2025 was a defining year for India’s chemical industry, marked by resilience, consolidation and strategic transformation. Despite global demand volatility and geopolitical uncertainties, Indian chemical companies strengthened their global footprint through capacity expansions, acquisitions and export diversification. Sustainability moved from intent to execution, with accelerated investments in green chemistry, energy efficiency and circular economy initiatives. The China-plus-one strategy continued to benefit Indian manufacturers, while policy support through PLI and infrastructure push improved long-term competitiveness. Digitalisation, AI-led process optimisation and specialty chemicals growth emerged as key differentiators, positioning the industry for a more innovation-driven and sustainable future.
TCE Acquires CDI Engineering Solutions, USA
Tata Consulting Engineers (TCE) acquired US-based CDI Engineering Solutions to strengthen its global design, engineering, and project management capabilities. The move enhances TCE’s presence in North America and its ability to deliver sustainable and innovative projects worldwide.
India Emerges as a Global Clea
n Energy Leader
India has surpassed 200 GW renewable capacity, boosting solar, wind and green hydrogen initiatives. With $32 billion investments planned, strong policies and partnerships are driving progress toward 500 GW by 2030 and net-zero emissions by 2070.
Adani Expands into Petrochemical Industry
Adani Petrochemicals and Thailand’s Indorama have formed a 50:50 JV, Valor Petrochemicals, to develop petrochemical projects. Its first venture is a two-million-ton PVC plant in Gujarat, aligning with Adani’s $4-billion petrochemical expansion strategy.
IIT-Bombay and IISER Pune Recognized as National Research Hubs
IIT Bombay and IISER Pune have been selected as ANRF Hubs, each receiving ₹100 crore to boost multidisciplinary research. The initiative strengthens state universities, promotes industry collaboration, and supports deep-tech innovation to advance India’s global research standing.
Nayara to Build Ethane Cracker Refinery in Vadinar, Gujarat
Nayara Energy will invest ₹68,000 crore to set up a 1.5 mtpa ethane cracker at its Vadinar refinery, marking major foreign investment in India’s petrochemical sector and aligning with a broader industry-wide expansion drive.
Prof. G.D. Yadav Conferred Prestigious Bhatnagar Fellowship
Prof. Ganapati D. Yadav has been awarded the CSIR Bhatnagar Fellowship for his outstanding contributions to science and innovation. A Padma Shri awardee, he is globally recognised for transformative research, leadership in chemical education, and impactful industry collaboration.
L&T Announces Investment in Green Ammonia Projects
L&T will invest ₹48,000 crore over ten years to set up six green ammonia plants at Kandla Port, Gujarat. Developed in phases, the 300 KTPA units will support industrial decarbonisation and target global export markets.
IOCL to Set Up India’s Largest Green Hydrogen Plant at Panipat Refinery
IOCL has received five bids to set up India’s largest 10,000 KTPA green hydrogen plant at its Panipat refinery. After earlier failed tenders, the BOO-based project strengthens IOCL’s strategy to build a scalable green hydrogen ecosystem.
Government Expands Rare Earth Extraction to Strengthen Clean Energy Supply Chains
India is strengthening rare earth and atomic mineral supply chains through IREL’s Chatrapur plant expansion, boosting production and jobs. Record output and lifted US restrictions on key institutions are enabling stronger India–US cooperation in critical minerals and clean energy.
Honeywell and AM Green Partner to Boost Carbon Capture in India
Honeywell and AM Green have signed an MoU to assess producing sustainable aviation fuel from ethanol and green methanol from CO₂ and green hydrogen, supporting India’s energy security, SAF mandates, farmer income, and the National Green Hydrogen Mission.
Waaree to Build State-of-the-Art Electrolyser Facility in Gujarat
Waaree Group has begun construction of a 300 MW alkaline electrolyser manufacturing facility in Valsad, Gujarat. Supporting India’s National Green Hydrogen Mission, the plant will boost domestic manufacturing, reduce imports, create jobs, and strengthen India’s clean energy leadership.
