Oil India Limited (OIL), a Maharatna public sector undertaking, has discovered natural gas in the Matsyapuri formation in the Krishna-Godavari (KG) Basin, marking a significant development in its offshore hydrocarbon exploration programme. The company made the discovery in the shallow-water Discovered Small Field (DSF) block KG-DSF/GSKW/2018, where it operates as the sole operator. The discovery strengthens OIL’s exploration efforts in the KG Basin, a key hydrocarbon-producing region off India’s eastern coast.

Godavari-1 Well Confirms Natural Gas Presence

OIL drilled the Godavari-1 well as an appraisal well to evaluate the block’s hydrocarbon potential. During drilling, the company encountered hydrocarbons in a selected pay zone at a depth of 2,024–2,027 metres. Subsequently, the company began production testing of the zone on October 16 to assess its flow characteristics and production potential.

Production Testing Records Strong Gas Flow

During testing, the Godavari-1 well produced natural gas at an initial rate of approximately 100,000 standard cubic metres per day (SCMD). The maximum flow rate reached 200,000 SCMD during continuous testing. The test also recorded condensate production of approximately 170 barrels per day (bopd), with an API gravity of 55.8 at 60°F. Meanwhile, the company recorded wellhead pressure at 1,815 psi. These results provide important technical information about the tested zone. However, further evaluation will help establish the discovery’s overall commercial potential.

Further Testing Planned for the Godavari-1 Well

OIL is preparing to test the next higher-up zone in the Godavari-1 well. The additional testing will help the company assess other potential hydrocarbon-bearing intervals and build a clearer understanding of the well’s resource potential. The natural gas discovery adds to OIL’s exploration activities in the Krishna-Godavari Basin, an important offshore region for India’s oil and gas industry. As reported by psuwatch.com, further testing and technical evaluation will help determine the discovery’s potential contribution to domestic hydrocarbon production. The results could also support OIL’s broader efforts to expand its exploration portfolio and contribute to India’s energy security.

Welspun Corp bagged a major order worth approximately ₹5,500 crore through its US subsidiary, Welspun Tubular LLC, to supply coated line pipes for a natural gas pipeline project in the Permian region of the United States. The company disclosed the development under Regulation 30 of the Listing Regulations. A major midstream company awarded the contract to support a pipeline that will transport natural gas to a data centre complex operated by a leading global hyperscaler. The order strengthens Welspun Corp’s position in the US energy infrastructure market while highlighting the growing demand for natural gas infrastructure to support expanding digital operations.

Pipeline Project to Support AI-Driven Data Centre Growth

The proposed pipeline will supply natural gas to support the energy requirements of a data centre complex serving a major customer in the global digital infrastructure sector. As hyperscalers expand their data centre networks to support artificial intelligence (AI) and cloud computing, demand for reliable energy supplies continues to increase. Consequently, natural gas infrastructure is gaining importance in regions where gas-fired power generation can help meet the electricity requirements of energy-intensive facilities. The project therefore connects two major infrastructure trends: the expansion of natural gas transmission networks and rising investment in AI-driven data centres.

US Manufacturing Facility to Execute Order in FY29

Welspun Tubular LLC will execute the order from its US manufacturing facility during the financial year 2028–29 (FY29). Local manufacturing capabilities will support the company’s delivery of coated line pipes for the project. The contract also adds to Welspun Corp’s order pipeline and reinforces its presence in the American energy infrastructure sector.

Strengthening Welspun Corp’s Global Pipeline Business

The ₹5,500 crore contract marks a significant development for Welspun Corp’s line pipe business. By securing projects linked to growing natural gas demand, the company continues to strengthen its position in the global pipeline market. As reported by manufacturingtodayindia.com, the order highlights how investment in digital infrastructure is creating additional demand for energy transportation systems. As data centre operators expand their capacity, pipeline manufacturers and energy infrastructure companies could benefit from the associated investment in natural gas supply networks.

