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Mines Ministry Invites Bids for Two Offshore Mineral Blocks in Andaman Sea

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The union ministry of mines invited bids for two offshore mineral blocks in the Andaman Sea, covering a combined area of 1,632 sq. km. The auction aims to encourage offshore mineral exploration and unlock resources that could support India’s industrial growth and energy transition.

Two Offshore Mineral Blocks Offered Under Composite Licence

The ministry has offered the Sewell Rise-01 and West Sewell Ridge-01 blocks under a composite licence. Both blocks contain polymetallic nodules and crusts that may contain valuable minerals, including nickel, cobalt, copper and manganese. These critical minerals play an important role in industrial manufacturing and energy-transition technologies. Therefore, exploring offshore mineral resources could help diversify India’s mineral supply and strengthen the availability of essential raw materials.

Ministry Briefs Stakeholders on Auction and Exploration

Ministry officials briefed stakeholders on the geological potential of the two offshore mineral blocks. They also explained the auction process, regulatory requirements and financial assistance available for exploration activities. The idea was to improve stakeholder awareness of the bidding process and encourage participation in offshore mineral exploration.

Critical Mineral Processing Park Could Support Offshore Resources

Officials also discussed the potential role of a Critical Mineral Processing Park planned on India’s eastern coast in supporting offshore mineral processing. Such infrastructure could help strengthen India’s capabilities across the critical mineral value chain, from exploration and extraction to processing and industrial utilisation. As reported by projectstodsy.ai, as demand for critical minerals continues to grow, the proposed offshore block auctions could create new opportunities for mineral exploration and support India’s long-term resource security and energy-transition objectives.

GEON Commissions 10 MW/20 MWh Battery Storage Project in Rajasthan

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GEON, the future technologies division of Kabra Extrusiontechnik Ltd, successfully commissioned a 10 MW/20 MWh Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) in Jaisalmer, Rajasthan. Executed on an Engineering, Procurement and Construction (EPC) basis, the project strengthens India’s energy storage infrastructure and supports the growing demand for reliable, scalable solutions to integrate renewable energy into the power grid.

GEON Completes Utility-Scale BESS Project in Jaisalmer

GEON executed the project in accordance with the Rajasthan Integrated Clean Energy Policy, 2024. The scope of work covered detailed engineering and design, equipment procurement and supply, installation, testing and commissioning. With a power capacity of 10 MW and an energy storage capacity of 20 MWh, the battery energy storage system is designed to improve energy management and enhance grid stability. Furthermore, it will support the integration of renewable energy into the electricity network, helping address fluctuations in power generation from renewable sources.

Battery Storage Supports India’s Renewable Energy Growth

As India expands its renewable energy capacity, battery energy storage systems are becoming increasingly important for maintaining a reliable and flexible electricity grid. These systems can store electricity and release it when required, helping balance variations in renewable power generation. Consequently, utility-scale BESS projects can support grid modernisation, improve energy management and strengthen the reliability of clean power infrastructure.

GEON Highlights Experience in Energy Storage Solutions

Anand Kabra, Chairman and Managing Director of GEON, said, “Having already executed projects of this nature, the commissioning of our 10 MW/20 MWh BESS project in Jaisalmer builds on our experience in delivering utility-scale energy storage solutions. Each project brings its own technical and operational considerations, and our focus has been on ensuring that the system is equipped to meet the demands of real-world energy infrastructure. With renewable energy capacity continuing to expand, we see battery storage playing an increasingly important role in making clean power more dependable and usable. At GEON, we are focused on building on our project experience to deliver storage solutions that address these evolving requirements.”

GEON Strengthens Its Position in the Energy Storage Sector

The successful commissioning reinforces GEON’s capabilities in executing utility-scale battery energy storage projects on a turnkey EPC basis. It also demonstrates the growing importance of energy storage infrastructure in supporting India’s clean energy transition. As the country continues to advance its renewable energy ambitions, projects such as the Jaisalmer BESS installation will play an important role in building a more flexible, stable and dependable power network.