Biocon Expands in Biosimilars with Viatris Deal
Biocon is driving growth through generics and biosimilars, strengthened by its Viatris acquisition. With an integrated biosimilars model, strong US market presence, and over $1 billion FY24 revenue, Biocon is advancing toward global biosimilars leadership.
India and France Collaborate on Small Modular Nuclear Reactors
India and France will collaborate on developing small modular nuclear reactors to strengthen energy security and cut emissions. India’s planned nuclear liability law reforms aim to boost foreign investment and support its target of 100GW nuclear capacity by 2047.
DCM Shriram and ICT Mumbai Collaborate on Green Chemistry R&D
DCM Shriram Chemicals has partnered with ICT Mumbai to launch two R&D projects converting CO₂ and biomass-derived lignin into green solvents and advanced materials, strengthening industry–academia collaboration and advancing sustainable, commercially viable chemical innovations.
AVEVA and HMEL Unite for AI Transformation in Refining Industry
AVEVA and HMEL have signed an MoU to drive digital transformation in India’s refining and petrochemical sector. Using digital twins, AI and analytics, the partnership will boost efficiency, sustainability and support India’s Net-Zero 2070 and energy security goals.
Memsift and SIT to Develop Advanced Nanofiltration Membranes
Memsift Innovations and Singapore Institute of Technology are developing chemical-resistant nanofiltration membranes to recover valuable chemicals from semiconductor wastewater. The sustainable technology targets over 90% recovery, reducing waste, energy use and environmental impact while advancing circular water management solutions.
Government Targets ₹5,000 Crore Plan to Become Pharma Innovation Hub
The government has launched the ₹5,000 crore PRIP scheme to shift India’s pharma and medtech sectors toward innovation-led growth. It boosts R&D funding, infrastructure, and startup participation, aiming to strengthen global competitiveness and expand India’s role in high-value healthcare innovation.
Bry-Air Expands into Green Hydrogen 
Bry-Air is advancing air-to-water solutions for green hydrogen, direct carbon capture, and energy-efficient dehumidification. With 84 patents and global operations, the company continues innovating sustainable technologies for water scarcity, carbon reduction, and industrial applications.
Chemical Industry Eyeing $1 Trillion by 2040 with AI and Sustainability
The 18th ICC India Chemical Industry Outlook Conference highlighted India’s $220 billion chemical sector poised for $1 trillion by 2040. Focused on AI, sustainability, and innovation, it emphasized R&D, industry-academia collaboration, and global competitiveness in eco-friendly chemicals.
BASF Unveils World’s First Biomass-Balanced Polyethersulfone
BASF’s Ultrason® E 2010 BMB is the world’s first biomass-balanced PESU, offering high performance with reduced fossil reliance, lower carbon footprint, and renewable feedstock use. It enables sustainable applications across industries without altering existing manufacturing processes.
Integrated API, Green Hydrogen and Ethanol Facility to be Built in Himachal Pradesh
Himachal Pradesh signed a ₹1,400 crore MoC with Spray Engineering Devices to establish India’s first integrated API, Green Hydrogen, and 2G Ethanol facility in BBN. The project will create 1,000 jobs and boost the state’s green energy leadership.
Seaweed Sector Poised for ₹3,277 Crore Growth in a Decade
Primus Partners’ report highlights India’s seaweed sector, valued at ₹200 crore, could grow to ₹3,277 crore, benefiting 1.6 million people. Strategic reforms in infrastructure, policy, and market expansion can unlock livelihoods, boost the blue economy, and ensure sustainability.
Prof. Allam Srinivasa Rao Ranked Among Top Two Percent Scientists Worldwide
Prof. Allam Srinivasa Rao, Vice-Chancellor of VSU, ranks among the world’s top 2% scientists. Renowned for photonics research, he has 250+ publications, fosters industry collaboration, patents, incubation centers, and advances education, innovation, and technological progress in India.
IOCL to Establish ₹61,000 Crore Naphtha Cracker Project in Odisha
IOCL plans to invest ₹61,000 crore in a Paradip naphtha cracker, expanding refinery capacity and petrochemical production in Odisha. Additional projects include yarn manufacturing in Bhadrak, PX-PTA production, floating solar, and ethanol facilities, boosting jobs and industrial growth.