Maharashtra proposed a mega chemical industry park near Vadhvan Port, with plans to allocate between 2,500 and 5,000 acres for the project. The state government is seeking central approval under the Centre’s Grand Chemical Park scheme to attract investment, strengthen industrial infrastructure and expand the chemical manufacturing sector. Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis announced the proposal during the inauguration of India Chem 2026. He also said Maharashtra was preparing a dedicated chemical industry policy, which the state expects to announce in the first week of November.

Vadhvan Port to Support Chemical Industry Growth

The proposed chemical park would be located near Vadhvan Port in Dahanu taluka, Palghar district. The port could support the development of industrial infrastructure and chemical manufacturing clusters, helping attract large investments to the region. However, the location presents important environmental considerations. The area was previously designated as ecologically sensitive under the Environment (Protection) Act, 1986. Consequently, environmental assessments and the required clearances will play a crucial role in determining the project’s feasibility and implementation.

Maharashtra Plans Dedicated Chemical Industry Policy

Alongside the proposed park, the Maharashtra government plans to introduce a dedicated policy to encourage investment in the chemical sector. The initiative aims to improve the business environment, simplify regulatory procedures and support industrial expansion. To facilitate investments, the state will use its Maitri single-window platform and the Invest Maharashtra initiative. These mechanisms aim to streamline business approvals and help companies obtain the necessary permissions through a coordinated process.

Centre Offers Financial Support Under Grand Chemical Park Scheme

Under the Grand Chemical Park scheme announced in the Union Budget, the Centre has earmarked ₹1,000 crore in support, while the state contribution is ₹500 crore. The scheme requires a minimum land area of 2,000 acres for a chemical park. According to Nadda, the Centre will also facilitate environmental clearances to support project development. Maharashtra’s proposed allocation of up to 5,000 acres would provide scope for a large industrial cluster, subject to the scheme’s requirements and the necessary approvals.

R&D Support to Strengthen the Chemical Sector

The Centre has also included the advanced chemicals and petrochemicals sector in its ₹1 lakh crore research, development and innovation scheme. This initiative aims to encourage innovation and strengthen technological capabilities across strategic industries. For Maharashtra, the proposed chemical park could complement these national initiatives by attracting manufacturers, supporting industrial investment and creating opportunities for technology development.

Environmental Clearances and Central Approval Remain Key

The proposed Vadhvan Port chemical park represents Maharashtra’s effort to expand its chemical manufacturing base and attract large-scale industrial investment. Its proximity to the port could offer logistical advantages for chemical companies and related industries. As reported by urbanacres.in, the project’s progress will depend on the state’s formal proposal, approval under the Grand Chemical Park scheme, land allocation and the completion of the environmental clearance process. Balancing industrial development with environmental safeguards will therefore remain essential as Maharashtra advances the proposal.

Sunil Kumar is set to become the next Chairman of Oil and Natural Gas Corporation Limited (ONGC), marking a significant leadership transition for one of India’s leading public sector energy companies. He will succeed Arun Kumar Singh and assume office on December 7, 2026, following approval from the Appointments Committee of the Cabinet (ACC), headed by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The appointment comes at a crucial time for India’s upstream oil and gas sector. As the country seeks to strengthen domestic energy production, reduce import dependence and improve energy security, ONGC will play a key role in advancing these priorities.

Strengthening Domestic Oil and Gas Production

ONGC remains central to India’s petroleum industry, supporting domestic hydrocarbon production and the country’s broader energy strategy. However, declining output from several mature oil and gas fields continues to challenge the sector.

Consequently, the incoming chairman will need to focus on sustaining production from existing assets while accelerating the development of new resources. Improving recovery rates from ageing fields, expanding exploration activities and adopting advanced technologies will be essential to support long-term production. Furthermore, effective investment planning and operational improvements will help ONGC address emerging challenges and strengthen its contribution to India’s energy supply.

Navigating an Evolving Global Energy Market

Geopolitical tensions, fluctuating oil prices and changing global energy demand continue to influence the petroleum industry. These factors highlight the importance of strengthening domestic production and building a more resilient energy supply chain. Under its new leadership, ONGC will face the challenge of balancing immediate production requirements with long-term exploration and development investments. At the same time, technological innovation and improved operational efficiency will remain important to maintaining the company’s competitiveness.