Biocon’s Kiran Mazumdar-Shaw Calls for India’s Pharma Industry to Shift from Generics to Innovation

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India must move beyond its success in generic medicines and build an innovation-led pharmaceutical industry, according to Kiran Mazumdar-Shaw, Executive Chairperson of Biocon and Syngene International. She called for stronger research capabilities, faster regulatory approvals and sustained investment in new drug development to help India compete with global pharmaceutical leaders.

India Must Move Beyond Generic Medicines

Mazumdar-Shaw highlighted India’s potential to become a global pharmaceutical innovation hub. Although the country has established a strong position in generic medicines, she believes the next phase of growth must focus on developing innovative treatments. “Generics is a great success story for India but we need to follow this with innovation and an innovation led strategy,” she said. Furthermore, she urged India to benchmark its progress against China and strengthen the ecosystem required to translate scientific discoveries into commercially successful medicines.

Sustained R&D Investment Is Critical for Drug Development

Mazumdar-Shaw emphasised that consistent investment in research and development (R&D) is essential to strengthen India’s pharmaceutical innovation capabilities. Rather than treating research spending as a one-time commitment, companies must continuously invest in developing new medicines and replenishing their drug pipelines. “In bio pharma and in pharma in general, the pipeline is the lifeline,” she said. Consequently, she called on the industry to move from a volume-driven business model towards a value-driven approach. This transition could help Indian pharmaceutical companies develop differentiated treatments, strengthen their global competitiveness and address unmet medical needs more effectively.

Quality and Clinical Development Must Remain Priorities

As India expands its focus on innovative medicines, Mazumdar-Shaw stressed that quality must remain central to research, clinical development and pharmaceutical manufacturing. She also highlighted the need to strengthen India’s ability to advance new treatments from laboratory research to clinical trials and commercial markets. By improving these capabilities, the country could participate earlier in the global drug development process and provide patients with access to innovative therapies sooner.

Faster Regulatory Approvals Could Accelerate Innovation

In addition to research investment, Mazumdar-Shaw identified regulatory reform as a key factor in accelerating pharmaceutical innovation. While she acknowledged positive changes in India’s regulatory environment and improved alignment between regulators and industry, she called for faster progress. “This is the time for really deep diving into what regulatory reforms can be done fast,” she said.

Moreover, she suggested that artificial intelligence (AI) and other digital technologies could help reduce regulatory review timelines and accelerate approvals for new medicines. She also encouraged India to study regulatory approaches adopted by countries such as China and Australia to improve the efficiency of clinical development and approval processes. At the same time, closer collaboration between pharmaceutical companies and regulators would help ensure that reforms support innovation without compromising quality and safety.

Biocon Advances Innovative Drug Development

Highlighting Biocon’s efforts in innovative drug development, Mazumdar-Shaw said the company had advanced one of its drug assets into Phase III clinical development in the United States. She also referred to another cancer drug programme, underscoring the company’s focus on developing new treatments. Meanwhile, she noted that research and development incentives were encouraging companies to invest in innovation, describing this trend as a positive development for the sector.

India Has an Opportunity to Become a Global Innovation Hub

India has the scientific talent and technical capabilities needed to strengthen its position in the global pharmaceutical industry. However, realising this potential will require sustained R&D investment, efficient regulatory processes, high-quality clinical development and stronger collaboration between industry and regulators. As reported by The Economic Times, shifting from generic medicines towards innovation-led growth could help India develop higher-value treatments, address unmet medical needs and establish a stronger presence in the global pharmaceutical market.

NGO Finds High Levels of Barium in ‘Green’ Firecrackers in Mumbai

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Awaaz Foundation has raised concerns about the safety of so-called green firecrackers sold in Mumbai after laboratory tests reportedly detected high levels of barium in several products. With major festivals approaching, the nonprofit has urged Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis to strengthen enforcement against firecrackers containing potentially hazardous chemicals.

