Abstract
This paper aims to study how Mumbai Dabbawalla system as a model of sustainable logistics and social responsibility for 135 years and how well they fit into the Sustainable Development Goals of United Nations which was launched on January 1, 2016. Through extensive literature review, cast study analysis and first-hand data collection through seminars, the paper explores how this century old system contributes to SDG 11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities), SDG 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth), SDG 12 (Responsible Consumption and Production), and SDG 10 (Reduced Inequalities). This study explores the operational, economic, and social dimensions of the dabbawallas and how they have powered it with their resilience, inclusivity, and adaptability. The critical and challenging factors of changing technology, policy barriers and the gap of young people not taking up the profile is also discussed. The conclusion given is how this system can be more adapted in other areas and how thriving a society can be if it gives the importance for community-based entrepreneurship.
sustainability
References
1. United Nations. (2015). Transforming our world: The 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. United Nations General Assembly. 2. Sachs, J. D. (2015). The Age of Sustainable Development. Columbia University Press. 3. Shelar, R. (2003). Mumbai Dabbawalas: An efficient supply chain. Tata McGraw-Hill. 4. Raghunath, S., & Balakrishnan, R. (2003). The Dabbawala system: On-time delivery, every time. IIM Ahmedabad Case Study. 5. Vaidya, S. (2014). Mumbai Dabbawalas: The unsung heroes of logistics. Journal of Supply Chain Management, 9(2), 45–58. 6. Gupta, A., & Arora, R. (2018). Traditional logistics models and operational excellence: A case of Mumbai Dabbawalas. International Journal of Operations Management, 12(3), 112–125. 7. Forbes. (2017). The six sigma marvel of Mumbai’s Dabbawalas. Forbes India. 8. Harvard Business School. (2011). Managing supply chains: The Dabbawala case. Harvard Business Publishing. 9. Waatavaran Foundation. (2019). Low-carbon urban logistics: Lessons from Mumbai Dabbawalas. New Delhi. 10. Waatavaran Foundation. (2021). Sustainable transport practices in Indian cities. New Delhi.
Author information
Kamalika Krishmy
Research Scholar M.O.P Vaishnav College for Women (Autonomous) Chennai.
Dr.Ramya Raman
Director and Head MBA