The government has imposed fresh restrictions on the import of glufosinate and its salts, a widely used agricultural herbicide. The measure will remain in force for a period of six months. According to a notification issued by the Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT), imports of glufosinate will be restricted if the combined CIF (cost, insurance, and freight) value along with applicable anti-dumping duty falls below ₹1,154 per kilogram. The pricing condition aims to regulate the inflow of cheaper imports into the domestic market.

Protecting Domestic Industry

The move is primarily intended to curb low-cost imports and safeguard the interests of domestic manufacturers. By introducing a minimum price threshold, the government seeks to ensure fair competition and stabilize the local agrochemical sector.

DGFT Issues Guidelines for Pet Coke Imports

In a related development, the DGFT has also released detailed guidelines for the import of calcined petroleum coke (CPC) for the aluminium industry for the 2026–27 period. CPC is a key raw material used in aluminium production.

Application and Allocation Process

The DGFT has invited applications for the allocation of import quantities of both CPC and raw petroleum coke used in its manufacturing. Notably, the allocation will be determined based on recommendations from an Exim facilitation committee, ensuring a structured and transparent distribution process.

Ensuring Balanced Trade and Supply

As reported by knnindia.co.in, these measures reflect the government’s proactive approach to managing imports, protecting domestic industries, and ensuring a balanced supply of critical raw materials for key sectors such as agrochemicals and aluminium.

Juno Joule Bio Fuels commenced construction of its flagship Compressed Bio-Gas (CBG) project at Narmetta in Siddipet district, Telangana. The project was recently initiated with a ground-breaking ceremony, signaling a major step in the company’s clean energy growth strategy.

Part of a Larger ₹700 Crore Cluster Initiative

The Narmetta facility forms part of a broader cluster development plan comprising ten CBG plants. Each plant will have a capacity of ten tons per day (TPD), bringing the total planned production capacity to 100 TPD. To support this ambitious rollout, the company has committed an overall investment of ₹700 crore.

Phase One Development Underway

Currently, the first phase of the project is under development at Narmetta. This phase includes three CBG units, each with a capacity of ten TPD, representing a combined investment of ₹210 crore. The company expects to commission this phase by May 2027, thereby setting the foundation for subsequent expansions.

Driving Sustainable Energy and Local Growth

Once operational, the CBG project will significantly enhance the production of renewable energy while reducing dependence on conventional fossil fuels. In addition, it will support India’s transition toward cleaner fuel alternatives and contribute to lower carbon emissions.

Boosting Regional Economic Development

Beyond environmental benefits, the project is poised to create economic opportunities in the region. It will generate employment, strengthen local supply chains, and promote rural development, particularly in and around Siddipet district.

Strengthening India’s Bioenergy Ecosystem

As reported by projxnews.com, Juno Joule’s ₹700 crore investment underscores the growing momentum in India’s bioenergy sector. By scaling up CBG production and adopting a cluster-based approach, the company is positioning itself as a key contributor to the country’s sustainable energy future.

The government is preparing to invite bids within the next three to six months for setting up a 220 MWe Bharat Small Modular Reactor (BSMR-200). The move marks a significant step toward positioning nuclear energy as a key pillar of the country’s clean energy transition.

Opening Doors to Global and Domestic Collaboration

The bidding process will allow participation from foreign companies. However, these firms must partner with domestic players, ensuring technology transfer and strengthening local capabilities. The approach aligns with India’s broader strategy to boost indigenous manufacturing and expertise in nuclear technology.

Standardised Design for Scalable Deployment

The BSMR-200 design will follow a standardized model, with the first unit serving as a reference for future projects. The standardization is expected to streamline approvals, reduce costs, and accelerate deployment of small modular reactors (SMRs) across the country.

Joint Development by Key Nuclear Institutions

The project is being jointly developed by Bhabha Atomic Research Centre and Nuclear Power Corporation of India Limited. Together, these institutions bring deep technical expertise and operational experience to the initiative.

Investment and Project Timeline

The total cost of development and construction is estimated at approximately ₹5,960 crore. The project will be funded under the government’s Nuclear Energy Mission. Once administrative and financial approvals are secured, construction is expected to take between 60 and 72 months.

Policy Push Through SHANTI Act

The initiative follows a major policy reform with the enactment of the Sustainable Harnessing and Advancement of Nuclear Energy for Transforming India (SHANTI) Act in December 2025. The Act opens up the nuclear sector to private participation, creating new opportunities for investment and innovation.

