IBM has announced that it is implementing Radio Frequency Identification (RFID)-based
solution for Hindustan Petroleum Corporation Ltd (HPCL). HPCL will leverage
IBM's technology expertise to deploy an end-to-end tracking solution based on
RFID technology at HPCL's Nashik plant.
Under the agreement, IBM will design, deploy and integrate the RFID solution
for tracking LPG cylinders from plant to the end-consumer. The solution will
streamline the process of identification of LPG cylinders during bottling,
distribution and supply chain, and is expected to cover five lakh cylinders in
the initial phase. HPCL intends to evaluate the technology and deploy the same
in a phased manner to cover the entire supply chain from bottling plant,
logistics and distributors to the end-consumers.
Commenting on the project, GA Shirwaikar, Executive Director-LPG, HPCL said,
“RFID-based cylinder tracking project is the first of its kind in India.
Considering the magnitude of our operations, which continues to grow
significantly, it has become imperative for us to bring greater efficiencies in
our supply chain. We aim to achieve this with RFID-based tracking solution. We
are happy to partner with IBM, as their global expertise in deploying such
solution would help HPCL strengthen its supply chain of LPG cylinders
end-to-end, and finally result in significant operational benefits for the
organization. We also expect to rollout this solution to other plants in India
besides extending it to dealers for integrated supply chain.”
“We are excited about the RFID implementation at HPCL and especially the fact
that this solution covers the entire supply chain of HPCL's very significant LPG
business. The energy sector is seeing a tremendous growth in India and we
believe that a unique solution like this will help market leaders like HPCL
improve their operational efficiencies while strengthen their competitive edge
in the market,” said Nipun Mehrotra, VP and GM-Global Technology Services, IBM
India/South Asia.
IBM also has 13 worldwide RFID solution centers, which offer a combination of
RFID technical expertise, practical assessment and implementation services, and
solutions.