ABB India Powers Automation and Digitalization for IndianOil’s Largest Pipeline Network
ABB India deployed advanced automation and digital solutions for IndianOil’s 20,000 km pipeline network, implementing the CPIMS system. This enhances centralized monitoring, efficiency, cybersecurity, and operational productivity, supported by a 10-year ABB Care contract for long-term service.
Small Modular Reactors Set to Power India’s Nuclear Energy Ambitions
India plans a ₹20,000 crore Small Modular Reactor (SMR) initiative, deploying five units by 2033 to achieve 100 GW nuclear capacity by 2047. SMRs offer flexible, cost-efficient, and low-emission energy, supporting industrial decarbonisation and private-sector participation.
Saudi Arabia and India to Jointly Establish Two Oil Refineries
India and Saudi Arabia agreed to deepen energy cooperation, ensuring stable oil, LPG supplies, strategic reserves, and joint refinery projects. The partnership also targets downstream ventures, innovation, and renewables, strengthening strategic ties amid shifting global oil import dynamics.
Reliance Announces Investment in New Energy and Petrochemical Expansion
Reliance Industries plans a ₹75,000 crore investment in new energy and petrochemicals, expanding solar capacity to 10 GW by 2026 and developing lithium iron phosphate batteries, positioning renewable ventures to rival traditional oil-to-chemicals earnings by FY31.
Dr. Shailaja Donempudi Becomes CSIR’s First Woman Distinguished Scientist
Dr. Shailaja Donempudi becomes the first woman in CSIR’s 80-year history to earn the Distinguished Scientist title, leading Business Development, advancing polymer science, fostering industry collaborations, and inspiring future generations of women scientists in India.
Government Pushes Ahead with Coal Gasification for Cleaner Energy Future
India is advancing coal gasification as a cleaner fuel alternative, with ₹8,500 crore incentives, CIL-GAIL SNG plant in West Bengal, and strategic use of coal to boost energy self-reliance, reduce emissions, and support sustainable industrial growth.
Vedanta Sets Sights on Domestic and Global Critical Minerals Growth
Vedanta is expanding its critical minerals portfolio through acquisitions, partnerships, and exploration in India and abroad, securing key resources like copper, cobalt, and graphite to support clean energy, EVs, renewables, and India’s green transition initiatives.
IBA and IOCL Forge Alliance to Boost Bioenergy and Bio-Hydrogen Sectors
The Indian Biogas Association and IOCL signed an MoU to advance bioenergy and bio-hydrogen in India, promoting R&D, training, policy advocacy, and industry-academia collaboration, strengthening the country’s clean energy ecosystem and sustainable future.
Essar Future Energy Plans Biofuel Manufacturing Hub in Gujarat
Essar Future Energy plans a 1 MMTPA greenfield biofuel complex in Gujarat, using sustainable feedstocks like UCO and POME to produce SAF, HVO, and naphtha. Environmental clearance and an EIA by Kadam Consultants are underway to ensure compliance.
ACME to Set Up Green Ammonia Facility in Odisha’s Tata SEZ
ACME Group will build a 4,00,000-ton green ammonia facility at Odisha’s Tata SEZ by 2029, creating 1,000+ jobs. Partnering with Japan’s IHI, the project boosts India’s green hydrogen capacity, industrial decarbonisation, and renewable energy leadership.
OCOchem Commissions Multi-Cell CO₂-to-Chemicals Pilot Plant
OCOchem launched the world’s first industrial-scale CO₂ electrolysis pilot plant, producing hydrogen and potassium formate from CO₂ and water. The innovation enables scalable, fossil-free chemical production, supporting clean energy, circular carbon use, and decentralized sustainable manufacturing.
Toyo and MODEC Set Up Global Capability Centre in Bengaluru
Toyo Japan and MODEC inaugurated TOYO MODEC OFS India in Bengaluru, a Global Capability Centre set to expand from 200 to 750 engineers. The centre will support global projects, enhance engineering capabilities, drive innovation, and create high-quality jobs.