Tests Reveal Barium in Green Firecrackers

Awaaz Foundation founder and environmental activist Sumaira Abdulali wrote to the Chief Minister after the organisation tested 17 varieties of firecrackers purchased from Mohammed Ali Road and Kurla on 9 and 10 October. According to the test reports, several products labelled as green or sustainable contained significant quantities of barium. The Serpent Egg Big firecracker by Sri Patrakali Paper Caps reportedly recorded the highest concentration at 27.405%. Meanwhile, Pooja Plain by Sriram Sparkelers contained 13.613% barium, followed by Leo by Jai Durga Sparkles at 9.941% and Color Koti by Vinayaga Sonny at 8.74%.

Labelling and QR Code Irregularities Raise Concerns

The foundation also identified potential labelling and certification issues across the tested products. Four of the 17 samples did not disclose their chemical composition, while five lacked QR codes. As reported by Midday, of the 12 products carrying QR codes, four reportedly had fake codes, according to checks using the CSIR-National Environmental Engineering Research Institute (NEERI) app, which provides information about certified firecrackers. Eleven products also failed to display permissible noise-level limits on their packaging. “Disclosing all is mandated by the law,” Abdulali told Hindustan Times.

Foundation Calls for Stricter Enforcement

Barium has been identified as a hazardous substance, and the Supreme Court has prohibited its use in firecrackers. Against this backdrop, Awaaz Foundation has called for stronger regulatory oversight of firecracker manufacturing, distribution and sales. Abdulali argued that authorities must prevent potentially toxic products from reaching consumers rather than shifting the responsibility to citizens. She urged the police to act against the sale of firecrackers that contain hazardous substances or falsely claim to be environmentally friendly. The letter also referred to a Mumbai Police order prohibiting the use of firecrackers in public spaces until 4 December. The foundation called for stricter enforcement of these restrictions and closer scrutiny of licensed outlets.

Mumbai Air Quality and Festival Pollution Concerns

In addition to firecracker safety, the foundation highlighted concerns about Mumbai’s deteriorating air quality. According to the letter, the city’s Air Quality Index (AQI) had declined from the ‘good’ category in the previous month to ‘moderate’. Kherwadi recorded an AQI of 101 and a PM2.5 reading of 103 on Wednesday morning, as reported by the foundation. Awaaz Foundation sought restrictions on loudspeakers and laser lights during upcoming festivals, including Navratri, Dussehra, Guru Nanak Jayanti, Christmas and New Year. The organisation emphasised the need for stronger pollution-control measures to protect public health and minimise environmental impacts during the festive season.

Aegis Logistics to Acquire 89.8% Stake in Tristar for ₹7,700 Crore

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Aegis Logistics Ltd signed a definitive agreement to acquire an 89.8% stake in Dubai-based Tristar Holdings Ltd for $809 million (approximately ₹7,700 crore). Through this acquisition, the company aims to expand its international presence and strengthen its position in the global energy logistics sector.

Acquisition to Expand Global Operations

Aegis Logistics will complete the acquisition through Aegis Logistics International Pte Ltd, its wholly owned step-down subsidiary. According to the company’s regulatory filing, the consideration includes contingent payments and interest on deferred consideration. Furthermore, the acquisition marks a significant step in Aegis Logistics’ strategy to diversify its operations beyond India and establish an international energy logistics platform.

Tristar’s Integrated Logistics Network

Established in 1998, Tristar Holdings provides integrated liquid logistics solutions across more than 30 countries. Its services include maritime logistics, road transportation, fuel storage and distribution, and aviation fuelling. With its established international network and diverse service portfolio, Tristar offers Aegis Logistics an opportunity to strengthen its global operations and expand its presence across key energy markets.

Tristar Reports Strong Financial Performance

For the calendar year ended December 2025, Tristar reported consolidated revenue of $1.4 billion, EBITDA of $257 million and net profit of $82 million. As reported by thehindubusinessline.com, and according to Aegis Logistics, the acquisition is expected to contribute to the company’s profitability immediately. In addition, the transaction is expected to create opportunities for business diversification, geographic expansion and long-term growth in the international energy logistics market.

