Coromandel International signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Indian Institute of Technology Madras (IIT Madras) to establish a Corporate Research Centre at the IIT Madras Research Park. The initiative marks a significant step in strengthening industry–academia collaboration in advanced agricultural sciences and technology-led innovation.

Hub for Joint Research, Innovation and Talent Development

The proposed Corporate Research Centre will function as a collaborative hub for joint research programmes and technology incubation. It will also support talent development and foster international partnerships. Through this centre, Coromandel aims to leverage the innovation ecosystem and research infrastructure of IIT Madras, both in India and globally. The collaboration will accelerate the development of next-generation solutions in crop nutrition and advanced agri-inputs. It will translate scientific research into commercially scalable technologies.

MoU Announced at IITM Global Research Foundation Inauguration

The announcement was made during the inauguration of the IITM Global Research Foundation, which was presided over by S. Jaishankar, Minister of External Affairs, Government of India.Narayanan Vellayan, Whole-time Director – Strategic Sourcing, Coromandel International Limited, V. Kamakoti, Director, IIT Madras, and other senior dignitaries from academia and industry also attended the event.

Translating Science into Scalable Solutions

Narayanan Vellayan highlighted the strategic importance of the collaboration. “Our engagement with IIT Madras Global will allow us to work closely with leading researchers, scientists and international partners to develop breakthrough solutions in crop nutrition and advanced agri-inputs,” he said. “The Corporate Research Centre will serve as a strategic platform to convert cutting-edge science into scalable technologies that benefit farmers, industry and the nation’s innovation agenda,” he added.

Strengthening Industry–Academia Collaboration

As reported by thehindubusinessline.com, T. Madhav Narayan, CEO, IITM Global, said the MoU represents a meaningful step towards deeper industry–academia engagement. “This collaboration with Coromandel International marks a powerful move towards accelerating translational research and innovation with tangible, real-world impact,” he said.

AM International Holdings Pte. Ltd, the Singapore-based holding company of SPIC, Tamilnadu Petroproducts Ltd (TPL) and Manali Petroproducts Ltd (MPL), announced plans to invest ₹2,000 crore in India over the next 24 months, with a strong focus on the fertiliser and petrochemicals segments. Founder and Chairman Ashwin Muthiah said the investment will primarily support brownfield expansions across multiple locations, reinforcing the group’s long-term commitment to India’s manufacturing and chemicals ecosystem.

Brownfield Expansions Across Key Industrial Hubs

Muthiah said the group will deploy the majority of its capital expenditure at Thoothukudi and carry out expansion projects in Manali, Chennai, and western India to support MPL’s growth initiatives. These investments aim to enhance operational efficiency, strengthen downstream integration and cater to rising domestic demand across fertilisers, chemicals and industrial applications.

Tuticorin Alkali to Triple Soda Ash Capacity

A key component of the expansion plan involves Tuticorin Alkali Chemicals and Fertilizers Ltd (TAC), a leading producer of soda ash. The company is scaling up its capacity from the current 75,000 tonnes to 200,000 tons, with the expansion scheduled for completion by November 2026. “This project will significantly strengthen downstream linkages for fertilisers, detergents and other industrial applications,” Muthiah said, highlighting the strategic importance of soda ash within the group’s value chain.

Petrochemicals Capacity Expansion at TPL and MPL

In parallel, Tamilnadu Petroproducts Ltd will expand its petrochemicals portfolio. The company plans to enhance propylene glycol production and increase linear alkyl benzene (LAB) capacity, catering to growing demand from home care, personal care and industrial sectors. Meanwhile, Manali Petrochemicals Ltd will set up a new propylene glycol facility, aimed at meeting rising domestic consumption and reducing import dependence.

Institutionalisation Takes Centre Stage

Beyond capacity expansion, Muthiah emphasised the group’s focus on institutionalisation and professionalisation. “As a torchbearer in the current environment, it is critical to deliver value to all stakeholders—shareholders, suppliers, customers and employees,” he said. “This can only be achieved by building strong institutions through a professionalised setup. Running a company is one thing, but building an institution is entirely different,” he added. He further added that his primary objective is to create organisations capable of sustaining long-term growth, citing the Tata Group as a benchmark for successful institutionalisation.

No Divestment Plans, Focus Firmly on Growth

Addressing speculation around potential divestments, Muthiah clarified that the group has no plans to sell stakes in any of its companies. “Any divestment in the past was undertaken to deleverage our balance sheets, which are now very healthy. We funded our investments largely through internal resources. At this stage, the focus is squarely on growth,” he said.

Succession Planning and Next-Generation Leadership

On succession, Muthiah said both his daughters actively pursue involvement in the business and already participate in strategic discussions. “I have two daughters, and both are keen to be involved. They participate in management-level discussions and sit on the boards of some group companies. It is my wish that they continue the legacy,” he said.

