The government is reportedly fast-tracking plans to develop a deep-sea natural gas pipeline from Oman to strengthen the country’s long-term energy security amid ongoing tensions in the Strait of Hormuz. The proposed undersea pipeline project, estimated at around ₹40,000 crore, aims to ensure uninterrupted gas supplies from the Gulf region while reducing India’s dependence on volatile global LNG spot markets.

Government Pushes for Strategic Energy Security

The ministry of petroleum and natural gas is preparing to initiate a detailed feasibility study for the ambitious project following a pre-feasibility assessment conducted by South Asia Gas Enterprise (SAGE). The government is expected to assign state-run companies including GAIL, Engineers India Limited, and Indian Oil Corporation to prepare the comprehensive report. If the feasibility study receives a positive outcome, India may begin formal government-level discussions with Oman on gas supply agreements, financing mechanisms, and project execution plans.

Pipeline Route to Avoid Geopolitical Hotspots

The proposed pipeline route will pass through the Arabian Sea via Oman and the UAE, strategically bypassing geopolitically sensitive regions. The pipeline could potentially provide India access to vast natural gas reserves from countries including Oman, United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia, Iran, Turkmenistan, and Qatar. Collectively, the region is estimated to hold nearly 2,500 trillion cubic feet of natural gas reserves, making it one of the world’s most resource-rich energy corridors.

One of the Deepest Undersea Pipelines in the World

As reported by businesstoday.in, the proposed pipeline is expected to be laid at depths reaching up to 3,450 metres, potentially making it one of the deepest undersea gas pipelines globally. Advancements in deep-sea pipeline laying and repair technologies have significantly improved the technical feasibility of such large-scale offshore infrastructure projects. As part of its preliminary work, SAGE has already laid nearly 3,000 metres of test pipeline along the proposed route at an estimated cost of ₹25 crore to study seabed conditions and engineering challenges.

Bodo Möller Chemie, a global supplier of specialty adhesives, sealants, and advanced materials, inaugurated its new AS9120-certified aviation-grade warehouse facility in Bengaluru, further strengthening its commitment to India’s fast-growing aerospace and advanced manufacturing sectors. The new facility has been established to support the rising demand for high-quality aerospace materials and reliable supply chain solutions from aviation and industrial OEMs across India.

Strategic Facility to Support Aerospace and MRO Growth

Located strategically on the outskirts of Bengaluru near Madavara, the warehouse is expected to cater to the growing requirements of civilian and military manufacturing units as well as maintenance, repair and overhaul (MRO) operations. The facility will enhance the company’s logistics capabilities by ensuring improved material availability and technical support for critical aerospace applications.

India Emerging as Key Aerospace and Electronics Hub

Frank Haug, CEO, Bodo Möller Chemie highlighted India’s expanding role in global aerospace and electronics manufacturing. “India continues to emerge as a strategic hub for aerospace and advanced manufacturing. This investment reflects our confidence in the Indian market and our commitment to delivering world-class infrastructure, technical expertise, and supply chain reliability,” he said. Haug further added that the company expects its global turnover in aviation and electronics businesses to reach €100 million each in the coming years.

Advanced Adhesive Technologies for Critical Applications

Bodo Möller Chemie supplies advanced adhesive and material technologies used in manufacturing aircraft fuselages and other critical aerospace components that require long lifecycle performance and high reliability. With its latest investment in Bengaluru, Bodo Möller Chemie aims to further expand its footprint in India and strengthen partnerships with global aviation and industrial customers. As per the press release, the company continues to grow across international markets by focusing on innovation, technical collaboration, and customer-centric service excellence in advanced material technologies.

Archean Chemical Industries signed a fiscal support agreement with the India Semiconductor Mission for the development of India’s first approved Silicon Carbide (SiC) semiconductor fabrication and assembly facility under the Semicon India Programme. The agreement was executed on May 11, 2026, along with the company’s wholly-owned subsidiary Neun Infra and step-down subsidiary SiCSem.

₹2,067 Crore Investment Planned for Bhubaneswar Facility

The proposed semiconductor facility will come up at Info Valley in Bhubaneswar with an estimated investment of nearly ₹2,067 crore. According to the company, the integrated facility will combine wafer fabrication and assembly, testing, marking and packaging (ATMP) operations under one roof, strengthening India’s domestic semiconductor manufacturing ecosystem.