India’s Long-Term Nuclear Energy Vision

Looking ahead, India has set an ambitious target of achieving 100 GW of nuclear power capacity by 2047. At the same time, the country is focusing on localization and developing a robust domestic supply chain for nuclear technologies.

Fast Breeder Reactor Milestone Boosts Momentum

As reported by moneycontrol.com, in a parallel development, India’s prototype fast breeder reactor recently achieved criticality, marking a major milestone in the nation’s nuclear energy programme. The achievement further strengthens confidence in India’s advanced nuclear capabilities. Overall, the BSMR-200 project represents a strategic step toward diversifying India’s energy mix. By combining policy support, global collaboration, and indigenous innovation, the country is accelerating its journey toward a sustainable and energy-secure future.

Cosmo First Limited reinforced its commitment to employee well-being by achieving ISO 45001:2018 certification across its major manufacturing units in Waluj, Shendra, and Karjan. The milestone highlights the company’s strong focus on maintaining robust Occupational Health and Safety Management Systems (OHSMS) aligned with global standards.

What the ISO 45001 Certification Signifies

The ISO 45001:2018 certification is an internationally recognized benchmark for workplace safety. It enables organizations to proactively reduce risks, prevent workplace injuries, and enhance overall employee health. By securing this certification, Cosmo First demonstrates its structured approach to safety, compliance, and continuous improvement.

Waluj Facility: Advanced Film Manufacturing Capabilities

At its Waluj unit in Maharashtra, the certification covers a comprehensive range of operations. These include the design, development, marketing, and manufacturing of BOPP (multiple lines), BOPET, and CPP films. In addition, the facility undertakes advanced processes such as metallizing, coating, and extrusion coating, catering to diverse industrial applications.

Shendra Unit: Focus on BOPP Film Production

Similarly, the Shendra plant in Maharashtra has been certified for its specialized capabilities in BOPP film manufacturing using biaxial orientation processes. The certification also extends to metallizing, coating, and extrusion coating operations, supporting a wide range of end-use industries.

Karjan Facility: Expanding Integrated Operations

The Karjan facility in Gujarat strengthens the company’s integrated manufacturing footprint. The certification here includes the production of BOPP and CPP films, along with metallizing, lamination, and coating processes. This further enhances Cosmo First’s ability to deliver high-performance packaging solutions.

Leadership Perspective on Safety Excellence

Kulbhushan Malik stated that the certification reflects the company’s unwavering focus on building a safe and resilient work environment. He emphasized that as the company expands and invests in future-ready technologies, maintaining the highest safety standards remains a top priority.

Driving ESG and Operational Excellence

The certification aligns with Cosmo First’s broader ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) commitments. By embedding a safety-first culture, the company continues to strengthen its approach to risk management, regulatory compliance, and sustainable operations.

Validity and Continuous Compliance

The ISO 45001:2018 certification is valid for three years and requires successful annual surveillance audits. This ensures that Cosmo First consistently maintains and improves its safety practices over time. As reported by mediabrief.com, overall, the achievement underscores Cosmo First’s long-term strategy of combining safety, sustainability, and operational excellence. As a result, the company is well-positioned to drive responsible growth while safeguarding its workforce across all manufacturing locations.

Bhagiradha Chemicals & Industries Ltd announced a major investment of ₹850 crore (approximately $100 million) to build a large-scale manufacturing facility in Kadechur, Yadgir district. The move not only accelerates the company’s expansion plans but also strengthens its footprint in India’s fast-growing specialty chemicals sector.

Focus on High-Value Chemical Intermediates

The upcoming Kadechur mega plant will primarily produce high-value chemical intermediates. These products will cater to critical end-use industries such as agrochemicals, pharmaceuticals, and performance materials. As demand continues to rise both domestically and globally, the company aims to scale up its production capacity while enhancing its export competitiveness.

Technology-Driven and Sustainable Operations

The project will integrate advanced processing technologies and modern manufacturing systems. In addition, Bhagiradha Chemicals plans to implement robust environmental controls and efficient resource management practices. This approach ensures compliance with evolving regulatory standards while aligning with global sustainability goals.

Boost to Regional Development

Beyond business growth, the investment is expected to generate significant employment opportunities in the Yadgir district. As a result, the project will contribute to local economic development and accelerate industrialization in the region.

Kadechur Emerging as an Industrial Hub

Kadechur is steadily gaining recognition as a key industrial destination in Karnataka. Supported by proactive government policies and infrastructure development initiatives, the region continues to attract major investments. Bhagiradha Chemicals’ latest project further enhances its appeal for future industrial ventures.

