hubergroup Print Solutions will showcase its advanced label printing solutions at Loupe India 2026, scheduled from October 29 to November 1, 2026. The company will highlight technologies designed to help label converters improve productivity, increase operational flexibility and transition towards more energy-efficient printing processes. A key highlight will be iray Dual Cure, hubergroup’s UV flexographic ink series. The technology supports curing with both conventional mercury UV lamps and LED UV systems, making it suitable for pressure-sensitive labels, premium labels and other demanding label printing applications.

iray Dual Cure Enhances Printing Performance and Flexibility

As the Indian label printing market evolves, converters face increasing pressure to improve productivity, shorten lead times and optimise manufacturing costs. In response, hubergroup offers iray Dual Cure as a versatile ink solution that combines high print quality with production flexibility.

The ink system delivers vibrant colours, high gloss, excellent resistance properties and reliable adhesion across a wide range of label substrates. Consequently, converters can meet diverse application requirements while maintaining consistent print quality. Moreover, compatibility with conventional UV and LED UV curing systems allows converters to use a single ink system across different production environments. Its reliable curing characteristics and stable press performance can also help reduce production interruptions, start-up waste and reprints, thereby improving manufacturing efficiency.

Supporting the Shift Towards Energy-Efficient Printing

iray Dual Cure addresses key industry requirements by enabling converters to adapt to changing production needs while retaining flexibility in their curing technology choices. “Converters are looking for technologies that deliver both performance and investment security,” says Carsten Zölzer, CCO Print Solutions at hubergroup. “With iray Dual Cure, customers can benefit from outstanding print quality and press performance today while maintaining flexibility for future technology developments,” Zölzer added.

Local Support Backed by Global Expertise

India remains a strategically important market in hubergroup’s long-term growth strategy. To support local customers, the company combines its global technical expertise with dedicated sales, technical service and application support teams. Furthermore, customers can draw on the experience of hubergroup’s international network of specialists to address specific production challenges and application requirements. Visitors to the hubergroup stand at Loupe India 2026 will be able to discuss emerging market trends, printing challenges and suitable solutions with the company’s experts.

hubergroup Focuses on Customer Productivity and Growth

Amit Dammani, Business Head Packaging Solutions at hubergroup India, says, “We want visitors to leave our stand with the understanding that hubergroup is more than an ink supplier. We work closely with customers to optimise processes, improve productivity, and support their long-term business success.” As per the press release, through its participation in Loupe India 2026, hubergroup aims to demonstrate how advanced ink technologies, technical expertise and customer support can help label converters improve operational efficiency and prepare for the evolving demands of the printing industry.

DCM Shriram Ltd, a diversified and integrated conglomerate, reported a 22% year-on-year increase in consolidated net revenue, net of excise duty, to ₹3,977 crore in the second quarter of FY27, ended September 30, 2026. The company recorded revenue of ₹3,272 crore in the corresponding quarter of the previous financial year. Growth across the Chemicals & Vinyl, Sugar & Ethanol, Fenesta Building Systems and Fertilizer businesses supported the increase in revenue.

However, the company’s profit before depreciation, interest, tax and amortisation (PBDIT) declined 22% to ₹319 crore from ₹408 crore in Q2 FY26. Higher input costs in Chemicals and lower earnings from the Agri Input businesses primarily contributed to the decline. Moreover, the previous year’s quarter included one-time benefits of ₹76 crore from a Gujarat government incentive for the Chemicals business and ₹15.5 crore from a revision in power rates in the Sugar business. Consequently, profit after tax (PAT) declined to ₹106 crore from ₹159 crore in the year-ago quarter.

H1 FY27 Revenue Increases 15%

For the first half of FY27, DCM Shriram reported consolidated net revenue of ₹7,541 crore, up 15% from ₹6,534 crore in H1 FY26. PBDIT stood at ₹683 crore, compared with ₹734 crore in the corresponding period last year. Reported PAT rose to ₹799 crore from ₹273 crore. However, this figure included a favourable tax adjustment of ₹474.3 crore and exceptional gains of ₹79.4 crore. Excluding these items, the company reported a normalised PAT of ₹253 crore.