Sunil Kumar’s Appointment and Tenure

According to the government’s appointment order, Sunil Kumar will serve a three-year tenure beginning December 7, 2026. The appointment also provides for contractual service beyond the age of 60, subject to the stipulated conditions and applicable government orders. Kumar is due to retire on December 31, 2028. His tenure arrangements will remain governed by the terms of the appointment and any applicable government directives.

Key Priorities for ONGC’s New Chairman

As Kumar prepares to take charge, stakeholders will closely monitor ONGC’s performance across several critical areas:

Production growth: Sustaining output from existing oil and gas fields while developing new resources.

Exploration and development: Accelerating exploration programmes and evaluating new hydrocarbon opportunities.

Technology adoption: Deploying advanced technologies to improve recovery rates and operational performance.

Operational efficiency: Strengthening asset management and improving productivity across the company’s operations.

Energy security: Supporting India’s efforts to reduce import dependence and strengthen domestic energy supplies.

Leadership Transition at a Critical Time

Sunil Kumar’s appointment comes as ONGC navigates the challenges of mature oil and gas assets, evolving market conditions and India’s growing energy requirements. His leadership will be important in determining how effectively the company balances production from established fields with investment in new resources and technologies.

As reported by thenewsmanofindia.com, ONGC’s ability to improve operational performance, expand exploration and strengthen domestic hydrocarbon supplies will remain central to its growth strategy. The leadership transition therefore represents an important opportunity for the company to reinforce its role in India’s energy sector and contribute to the country’s long-term energy security objectives.

Haryana-based cleantech company Electrent unveiled its latest range of lithium energy storage systems (ESS) and solar hybrid inverters at the Renewable Energy India Expo (REI) 2026, held at India Expo Mart in Greater Noida. The new product portfolio serves residential, commercial and industrial applications, offering solutions for everyday power backup, solar integration and high-capacity energy management. With this launch, Electrent aims to address diverse energy requirements through an expanded portfolio of lithium battery banks, integrated energy storage systems and solar hybrid inverters.

Expanding the Lithium Energy Storage Portfolio

Electrent introduced four product categories: universal lithium battery banks, in-built lithium energy storage systems, online lithium ESS and solar hybrid inverters. Together, these solutions support different power backup and solar integration needs across homes, businesses and industrial facilities. The universal lithium battery bank range uses lithium iron phosphate (LiFePO4) technology and includes 12.8V, 25.6V, 51.2V and 128V variants. Meanwhile, the in-built energy storage portfolio features the ESS 2350-60/25.6V and ESS 5500-100/51.2V models. For applications requiring higher-capacity backup, Electrent also introduced 5 kVA and 30 kVA online lithium ESS solutions. These systems expand the company’s offering for applications with more demanding power requirements.

Introducing Solar Hybrid Inverters for Diverse Applications

In addition to its energy storage systems, Electrent launched four solar hybrid inverters with different power ratings, phase configurations and ingress protection (IP) ratings.

The new range includes:

3 kW Solar Hybrid 4000/24V (IP21): Designed for installations suited to its specified protection rating.

6.2 kW Solar Hybrid 7500/48V (IP54): Offers a higher-capacity option for solar power applications.

6.6 kW Pure Solar Hybrid 6.6 kW/48V (IP66): A single-phase solution with an IP66 protection rating.

12 kW Pure Solar Hybrid 12 kW/48V (IP66): A three-phase option for higher-power applications.

These configurations give customers greater flexibility when selecting solar power and backup solutions based on installation conditions and energy requirements.

Electrent Highlights Its Integrated Clean Energy Strategy

Chirag Chawla, Founder and CEO of Electrent, said, “India’s energy demand is changing quickly. With this new range, we’ve built a complete lithium ecosystem, from battery banks to hybrid inverters to online ESS, so whether it’s a home, a shop or a factory, there is an Electrent solution that fits. REI 2026 was the right stage to show how serious we are about making clean, dependable energy accessible across the country.”

