The government has intensified efforts to strengthen fertiliser buffer stocks, even though supplies for the upcoming Kharif season remain adequate. Authorities are now preparing reserves not only for the monsoon sowing season but also for the subsequent winter crop cycle.

To ensure supply stability, the government has begun adopting unconventional procurement methods such as spot buying, typically used to address immediate operational requirements during sudden supply disruptions. At the same time, officials have advanced the scheduled maintenance of fertiliser manufacturing plants to optimize production capacity.

Additionally, the government has initiated a district-level heat-mapping exercise across the country. This monitoring system will help authorities detect early signs of supply stress and respond quickly, ensuring timely availability of fertilisers during peak agricultural demand.

Government Assures Adequate Supplies Despite Geopolitical Tensions

Officials dismissed concerns about potential shortages of soil nutrients due to geopolitical tensions in West Asia. According to government sources, all key partners in India’s fertiliser supply chain have assured uninterrupted shipments. As a result, authorities expect the country to maintain comfortable fertiliser stocks by mid-May, when demand during the Kharif season typically reaches its peak.

Spot Gas Procurement to Offset Reduced LNG Allocation

The government is addressing the reduction in liquefied natural gas (LNG) allocation for fertiliser plants, which directly affects urea production. To compensate, the Department of Fertilisers has decided to procure spot gas from international markets through competitive bidding. The first phase of spot gas purchases is expected to be completed shortly. Unlike previous procurement cycles—where spot gas was typically purchased a month in advance—this time the purchase is being made for the current month to quickly bridge the supply gap.

Early Import Tenders to Strengthen Supply Security

Anticipating potential geopolitical uncertainties, the government has also advanced global procurement of urea. A tender for 1.4 MT of urea was floated in mid-February, and officials expect around 90% of the shipments to reach India by the end of March. This proactive procurement strategy is intended to maintain comfortable inventories ahead of peak agricultural demand.

Global Supply Lines Remain Stable

On the international front, fertiliser supply chains remain stable. India currently has a five-year contract with Saudi Arabia for the supply of 3 MT of DAP, and officials confirmed that no force majeure conditions have been declared. In addition, fertiliser shipments from Russia continue to reach India via the Cape of Good Hope route without disruption. Similarly, Morocco continues to supply fertilisers through the same maritime corridor.

Proactive Measures to Safeguard Agricultural Supply

As reported by msn.com, the government’s approach combines spot market procurement, early import tenders, strategic monitoring, and supply diversification. These measures are designed to prevent fertiliser shortages and ensure stable availability for farmers, even amid global geopolitical uncertainties.

Advait Greenergy Private Limited has inaugurated its Phase I alkaline electrolyser assembly facility with an initial capacity of 30 MW in Mehsana on March 13, 2026. The new facility represents the first step in the company’s plan to build an integrated manufacturing platform for electrolyser systems, which play a crucial role in green hydrogen production.

Roadmap to 300 MW Integrated Manufacturing Capacity

The Phase I plant forms part of a broader expansion strategy aimed at establishing 300 MW of electrolyser manufacturing capacity. Initially, the company plans to scale the facility from 30 MW to 100 MW under Phase II, before developing a fully automated 300 MW manufacturing complex designed for industrial-scale hydrogen production. By adopting a modular and scalable design, the facility will allow Advait Greenergy to expand production capacity in response to rising demand for hydrogen technologies.

Supporting Growing Green Hydrogen Demand

The electrolyser assembly unit has been designed to serve multiple sectors where hydrogen is expected to play a major role in decarbonization. These sectors include fertilizers, petroleum refining, steel manufacturing, and heavy transportation. Looking ahead, the company has indicated plans to expand annual electrolyser manufacturing capacity to 100 MW by 2027. In the longer term, it may further scale production to as much as 1 GW, reflecting the expected growth of the green hydrogen market in India.

Participation in SECI’s Electrolyser Manufacturing Programme

The project is also linked to national initiatives aimed at strengthening domestic electrolyser manufacturing capabilities. Notably, Advait Greenergy has been selected under the Production Linked Incentive (PLI) programme administered by the Solar Energy Corporation of India (SECI). Under the programme, the company secured 300 MW of electrolyser manufacturing capacity, along with participation in a 100 MW green hydrogen project component.

