INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF LATEST TECHNOLOGY IN ENGINEERING,

MANAGEMENT & APPLIED SCIENCE (IJLTEMAS)

ISSN 2278-2540 | DOI: 10.51583/IJLTEMAS | Volume XV, Issue II, February 2026

Green Supply Chain Management Enhances Competitiveness and

This study argues that green supply chain management (GSCM) significantly boosts competitiveness and

economic growth in India's agro-food sector. It analyzes how Indian agro-food companies adopt GSCM

practices. As a part of the GSCM approach, eco-friendly packaging, reverse logistics, and energy-efficient

transportation are considered to maintain their product quality. Apart from the GSCM approach, there is the

impact these practices have on the competitiveness and financial performance of the rest of the mode of

production. In this study, quantitative methods and secondary data from government and industry sources are

used. The research demonstrates how these GSCM elements strengthen company performance and contribute to

the agro industry’s sectoral growth. Using descriptive statistics and core hypotheses, the study identifies

prevalent practices in the agro-industry. Through this study, we review relevant policy frameworks, identify the

obstacles in this sector, and recommend strategies for broader GSCM adoption. The investigation further

friendly Practices

INTRODUCTION

Green Supply Chain Management (GSCM) is now central to competitiveness and economic value creation across

all sectors of the economy. GSCM integrates environmental priorities directly into product supply chain

processes. Intended for the sale of goods and services, it distinguishes between product origin, operational supply

chain management, and product sustainability throughout the product lifecycle. This connection to core

economic principles: consumption, production, distribution, exchange, and revenue drives both consumption’s

utility and producer profits. Through implementing green practices, GSCM can advance sustainable and

responsible business operations. Economic sustainability shapes both business strategy and market expectations.

GSCM emerges as a fundamental approach that links economic growth to ecological sustainability. This

by product features, production scale, product differentiation, supply chain optimization, and infrastructure, all

of which influence green supply chain management. Efficiency focuses on reducing costs and streamlining

processes, while effectiveness addresses stakeholder interests throughout the product lifecycle. Economic theory

INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF LATEST TECHNOLOGY IN ENGINEERING,

MANAGEMENT & APPLIED SCIENCE (IJLTEMAS)

ISSN 2278-2540 | DOI: 10.51583/IJLTEMAS | Volume XV, Issue II, February 2026

simplifies these dynamics, but real-world complexities require adaptive management to address market changes.

The entry and exit of companies influence market dynamics, affecting prices, production, and distribution. Green

supply chain management leverages new technologies to modernize traditional supply chains. For instance, tools

such as blockchain for tracking, artificial intelligence for demand forecasting, and the Internet of Things (IoT)

for real-time inventory management enhance efficiency and resilience. At the same time, globalization has

increased complexity, requiring companies to navigate international trade regulations and diverse legal

environments. Therefore, businesses must address these challenges while controlling costs, managing risks, and

sustainability at every stage, starting with eco-friendly farming: selecting sustainable seeds, using organic

fertilizers, and implementing integrated pest management to reduce chemical use and support biodiversity. Water

conservation methods, such as drip irrigation and rainwater harvesting, and energy-efficient equipment, enhance

resource efficiency and reduce emissions.

Sustainability initiatives extend to processing plants, where energy-efficient equipment and renewable energy

sources are increasingly used. Moreover, companies are implementing waste treatment to reduce food waste and

reuse byproducts, supporting a circular economy. Packaging is also shifting toward biodegradable or recyclable

materials to minimize plastic waste. Transportation and logistics improvements, such as optimized routes,

efficient vehicles, and alternative fuels, help lower carbon emissions. While sustainable technologies often

require significant upfront investment, they can yield long-term savings. As a result, companies are exploring

governance (ESG) is a business model that prioritizes eco-friendly practices achieve higher efficiency, cost

savings, and stronger customer loyalty, thereby directly enhancing competitiveness. These strategies also reduce