India’s First Approved Silicon Carbide Semiconductor Unit

The upcoming facility is expected to manufacture around 60,000 silicon carbide wafers annually. In addition, the facility aims to produce nearly 96 million SiC MOSFETs and diodes every year. The project is designed to support high-growth sectors such as electric vehicles, renewable energy, smart grids, industrial automation, 5G telecommunications, and data centre infrastructure.

Rising Demand for Silicon Carbide Semiconductors

Silicon carbide semiconductors are increasingly gaining importance in advanced power electronics because they can operate at higher temperatures, voltages, and switching frequencies compared to conventional silicon-based chips. As global investments in electric mobility, clean energy, and energy-efficient technologies continue to rise, industry analysts expect strong demand growth for SiC-based semiconductor components over the coming years.

Boost to India’s Semiconductor Manufacturing Ecosystem

The fiscal support agreement has been signed under the government’s Semicon India Programme, which aims to strengthen the country’s semiconductor manufacturing capabilities and reduce dependence on imported advanced chip technologies. Officials associated with the initiative described the project as a major milestone in building India’s compound semiconductor ecosystem. The Bhubaneswar facility is expected to enhance local manufacturing capacity for advanced semiconductor materials while supporting India’s broader electronics and industrial supply chain.

Strategic Push for High-Tech Manufacturing

The project also aligns with India’s larger strategy to attract investments in high-technology manufacturing sectors, including electronics, telecommunications, mobility, and renewable energy infrastructure. In recent years, the Indian government has accelerated efforts to establish a robust semiconductor ecosystem through fiscal incentives, policy support, and collaborations with private sector companies. As reported by manufacturingtodayindia.com, with increasing focus on energy-efficient electronic systems, compound semiconductors such as silicon carbide are emerging as critical technologies for next-generation industrial and mobility applications.

The Gujarat Chem & Petchem Conference 2026 will take place from May 14 to May 15, 2026, at the Hyatt Place Bharuch, bringing together key stakeholders from the chemical and petrochemical industries for two days of knowledge sharing, business networking, and industry discussions.

Platform for Industry Insights and Innovation

The conference is expected to serve as a major platform for industry professionals, researchers, innovators, and business leaders to exchange ideas and explore emerging opportunities in the chemicals and petrochemicals sector. Through a series of expert presentations and panel discussions, participants will gain valuable insights into the latest market trends, operational challenges, and technological advancements shaping the future of the industry.

Focus on Sustainability and Regulatory Developments

In addition, the event will highlight critical topics such as sustainability, energy efficiency, environmental compliance, and evolving regulatory frameworks impacting the sector. Industry experts are also expected to discuss innovative technologies and best practices that can help companies improve operational efficiency while advancing their sustainability goals.

Networking Opportunities for Industry Professionals

Apart from technical sessions, the conference will provide extensive networking opportunities for attendees to connect with decision-makers, technology providers, and business partners from across the chemical and petrochemical value chain. As reported by 10times.com, with growing emphasis on innovation and sustainable industrial growth, the Gujarat Chem & Petchem Conference 2026 is poised to become an important forum for shaping the future direction of India’s chemical and petrochemical industries.

Dr. Reddy’s Laboratories secured final approval from India’s drug regulator to manufacture and market generic versions of semaglutide tablets, intensifying competition in the country’s rapidly growing diabetes and weight-loss drug market.

Approval Clears Path for Generic Rybelsus Alternative

While the core semaglutide patent expired in India last month, Novo’s patent covering oral formulations remains valid until 2031. Hyderabad-based Dr Reddy’s confirmed that the Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation (CDSCO) granted regulatory approval for the product. However, the company has not yet disclosed its commercial launch timeline. The formulation underwent a head-to-head comparative clinical study in India, which demonstrated non-inferiority to Novo Nordisk’s Rybelsus. “The formulation was clinically evaluated in a comparative study conducted in India, establishing non-inferiority to Novo Nordisk’s oral semaglutide,” the company stated. Based on this evidence, the product received approval through India’s biosimilar regulatory pathway.

Growing Competition in India’s Weight-Loss Drug Market

The approval is expected to intensify competition in India’s booming anti-diabetes and obesity treatment market, which has crossed the ₹1,600-crore mark within just over a year. Industry experts believe the market will witness aggressive pricing and expanded patient access as more domestic drugmakers enter the segment. An expert committee had also issued a favourable opinion on Dr Reddy’s application after reviewing data from local clinical trials.

