce redundancies, and enhance collaboration among stakeholders. This, in turn, will contribute to significant cost efficiency and enterprise productivity. Roadcast’s technology aligns with this vision, offering solutions that optimise fleet management, reduce operational costs, and increase overall efficiency, thereby complementing the goals of ULIP implementation.
11. Lastly, as co-founders, what is your vision for the future of Roadcast Technology?
As co-founders, our vision for Roadcast Technology is to continue being a pioneering force in the global logistics and transportation industry. We aim to further expand our global presence across diverse markets, driving innovation and excellence. Roadcast will continue to play a pivotal role in leveraging cutting-edge technologies to optimise fleet management, enhance efficiency, and contribute to the growth of the logistics ecosystem. Our commitment to technological innovation, talent acquisition, and client diversification will remain at the core of our strategy as we envision a future where Roadcast is synonymous with transformative advancements in the logistics sector.