In addition, its parent company, Advait Energy Transitions Limited (formerly Advait Infratech Limited), was among the successful bidders in SECI’s August 2024 auction to establish 1.5 GW of electrolyser manufacturing capacity across India. The company secured 200 MW under the Bucket 1 category and an additional 100 MW capacity with an incentive allocation of ₹1.48 billion.

Expansion into Battery Energy Storage

Alongside electrolyser manufacturing, Advait Energy Transitions is also expanding into battery energy storage solutions. The company currently has over 400 MWh of battery energy storage systems (BESS) under construction. To support this growth, it is establishing a battery storage manufacturing facility with a planned capacity of 2.5 GWh, which is expected to be commissioned in 2026.

Alignment with India’s National Green Hydrogen Mission

The electrolyser facility supports India’s broader efforts to build a robust green hydrogen ecosystem under the National Green Hydrogen Mission. The mission, approved by the Union Cabinet of India in 2023, involves an initial outlay of ₹197.44 billion to promote the production, utilization, and export of green hydrogen.

A significant portion—₹174.9 billion—has been allocated to the Strategic Interventions for Green Hydrogen Transition (SIGHT) initiative. This program provides financial incentives to support domestic electrolyser manufacturing and green hydrogen production.

As reported by machinist.in, under the mission, India aims to achieve green hydrogen production capacity of 5 million tons per year by 2030. This target will be supported by approximately 125 GW of renewable energy capacity and the deployment of 60–100 GW of electrolyser capacity across the country.

Deep Industries Limited signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Advait Greenergy Private Limited to collaborate on the development of green hydrogen projects in India. Through this strategic partnership, the two companies aim to strengthen their presence in the rapidly emerging green hydrogen sector, which is becoming a critical pillar of India’s clean energy transition.

Joint Participation in Major Government Tenders

Under the agreement, the companies will jointly bid for green hydrogen project tenders issued by leading public sector undertakings. These include organizations such as NTPC Limited, Solar Energy Corporation of India (SECI), Indian Oil Corporation, Hindustan Petroleum Corporation Limited, Bharat Petroleum Corporation Limited, and GAIL (India) Limited, along with other government-supported entities. By combining resources and expertise, the companies intend to participate in large-scale hydrogen infrastructure and production projects that are expected to emerge under India’s expanding clean energy programs.

Combining Infrastructure and Renewable Energy Expertise

The partnership leverages the complementary strengths of both organizations. Deep Industries brings extensive experience in energy infrastructure development and project execution, while Advait Greenergy contributes specialized expertise in renewable energy solutions and green hydrogen technologies. Together, the companies plan to develop integrated hydrogen solutions, covering the entire value chain—from hydrogen production and storage to transportation and distribution infrastructure.

Supporting India’s Energy Transition

Importantly, the collaboration aligns with India’s broader push to build a robust green hydrogen economy. The government is promoting hydrogen as a key solution for industrial decarbonization and clean energy adoption across sectors such as refining, fertilizers, and heavy industry.

As reported by globalflowcontrol.com, by jointly pursuing upcoming tenders, Deep Industries and Advait Greenergy aim to accelerate the deployment of large-scale green hydrogen projects. In doing so, they also intend to support cleaner industrial energy use, strengthen the renewable energy ecosystem, and contribute to India’s long-term decarbonization goals.

Devendra Fadnavis, Chief Minister of Maharashtra, performed the groundbreaking ceremony for a major solar manufacturing project by Waaree Energies Limited in Butibori, Nagpur. The project marks a significant milestone for India’s renewable energy manufacturing sector, as the company begins work on a 10 GW integrated solar ingot and wafer manufacturing facility. The development is expected to strengthen the domestic solar supply chain and reduce reliance on imported solar components.

India’s Largest Integrated Ingot and Wafer Manufacturing Complex

Once completed, the facility will house 10 GW production capacity each for solar ingots and wafers, making it India’s largest integrated manufacturing complex for these critical solar components. Solar ingots and wafers form the core raw materials in the solar photovoltaic (PV) value chain, serving as the foundation for solar cells and modules. By establishing large-scale domestic production, the project aims to enhance India’s capabilities in upstream solar manufacturing.