Approved Dosages and Manufacturing Details

The company has received approval for three dosage strengths — 3 mg, 7 mg, and 14 mg. The tablets are indicated as an adjunct to diet and exercise for improving glycaemic control in adults with type-2 diabetes mellitus. As reported by The Economic Times, according to regulatory documents, the drug substance (API) will be sourced from Hangzhou Zhongemeihuadong Pharmaceutical Jiangdong Co., while the final tablet formulations will be manufactured at Dr Reddy’s facility in Andhra Pradesh.

The Confederation of Indian Industry has announced its new leadership team for 2026-27, appointing prominent industry leaders from the manufacturing, biotechnology, and diversified business sectors to key positions within the apex industry body. As part of the leadership transition, R. Mukundan, Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Tata Chemicals, has been elected President of CII for the 2026-27 term.

Mukundan Succeeds Rajiv Memani

Mukundan succeeds Rajiv Memani, the outgoing President of CII, following the selection of new office-bearers by the industry body’s newly constituted National Council. The appointment marks another significant milestone in Mukundan’s long-standing association with CII and the Indian corporate sector.

Three Decades of Leadership Across Tata Group Businesses

Over the last three decades, Mukundan has built extensive leadership experience across several Tata Group companies, spanning the chemicals, automotive, and hospitality sectors. His strategic leadership and operational expertise have played a key role in strengthening business growth across industries.

Longstanding Association with CII

Before taking over as President, Mukundan served as CII President-Designate during 2025-26. Earlier, he also chaired the CII Western Region in 2013-14, reflecting his deep engagement with the organisation’s initiatives and policy advocacy efforts. As reported by angelone.in, with Mukundan at the helm, industry observers expect CII to continue focusing on manufacturing growth, sustainability, innovation, and global competitiveness in the coming year.

In a landmark achievement for Indian science and engineering, Prof Ganapati D. Yadav has been elected as a Fellow of the Canadian Academy of Engineering. With this honour, Prof. Yadav becomes the first Indian in the history of the Academy to receive this prestigious recognition. He will be formally inducted at Edmonton, Canada, on June 1, 2026.

Recognition for Excellence in Science and Engineering

Prof. Yadav currently serves as Vice President of the Indian National Science Academy. He is also the Chairman of the Board of Governors of Laxminarayan Innovation Technological University, Chairman of the Governing Body of S. N. Bose National Centre for Basic Sciences, and Founding Vice-Chancellor of Institute of Chemical Technology. Prof. Yadav credited the achievement to his alma mater ICT Mumbai, his students, and his family members for their unwavering support throughout his academic and professional journey.

Decorated Scientist with Global Recognition

A recipient of the Padma Shri, Prof. Yadav has earned more than 150 national and international honours during his distinguished career. Recently, he was selected to deliver the prestigious Danckwerts Memorial Lecture jointly organised by the Institution of Chemical Engineers, American Chemical Society, and Elsevier. In addition, he received the Acharya P. C. Ray Gold Medal from the University of Calcutta.

Pioneer in Green Hydrogen and Sustainable Technologies

Prof. Yadav is internationally recognised for his pioneering contributions to green hydrogen, decarbonisation, sustainable aviation fuel (SAF), carbon dioxide valorisation, and waste biomass conversion. Over the years, his research has significantly contributed to advancing sustainable and clean energy technologies. He currently chairs the Hydrocarbon Committee of the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas. He also serves on hydrogen infrastructure committees under the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways and the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy.

Outstanding Academic and Research Contributions

Throughout his illustrious career, Prof. Yadav has guided 117 Ph.D. scholars, published 576 research papers, and secured 139 patents. His extensive contributions continue to strengthen India’s position in global scientific research and innovation. The latest recognition by the Canadian Academy of Engineering further reinforces Prof. Yadav’s status as one of India’s most respected chemical engineers and sustainability researchers.

Indo Borax and Chemicals Ltd, manufacturer of boron-based chemicals, strengthened its leadership and Board of Directors with the appointment of industry veteran Suresh Kalra as the new Managing Director & CEO. The move marks a significant step in the company’s strategy to expand into new product categories and global markets.

Industry Veteran to Lead Next Phase of Growth

With decades of experience in the global chemicals sector, Suresh Kalra brings extensive expertise in scaling businesses, operational excellence, and strategic expansion. Over the years, he has held senior leadership positions at Aquapharm Chemical Limited, hubergroup Germany, SI Group, and W. R. Grace, where he successfully managed large-scale manufacturing operations, P&L responsibilities, and international business expansion. At Indo Borax, Kalra will focus on driving long-term growth through innovation, operational optimisation, and market diversification.