Strengthening Energy Storage and Solar Integration in India

Through its latest product launch, Electrent is expanding its lithium energy storage and solar inverter portfolio to serve a broader customer base. By offering solutions across multiple capacities and applications, the company aims to support reliable power backup and more integrated solar energy systems. As per the press release, as demand for dependable and efficient energy solutions grows across India, Electrent’s expanded portfolio positions the company to address the evolving requirements of residential, commercial and industrial users.

Bharat Petroleum Corporation Limited (BPCL), a Fortune Global 500 company and a Maharatna public sector enterprise, announced its financial and operational performance for the quarter ended September 30, 2026. During Q2 FY2026–27, the company strengthened its core energy businesses, expanded its infrastructure and introduced customer-focused initiatives while advancing strategic projects and alternative fuel solutions. BPCL continued to invest in operational efficiency, indigenous technology, product quality and customer safety. These initiatives support the company’s long-term growth strategy and align with India’s evolving energy requirements.

Advancing the Ramayapatnam Refinery Project

BPCL’s Board approved the incorporation of a wholly owned subsidiary as a dedicated project company for the proposed 10 MMTPA Greenfield Refinery and Petrochemical Complex at Ramayapatnam, Andhra Pradesh. The project remains subject to the necessary government, statutory and regulatory approvals. Once developed, the complex is expected to strengthen BPCL’s refining and petrochemical capabilities.

Expanding LPG and Natural Gas Infrastructure

BPCL strengthened its energy distribution network through several infrastructure initiatives. The company commissioned the Matia LPG Bottling Plant in Goalpara, Assam, marking its first LPG bottling plant in the North-East. In addition, BPCL connected 1.22 lakh new households to Piped Natural Gas (PNG) over the preceding six months, expanding access to cleaner fuel. The company also introduced Bharatgas Lite ZIP, a premium LPG offering designed to provide customers with faster and more convenient service.

Enhancing Customer Convenience and Safety

To improve the retail fuel station experience, BPCL rolled out more than 9,000 clean, hygienic and odour-free Drive Fresh washrooms across its retail network. Meanwhile, the company continued its Zero Ka Dum (ZKD) programme and expanded the Defect Mila Toh Refill Free initiative, which now operates in 14 cities. These initiatives reinforce BPCL’s focus on LPG quality, consumer confidence and safety.

Developing Indigenous Technology and Sustainable Fuels

BPCL advanced its indigenous technology capabilities by developing and launching Extreme Weather Grade (XWG) Diesel for the Indian Army. The specialised fuel is designed for military vehicles operating in extreme winter conditions and at high altitudes. Additionally, the company operated a commercial flight using aviation turbine fuel (ATF) blended with 1% Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF), supporting efforts to explore lower-carbon aviation fuel solutions.

Strengthening Strategic Partnerships

BPCL partnered with Tiki Tar and Shell India Private Limited through TTSIPL to expand its value-added bitumen portfolio. This collaboration supports the company’s efforts to strengthen its product offerings and address evolving market requirements.

BPCL’s Operational Performance in Q2 FY2026–27

BPCL maintained strong operational activity during the quarter, supported by high refinery utilisation and continued investments in infrastructure and supply chain resilience.

Refinery throughput: 10.41 million metric tons (MMT), with capacity utilisation of 118%.

Domestic market sales: 13.47 MMT.

Infrastructure development: Continued investments to strengthen supply chain resilience and distribution capabilities.

Digital transformation: Advanced initiatives to improve operational efficiency and business processes.

Fuel availability: Ensured uninterrupted fuel supplies across the country.

Strengthening Growth and Energy Security

Through refinery expansion plans, wider fuel distribution networks, customer-focused services and investments in alternative fuels, BPCL continued to strengthen its position in India’s energy sector during Q2 FY2026–27. As per the press release, going forward, these initiatives will support its strategic priorities in refining, petrochemicals, cleaner energy solutions and operational excellence while contributing to India’s evolving energy landscape.