Pharmaceutical Industry is Set to Benefit from $63.7 Billion U.S. Patent Expiry Wave
India’s pharma sector is poised to benefit from a $180 billion U.S. and EU patent expiry window by 2035. Companies like Cipla, Lupin, and Sun Pharma focus on complex generics, biosimilars, regulatory compliance, and strategic U.S. expansion for growth.
LTTS and thyssenkrupp to Set up Global Software Hub in Pune
thyssenkrupp Steering partners with LTTS to launch a Pune software center, developing safety-critical, next-gen steering solutions. The hub strengthens global engineering, accelerates digital transformation, and drives innovation in connected, intelligent, and secure automotive technologies.
Torrent to Become India’s Fifth Largest Drugmaker After JB Pharma Deal
Torrent Pharma is set to become India’s fifth-largest pharma by secondary sales after acquiring a 46.39% stake in JB Pharma. The ₹11,917 crore deal boosts domestic market share to 4.6%, strengthens cardiology and gastroenterology segments, and awaits regulatory approvals.
IISER’s Professor Honoured with Chirantan Rasayan Sanstha Award
Professor Pinaki Talukdar of IISER Pune received the Silver Star Medal from Chirantan Rasayan Sanstha for pioneering work in functional molecule design, with societal impact, and will deliver an award lecture at the CRS symposium in August 2025.
Godrej to Invest Funds in Capacity Expansion Drive
Godrej Industries Chemicals plans a ₹750 crore capacity expansion to triple core and specialty chemical production, targeting $1 billion by 2030. Focused on sustainability, green technologies, and innovation, the company aims to lead globally in high-performance, eco-friendly chemical solutions.
IOCL Charts Ambitious Green Hydrogen Expansion Across India
IOCL plans a nationwide green hydrogen network, starting with its Panipat refinery producing 10,000 tonnes annually by 2026. Part of its $30 billion net-zero strategy, the initiative supports clean mobility, infrastructure expansion, and potential green hydrogen exports.
Balrampur Chini Unveils India’s First Fully Integrated PLA Biopolymer Plant
Balrampur Chini Mills is launching Bioyug, India’s first industrial-scale PLA biopolymer plant, producing 80,000 tons annually from sugarcane derivatives. The ₹2,850 crore project promotes circular, renewable, and compostable plastics, supporting sustainability, rural economies, and diverse industries.
India to Build Strategic Oil Reserve to Strengthen Energy Security
India plans three new strategic oil reserves at Bikaner, Mangalore, and Bina to bolster energy security, aiming for 90 days of fuel supply. The expansion includes private sector participation and aligns with IEA standards amid rising domestic demand.
Northeast India Emerges as Key Hub for Critical and Strategic Minerals
GSI, backed by NMET, identified rich deposits of critical minerals like rare earths, graphite, lithium, and cobalt in Northeast India, particularly Arunachal Pradesh, supporting domestic clean energy, battery production, defence, and technology supply chains for self-reliant growth.
Dow India Receives Golden Peacock Award for Eco-Innovation 2025
Dow India won the Golden Peacock Award for Eco-Innovation 2025 for its recycled PE resin, REVELOOP™, recognising its leadership in circular economy practices, sustainable plastic solutions, and contributions to India’s EPR goals and low-carbon packaging initiatives.
ONGC Eyeing ₹1.5 Lakh Crore Refinery Project in Gujarat
ONGC is studying a 200,000–240,000 BPD refinery in Jamnagar with an investment of ₹1.25–1.5 lakh crore. The project aligns with India’s refining expansion strategy, enhancing energy self-reliance and leveraging Jamnagar’s strategic hub status.
Godavari Biorefineries Gets Chinese Patent for Anti-Cancer Molecule
Godavari Biorefineries’ Sathgen Therapeutics secured a Chinese patent for its anti-cancer molecule HYDROXY-1,4-NAPHTHALENEDIONE, showing efficacy against multiple cancers. The milestone strengthens its IP portfolio, advancing global life sciences innovation and clinical-stage oncology research.
India Confirms 8.5 Million Tons Rare Earth Discovery
India discovered 8.5 million tons of rare earth elements, including monazite and hard rock deposits, enhancing domestic supply for EVs, renewable energy, and defense. The find strengthens India’s global REE role amid China’s export restrictions.