New Core Leadership Team Strengthens Operations

To support the company’s next growth phase, Indo Borax has also inducted an experienced leadership team across key business functions. Kamlesh Joshi has joined as Chief Commercial Officer & CHRO. With more than 25 years of experience in speciality chemicals and distribution, he has previously worked with Brenntag, hubergroup Germany, SI Group, and AkzoNobel. His expertise spans commercial strategy, supply chain management, and international business development.

Shashikant Bharuka has been appointed Chief Financial Officer. Bharuka brings over 24 years of experience in finance, accounting, and corporate reporting. He has previously held senior finance roles at Lupin, Unichem Laboratories, and Ajanta Pharma. The company also continues to benefit from the expertise of Govind Parmar, a long-serving Indo Borax veteran who currently oversees factory operations as Director, Factory.

Harsh Malhotra Joins Board as Executive Director

Harsh Malhotra, a second-generation entrepreneur representing the new promoter group Zenrock Chemicals, has been appointed Executive Director of the company. Malhotra brings more than a decade of international experience in operations, supply chain management, and strategic planning. Prior to joining Indo Borax, he worked with Amazon in the United States, leading large-scale operational and planning initiatives across multiple regions. He holds a Master of Science in International Business from Ivey Business School and a Bachelor of Commerce degree from McGill University.

Company Eyes Expansion and Innovation-Led Growth

Suresh Kalra said the company’s strong market position, operational scale, and niche product portfolio provide a robust foundation for future growth. He added that the newly appointed leadership team brings global expertise and execution capabilities that will help Indo Borax strengthen its market presence, improve operational efficiencies, and accelerate innovation-led expansion in the years ahead.

As the global clean energy transition accelerates, India continues to face major financing challenges in securing critical minerals essential for its energy security and manufacturing ambitions, according to a new briefing note released by the Institute for Energy Economics and Financial Analysis (IEEFA) and Climate and Sustainability Initiative (CSI). The report highlights that India currently imports 100 percent of key critical minerals such as lithium, cobalt, and nickel, which are vital for manufacturing batteries, electric vehicles (EVs), solar equipment, and other green technologies. As demand for clean energy technologies rises, India will require significant investments across the entire critical minerals value chain, from mining and refining to processing and manufacturing.

Massive Global Investment Needed Across Supply Chain

According to the report, the International Energy Agency estimates that nearly $915 billion in fresh capital investment will be required globally for mining and refining activities between 2026 and 2035 under its Announced Pledges Scenario. The estimate exceeds the investment pipeline for currently announced projects, signalling potential supply shortages in critical minerals by 2040.

The briefing note points to funding gaps across both upstream exploration activities and capital-intensive midstream processing operations. It emphasizes that attracting private capital will require targeted de-risking measures and stronger financial support mechanisms, especially since investments in the sector involve long gestation periods and uncertain long-term returns.

Private Investment Hindered by Structural Challenges

Saloni Sachdeva Michael, Lead Energy Specialist, India Clean Energy Transition, at IEEFA stated that limited access to risk-sharing capital and inadequate support for midstream investments are restricting private sector participation. “The absence of risk-sharing capital, midstream capex support, and integration with manufacturing incentives is limiting private investment,” she noted. Meanwhile, Kaira Rakheja, Energy Analyst at IEEFA highlighted additional operational challenges affecting investor confidence. “Midstream bottlenecks like feedstock uncertainty, price volatility, and global overcapacity are discouraging investment in refining and processing,” she said. The report further identifies high upfront costs, regulatory uncertainty, and lengthy project development timelines as major deterrents for investors.

Domestic Manufacturing Key to Sector Growth

The report emphasizes that India’s critical minerals strategy must align closely with efforts to scale domestic green manufacturing capacity. Expanding industries such as battery manufacturing, electric vehicles, solar modules, and electronics will play a crucial role in driving long-term demand and investment in the critical minerals ecosystem. According to Rati Verma, Research Consultant at CSI, the concentration of global critical mineral supply chains in a few countries — particularly China — increases strategic risks for India. “The high concentration of critical mineral supply chains in a few countries, primarily China, means that India needs to diversify its sources and augment its domestic manufacturing capabilities,” she explained.

Need for Clearer Processing and Refining Strategy

The report also points out that India currently lacks a coherent roadmap for building domestic refining and processing infrastructure.

There is limited clarity regarding:

*Financing models for midstream facilities

*Location planning for processing hubs

*Integration between mining operations and downstream manufacturing

Additionally, the report states that India’s research and development ecosystem for critical minerals remains fragmented, with limited collaboration between academic institutions, public sector companies, and private industry players.