risks from climate change, resource scarcity, and regulatory changes. The Indian agro-food industry's wider

adoption of GSCM is driven by enduring consumer demand and clear long-term financial value. Technologies

such as blockchain, IoT, and artificial intelligence are essential tools that support transparency, real-time

monitoring, and resource optimization. Business sustainability at a large scale requires active partnership among

all supply chain actors. While industry standards, farmer-producer organizations (FPOs), and NGO involvement

indirectly enhance production capacity. This approach accelerates the adoption of consistent best practices,

which directly support India's economic growth. Adopting green supply chain management in the agro-food

industry presents challenges, including high costs, complex technologies, and difficulties in measuring

and supporting rapid sector growth. GSCM focuses on eco-friendly practices across production, processing,

packaging, and distribution, and companies can strengthen competitiveness and meet the rising demand for

sustainable food. While large firms have greater resources to manage green supply chains, small producers need

targeted support due to limited access to technology, funding, and markets, as well as high certification expenses.

Despite these barriers, the fast-growing Indian agro-food industry stands to gain significantly from GSCM,

INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF LATEST TECHNOLOGY IN ENGINEERING,

MANAGEMENT & APPLIED SCIENCE (IJLTEMAS)

ISSN 2278-2540 | DOI: 10.51583/IJLTEMAS | Volume XV, Issue II, February 2026

capturing greater market share and delivering greater value. The industry's path forward hinges on adopting

sustainable production techniques, reducing chemicals, choosing eco-friendly packaging, and implementing a

coordinated green strategy across the supply chain to achieve an enduring competitive edge. Implementing green

supply chain management offers benefits such as reduced environmental impact, improved resource efficiency,

higher product quality, and increased customer trust. Organic farming, for example, prevents soil and water

damage while producing healthier food. Innovative packaging made from renewable materials or that uses less

plastic attracts eco-conscious consumers and benefits the environment. Sustainable strategies can open new

economic growth. However, transitioning to green supply chains requires significant investment, stakeholder

collaboration, and support from government, industry, and research organizations. Policies that promote eco-

friendly practices, assist small producers, and raise consumer awareness are essential. Despite the challenges,

the potential rewards in market growth, customer satisfaction, and environmental protection are substantial. By

embracing innovation, India's agro-food industry can lead in sustainable food production, meet evolving

and end-of-life disposal. GSCM addresses both economic and sustainability issues, aiming to reduce

reverse-engineering products and supply chains, planning production to use fewer resources and generate less

waste, and carefully selecting suppliers and materials. Logistics and marketing strategies also focus on cutting

transportation emissions and encouraging sustainable consumption. Companies that use GSCM can gain a

competitive edge through cost savings, reduced waste, and improved energy efficiency. The push for eco-

recycled or renewable materials, and considering the lifecycle impact of sourced goods. Sustainable distribution

aims to reduce the environmental impacts of logistics and warehousing by optimizing transportation routes, using

low-emission vehicles, adopting energy-efficient warehousing practices, and exploring alternative delivery

methods. The implementation of GSCM is supported by several conceptual models: 1. Triple Bottom Line

Theory stresses balancing economic, social, and environmental performance. 2. Stakeholder Theory highlights

the need to address the concerns of various stakeholders, not just shareholders. 3. Resource-Based View Theory

suggests firms can gain an advantage by developing unique, sustainable practices or technologies. 4. Circular

Economy models promote closed-loop systems that minimize waste and boost resource efficiency. Together,

these models provide a comprehensive approach to implementing GSCM, emphasizing the need to consider

environmental and social impacts alongside economic performance, engage with stakeholders, develop

AI helps with route planning and inventory, reducing emissions and avoiding overproduction. Big data analytics

helps companies spot trends and make better sustainability decisions. New materials, such as bioplastics and

recycled materials, support a circular economy by reducing the need for new raw materials and cutting waste.

INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF LATEST TECHNOLOGY IN ENGINEERING,

MANAGEMENT & APPLIED SCIENCE (IJLTEMAS)

ISSN 2278-2540 | DOI: 10.51583/IJLTEMAS | Volume XV, Issue II, February 2026

These changes not only help the environment but can also lower costs and improve products. Working closely

with suppliers is also important. Companies are training suppliers in green practices, offering incentives like

better contracts or shared savings, and setting joint goals to build a shared commitment to sustainability across

the supply chain.

Despite these improvements, organizations still face significant challenges in implementing GSCM. High

upfront costs for green technologies and materials can be a major barrier, especially for smaller companies with

limited funds. The long-term benefits of GSCM, such as lower costs and a better reputation, may not be clear

right away, making it hard to justify the initial investment. Technology and infrastructure can also pose obstacles,

old methods. Overcoming this resistance often requires strong leadership and careful change management.

Addressing these barriers is essential for organizations to get the full benefits of GSCM and help build a

sustainable economy. When done well, GSCM can improve environmental performance, increase efficiency,

reduce costs, and boost brand value. As more consumers want eco-friendly products, companies that overcome

these challenges and adopt GSCM are likely to stand out.

REVIEW OF LITERATURE

supply chains in India and beyond. The conceptual framework for this study is built upon six interrelated

thematic pillars derived from the literature on Green Supply Chain Management (GSCM) in the agro-food sector.

These themes converge to shape a holistic understanding of how sustainability practices enhance

competitiveness and drive economic growth in India’s agricultural sector.

Digital Transformation and Green Technologies: This theme captures the role of emerging technologies, such

as blockchain, IoT, and AI, in improving transparency, resource efficiency, and traceability across the supply

chain. These innovations enable real-time monitoring and predictive analytics, which are essential for optimizing

logistics and reducing environmental impact.

Waste Management and Resource Efficiency: Studies emphasize minimizing waste at the earliest stages of

production and distribution. Efficient resource use, biodegradable packaging, and circular economy principles

INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF LATEST TECHNOLOGY IN ENGINEERING,

MANAGEMENT & APPLIED SCIENCE (IJLTEMAS)

ISSN 2278-2540 | DOI: 10.51583/IJLTEMAS | Volume XV, Issue II, February 2026

Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning: AI-ML technologies offer high-accuracy assessments of

sustainability metrics, enabling companies to automate evaluations and improve compliance. These tools are

especially valuable in scaling GSCM across diverse and complex supply networks. At the center of this

framework is Green Supply Chain Management in the Agro-Food Sector. This integrates these six themes to

guide empirical analysis and strategic recommendations. The framework reflects a systems-oriented approach,

recognizing that sustainable transformation requires technological innovation, institutional support,

organizational capacity, and collaborative action across the supply chain. In this paper, we incorporate the

sustainability, operations, performance, and risk management. Industry 4.0 and 5.0 technologies—such as AI,

robotics, smart sensors, and big data—are increasingly linked to sustainability outcomes. Hassoun et al. (2022)

connected these technologies to the Sustainable Development Goals, while Singh et al. (2025) highlighted how

Industry 5.0 integrates human collaboration with advanced digital tools to promote sustainable food production.

Despite these advances, challenges remain. Narwane et al. (2022) highlighted interoperability, trust, and security

Waste Management and Circular Economy: Waste reduction is another central theme. Kharola et al. (2022)

stressed that preventing waste early in the supply chain is more effective than addressing it later. Kumar and

Agrawal (2023) revealed that inefficient supply chains account for nearly one-third of India’s annual waste of

enablers of GSCM. Saha et al. (2025) demonstrated that AI/ML technologies achieve up to 99% accuracy,

compared with 80–90% for manual assessments, reducing downtime and labor costs while strengthening supply

chains. Andika et al. (2025) integrated AI and ML with Life Cycle Assessment to improve predictive capabilities.

Nath et al. (2024) further showed that AI can enhance crop yield prediction, quality control, and supply chain

optimization, contributing to both sustainability and food security.