VJTI Mumbai Unveils Centre for Sustainable Chemistry and Engineering
VJTI Mumbai, in partnership with Archroma India, launched the Centre for Sustainable Chemistry and Engineering, fostering hands-on learning, sustainability education, and innovation. The initiative inspires students and faculty through workshops, entrepreneurial insights, and leadership guidance for a greener future.
Laurus Labs to Build Pharmaceutical Manufacturing Hub in Andhra Pradesh
Laurus Labs secured 531.77 acres in Andhra Pradesh to develop the Laurus Pharma Zone, a ₹5,630 crore pharmaceutical hub. The phased project will enhance manufacturing capacity, create employment, and support the company’s long-term expansion strategy.
India Develops Breakthrough Technology to Extract Pure Lithium
CSMCRI developed a method to extract 97% pure lithium from used batteries using anthraquinone salt and hydrogen peroxide. The eco-friendly process boosts efficiency, reduces waste, and supports India’s self-reliant lithium supply for EVs and green energy.
ACME Secures Green Ammonia Project Under SIGHT Scheme
ACME Group won a SECI award to supply 75,000 tons of green ammonia annually to Paradeep Phosphates for 10 years under the SIGHT Scheme. The project supports India’s green energy transition, with deliveries expected within 36 months.
OIL and IREL Ink MoU to Jointly Develop Critical Minerals
Oil India and IREL signed an MoU to develop critical minerals, combining OIL’s resource management with IREL’s rare earth expertise. The partnership supports India’s self-reliance, energy security, and clean energy goals, advancing strategic mineral supply chains.
India Plans Sixteen Biomanufacturing Hubs to Reduce Import Reliance
India plans 16 biomanufacturing hubs under the BioE3 policy to boost domestic production of pharmaceuticals, biofuels, and biomaterials. The open-access facilities support start-ups, scale innovations, reduce import dependence, and retain innovators’ IP while offering cost-effective, shared infrastructure.
EIL Builds India’s Largest Underground LPG Storage Cavern for HPCL
Engineers India Ltd built India’s largest underground LPG rock cavern at Mangalore, with 80,000 MT capacity beneath existing facilities. Acting as EPCM consultant, EIL ensured innovative design, seamless execution, and enhanced national LPG storage, strengthening energy security.
ACME and IHI to Build India’s Largest Green Ammonia Project in Odisha
ACME and Japan’s IHI Corporation formed a joint venture to build India’s largest green ammonia plant in Odisha, producing 0.4 million tonnes annually, reducing 0.8 million tonnes of CO₂, and strengthening India–Japan energy ties and decarbonization efforts.
India Achieves First Methanol Production from Captured CO₂
NTPC’s Vindhyachal coal plant produced methanol from captured CO₂ using Carbon Clean’s CaptureX technology, advancing India’s net-zero goals. The scalable system converts emissions into valuable chemicals, demonstrating low-carbon innovation and paving the way for future CO₂-to-ethanol projects.
Honeywell Carbon Capture Technology to Convert Shuttered Power Plant into Fertilizer Production Facility
Honeywell’s carbon capture technology will help Wabash Valley Resources convert a shuttered Indiana plant into a low-carbon hydrogen and ammonia facility. Backed by $1.559 billion DOE funding, it reduces 1.65 million tons CO₂ annually and strengthens U.S. fertilizer supply.
India to Triple Rare Earth Magnet Incentive Programme to $788 Million
India plans to triple funding for its rare earth magnet incentive programme to $788 million, boosting domestic production, reducing reliance on China, supporting EVs and clean energy, and attracting global investments while addressing technical and supply chain challenges.
Kerala Scientists Bag Supramolecular Chemistry Award
The CNR Rao Education Foundation awarded the National Award for Supramolecular Chemistry to Kerala’s Prof. Subi George and Prof. Kana Sureshan for pioneering research in molecular assemblies, polymerisation, gels, and functional materials, advancing biotechnology, optoelectronics, and materials science.