Stronger Policy Coordination Essential

While India’s National Critical Mineral Mission (NCMM) aims to address upstream vulnerabilities through exploration, overseas acquisitions, and recycling initiatives, the report notes that coordination with Production Linked Incentive (PLI) schemes remains weak. Analysts stress that stronger centre-state coordination will be critical for accelerating project implementation. Clearer institutional roles, shared project pipelines, and aligned incentive structures could significantly improve execution efficiency.

International Partnerships and ESG Practices Gain Importance

Alongside domestic policy reforms, the report suggests that India should strengthen partnerships with resource-rich countries to improve long-term access to critical minerals. As part of the strategy, Khanij Bidesh India Limited (KABIL), a public sector joint venture, is actively pursuing overseas exploration and strategic acquisitions, particularly for lithium and cobalt assets. The report also highlights the growing importance of Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) standards in reducing supply chain risks associated with emissions, corruption, and geopolitical instability.

Long-Term Policy Clarity Needed to Avoid Underinvestment

The analysts conclude that critical minerals projects are highly capital-intensive, high-risk, and
long-gestation in nature. Without sustained government intervention and long-term policy clarity, India could face uneven progress and continued underinvestment in the sector. Labanya Prakash Jena, Director, CSI emphasized the importance of coordinated policymaking and financial support mechanisms. “Global experience shows that Centre-state coordination, risk-sharing, and long-term policy clarity are essential for the sector’s progress,” he said.

Credence Solar has secured Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) approval for additional crystalline silicon solar photovoltaic (PV) module models, including high-wattage variants rated up to 744 Wp. The certification marks a significant step in the company’s expansion strategy as it prepares for inclusion in the Approved List of Models and Manufacturers (ALMM) and plans to enter integrated solar cell manufacturing. According to the BIS inclusion document dated May 8, 2026, the approval was granted under the company’s existing BIS licence for “Crystalline Silicon Terrestrial Photovoltaic (PV) Modules (Si wafer based)” in compliance with IS 14286 and related IEC standards.

High-Efficiency Module Portfolio Expands

The latest BIS approval covers multiple module variants across Credence Solar’s CS-HBT, CS-QBT, and CS-QU product series. While the certification now includes modules with capacities reaching 744 Wp, the company stated that commercially available products currently range between 725 Wp and 730 Wp. Additionally, nearly 150 MW of manufacturing capacity for these higher-wattage modules is already operational, reflecting the company’s focus on advanced and high-efficiency solar technologies. The expansion aligns with growing demand from utility-scale solar developers seeking improved project economics, lower balance-of-system costs, and higher energy output.

ALMM Inclusion Expected Soon

Credence Solar informed industry sources that the newly certified modules are expected to be included in the ALMM framework in the near future. Inclusion in the Approved List of Models and Manufacturers is considered critical for participation in government-backed solar projects and public sector tenders in India. The anticipated ALMM approval could further strengthen the company’s presence in India’s rapidly expanding utility-scale solar market.

Manufacturing Expansion Underway in Gujarat

Credence Solar currently operates approximately 2.2 GW of solar module manufacturing capacity at its Rajkot facility in Gujarat. As part of its long-term growth strategy, the company is also planning to expand upstream into solar cell manufacturing. It has proposed setting up a 2 GW solar cell production line at the same location, with commissioning targeted for the first quarter of 2027. The BIS-approved manufacturing facility is located at Padadhari in Rajkot district along the
Rajkot–Jamnagar Highway.

Indian Solar Manufacturers Move Toward High-Wattage Technologies

The latest certification reflects a broader trend within India’s solar manufacturing ecosystem, where companies are increasingly shifting toward higher-efficiency and larger-format solar modules to remain globally competitive. At the same time, Indian manufacturers are benefiting from global supply chain diversification as international markets seek alternatives to China-centric solar sourcing. Apart from serving the domestic market, Credence Solar is also reportedly exporting solar modules to the United States, highlighting the growing international ambitions of Indian renewable energy manufacturers.

BIS Certification Critical for Indian Solar Market

BIS certification remains mandatory for supplying solar modules in India and plays a key role in securing ALMM approvals and participating in government-supported renewable energy projects. As reported by Solar Now, the latest approval underscores ongoing investments in technology upgrades, manufacturing capacity expansion, and localization efforts within India’s solar industry as the country accelerates its clean energy transition.