The FICCI Chemicals and Petrochemicals Awards 2026 recognised companies and industry leaders for their achievements in innovation, manufacturing, sustainability, safety, exports and technological advancement. The awards ceremony took place on October 22 at ITC Maratha, Mumbai, alongside the 14th edition of India Chem 2026. The Department of Chemicals and Petrochemicals (DCPC), Ministry of Chemicals and Fertilisers, Government of India, organised the awards in partnership with the Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FICCI). The awards celebrate industry excellence and encourage companies to adopt innovative technologies, sustainable practices and globally competitive manufacturing standards.

Industry Leaders Emphasise Quality and Competitiveness

Tejveer Singh, Secretary, Department of Chemicals and Petrochemicals, Government of India, emphasised that quality remains essential to strengthening India’s global competitiveness. “Quality must become one of our strongest areas of focus. It is not how much we produce, but how good we produce that will determine our progress,” he said. He also called on industry stakeholders to work collectively towards achieving higher standards of excellence across the chemicals and petrochemicals sector.

Bimal L. Goculdas, Chairman of the FICCI National Chemical Committee and Managing Director and CEO of DMCC Speciality Chemicals Limited, highlighted the importance of recognising innovation, technological advancement and responsible industry practices. He also stressed the need to share best practices, particularly in environmental compliance, to improve the sector’s competitiveness and sustainability.

Lifetime Contribution Award Recognises Sunil Siddharth Lalbhai

The Lifetime Contribution (Individual) Award was presented to Sunil Siddharth Lalbhai, Chairman and Managing Director of Atul Limited, in recognition of his contributions to the chemical industry. Accepting the award, Mr Lalbhai acknowledged the collective efforts of the company’s past and present employees. “I accept this Lifetime Contribution Award with humility, on behalf of the entire Atul family, past and present. Any meaningful contribution is the outcome of collective effort and continuity. What matters is not whether we win or lose, but how we play the game,” he said. Furthermore, he emphasised the importance of continuous innovation, daily improvement and social responsibility. He noted that businesses must continue learning while measuring their success by their positive impact on the communities in which they operate.

Innovation and Manufacturing Excellence

The awards recognised companies that have developed innovative products and improved manufacturing processes across the chemicals and petrochemicals value chain. Under the Product Innovator of the Year category, Shogun Organics Limited won in the chemical MSME category, while Asian Paints Limited received recognition for SmartCare Barrier X 2K in the chemical non-MSME category. In petrochemicals, Xpro India Ltd. won in the MSME category, while Reliance Industries Limited, Hoshiarpur, and IndianOil Corporation Limited (IOCL) received awards in the non-MSME category. For Manufacturing Process Innovator of the Year, Godavari Biorefineries Limited won in the chemical non-MSME category. Mitsu Chem Plast Limited received the award in the petrochemical MSME category, while Reliance Industries Limited and Bharat Petroleum Corporation Limited, Kochi Refinery, were recognised in the petrochemical non-MSME category.

The Company of the Year awards recognised Jeevan Chemicals Pvt. Ltd. in the chemical MSME category and Reliance Industries Limited in the petrochemical non-MSME category. In digital transformation, Gharda Chemicals Limited received the DigiTech Front Runner of the Year award in the chemical non-MSME category, while Reliance Syngas Limited won in the petrochemical non-MSME category.

Sustainability, Energy and Water Management

The awards also highlighted companies that are advancing green products, improving resource efficiency and strengthening environmental performance. Under the Best Green Product category, Balaji Amines won in the chemical non-MSME category, while HPCL-Mittal Energy Limited (HMEL) received the award in the petrochemical non-MSME category. Additionally, HP Green R&D Center, HPCL, won the Best Green Process award in the chemical non-MSME category. For Leader in Energy Management, DMCC Speciality Chemicals Limited and Tagros Chemicals were recognised in the chemical non-MSME category. Bharat Petroleum Corporation Limited received the award in the petrochemical non-MSME category.

Water conservation also featured prominently. DCM Shriram and Deepak Nitrite won the Leader in Water Management awards in the chemical non-MSME category, while Bharat Petroleum Corporation Limited received the award in the petrochemical non-MSME category. Furthermore, Excel Industries was recognised as Sustainability Leader of the Year in the chemical non-MSME category, while Bharat Petroleum Corporation Limited won in the petrochemical non-MSME category.

