FedEx, IIT Madras Launch SMART Centre for Sustainable, AI-led Logistics

FedEx has partnered with the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Madras to inaugurate the SMART Centre (Supply Chain Modelling, Algorithms, Research and Technology Centre) on the institute’s campus. The facility will drive innovation in sustainable and AI-driven logistics solutions. 

Backed by a five-year $5 million grant from FedEx, the SMART Centre aims to combine advanced research, digital technologies, and industry expertise to transform supply chains with a focus on agility, resilience, and environmental responsibility.

The centre will also spearhead interdisciplinary projects in areas such as carbon-neutral operations, autonomous delivery systems, EV infrastructure, predictive analytics, and AI-based worker safety. In addition, it will act as a platform for capacity building and knowledge sharing across the logistics ecosystem.

The inauguration was attended by Kami Viswanathan, President, Middle East, Indian Subcontinent, and Africa (MEISA), FedEx; Nitin Navneet Tatiwala, Vice President, Marketing, Customer Experience, and Air Network, MEISA, FedEx; Prof. V Kamakoti, Director of IIT Madras; and Prof. Ashwin Mahalingam, Dean (Alumni and Corporate Relations), IIT Madras.

Speaking at the event, Kami Viswanathan said, “The Centre is more than just a hub for research – it is a space where technology and talent come together with a shared purpose to shape what’s next.”

News source: Hindustan Times