Strengthening Global Supply Chain Integration

As reported by globalflowcontrol.com, the ₹850 crore investment reflects the company’s long-term growth strategy. By expanding capacity, adopting advanced technologies, and deepening its integration into global chemical supply chains, Bhagiradha Chemicals is positioning itself for sustained growth in the competitive specialty chemicals market.

The chemical industry is undergoing a significant transition. While global recovery continues, rising costs and increasing sustainability demands are reshaping priorities. Against this backdrop, AUTOMA Chem 2026 emerges as a critical platform where industry leaders will come together to explore digital transformation and redefine the future of chemicals. Co-hosted by Evonik, with regional partners WACKER, Covestro, LyondellBasell, and Worley, the event will take place in Berlin on 26–27 October. It promises to be a focal point for dialogue, collaboration, and innovation.

Global Chemical Industry Outlook: Growth with Headwinds

In 2025, the global chemical industry is valued at approximately $6.324 trillion, reflecting a modest 2.3% year-on-year growth. As a backbone of manufacturing—supporting nearly 96% of all goods—the sector remains indispensable. However, this growth is far from uniform. Trade tensions, fluctuating demand, and the accelerating shift toward green chemistry are creating uneven regional dynamics.

Looking ahead, 2026 is expected to bring a slowdown, with output growth projected to decline to 1.5%–2.0%. While India continues to stand out as a major growth engine with an expected 10.9% expansion, China’s growth is moderating to 1.3%–3.6%. Meanwhile, Europe faces stagnation, largely due to persistently high energy costs. As a result, the industry finds itself at a critical crossroads, requiring strategic recalibration and collaborative problem-solving.

AUTOMA Chem 2026: A Platform for Strategic Collaboration

To address these challenges, companies must go beyond internal strategies and actively engage with industry peers. AUTOMA Chem 2026 facilitates exactly this by connecting stakeholders across the value chain—from chemical producers to EPC players.

Building on the legacy of the AUTOMA series, the event will enable participants to exchange insights, explore innovations, and navigate the evolving digital landscape together. Moreover, pre-arranged one-to-one meetings will allow companies to hold focused, project-specific discussions, making collaboration more targeted and effective.

Key Industry Drivers: Digitalisation, AI, and Sustainability

Several transformative forces are reshaping the chemical sector. Among them, Industry 4.0 technologies—particularly artificial intelligence and digitalisation—are leading the charge. Today, nearly 75% of chemical industry leaders are investing in AI across R&D, sales enablement, and operational efficiency. Consequently, AI-powered platforms are rapidly becoming indispensable, especially for technical sales and supply chain optimisation.

At AUTOMA Chem 2026, Eduardo Sopalda will share valuable insights during the opening panel. He will discuss how robust data and AI governance frameworks can drive sustainable digital transformation across the industry. In parallel, sustainability remains a central priority. Gianluca Di Lecce will highlight how automated emissions tracking and Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) intelligence can significantly enhance decarbonisation efforts.

Industry Perspectives: Building a Collaborative Ecosystem

Beyond technology and strategy, AUTOMA Chem 2026 emphasizes the importance of community and long-term collaboration. The event has evolved into more than just a conference—it has become a trusted platform for industry engagement.

Reflecting this sentiment, Luigi Anselmi notes: “AUTOMA has become a community rather than just a conference. This strong foundation is something people truly believe in.” Such perspectives underscore the growing importance of shared learning and collective progress in tackling industry-wide challenges.

A Strong Line-Up of Global Industry Leaders

Marking its debut, AUTOMA Chem 2026 will bring together leading organisations such as Repsol Materials, BASF, Merck, SABIC, McDermott, Wood plc, and Linde. Together, these industry leaders aim to leverage digital strategies to address the dual imperatives of sustainability and operational efficiency.

Conclusion: Shaping the Next Phase of Chemical Industry Evolution

As the chemical industry navigates uncertainty and transformation, AUTOMA Chem 2026 stands out as a vital convergence point. As per the press release, by fostering collaboration, promoting innovation, and addressing key challenges, the event will play a pivotal role in shaping the industry’s future. Ultimately, those who embrace digitalisation, sustainability, and partnerships will be best positioned to lead in this new era of chemical industry evolution. https://sh.bgs.group/45o

Novo Nordisk partnered with OpenAI to accelerate its drug development capabilities. The collaboration comes as the company intensifies efforts to stay ahead in the highly competitive obesity drug market, particularly against rival Eli Lilly.

Leveraging AI for Faster Drug Discovery

Through the alliance, Novo Nordisk will integrate OpenAI’s advanced artificial intelligence tools into its research and development processes. Specifically, the company will use AI to identify new drug candidates, analyse complex datasets, and significantly reduce the time required to bring therapies to market. As a result, Novo aims to enhance innovation in its core focus areas, including obesity and diabetes treatments.