Business-Wise Performance Highlights

Chemicals: Revenue Jumps 47%

The Chemicals business recorded a 47% increase in revenue to ₹1,343 crore, supported by improved electrochemical unit (ECU) realisations and contributions from the advanced materials value chain.

Furthermore, the commissioning of the Aluminium Chloride plant and partial commissioning of the Calcium Chloride plant at Bharuch strengthened the company’s downstream integration capabilities.

Vinyl: Revenue Grows 20%

The Vinyl business reported revenue of ₹234 crore, marking a 20% year-on-year increase. Higher sales volumes and improved realisations supported the business’s profitability during the quarter.

Sugar & Ethanol: PBDIT Rises 85%

Revenue from the Sugar & Ethanol business increased 10% to ₹1,023 crore, while PBDIT rose 85% to ₹62 crore. Higher domestic sugar prices and improved ethanol margins supported performance despite lower sugar sales volumes.

Meanwhile, ethanol sales volumes increased 24% during the quarter, reflecting a timing difference in sales.

Fenesta Building Systems: Revenue Increases 22%

Fenesta Building Systems maintained its growth momentum, recording revenue of ₹344 crore, up 22% year on year. Higher volumes in the Projects vertical drove the increase, while PBDIT rose 15% to ₹49 crore.

In addition, the commissioning of Phase I of the Aluminium Extrusion Plant at Kota marked an important step in Fenesta’s backward integration strategy.

Shriram Farm Solutions: New Product Launches Support Growth Strategy

Shriram Farm Solutions reported revenue of ₹423 crore, compared with ₹471 crore in Q2 FY26, reflecting lower volumes across key product categories.

Nevertheless, the business continued to strengthen its product portfolio. During H1 FY27, it launched eight new products, including five developed through its in-house research and development capabilities.

Fertilizer: Revenue Rises 40%

The Fertilizer business recorded a 40% increase in revenue to ₹502 crore, supported by higher realisations reflecting increased gas prices. PBDIT also grew 25% to ₹25 crore.

Bioseed: Performance Affected by Climatic Conditions

Bioseed reported revenue of ₹73 crore, compared with ₹86 crore in Q2 FY26. Adverse climatic conditions and demand challenges in India and the Philippines affected its performance.

Focus on Resilience and Competitiveness

Ajay Shriram, Chairman and Senior Managing Director, and Vikram Shriram, Vice Chairman and Managing Director, highlighted the changing global economic environment. They noted that artificial intelligence (AI), geopolitical tensions, rising protectionism and shifting global trade partnerships are reshaping supply chains and increasing costs. However, they said India continues to demonstrate resilience, supported by structural reforms, strong domestic demand and a competitive workforce.

The management also highlighted the Chemicals business’s performance amid global volatility and supply-demand imbalances. Healthy capacity utilisation in Chlor-Alkali and stabilisation in Advanced Materials supported operations. In addition, the commissioning of the Aluminium Chloride plant, partial commissioning of the Calcium Chloride plant and completion of a 68 MW-peak renewable energy project marked key milestones in downstream integration and cost competitiveness.

The Sugar & Ethanol business continues to navigate changes in the policy environment. Although domestic sugar prices remain firm amid a projected global deficit, restrictions in recent government tenders on certain sugarcane-based feedstocks have affected the ethanol sector’s investment outlook. The management emphasised the need for a clear roadmap, fair allocations and pricing aligned with sugarcane costs.

Meanwhile, Fenesta sustained its volume-driven growth, while Shriram Farm Solutions managed weather-related demand challenges through its differentiated product portfolio. Bioseed, however, faced significant difficulties in India and the Philippines amid El Niño-related conditions. The company is also advancing its cost-discipline and integration strategy through investments in solar power, caustic debottlenecking and specialty polymer diversification. According to the management, a robust balance sheet, comfortable leverage and ample liquidity provide the company with the flexibility to manage market volatility and pursue growth. Furthermore, DCM Shriram continues to integrate sustainability into its operations by advancing its environmental, social and governance (ESG) roadmap, with a focus on energy transition and resource efficiency.

Strategic Investments and Expansion Plans

DCM Shriram continues to strengthen its integrated business model through investments in advanced materials, downstream chemicals, building materials and renewable energy.

During the quarter, the company achieved several important project milestones, including:

Commissioning of the 100-tonne-per-day Aluminium Chloride plant at Bharuch.