GBL and ICT Mumbai Partner to Pilot CO₂-to-DME Conversion Technology
Godavari Biorefineries, in partnership with ICT Mumbai, launched a pilot converting industrial CO₂ into clean Dimethyl Ether (DME), promoting circular energy, reducing emissions, supporting farmer incomes, and advancing India’s sustainable energy transition and global bio-chemical leadership.
Nuberg EPC to Build 120 TPD Chlor-Alkali and Calcium Chloride Facility in Oman
Nuberg EPC secured a turnkey contract to expand Al Ghaith Chemical’s Chlor-Alkali and Calcium Chloride plants in Oman, enhancing production, supporting industrial growth, and advancing Vision 2040 with world-class, safe, and sustainable chemical manufacturing infrastructure.
Tata Chemicals Announces ₹910 Crore Investment to Expand Soda Ash and Silica Capacity
Tata Chemicals invests ₹910 crore to expand soda ash and specialty silica capacities, enhancing operational efficiency, market leadership, and cost competitiveness, while addressing rising demand, competitive pressures, and evolving customer needs across commodity and specialty chemical markets in India.
Hindustan Zinc to Commission North India’s First Phosphate Fertiliser Facility
Hindustan Zinc is launching North India’s first phosphate fertiliser plant in Chittorgarh with ₹5,000 crore investment, producing DAP, NPK, and ammonium phosphate sulphate, boosting regional supply, farmer productivity, MSMEs, employment, and supporting Atma Nirbhar Bharat goals.
DuPont Advances Seawater Desalination with Low-Energy RO Technology
DuPont introduced the FilmTec SW30XLE-400/34 RO element to combat biofouling in seawater desalination, delivering up to 25% lower pressure drop, reduced energy use, less maintenance, and improved operational efficiency and membrane lifespan.
Reliance Industries Launches AI Arm to Strengthen India’s Tech Ecosystem
Reliance Industries launched Reliance Intelligence to drive AI innovation in India, recruiting AI talent, building Indic-language models, partnering with Google and Meta, investing ₹855 crore, and developing large-scale, clean-energy-powered AI infrastructure to strengthen India’s AI ecosystem.
L&T Bags EPCC Order from BPCL for Petrochemical Project
L&T secured a ₹5,000–10,000 crore EPCC contract from BPCL for India’s largest LLDPE/HDPE swing unit at Bina, Madhya Pradesh, supporting BPCL’s refinery expansion, boosting domestic polymer capacity, strengthening supply chains, and advancing Aatmanirbhar Bharat.
Padma Vibhushan Awardee Dr. Raghunath Mashelkar’s Thought-Leadership Book Launched
Dr. Raghunath Mashelkar launched his book “More from Less for More,” highlighting frugal, inclusive, science-led innovation for sustainable growth. The event drew eminent industry leaders, underscoring innovation’s role in shaping India’s future and embedding purpose-driven development strategies.
Professor Aniruddha Bhalchandra Pandit Honoured with Vigyan Shri Award
Prof. Aniruddha B. Pandit received the Vigyan Shri Award at Rashtriya Vigyan Puraskar 2025 for transformative contributions to chemical and reactor engineering. The ceremony honoured 24 scientists across disciplines, celebrating innovation, sustainability, and inclusivity in India’s scientific progress.
VA Tech WABAG Selected as EPC Partner for Major Saudi Project
VA Tech WABAG will serve as EPC partner for Saudi Arabia’s Hadda ISTP under a consortium led by Metito Utilities. The 25-year BOOT project includes a 100,000 m³/day sewage plant, expandable to 250,000 m³/day, with reuse and transmission infrastructure.
India Holds Vast Rare Earth Reserves but Lags in Production
India holds 6–7% of global rare earth reserves, ranking among the top three worldwide, but produces under 1% of global output. Regulatory hurdles, monazite-linked challenges, and weak processing capacity limit extraction, leaving China dominant across the rare earth value chain.
IFFCO Inaugurates Nano Fertiliser Facility in Bengaluru
IFFCO inaugurated a nano fertiliser plant in Devanahalli, Bengaluru, producing 200,000 bottles of Nano Urea Plus daily. The facility promotes precision farming, reduces conventional urea dependence and imports, and reinforces IFFCO’s science-driven, farmer-centric approach aligned with Atmanirbhar Bharat.
