What do you understand by Third and Fourth party logistics? Are there any roadblocks to its fast development in India ?

Third party logistics or 3PL refers to outsourcing transportation, warehousing and other logistics related activities to a third party service provider that were originally performed in-house. Fourth party logistics or 4PL is a novel concept in Supply Chain management (or outsourcing). It is a further movement to next level in logistics and helps in further cost reductions and asset transfers-of a traditional outsourcing arrangement. India is a vast country depicting huge differences in cultures and businesses. It has not been a very outgoing society in India, people are still wary of others as far as trust and awareness are considered. The poor infrastructure in India, although it appears to be growing at a very fast pace, is still one of the reasons for its slow growth. Value-added services are missing related to different aspects of logistics however, bringing in GST may help curbing the problem and may help in speeding up the system. Despite various problems 3PL market in India is expected to grow. Some of the large Indian corporates such as Reliance, Tata, Mahindra and Mahindra, TVS Group and Essar Shipping have forayed into logistic business. Initially these corporates formed divisions to handle internal logistics but by sensing the potential of the market they have started offering logistic solutions to other Indian corporates and have already turned these logistics divisions into profit centres. 4PL responds effectively to the broad complicated needs of today's organizations by delivering a comprehensive supply chain solution. This solution is focused on all elements of supply chain management (SCM). Continuously updated and optimized technology is tailored to specific client needs. Information technology can greatly influence and enhance the effectiveness of 4PL, implementing systems at levels of ERP, DSS, etc.