Emmvee Expands Solar Manufacturing Capacity with TOPCon Module and Cell Projects

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Emmvee Photovoltaic Power is expanding its solar manufacturing operations to meet growing market demand, supported by an order book of 10.4 GW at the end of Q2 FY27. The company expects to commission its new solar module production line by December 2026, followed by a 6 GW solar cell line in 2027.

Module and Cell Expansion to Boost Annual Capacity

As of September 30, 2026, Emmvee had an annual manufacturing capacity of 10.3 GW for solar modules and 2.94 GW for TOPCon solar cells. Once the planned expansion becomes operational, the company expects to increase its annual solar module manufacturing capacity to approximately 16.3 GW and solar cell capacity to 8.9 GW. Consequently, the expansion will strengthen backward integration, improve supply-chain resilience and support the company’s ability to meet rising demand for solar products.

Emmvee Planning ₹5,500 Crore Ingot and Wafer Investment

In addition to expanding module and cell production, Emmvee plans to develop 9 GW of ingot and wafer manufacturing capacity in phases. The proposed project carries an estimated capital expenditure of ₹5,000–5,500 crore. The company expects to fund the investment largely through internal accruals. The planned ingot and wafer facilities could strengthen its domestic manufacturing capabilities and reduce reliance on external suppliers for key solar production materials. As reported by projectstoday.ai, through these investments, Emmvee is advancing its solar manufacturing expansion strategy while building a more integrated and resilient production ecosystem.

Essar Oil & Gas Bags Five New CBM Blocks Across Three States

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Essar Oil & Gas Ltd. (formerly Essar Oil and Gas Exploration and Production Ltd.), one of India’s leading coal bed methane (CBM) producers, bagged five new CBM blocks under the government’s Special CBM (SCBM) Bid Rounds 2025 and 2026. The newly awarded blocks cover approximately 1,281 sq. km. across West Bengal, Madhya Pradesh and Telangana, with estimated gas-in-place resources of 6.6 trillion cubic feet (TCF). The expansion strengthens the company’s domestic exploration and production portfolio while supporting India’s efforts to unlock unconventional natural gas resources and improve energy security.

Contracts Signed Under Special CBM Bid Rounds

Essar Oil & Gas formally signed the contracts for the SCBM-2025 and SCBM-2026 bid rounds on 15 October 2026. Shri Hardeep Singh Puri, Union Minister of Petroleum and Natural Gas, chaired the signing ceremony. The awards mark an important step in the government’s efforts, through the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas (MoPNG) and the Directorate General of Hydrocarbons (DGH), to attract investment, accelerate unconventional hydrocarbon exploration and strengthen domestic oil and gas production.

Raniganj Expansion to Strengthen CBM Production

Two newly awarded blocks in West Bengal’s Raniganj region cover approximately 330 sq. km. Together, they will expand Essar Oil & Gas’ existing Raniganj East acreage from around 500 sq. km. to approximately 830 sq. km. Their proximity to the company’s existing producing asset creates opportunities to integrate infrastructure, streamline operations and leverage established technical capabilities. Consequently, Essar Oil & Gas expects to develop an integrated CBM-producing field that could become India’s largest CBM-producing field. The company’s experience at Raniganj provides a foundation for developing the additional resources and strengthening its position in India’s coal bed methane sector.

CBM Opportunities in Madhya Pradesh and Telangana

Beyond West Bengal, the new awards will expand Essar Oil & Gas’ presence in two additional regions. Singrauli, Madhya Pradesh: The new block strengthens the company’s presence in an established CBM region, offering opportunities to leverage the basin’s existing development ecosystem. Godavari Valley, Telangana: The newly awarded blocks extend the company’s footprint into a new CBM geography, allowing it to apply its exploration and production expertise to developing additional natural gas resources. Together, these blocks diversify the company’s resource base and create opportunities for future production growth across multiple states.