₹6,200 Crore Investment Across 300 Acres

The new facility will be developed on a 300-acre site in Butibori, one of the key industrial zones near Nagpur. The project involves an investment of approximately ₹6,200 crore, reflecting Waaree Energies’ strategy to expand its footprint in advanced solar manufacturing. Importantly, the plant will focus on producing high-purity solar ingots and wafers, which are essential for improving the efficiency and performance of solar photovoltaic modules.

Strengthening India’s Solar Manufacturing Ecosystem

With this investment, Waaree Energies aims to reinforce India’s position in the global renewable energy supply chain. The project is also expected to support the country’s broader goal of building self-reliant solar manufacturing capabilities, while accelerating the adoption of clean energy technologies. As reported by swarjyamag.com, the Nagpur facility is likely to play a crucial role in strengthening the domestic solar manufacturing ecosystem, while contributing to India’s long-term renewable energy ambitions.

Blue Jet Healthcare Limited is set to significantly expand its manufacturing footprint with the establishment of a ₹23 billion greenfield pharmaceutical manufacturing facility at Rambilli Industrial Park. The 102-acre project is expected to strengthen India’s capabilities in contract development and manufacturing (CDMO) services and specialty pharmaceutical production.

Once operational, the facility will manufacture contrast media key intermediates, high-intensity sweeteners, and other versatile chemical products, enabling the company to expand its presence in both specialty chemicals and pharmaceutical intermediates. The project will be developed in phases and is expected to become operational by FY 2028–29.

Boost to Regional Economy and Employment

Beyond enhancing manufacturing capacity, the project is also expected to deliver significant economic benefits to the region. The investment is likely to further position the Visakhapatnam–Anakapalli corridor as an emerging hub for pharmaceutical manufacturing and specialty chemicals in India.

Growing Demand in the Contrast Media Market

The expansion aligns with rising global demand for contrast media intermediates used in diagnostic imaging. According to Precedence Research, the contrast media market was valued at $7.35 billion in 2025 and is projected to grow from $7.97 billion in 2026 to about $16.54 billion by 2035, registering a CAGR of 8.45% between 2026 and 2035.

The growth is being driven by increasing healthcare awareness, rapid technological advancements in medical imaging, and the rising prevalence of chronic diseases worldwide. Consequently, pharmaceutical companies are investing in advanced intermediates and reliable supply chains to meet expanding global demand.

From Jet Chemicals to a Global CDMO Player

Founded in 1968 as Jet Chemicals Pvt Ltd, the company later evolved into Blue Jet Healthcare Limited, building a strong reputation in pharmaceutical intermediates and active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs).

The company operates as an integrated CDMO supplying advanced intermediates and APIs across India, Europe, and the United States. Notably, it has emerged as a key manufacturer of contrast media intermediates and was also among the early producers of Saccharin in India.

Over the years, Blue Jet Healthcare has strengthened its process chemistry expertise, scale-up capabilities, and regulatory-compliant manufacturing infrastructure, enabling it to serve leading global pharmaceutical companies.

Focus on Sustainability and ESG Compliance

Importantly, the upcoming Rambilli facility has been designed with strong sustainability and environmental compliance measures. The plant will incorporate zero liquid discharge (ZLD) technology and an advanced effluent treatment system connected to marine discharge infrastructure.

In addition, the company aims to reduce energy consumption by nearly 70% while recovering 90–95% of wastewater, aligning the project with stringent ESG benchmarks and environmental regulations within the pharmaceutical sector.

Leadership Driving Global Expansion

The expansion is being led by Akshay Bansarilal Arora and Shiven Akshay Arora, who are steering the company’s strategy to broaden its global CDMO footprint. The Rambilli investment reflects a broader industry shift, as multinational pharmaceutical companies increasingly seek diversified and resilient supply chains beyond single geographies. By expanding its manufacturing capacity and strengthening sustainable production capabilities, Blue Jet Healthcare aims to play a larger role in the global pharmaceutical value chain.