Partial commissioning of the 133-tonne-per-day Calcium Chloride plant at Bharuch.

Commissioning of Phase I of Fenesta’s Aluminium Extrusion Plant at Kota.

Additionally, the company commissioned 68 MW-peak of captive renewable energy capacity for Kota in October 2026, further supporting its energy transition and cost-efficiency objectives.

Upcoming Projects and Investment Timeline

The company outlined the following milestones for its ongoing and planned expansion projects:

Fenesta Aluminium Extrusion Plant, Kota: Phase II is expected to be completed in Q3 FY27.

Calcium Chloride Project, Bharuch: The remaining second line of the 133-tonne-per-day project is expected to be completed in Q3 FY27.

Proposed Salt Works Acquisition: The acquisition of salt works with a total capacity of 208,000 tonnes per annum is expected to be completed in Q3 FY27.

Captive Renewable Energy, Bharuch: A 58 MW-peak renewable energy project, along with related infrastructure under a group captive special-purpose vehicle (SPV) arrangement, is expected to be completed in Q1 FY28.

Solar Renewable Energy Plant, Kota: A 40 MW-peak solar power plant is expected to be completed in Q1 FY28.

Formulated Resins Capacity Expansion, HSCL: An expansion of 36,000 tonnes per annum is expected to be completed in Q2 FY28.

Waste Utilisation, Kota: Installation of filter presses at the cement plant to support waste utilisation is expected to be completed in Q3 FY28.

Specialty Polymer Compounds: Manufacturing lines at the company’s joint venture, Shriram Teknor Limited, are expected to be completed in Q3 FY28.

Caustic Capacity Debottlenecking: Projects to improve energy efficiency at Bharuch and Kota are expected to be completed in Q4 FY28.

Focus on Long-Term Sustainable Growth

As per the press release, through these investments, DCM Shriram aims to improve cost competitiveness, expand downstream integration, strengthen manufacturing capabilities and increase the use of renewable energy. Despite pressure on quarterly profitability, the company’s expansion plans and focus on operational efficiency support its strategy for long-term, sustainable growth.

Renowned Indian theoretical physicist Professor Ashoke Sen has received the prestigious Oskar Klein Medal 2026, becoming the first Indian physicist to earn this international honour. The award recognises his groundbreaking contributions to string theory, black hole entropy and string field theory. His research has significantly advanced scientists’ understanding of the fundamental nature of the universe.

Distinguished Academic and Scientific Career

Professor Sen studied at Presidency College in Kolkata and the University of Calcutta. In recognition of his outstanding contributions to science, the Government of India has also conferred on him the Padma Shri and Padma Bhushan. Currently, he serves as the Infosys-Madhava Chair Professor at the International Centre for Theoretical Sciences in Bengaluru, where he continues to contribute to theoretical physics research.

About the Oskar Klein Medal

As reported by newsonair.gov.in, Stockholm University and the Nobel Committee for Physics of the Royal Swedish Academy of Sciences in Sweden award the Oskar Klein Medal annually. Established in 1988, the medal honours distinguished contributions to physics and commemorates Swedish theoretical physicist Oskar Klein. Previous recipients include Nobel laureates Stephen Hawking, Peter Higgs, Chen-Ning Yang, Steven Weinberg and Hans Bethe. Their achievements further highlight the medal’s international reputation and significance in the field of physics.

Microtek announced an investment of over ₹400 crore to accelerate the growth of its solar energy business and strengthen its renewable energy portfolio. As part of the expansion, the company is establishing a solar panel manufacturing plant in Jaipur, which is expected to become operational by November 2026. The company announced its expansion plans at the Renewable Energy Expo 2026, which concluded on Saturday. Through this investment, Microtek aims to expand its manufacturing capabilities and address India’s growing demand for solar power and energy storage solutions.

Microtek to Introduce Battery Energy Storage Systems

As part of its expansion strategy, Microtek will introduce its new Battery Energy Storage System (BESS), reinforcing its focus on reliable and accessible energy solutions for households and businesses. Guided by its ‘Har Ghar Bijli Ghar’ vision, the company aims to help consumers generate, store and manage electricity more efficiently. Moreover, its growing portfolio of lithium-based solutions and energy storage technologies will support changing consumer and industrial energy requirements.