Company Leadership Highlights Energy Security and Growth

Pankaj Kalra, CEO of Essar Oil & Gas Ltd., said, “The award of these five CBM blocks marks a significant milestone in Essar Oil & Gas’ growth journey and reinforces our commitment to unlocking India’s vast unconventional hydrocarbon potential. Building on our proven track record at Raniganj, we see substantial opportunities to leverage our technical expertise, operational capabilities and established infrastructure to accelerate the development of these resources. Our focus will be on translating this expanded acreage into sustainable production growth, creating long-term value and contributing meaningfully to India’s energy security by strengthening domestic natural gas supplies and reducing dependence on imports.”

Bhuwan Chandra Tripathi, Chairman of Essar Oil & Gas Ltd. and Operating Partner – Energy at Essar Group, said, “Natural gas will continue to play an important role in India’s energy mix as energy demand continues to grow. The expansion of Essar Oil & Gas’ CBM portfolio reinforces our commitment to developing India’s indigenous energy resources. As a Group, we remain focused on supporting India’s energy security through responsible development of domestic hydrocarbon resources, while contributing to the country’s transition towards a more balanced and sustainable energy mix.”

Essar Oil & Gas Builds on ₹6,000 Crore Investment in Raniganj

Essar Oil & Gas has invested more than ₹6,000 crore in exploration and production activities at Raniganj. The company currently produces approximately 950,000 standard cubic metres of gas per day (SCMD), accounting for nearly 50% of India’s CBM production. Building on this operating base, the company aims to contribute 5% of India’s total natural gas production by progressively developing its CBM portfolio and unlocking additional domestic resources. Essar Group, a global conglomerate with more than five decades of entrepreneurial experience, operates across energy, infrastructure, metals and mining, technology and retail. Through Essar Oil & Gas, the Group continues to expand its upstream energy portfolio in India.

Expanding Domestic Gas Resources to Reduce Import Dependence

With more than 25 years of experience in CBM exploration and production, Essar Oil & Gas is positioned to contribute to the development of India’s unconventional hydrocarbon resources. India currently meets around half of its natural gas consumption through imports. Therefore, developing domestic gas reserves has become increasingly important for improving energy security, strengthening local supply chains and supporting the country’s transition towards a gas-based economy. As per company press release, the award of five new CBM blocks represents a significant expansion of Essar Oil & Gas’ exploration portfolio. As the company advances development across West Bengal, Madhya Pradesh and Telangana, the new acreage could support long-term production growth while contributing to India’s broader energy security objectives.

RDI Scheme Includes Advanced Chemicals, Petrochemicals and Material Technologies

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The government added advanced chemicals, petrochemicals and material technologies to the list of technology areas eligible for funding under the Research, Development and Innovation (RDI) Scheme. The inclusion took effect on 8 October 2026 and aims to strengthen research, development and innovation across India’s chemicals and petrochemicals industry.

DST Approves Inclusion Following DCPC Proposal

The Department of Science and Technology (DST) approved the inclusion following a proposal from the Department of Chemicals and Petrochemicals (DCPC), Ministry of Chemicals and Fertilizers. DCPC had recommended the chemicals and petrochemicals sector as a priority area under the RDI Scheme. This decision is expected to encourage industrial research, accelerate technology development and support the creation of indigenous technologies for advanced manufacturing applications. Moreover, it could help Indian companies develop innovative solutions for chemicals, petrochemicals and high-value materials.

₹1 Lakh Crore RDI Scheme to Boost Private-Sector Innovation

The government launched the Research, Development and Innovation (RDI) Scheme in November 2025 with a corpus of ₹1 lakh crore, the scheme aims to catalyse private-sector investment in research, development and innovation. The RDI Scheme provides long-term financing and refinancing on favourable terms for transformative projects. In addition, it seeks to accelerate the adoption of advanced technologies, strengthen India’s industrial competitiveness and promote self-reliance in critical and emerging technology areas. At the scheme’s launch, Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi said, “India is rapidly building a vibrant ecosystem for research and development. We are focusing on Ease of Doing Research so that a modern ecosystem of innovation can flourish in India.”