Excellence in Safety, Exports and Speciality Chemicals

The awards acknowledged companies that are strengthening operational safety, expanding exports and contributing to specialised chemical segments. Under Excellence in Safety, Crystal Crop Protection Limited, Dahej Unit, Gujarat, won in the chemical non-MSME category, while Alok Industries received the award in the petrochemical non-MSME category. The Excellence in Sub-Sector awards recognised Privi Speciality Chemicals Limited and Minal Specialities Private Limited in speciality chemicals, IndianOil Corporation Limited (IOCL) in petrochemicals, and SUPERFORM CHEMISTRIES LIMITED, Unit 12, in agrochemicals. DCM Shriram received the Excellence in Exports award in the chemical non-MSME category, recognising its contribution to the sector’s export performance. The awards also acknowledged social responsibility initiatives. Gharda Chemicals Limited won the Outstanding Contribution to Society award in the chemical non-MSME category, while Engineers India Limited received the award in the petrochemical non-MSME category.

Make in India and Skill Development Initiatives

The Make in India Champion of the Year awards recognised companies contributing to domestic manufacturing and industrial growth. Supreme Surfactants Private Limited won in the chemical MSME category, Excel Industries in the chemical non-MSME category, and Reliance Industries Limited, Patalganga, in the petrochemical non-MSME category. In addition, the Excellence in Skill Development awards went to DCM Shriram in the chemical non-MSME category and CIPET – Central Institute of Plastics Engineering and Technology, in the petrochemical category. These awards highlighted the importance of developing technical skills and strengthening India’s manufacturing capabilities to support the industry’s long-term growth.

Woman Leader of the Year and Startup Recognition

The Woman Leader of the Year award was presented to Sangeeta Arun Kumar Srivastava, Executive Director of Godavari Biorefineries, in the chemical non-MSME category. The award recognised her leadership and contribution to the sector. However, the jury did not declare a winner in the Startup of the Year category.

India Chem 2026 Highlights India’s Growing Chemical Industry

Held alongside India Chem 2026 under the theme “Advantage Bharat: An Emerging Global Chemicals Hub,” the awards ceremony celebrated achievements across the chemicals and petrochemicals value chain. Overall, the FICCI Chemicals and Petrochemicals Awards 2026 highlighted the industry’s progress in product innovation, manufacturing excellence, digital transformation, sustainability, safety, exports and skill development. As per the press release, by recognising these achievements, the awards encourage companies to adopt advanced technologies, improve environmental performance and strengthen India’s position as a globally competitive chemicals and petrochemicals hub.

KBR baggedcontracts to modernise two ammonia plants owned and operated by AGF Nitrogen through its affiliated companies, SKWP in Germany and LAT Nitrogen in Austria. The projects will use KBR’s proprietary ammonia technology and revamp expertise to improve energy efficiency, reduce natural gas consumption and lower carbon dioxide (CO₂) emissions. The upgrades will also support AGF Nitrogen’s sustainability objectives while helping maintain reliable fertiliser production for European agriculture. As the European fertiliser industry faces evolving energy challenges, the revamps aim to improve plant performance and strengthen long-term operational efficiency.

KBR to Upgrade Ammonia Plants in Austria and Germany

Under the contracts, KBR will provide technology licensing, engineering services, process equipment and catalysts for the two ammonia plant upgrades. At LAT Nitrogen’s facility in Linz, Austria, KBR will revamp Ammonia Plant No. 2, which has a capacity of 550 metric tonnes per day (MTPD). The scope includes technology licensing, post-basic engineering design (post-BED) services, process equipment and catalyst supply. At SKWP’s facility in Lutherstadt Wittenberg, Germany, KBR will support the modernisation of Ammonia Plant No. 2, with a capacity of 1,900 MTPD. The contract covers technology licensing, post-BED services, process equipment and catalyst supply, back-end modifications and a new ammonia converter for the synthesis loop. The German project builds on proprietary engineering work that KBR secured in March 2026.