Showcases Solar and Power Management Solutions

At the expo, Microtek showcased a wide range of products, including home inverters, uninterruptible power supply (UPS) systems, batteries, electrical wires, solar panels, solar inverters and lithium batteries. With nearly four decades of experience in power management, the company operates across four key segments: power generation, distribution, conditioning and storage. Consequently, its integrated product portfolio enables it to address diverse electricity requirements across residential and commercial applications.

Supporting India’s Rooftop Solar Expansion

Microtek is also supporting initiatives such as the PM Surya Ghar: Muft Bijli Yojana, which aims to provide rooftop solar installations to one crore households. Through its solar panels, inverters, batteries and energy storage systems, the company offers solutions that enable consumers to generate and store electricity while reducing their dependence on conventional power sources. The expansion of domestic solar manufacturing could help Microtek serve the growing rooftop solar market and strengthen its presence in India’s renewable energy sector.

Microtek Reinforces Its ‘Har Ghar Bijli Ghar’ Vision

K. Aggarwal, Founder and Chairman of Microtek International Pvt. Ltd., said the company’s ‘Har Ghar Bijli Ghar’ vision reflects its ambition to help households generate and manage their own electricity. He added that Microtek’s portfolio across power generation, distribution, conditioning and storage builds on nearly four decades of experience in delivering reliable power solutions. Through its BESS and lithium-based technologies, the company aims to strengthen its capabilities and address India’s evolving energy needs. As reported by business-standard.com, Microtek’s investment of over ₹400 crore, together with its planned Jaipur manufacturing facility and expansion into battery energy storage, marks a significant step in its strategy to grow its solar business and broaden its renewable energy offerings.

Adani Wind, the wind energy business of Adani New Industries, bagged orders totalling 696.2 MW from five power producers, strengthening its position in India’s growing wind energy market. The contracts include 300 MW from Purvah Green Power and 155 MW from Jindal India Power, along with orders from Aditya Birla Renewables, NTPC Renewable Energy and Integrum Energy.

Wind Turbine Installations Planned Across Three States

The orders cover Adani Wind’s 5.2 MW, 5 MW and 3.3 MW wind turbine platforms. The company plans to install the turbines across Karnataka, Gujarat and Maharashtra. These projects will support the expansion of wind power generation capacity and help meet India’s growing demand for renewable energy.

Order Book Exceeds 1 GW

Following these contract wins, Adani Wind’s cumulative order book from independent power producers outside the Adani Group has exceeded 1 GW. This milestone highlights the company’s growing presence among external power producers and reflects opportunities in India’s expanding renewable energy sector.

Adani Wind Plans to Expand Manufacturing Capacity

Alongside its growing order book, Adani Wind plans to increase its annual manufacturing capacity at Mundra, Gujarat, from 2.25 GW to 5 GW. The proposed expansion will strengthen its ability to meet rising demand for wind turbines and support the development of large-scale renewable energy projects.

Advanced Turbine Platforms Support Renewable Energy Growth

Adani Wind’s higher-capacity turbine platforms are designed to operate under varying wind conditions, enabling developers to select suitable solutions for different project locations. Furthermore, these technologies could help the company tap into international markets as demand for wind energy equipment grows. As reported by projectstoday.ai, with a growing order book, plans to expand manufacturing capacity and a portfolio of turbine platforms, Adani Wind is positioning itself to participate in India’s renewable energy expansion and explore opportunities in global wind power markets.

Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways Nitin Gadkari expressed confidence that India will emerge as a leading global producer and exporter of green hydrogen. He described hydrogen as a fuel of the future, with the potential to replace conventional fossil fuels across the mobility and industrial sectors. Addressing KPMG’s Agrasar Bharat Manch, Gadkari highlighted the importance of developing advanced energy technologies and expanding infrastructure to support India’s long-term economic growth.

National Green Hydrogen Mission Targets 5 MMT by 2030

The Indian government launched the National Green Hydrogen Mission in 2023 to accelerate domestic green hydrogen production and adoption. Under the mission, India aims to achieve an annual green hydrogen production capacity of at least 5 million metric tonnes (MMT) by 2030. The initiative seeks to strengthen India’s clean energy ecosystem and support the transition towards lower-carbon fuels across industries and transportation.