Strengthening Domestic Manufacturing and Technology Self-Reliance

The inclusion of Advanced Chemicals, Petrochemicals and Material Technologies aligns with the government’s broader objective of strengthening India’s domestic manufacturing ecosystem. By expanding access to innovation funding, the RDI Scheme aims to encourage companies to invest in advanced research, develop competitive technologies and commercialise new industrial solutions. As reported by pib.gov.in, the initiative could reduce dependence on imported technologies and high-value materials while supporting technology-led industrial growth. Ultimately, this move reinforces India’s efforts to build a more innovative, competitive and self-reliant chemicals and petrochemicals sector.

Everllence Bags PARSYN® Contract for Green Ammonia Project in India

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Everllence secured its first commercial order for PARSYN®, an innovative compressor train concept designed for green ammonia production. The company will supply a PARSYN® synthesis gas compressor train for AM Green’s green ammonia project in Kakinada, Andhra Pradesh, India. This milestone supports India’s efforts to scale up low-carbon ammonia production and strengthen its position in the global clean energy market.

AM Green Advances Green Ammonia Production in Kakinada

AM Green is converting its existing natural gas-based ammonia and urea production complex in Kakinada into a green ammonia manufacturing facility. The Everllence compressor train will serve one production unit designed to produce 1,500 tonnes of green ammonia per day, equivalent to approximately 525,000 tonnes annually.

According to the project details, this production capacity is expected to avoid around one million tonnes of CO₂ emissions annually compared with conventional ammonia production. Furthermore, Phase 1 of the Kakinada project aims to achieve a total annual green ammonia production capacity of one million tonnes (1 MTPA). The project will help meet growing international demand for renewable ammonia, which can support industrial decarbonisation and the transition to lower-carbon energy systems.

Long-Term Agreements Support Green Ammonia Exports

AM Green plans to supply green ammonia to international markets through long-term commercial agreements. The company has signed an agreement with Germany-based Uniper for the purchase of up to 500,000 tonnes of renewable ammonia annually from its projects. The first shipments from Kakinada could begin as early as 2028.

In addition, AM Green has been selected as the sole winner of the Asian lot in the H2Global auction conducted by HINT.CO GmbH (Hintco). This award secures a long-term purchase agreement for supplying Germany with renewable fuels of non-biological origin (RFNBO) ammonia from Phase 2 of the Kakinada project. The first deliveries are expected in 2029. These agreements strengthen the project’s international market prospects and support the development of commercial supply chains for renewable ammonia.

Electric-Driven PARSYN® Technology Supports Green Ammonia Plants

Green ammonia production requires specialised equipment that can operate efficiently without relying on the conventional process steam available in natural gas-based facilities. Ammonia production involves combining hydrogen and nitrogen under high pressure. A synthesis gas compressor raises the pressure of this mixture before it enters the ammonia synthesis loop. In conventional plants, a steam turbine typically drives the compressor, using steam largely generated during hydrogen production from natural gas.

However, green ammonia plants generate considerably less process steam. To address this challenge, Everllence will equip the Kakinada project with an electrically driven PARSYN® compressor train. Sunil Sharma, Sales Manager India at Everllence, said, “The Kakinada project is a significant step towards producing green ammonia at industrial scale in India. By converting existing facilities to use renewable hydrogen, AM Green is showing how established industrial infrastructure can become part of a lower-carbon production chain. We are pleased that our first PARSYN® compressor train will contribute to this project.”

PARSYN® Design Aims to Improve Efficiency and Maintenance

PARSYN®, short for parallel syngas compressor, features two compressors arranged in parallel and connected through a gearbox. This configuration allows each compressor to operate at an appropriate speed while creating a more compact machinery train and improving maintenance access.