KRES Technology to Improve Energy Efficiency and Reduce Emissions

A key element of both projects is the modernisation of the existing steam reforming sections using KBR’s proprietary KBR Reforming Exchange System (KRES) technology. Steam reforming plays a critical role in conventional ammonia production by generating hydrogen from natural gas. Improving the performance of this section can therefore help reduce energy consumption and associated emissions. By integrating KRES technology with the planned plant upgrades, KBR aims to improve energy efficiency and bring both facilities in line with high industry performance standards. Upon completion, the plants are expected to rank among the most energy-efficient ammonia production facilities in their technology segment.

KBR Highlights Long-Term Partnership with AGF Nitrogen

Jay Ibrahim, President of KBR Sustainable Technology Solutions, said the contracts build on the companies’ long-standing relationship and demonstrate KBR’s commitment to modernising existing ammonia production assets. He highlighted how KBR’s ammonia expertise and proprietary technologies can help customers improve plant efficiency, enhance performance and reduce their carbon footprint. By combining established ammonia technology with energy-transition capabilities, KBR aims to help operators extend the value of existing facilities while improving their environmental performance.

KBR Expands Its Global Ammonia Technology Expertise

KBR has decades of experience in ammonia technology, covering new plant development, modernisation and complex revamp projects. The company’s technology has been deployed in more than 260 ammonia plants worldwide. In addition to its engineering and technology services, KBR offers tailored revamp solutions and physics-enabled artificial intelligence (AI) capabilities to help customers improve plant reliability, optimise energy use and reduce emissions. As per the press release, the latest contracts reinforce KBR’s role in upgrading established ammonia production facilities to meet evolving efficiency and sustainability requirements. For AGF Nitrogen, the projects represent an investment in improved plant performance, lower energy consumption and more sustainable fertiliser production in Europe.

Bharat Coal Gasification and Chemicals Ltd (BCGCL) commenced construction on its ₹25,000 crore coal gasification project in Odisha, marking a significant shift from planning and contract awards to on-site execution. The company has awarded contracts worth approximately ₹15,000 crore, according to its Managing Director, Peeyush Kumar. The project aims to produce technical-grade ammonium nitrate using coal gasification technology, with a planned annual production capacity of approximately 0.66 million tonnes. Once operational, the facility is expected to strengthen domestic chemical production and support India’s efforts to utilise its coal resources for value-added products.

Coal India and BHEL Joint Venture Leads the Project

BCGCL is a joint venture between Coal India Ltd (CIL) and Bharat Heavy Electricals Ltd (BHEL). CIL holds a 51% stake in the company, while BHEL owns the remaining 49%. Kumar confirmed that construction had started and most tenders had been awarded. Of the ₹15,000 crore in contracts placed so far, BHEL has received work worth approximately ₹10,000 crore, while Larsen & Toubro (L&T) has secured contracts valued at around ₹5,000 crore.

BHEL and L&T to Execute Four Major Project Packages

BCGCL has divided the project into four major packages, assigning responsibilities according to the companies’ respective engineering and manufacturing capabilities.

BHEL: Coal gasification and synthesis gas (syngas) purification packages.

L&T: Ammonia synthesis and ammonium nitrate production packages.

The production process will convert coal into syngas, which will then undergo purification before being processed into ammonia. The facility will subsequently use ammonia to produce nitric acid and, ultimately, technical-grade ammonium nitrate. This integrated process will enable BCGCL to convert domestic coal into a value-added industrial chemical.

Indigenous Gasification Technology to Support Chemical Production

The Odisha project is among India’s commercial-scale initiatives to deploy domestically developed pressurised fluidised bed gasification technology for chemical manufacturing. By converting coal into chemical feedstocks, the project aims to expand the use of domestic resources beyond conventional power generation. Its planned ammonium nitrate output will serve industrial applications, particularly mining operations that use the chemical. However, BCGCL has not announced a commissioning date in the available statement. The company has also not disclosed the value of the remaining construction packages or an updated project completion schedule.

₹25,000 Crore Investment Covers Project and Associated Costs

The estimated project cost stands at ₹25,000 crore. According to Kumar, the remaining portion of the overall investment will cover associated expenses, including interest, depreciation and land-related costs. With contracts worth ₹15,000 crore already awarded, the next phase will focus on executing the assigned packages, completing the remaining tendering process and advancing construction. The pace of implementation will therefore depend on progress across the project’s major engineering and construction activities.