Expanding AI Across Operations

Beyond drug discovery, Novo Nordisk is also extending AI adoption across its manufacturing, distribution, and supply chain operations. The broader implementation will help improve efficiency, optimize processes, and enable data-driven decision-making across the organization.

Phased Implementation Through Pilot Program

To ensure smooth integration, Novo Nordisk will initially roll out OpenAI’s technology through a pilot programme. This phase will cover key functions such as R&D, manufacturing, and commercial operations. Following successful implementation, the company plans full-scale integration across the business by the end of 2026.

Building AI Literacy Across Workforce

OpenAI will support Novo Nordisk in enhancing AI literacy among its global workforce. This initiative will equip employees with the skills needed to use AI tools effectively while ensuring ethical and compliant deployment across all operations.

Growing Trend of AI-Pharma Collaborations

Novo Nordisk joins a growing list of pharmaceutical companies partnering with OpenAI. Industry leaders such as Sanofi, Moderna, Thermo Fisher Scientific, and Eli Lilly have also established similar collaborations, highlighting the increasing role of AI in transforming healthcare innovation.

AI’s Expanding Role in Healthcare

In addition to partnerships, technology companies are directly entering the healthcare space. Both OpenAI and Anthropic have introduced advanced large language models (LLMs) designed to support healthcare providers, payers, and patients, further accelerating digital transformation in the sector.

AI Gains Momentum in Pharma Innovation

Like many global pharma players, Novo Nordisk has already been investing in AI-driven initiatives to enhance drug discovery. Previous efforts have focused on improving screening throughput and optimizing research workflows. With this new partnership, the company is now taking a more integrated and strategic approach to harnessing AI across its entire value chain.

Driving Faster, Smarter Healthcare Solutions

Overall, the collaboration between Novo Nordisk and OpenAI underscores the growing importance of AI in the pharmaceutical industry. As reported by pharmaceutical-technology.com, by combining advanced technology with scientific expertise, the partnership aims to deliver faster, more efficient, and innovative healthcare solutions to patients worldwide.

Henkel unveiled mid-term sustainability targets for 2030. The company is taking a decisive step to accelerate impact across its entire value chain. By adopting a holistic strategy that integrates climate action, equity, and sustainable supply chains, Henkel is entering a new phase of purpose-driven growth.

CEO Carsten Knobel emphasized that responsible business practices and strong performance have always gone hand in hand. He added that, in today’s volatile environment, taking a clear stance on sustainability is more critical than ever.

A Clear Framework for Sustainable Growth

At the core of Henkel’s strategy are three key priorities designed to deliver measurable impact. As Sylvie Nicol noted, the new targets provide a practical and actionable framework to embed sustainability into everyday decision-making across global operations. This approach ensures that sustainability is not just a goal but a business imperative.

Accelerating Toward Net-Zero Emissions

Henkel remains firmly committed to achieving net-zero emissions by 2045. The company’s roadmap, validated by the Science Based Targets initiative, outlines clear milestones to reduce its carbon footprint. By 2030, Henkel aims to cut absolute Scope 1 and Scope 2 emissions by 42% (vs. 2021) and reduce Scope 3 emissions by 30% across its value chain. The company has already made significant progress. By 2025, Henkel reduced combined emissions by 29% compared to 2021 levels. In parallel, it achieved carbon-neutral production at 37 sites and increased its global renewable electricity usage to 89%. These gains highlight strong operational improvements and deeper collaboration with suppliers.

Driving the Circular Economy Agenda

In addition to climate action, Henkel is strengthening its commitment to a circular economy. The company is actively increasing the use of recycled materials and improving packaging design. By 2030, Henkel targets at least 35% recycled content in consumer goods packaging (up from 28%) and 100% of packaging to be designed for recycling (currently at 88%), Furthermore, Henkel is advancing recyclable packaging solutions through its Adhesive Technologies division. These innovations are tested at dedicated “Packaging Recyclabs” located in Düsseldorf and Shanghai, ensuring practical and scalable solutions for customers.

Advancing Equity and Inclusion Worldwide

Henkel is also prioritizing social sustainability by fostering an inclusive workplace. The company aims to achieve global gender balance in management roles by 2030, ensuring each gender represents over 45% across all levels. By 2025, women already held more than 43% of management positions. In addition, Henkel is working toward achieving global pay equity, reinforcing its commitment to fairness and equal opportunity.