According to Everllence, the concept optimises the complete compressor train rather than focusing on individual components. Its design builds on the company’s experience in developing compressors and machinery trains for demanding industrial applications. Markus Schürmann, Senior Sales and Development Manager Green Ammonia at Everllence, said, “PARSYN® is about more than choosing the right compressors. We looked at the entire train and how its components work together in a green ammonia plant. The concept is new for ammonia plants, but it builds on decades of experience in designing compressors and machinery trains for demanding industrial processes. By arranging two compressors in parallel and matching each to its operating requirements, we can make the train more compact and improve its efficiency. That helps reduce both the investment needed to build the plant and the energy required to run it.” Consequently, the PARSYN® concept aims to reduce equipment footprint, improve operational efficiency and lower both plant investment and operating energy requirements.

Everllence Outlines Equipment Supply and Project Timeline

For the Kakinada project, Everllence will supply two barrel-type RB compressors, along with a range of supporting equipment and engineering services.

The supply scope includes:

Electric motor and gearbox

Dry gas sealing system

Coolers and lubrication system

Controls and instrumentation

Performance testing and dynamic simulation

Process piping engineering

Everllence’s process gas compressor specialists in Oberhausen, Germany, developed the PARSYN® concept and designed the complete compressor train. The company will manufacture and performance-test the RB compressors in Zurich, Switzerland, before packaging and integrating the equipment in Oberhausen. Delivery is scheduled for late 2027, while commissioning is planned for 2028.

Supporting India’s Green Ammonia Industry

Everllence’s first PARSYN® order marks an important step in adapting industrial compressor technology to the requirements of green ammonia production. By combining electric drive technology with an integrated compressor train design, the company aims to support more efficient and practical plant operations. As per company press release, AM Green’s Kakinada project could strengthen India’s role in the emerging global renewable ammonia market, supported by planned production expansion and long-term export agreements with international buyers.

Kronox Lab Sciences to Expand Manufacturing Capacity with Dahej SEZ Facility Acquisition

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Kronox Lab Sciences approved the acquisition of a chemical manufacturing facility spanning approximately 5,000 square metres in Gujarat’s Dahej Special Economic Zone (SEZ). Through this transaction, the specialty fine chemicals manufacturer aims to expand its manufacturing capacity and support future business growth.

Board Approves Acquisition of Dahej Manufacturing Plant

The company’s board of directors approved the transaction at its meeting on October 14, 2026. Under the proposed deal, Kronox Lab Sciences will acquire the plant asset located at Z/80 in Dahej SEZ from Axiom Chemicals Private Limited. Importantly, the transaction involves the acquisition of the manufacturing plant asset only. Kronox will not acquire Axiom Chemicals itself, its shares or control of the seller entity.

Acquisition to Be Funded Through Internal Accruals

Kronox Lab Sciences has not disclosed the purchase consideration for the plant. The total acquisition cost will include the asset purchase price, applicable taxes and duties, stamp duty, registration charges and other incidental expenses. Furthermore, the company plans to finance the acquisition through internal accruals, without disclosing additional details about the transaction’s financial terms.

Strengthening Chemical Manufacturing Capabilities

The proposed acquisition will add a manufacturing asset in Dahej to Kronox Lab Sciences’ existing manufacturing presence in the Padra area of Vadodara, Gujarat. As a result, the transaction could support the company’s efforts to expand its manufacturing footprint and pursue future growth opportunities. Kronox Lab Sciences manufactures high-purity specialty fine chemicals for applications across the pharmaceutical, nutraceutical and food-grade sectors.

However, the company has not yet disclosed the acquired plant’s installed capacity, equipment configuration or suitability for specific products. It has also not specified the additional capital expenditure, if any, required to prepare the facility for production. As reported by insights.dsij.in, the acquisition therefore marks a step towards expanding Kronox Lab Sciences’ manufacturing infrastructure, although the plant’s eventual production contribution will depend on its operational readiness and intended use.

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