Focus on Alternative Fuels and Emerging Technologies

Gadkari highlighted India’s efforts to develop a range of alternative energy technologies, including electric vehicles, ethanol, methanol, biodiesel, liquefied natural gas (LNG) and hydrogen. According to the minister, these technologies will play an important role in reducing dependence on conventional fossil fuels while supporting future mobility and industrial requirements. He also emphasised the importance of technological advancement, stating that futuristic development and a clear long-term vision are essential for a country’s progress.

Falling Battery Costs Support Electric Mobility

Gadkari cited the decline in lithium-ion battery costs as an example of technological progress. He noted that battery costs had fallen from approximately $150 per kilowatt-hour to $50 per kilowatt-hour. This reduction could support the wider adoption of electric vehicles by helping lower battery-related costs. Meanwhile, continued advances in battery technology and alternative fuels could expand the range of energy options available to the transportation sector.

Infrastructure Development Key to India’s Growth

Gadkari also stressed that infrastructure development remains essential to India’s ambition of becoming a developed nation. Investments in transport networks, energy systems and emerging technologies will be important for improving efficiency and supporting industrial expansion. As reported by moneycontrol.com, his remarks highlighted the role of green hydrogen, alternative fuels and technological innovation in shaping India’s future energy landscape and advancing its long-term development goals.

Grasim Industries Limited commenced commercial production at its new epichlorohydrin manufacturing plant in Vilayat, Gujarat. The facility adds 50,000 tons per annum (TPA) of capacity to the company’s specialty chemicals portfolio, strengthening its backward integration into key raw materials for epoxy resin production. The development marks a strategic milestone in Grasim’s specialty chemicals business, as the company seeks to strengthen its manufacturing capabilities and expand its presence in high-growth downstream markets.

Strengthening Epoxy Resin Manufacturing

Epichlorohydrin is a critical raw material used in the production of epoxy resins. With the new plant operational, Grasim can strengthen its integration across the chemical value chain and improve its ability to serve downstream applications. Furthermore, the company is strengthening its epoxy polymer manufacturing capabilities to support demand from sectors such as wind energy composites, industrial coatings and electronics.

Supporting High-Growth Industrial Sectors

The additional capacity will help Grasim cater to growing demand from several industries, including construction chemicals, renewable energy and electrical applications. As these sectors expand, the availability of key specialty chemical raw materials becomes increasingly important. Consequently, the new facility positions Grasim to support downstream manufacturers with a more integrated supply chain.

Enhancing Chlorine Integration and Cost Efficiency

The epichlorohydrin plant will strengthen integration across Grasim’s chlor-alkali operations and chlorine derivatives business at Vilayat. By utilising chlorine within its own manufacturing value chain, the company can reduce its dependence on merchant chlorine sales and improve internal resource utilisation. Moreover, greater backward integration could help improve cost efficiency and reduce exposure to fluctuations in raw material markets.

Strengthening India’s Specialty Chemicals Supply

The commissioning of the 50,000 TPA epichlorohydrin plant is expected to enhance domestic supply of this important chemical intermediate. It also strengthens Grasim’s position in downstream specialty chemicals by supporting supply chain integration, improving operational efficiencies and creating opportunities to serve expanding industrial markets. As reported by sahi.com, the facility represents an important step in Grasim Industries’ strategy to expand its specialty chemicals portfolio and strengthen its position across the epoxy resin value chain.

Balrampur Chini Mills Limited (BCML) is entering the poly lactic acid manufacturing sector with a fully integrated facility aimed at establishing India’s first industrial-scale bio-polymer plant. The project marks a significant step towards expanding domestic bioplastics production and promoting sustainable alternatives to conventional plastics. The venture aligns with India’s sustainability goals and efforts to combat climate change.

₹3,080 Crore Investment in PLA Manufacturing

BCML plans to invest approximately ₹3,080 crore in phases over around 2.5 years to develop the new PLA manufacturing facility. With a planned production capacity of 75,000 tonnes per annum (TPA), the plant will operate at a globally competitive scale. To accelerate construction, the company will develop the facility on a greenfield site adjacent to one of its existing sugar plants. This location will allow BCML to leverage a significant portion of the existing local infrastructure.