Project Supports India’s Coal Gasification Mission

The Odisha project aligns with India’s broader ambition to establish 100 million tonnes of coal gasification capacity by 2030 under the National Coal Gasification Mission. The initiative seeks to promote the conversion of coal into chemicals and other value-added products while reducing dependence on imported resources and chemical feedstocks, including liquefied natural gas (LNG), urea, ammonia and methanol. Coal gasification can provide an alternative route for producing industrial chemicals from domestic resources. Consequently, projects such as BCGCL’s Odisha facility could contribute to India’s chemical manufacturing capabilities and import-substitution objectives.

Odisha Project Secures Key Government Clearance

BCGCL has received single-window clearance from the Odisha government’s High-Level Clearance Authority, an important step in advancing the project. With construction now underway and major contracts awarded to BHEL and L&T, the project has entered a crucial execution phase. The completion of the remaining tenders and timely implementation of the four major packages will be key to progressing towards commercial operations. As reported by urbanacres.in, the Odisha coal gasification project represents a significant investment in India’s coal-to-chemicals sector, with the potential to expand domestic ammonium nitrate production and strengthen the country’s value-added chemical manufacturing ecosystem.

Larsen & Toubro’s (L&T) Heavy Engineering business achieved a major milestone by dispatching the eighth steam generator for India’s 700 MWe Pressurised Heavy Water Reactor (PHWR) programme, three months ahead of its contractual delivery schedule. Manufactured at L&T’s state-of-the-art Heavy Engineering Complex in Hazira, Gujarat, the steam generator is a critical component of a nuclear power plant. The early dispatch demonstrates L&T’s commitment to nuclear safety, manufacturing quality and timely project execution while supporting India’s expanding nuclear energy programme.

Early Delivery Supports India’s Nuclear Energy Expansion

The achievement comes as India accelerates its nuclear power capacity to strengthen energy security, support industrial growth and meet long-term decarbonisation goals. Nuclear energy is also expected to play an increasingly important role in meeting the growing electricity requirements of data centres, artificial intelligence (AI) and digital infrastructure. Consequently, the timely delivery of critical nuclear island equipment remains essential to the successful execution of nuclear power projects. L&T’s latest milestone highlights the capabilities of India’s domestic manufacturing sector to support the country’s long-term nuclear expansion plans.

L&T Reinforces Indigenous Nuclear Manufacturing Capabilities

The dispatch of the eighth steam generator underscores the strength of India’s indigenous nuclear manufacturing ecosystem and its readiness to support large-scale civil nuclear power projects. Anil V. Parab, Whole-Time Director and Senior Executive Vice President – Manufacturing, L&T, said the company continued to set industry benchmarks through its engineering and manufacturing capabilities. He noted that the early dispatch of all eight steam generators demonstrated L&T’s commitment to nuclear safety and manufacturing excellence. He also highlighted the company’s role in supporting India’s Viksit Bharat 2047 vision, including the national ambition to expand nuclear power generation capacity to 100 GWe. Parab reaffirmed L&T’s long-term partnership with Nuclear Power Corporation of India Limited (NPCIL) and its commitment to accelerating India’s transition to clean energy.

Six Decades of Contribution to India’s Nuclear Power Programme

L&T has contributed to India’s nuclear power programme for more than six decades, manufacturing a wide range of critical nuclear equipment. Its capabilities include steam generators, reactor headers, pressurisers, end shields, calandrias and fast breeder reactor components. Over the years, the company has continued to invest in advanced manufacturing technologies, automation and specialised nuclear fabrication capabilities. These investments have helped establish a comprehensive manufacturing ecosystem to support complex nuclear engineering requirements. With the early dispatch of its eighth steam generator, L&T has further demonstrated its manufacturing capabilities and commitment to India’s nuclear power expansion. As per the press release, the milestone reinforces the role of domestic engineering companies in strengthening energy security, advancing clean energy generation and supporting the country’s long-term development goals.