As reported by precedenceresearch.com, at the same time, the project is expected to enhance Rambilli Industrial Park’s status as a growing specialty chemicals and pharmaceutical manufacturing hub, supporting India’s ambition to become a major global supplier of complex pharmaceutical intermediates.

Abundia Global Impact Group, Inc. entered into a multi-project licensing agreement with Topsoe to deploy HydroFlex technology at Abundia’s first waste-plastics-to-renewable products recycling facility in Baytown. HydroFlex will be used in the upgrading stage of the recycling process, enabling the conversion of plastic waste into renewable fuels and chemical products. This collaboration marks an important step in Abundia’s strategy to develop advanced recycling infrastructure.

Long-Term Technology Deployment Strategy

The agreement also includes a long-term commitment to deploy HydroFlex technology across multiple future facilities planned by Abundia. The partnership therefore forms a key element of the company’s 2026 development roadmap, as it progresses toward a final investment decision (FID) for its projects. By selecting Topsoe as a technology partner, Abundia aims to strengthen its commercialization pathway for plastic waste conversion, while integrating proven and scalable processing technologies across its multi-feedstock conversion and refining platform.

Integrated Waste-to-Value Technology Platform

Abundia’s renewable production strategy is built around a vertically integrated waste-to-value model. A key component of this model involves combining front-end waste conversion technology with advanced upgrading capabilities. To achieve this, the company is working with Alterra Energy for the front-end conversion of plastic waste, while Topsoe’s HydroFlex technology will provide the back-end upgrading process. Together, these complementary technologies enable the transformation of waste plastics into higher-value renewable fuels and chemical products.

Producing Drop-In Renewable Fuels and Chemicals

The integration of these technologies supports Abundia’s goal of producing commercial-grade “drop-in” renewable fuels and chemicals that can seamlessly replace conventional fossil-based products. Moreover, the technology configuration is designed to ensure consistent product yields and reliable performance, while meeting stringent global regulatory and environmental standards. As reported by biofuelsdigest.com, through these strategic partnerships and technology integrations, Abundia aims to scale up advanced recycling solutions, strengthen circular economy initiatives, and contribute to the production of low-carbon renewable fuels and chemicals.

German Chemical Industry Association (VCI) has warned that the ongoing conflict in the Middle East could trigger serious and potentially persistent disruptions for the global chemical supply chain. In particular, the association highlighted the possible closure of the Strait of Hormuz, a critical global shipping route for energy and petrochemical feedstocks. According to VCI, any prolonged disruption in this strategic corridor could drive inflationary pressures, disrupt supply chains, and unsettle global markets, further compounding the challenges already facing the chemical industry.

Industry Outlook Clouded by Geopolitical Tensions

At the same time, the association stated that it cannot provide a clear outlook for the chemical industry in 2026 due to the escalating Israel–Iran conflict involving the United States and Israel. VCI represents around 2,300 companies, making it one of the most influential industry bodies in Europe. The group noted that geopolitical instability, combined with existing economic pressures, is making it increasingly difficult to forecast the sector’s performance.

Germany’s Third-Largest Industry Under Pressure

Germany’s chemical sector remains a cornerstone of the country’s industrial economy. The industry is the third-largest sector in Germany, employing around 500,000 people across the country. However, the sector is currently grappling with multiple structural challenges. These include high energy and production costs, growing bureaucratic requirements, and a stagnating domestic economy. Additionally, trade tensions and tariffs imposed by the United States on imported goods have further increased pressure on German manufacturers. As VCI summarized, the industry is facing weak industrial demand, rising import competition, and intense price pressure, creating a difficult operating environment for chemical producers.

Production Shows Mixed Performance

Despite the challenging environment, the industry recorded a modest increase in production during the fourth quarter of 2025. Output rose by 1.9%, largely driven by stronger activity in the pharmaceutical segment.

However, the broader chemical sector did not experience the same improvement. Chemical production declined by 2.9% compared with the fourth quarter of 2024, highlighting continued weakness in core manufacturing activities.

Meanwhile, industry revenues also declined. Total sales fell by 2.8% year-on-year to €51.8 billion ($59.6 billion) during the fourth quarter of 2025. The decline was mainly due to a 3.0% drop in domestic sales, reflecting subdued demand within Germany.