Advancing Sustainable Bioplastics Production

The project will use bio-based raw materials to manufacture polylactic acid (PLA) and related bioplastics. By converting renewable resources into bio-based polymers, BCML aims to support a shift away from conventional, fossil-fuel-based plastics towards more sustainable materials. The initiative promotes circular and regenerative manufacturing principles, helping reduce dependence on non-renewable resources.

PLA Offers an Alternative to Single-Use Plastics

PLA and its compounds can serve as alternatives to several applications of conventional single-use plastics (SUPs). Their potential use in suitable packaging and other applications could help expand the adoption of bio-based materials across Indian industries. As a result, the proposed facility could strengthen India’s domestic bioplastics manufacturing capabilities while supporting the transition towards more sustainable material consumption.

Supporting India’s Net-Zero Ambitions

BCML’s proposed investment supports India’s broader efforts to reduce emissions and achieve its target of net-zero emissions by 2070. As per company press release, by developing industrial-scale PLA production, the company aims to contribute to the growth of the bio-based materials sector and accelerate the adoption of alternatives to conventional plastics.

Bharat Petroleum Corporation Limited (BPCL) has approved the incorporation of a wholly owned subsidiary in India to develop its proposed greenfield refinery and petrochemical complex at Ramayapatnam in Andhra Pradesh. The company’s Board of Directors approved the proposal on October 23, 2026, according to a regulatory filing. The subsidiary will function as a dedicated project company for the proposed complex and its associated facilities. However, the plan remains subject to the necessary government, statutory and regulatory approvals.

Subsidiary to Have Authorised Capital of ₹4,900 Crore

BPCL stated that the new subsidiary will have an initial authorised share capital of up to ₹4,900 crore. The dedicated entity will provide a separate legal and governance structure to manage the project’s development and related activities. Furthermore, establishing the subsidiary will help BPCL organise the project’s implementation, financing and partnership arrangements.

BPCL to Explore Financing and Strategic Partnerships

The new project company will support due diligence and discussions with lenders and potential partners. It will also help BPCL evaluate suitable financing options and identify an appropriate partnership structure for the refinery and petrochemical complex. These steps will enable the company to assess the project’s financial and operational requirements before making further commitments.

Feasibility Studies and Investment Decision Pending

BPCL said it is still finalising the detailed feasibility reports for the proposed project. Consequently, the competent authorities will consider the final investment decision and related financial commitments separately at the appropriate stage. The company also stated that it would disclose further details about the subsidiary in the prescribed format at a later date.

Regulatory Disclosure

BPCL made the disclosure under Regulation 30 of the Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) (Listing Obligations and Disclosure Requirements) Regulations, 2015. Company Secretary V. Kala signed the regulatory filing. As reported by chinimandi.com, the proposed subsidiary marks an organisational step towards developing BPCL’s planned refinery and petrochemical complex in Andhra Pradesh, while key feasibility assessments and investment approvals remain pending.

Paradeep Phosphates Limited, one of India’s leading fertiliser manufacturers, signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with the Odisha government to invest ₹4,750 crore in developing new chemical and fertiliser facilities in the state. The agreement was signed during India Chem 2026 in Mumbai, in the presence of Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi. Hemant Kumar Sharma, Additional Chief Secretary, Industries, signed the MoU on behalf of the state government, while N. Suresh Krishnan, Managing Director and CEO of PPL, represented the company.

New Chemical and Bio-Fertiliser Facilities

The proposed investment will support the establishment of a new chemical plant and a bio-fertilisers manufacturing facility. In addition, PPL plans to undertake initiatives aimed at improving farm productivity and strengthening agricultural development. These projects are expected to enhance Odisha’s industrial ecosystem while creating direct and indirect employment opportunities across the manufacturing and agricultural value chains.

Strengthening Odisha’s Industrial and Agricultural Growth

The investment reinforces Paradeep Phosphates’ long-standing presence in Odisha and its contribution to meeting India’s fertiliser requirements. Furthermore, the proposed facilities will strengthen the integration of chemical manufacturing and agriculture, supporting regional economic development. The investment reflects the company’s continued commitment to Odisha’s industrial growth and agricultural progress. As reported by newindianexpress.com, by expanding its manufacturing capabilities, PPL aims to support the fertiliser sector while contributing to employment generation and the state’s broader economic development.