Strengthening Sustainable Supply Chains

As per the press release, recognizing the importance of collaboration, Henkel is intensifying efforts to build more sustainable supply chains. The company rigorously evaluates suppliers based on safety, environmental performance, social responsibility, and ethical practices. By 2030, Henkel expects 85% of its suppliers to meet its sustainability standards. Initiatives such as Together for Sustainability (TfS), along with targeted support for small and medium-sized enterprises, will play a key role in achieving this goal.

Recognition from Global Sustainability Ratings

Henkel’s progress continues to gain international recognition. In 2025, the company earned an “A” rating in climate performance from CDP for the first time. Additionally, it retained its Gold rating from EcoVadis, reflecting consistent improvements in its sustainability performance.

A Future-Ready Sustainability Strategy

Overall, Henkel’s 2030 targets underscore its commitment to long-term, sustainable value creation. By combining climate action, circular economy principles, social equity, and responsible sourcing, the company is positioning itself as a leader in sustainable industrial transformation.

Gujarat emerged as one of the top five states in India for deploying Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS), reflecting strong progress in the country’s clean energy transition and grid modernisation. The state currently has an installed BESS capacity of 77 MWh, ranking fifth nationally after Bihar, Karnataka, Chhattisgarh, and Rajasthan.

Driven by Energy Security and Renewable Integration

The growth of battery storage in Gujarat is being fuelled by multiple factors. On one hand, concerns around energy security and volatility in conventional fuel markets are increasing. On the other hand, the rapid expansion of renewable energy sources such as solar and wind is creating a need for efficient grid integration. Since these sources are inherently intermittent, BESS plays a critical role in ensuring stable and reliable power supply.

Robust Pipeline of Upcoming Projects

Gujarat’s battery storage pipeline remains strong. The Gujarat Electricity Regulatory Commission has approved tariffs for 1,665 MW / 3,330 MWh of standalone BESS projects. These projects are part of a larger 2,000 MW / 4,000 MWh tender floated by Gujarat Urja Vikas Nigam Limited, making it one of the largest battery storage procurements in the country.

Growing Private Sector Participation

In addition to government initiatives, private sector involvement is accelerating. Adani Green Energy is actively developing large-scale storage capacity, while Rajesh Power Services has secured a 65 MW / 130 MWh project. Consequently, these developments highlight increasing investor confidence and industry participation in Gujarat’s energy storage market.

Favourable Ecosystem for Expansion

Experts believe Gujarat is well-positioned to scale up its battery storage capacity further. The state benefits from a strong renewable energy base and significant industrial demand. Moreover, BESS enables the storage of excess renewable power, helps manage peak demand, stabilises supply, and reduces dependence on grid fluctuations.

A Key Role in India’s Energy Storage Future

As reported by knnindia.co.in, with projections indicating a requirement of nearly 55 GWh of storage capacity in the coming years, Gujarat is expected to play a pivotal role in shaping India’s energy storage ecosystem. As more projects move from planning to execution, the state will be instrumental in enabling round-the-clock clean energy and strengthening the nation’s sustainable power infrastructure.

The Odisha government has taken a significant step toward strengthening India’s energy security by handing over land for a major crude oil storage facility at Chandikhol in Jajpur district. The development clears a crucial administrative hurdle and accelerates the project’s execution.

Large-Scale Strategic Infrastructure Development

The district administration has executed a lease deed for approximately 400 acres in the Dankari hill region. The project will be developed by Indian Strategic Petroleum Reserves Limited (ISPRL) at an estimated investment of ₹8,700 crore. Once completed, the facility will have a storage capacity of four million tons of crude oil. Notably, it will rank among the largest underground rock cavern storage systems in the world, significantly enhancing India’s strategic petroleum reserves.

Boosting Energy Security and Emergency Preparedness

The project is designed to strengthen India’s ability to maintain emergency crude oil stocks during global supply disruptions. As energy markets remain volatile, such infrastructure plays a vital role in ensuring uninterrupted supply and national energy resilience.

Driving Regional Economic Growth

With the project now moving forward, stakeholders anticipate strong economic benefits for the region. The development is expected to attract downstream industries to the Jajpur–Chandikhol corridor, thereby creating new business opportunities.

Enhancing Industrial Ecosystem

The initiative will improve the overall ease of doing business in the region by strengthening industrial infrastructure and logistics. As a result, it positions Odisha as a key hub in India’s evolving energy and industrial landscape. As reported by projectstoday.ai, overall, the ISPRL project represents a strategic investment that not only reinforces national energy security but also drives regional economic development and industrial growth.