Industry Leaders Paint a Grim Picture

Commenting on the sector’s performance, Wolfgang Große Entrup described the annual results as deeply concerning. He stated that production, sales, and prices have all declined, signaling the severity of the downturn facing the chemical industry. Looking ahead, Entrup cautioned that the situation may not improve soon. “The annual results for the chemical industry are abysmal – production, sales and prices are all in the red,” he said, adding that 2026 is unlikely to be any easier for the sector.

Uncertain Road Ahead for the Chemical Sector

Overall, the German chemical industry now faces a combination of geopolitical risks, economic headwinds, and structural challenges. With energy prices remaining volatile and global trade tensions rising, companies are preparing for continued uncertainty in the year ahead. As reported by reuters.com, if supply disruptions in key maritime routes such as the Strait of Hormuz materialize, the ripple effects could extend far beyond Europe—impacting global chemical supply chains, energy markets, and industrial production worldwide.

Amid growing concerns about energy supply disruptions linked to the West Asia crisis, scientists at CSIR-National Chemical Laboratory (CSIR-NCL) have identified dimethyl ether (DME) as a promising indigenous alternative to Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG), particularly for domestic cooking applications.

The Pune-based laboratory announced that its scientists have developed a patent-protected technology for producing DME from methanol, supported by an indigenously designed catalyst. The innovation enables efficient conversion of methanol into DME and could play a significant role in strengthening India’s energy security.

Indigenous Catalyst Enables Efficient DME Production

According to CSIR-NCL, the newly developed process uses a locally developed catalyst that facilitates the conversion of methanol to DME at relatively moderate operating conditions. Importantly, the technology produces DME at around 10 bar pressure, allowing it to be directly filled into conventional LPG cylinders. This compatibility with existing LPG infrastructure significantly improves the practicality of the fuel. Researchers have already demonstrated the technology at a pilot scale of 250 kg per day, highlighting its readiness for further industrial deployment.

Technology Ready for Industrial Demonstration

The laboratory is now preparing to take the next step. In collaboration with a processing engineering partner, CSIR-NCL plans to establish an industrial-scale demonstration plant with a capacity of 2.5 tonnes per day within the next 6–9 months. If successful, the demonstration unit could pave the way for commercial-scale plants ranging from 100 to 500 tonnes per day. At the same time, the institute is exploring partnerships with oil public sector undertakings and bioenergy companies to accelerate large-scale production.

DME Could Strengthen India’s Energy Security

India currently imports more than 80% of its fossil energy requirements, making the country vulnerable to geopolitical disruptions and global price volatility. LPG, which is widely used as a cooking fuel and promoted under the Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana, has recently faced price pressures due to supply chain disruptions in West Asia—one of the world’s major energy supply regions. Against this backdrop, DME offers a clean-burning synthetic fuel option that can complement or partially replace LPG, thereby reducing reliance on imports.

Cleaner Fuel with Strong Environmental Benefits

Dimethyl ether burns significantly cleaner than conventional fuels. According to the researchers, DME emits very low levels of soot, nitrogen oxides (NOx), sulphur oxides (SOx), and particulate matter. Moreover, its thermal efficiency is comparable to traditional fuels, making it suitable for both household cooking and industrial heating applications. Recognising its potential, the Bureau of Indian Standards has issued the IS 18698:2024 standard, which allows blending of up to 20% DME with LPG for domestic, commercial, and industrial use. Importantly, scientists note that up to 8% DME blending requires no modification to existing LPG infrastructure such as cylinders, regulators, hoses, or burners.

Potential to Save ₹9,500 Crore in LPG Imports

India imported around 21 million tonnes of LPG in 2024, making the fuel a major contributor to the country’s energy import bill. Scientists estimate that replacing just 8% of LPG consumption with DME could save nearly ₹9,500 crore annually in foreign exchange. For instance, substituting 8% of LPG used by roughly 10.5 crore households under the Ujjwala scheme would require about 1,300 tonnes of DME production per day.

Future Pathways: Coal, Biomass, and CO₂ Utilisation

In the long term, methanol required for DME production could be sourced from India’s coal reserves and biomass through gasification processes. Scientists are also exploring the possibility of producing DME from captured carbon dioxide, which could support carbon utilisation and climate mitigation strategies. The research project was led by Thirumalaiswamy Raja, Chief Scientist in the Catalysis Division at CSIR-NCL.

As reported by rediff.com, as part of the project, the laboratory has also developed a prototype burner capable of operating flexibly with fuels ranging from 100% LPG to 100% DME, including intermediate blends. The burner has undergone efficiency testing at the LPG Equipment Research Centre in Bengaluru, demonstrating its potential for practical household use.

Paints and coatings manufacturer Akzo Nobel India received regulatory approval from the Ministry of Corporate Affairs (MCA) to change its name to JSW Dulux Ltd, marking a key step following the company’s acquisition by JSW Paints. The approval formally reflects the ownership transition after JSW Paints acquired a majority stake in the company late last year.

MCA Issues Fresh Certificate of Incorporation

The Ministry of Corporate Affairs has issued a fresh Certificate of Incorporation approving the name change from Akzo Nobel India Ltd to JSW Dulux Ltd. The change became effective from March 11, 2026. The company stated, “MCA has issued a fresh Certificate of Incorporation pursuant to change of name (dated March 11, 2026), thereby approving the change of name of the company from ‘Akzo Nobel India Ltd’ to ‘JSW Dulux Ltd’.” Consequently, the Memorandum of Association and Articles of Association of the company have also been amended to reflect the new corporate identity.

Name Change Follows JSW Paints’ Majority Acquisition

The rebranding follows the acquisition of a 60.76% stake in Akzo Nobel India by JSW Paints on December 10, 2025. The transaction was executed through a share purchase agreement involving JSW Paints, Imperial Chemical Industries Limited, and Akzo Nobel Coatings International BV. As a result of the deal, JSW Paints became the promoter and holding company of the Indian paints manufacturer. Earlier, on January 28, 2026, the board of Akzo Nobel India approved the proposal to rename the company JSW Dulux Ltd, subject to regulatory clearances. As reported by business-standard.com, with the MCA’s approval now in place, the company has officially completed the transition to its new name.

Union Home and Cooperation Minister Amit Shah dedicated Sulphuric Acid Plant–3 (SAP-III) at the Paradeep complex of Indian Farmers Fertiliser Cooperative Limited to the nation. The commissioning of the new facility marks an important milestone in strengthening India’s fertiliser manufacturing capacity and supporting the country’s agricultural sector. The project, built at an estimated cost of ₹700 crore, is expected to significantly enhance production capabilities at IFFCO’s Paradeep unit, one of India’s largest integrated phosphatic fertiliser manufacturing complexes.

Capacity Expansion Strengthens Fertiliser Infrastructure

IFFCO acquired the Paradeep complex in 2005 for ₹2,577 crore, when the plant’s production capacity stood at 7.5 lakh metric tons. Today, the facility’s capacity has increased substantially to around 22 lakh metric tons. Of the total output, about 15 percent comprises blended fertilisers, while nearly 40 percent consists of indigenous Diammonium Phosphate (DAP) production. The expansion of sulphuric acid production will help ensure a stable supply of a critical raw material used in fertiliser and chemical manufacturing across the country.

Plant to Produce 2,000 Tons Per Day

The newly commissioned Sulphuric Acid Plant–3 has a production capacity of approximately 2,000 metric tons per day. Once fully operational, the facility will support fertiliser manufacturing processes at the Paradeep complex and strengthen the supply chain for phosphatic fertiliser production. The plant has been designed using advanced and environmentally efficient technologies, enabling improved operational efficiency and better energy utilisation within the manufacturing process.

Advanced Technology to Improve Efficiency

IFFCO Chairman Dilip Sanghani said the commissioning of Sulphuric Acid Plant–3 reflects the organisation’s commitment to strengthening fertiliser production capacity while adopting modern technologies. Managing Director K.J. Patel explained that the new plant incorporates advanced process technologies designed to enhance operational efficiency and energy performance. As reported by eng.ruralvoice.in, he added that the facility will support sustainable industrial development while improving the overall efficiency of fertiliser manufacturing operations at the Paradeep complex.