As reported by thehindubusinessline.com, in March 2023, Devaki Ashwin Muthiah, the elder daughter, joined the boards of AM UK Holdings Ltd. She also became a board member of AM International Holdings Pvt Ltd, Singapore. Subsequently, in June 2024, Wilson International Trading Pvt Ltd inducted her younger sister, Alagu Ashwin Muthiah, as a non-executive, non-independent director on its board.

Nippon Paint India, a subsidiary of Japan-based Nippon Paint Holdings, has announced plans to invest ₹200 crore in India over the next 12–18 months, as part of its strategy to accelerate growth and strengthen manufacturing capabilities.

Sharad Malhotra, Managing Director, Nippon Paint (India) Group, said the proposed investment will be deployed to expand existing manufacturing facilities, create new capacities in emerging segments, and pursue selective acquisitions of companies and production assets.

Capacity Expansion in Emerging Coatings Segments

As part of the expansion strategy, Nippon Paint India plans to build fresh capacities in high-growth segments such as powder coatings and electrodeposition coatings (ED coatings) for the automotive industry. “Currently, our capacity for powder coatings and ED coatings in India is minimal. However, as these categories gain importance, we will need to establish completely new manufacturing capacities domestically,” Malhotra said. The move reflects the company’s intent to align its product portfolio with evolving industry demand and localisation requirements.

Strong Manufacturing Base and Financial Performance

At present, Nippon Paint India operates seven manufacturing facilities across the country, with a combined production capacity of around two lakh tonnes per annum. Malhotra added that the company recorded revenues of ₹3,000 crore in FY25 and commands a market share of approximately 4–5 per cent in the Indian paints market. The company expects to deliver high double-digit growth during the current financial year, driven by capacity additions and market expansion.

Regional Expansion Beyond Southern Markets

The company is now focusing on expanding its footprint in northern and eastern regions. “In terms of geographic expansion, our priority is to strengthen our presence in markets where we see significant headroom for growth,” Malhotra said, underlining the company’s balanced regional growth strategy.

Decorative Coatings Lead Revenue Mix

In terms of business segments, the decorative coatings business continues to be the largest contributor to revenues, followed by automotive refinishing and industrial coatings. Furthermore, Malhotra noted that following its acquisition of Chennai-based Vibgyor Paints, Nippon Paint India has emerged as the largest supplier of paints to the Indian Railways, strengthening its position in institutional and infrastructure segments.

Distribution and Digital Channels in Focus

Mark Titus, President – Decorative Business, Nippon Paint India, highlighted, “Currently, we cover the top 1,000 cities in India. However, we see immense potential in semi-urban and rural markets, and we intend to actively explore these opportunities”. As reported by thehindubusinessline.com, in addition, the company is engaging with app-based home services platforms to integrate Nippon Paint products into their painting and home improvement offerings, thereby strengthening its omnichannel presence.

Astec LifeSciences Limited, a subsidiary of Godrej Agrovet Limited and a trusted manufacturer of agrochemicals, active ingredients and pharmaceutical intermediates, has bagged the EcoVadis Gold Medal. With this achievement, the company now ranks among the top five per cent of companies globally. It has been recognized for excellence in sustainability and Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) performance.

Notably, Astec LifeSciences had secured a Bronze rating in 2024, making this advancement to Gold a significant milestone. The recognition further strengthens the company’s value proposition as a reliable and responsible manufacturing partner to customers worldwide.

Global Benchmark in Sustainability Performance

EcoVadis is one of the world’s most widely recognised sustainability ratings platforms. It has assessed more than 1,50,000 companies across 185+ countries and 250 industries. The evaluation examines how organisations integrate sustainability principles into their operations, policies, and supply chains. EcoVadis conducts a rigorous assessment of corporate performance across critical ESG parameters. These include environmental impact, labour and human rights, ethics, and sustainable procurement.

Leadership Perspective: ESG as a Strategic Priority

Burjis Godrej, Executive Director, Godrej Agrovet Limited, and Managing Director, Astec LifeSciences Limited, highlighted, “Guided by the Godrej Industries Group’s philosophy of putting people and the planet first, sustainability and strong governance lie at the heart of value creation at Astec LifeSciences,” he said. “Our continuous improvement, driven by feedback from previous EcoVadis audits, reaffirms that ESG is integral to how we steer the business.”

He further emphasised that ESG at Astec LifeSciences goes beyond compliance. “For us, ESG is a strategic lens through which we engage stakeholders, manage risk and build resilient, future-ready businesses that contribute positively to the wider ecosystem. We remain committed to integrity and long-term value creation for all stakeholders, communities and the environment,” he said.

Timely Recognition Amid Rising ESG Expectations

The EcoVadis Gold recognition comes at a crucial time as companies across the chemical and agrochemical sectors intensify their focus on ESG and governance frameworks. Regulators, rating agencies, and financial institutions are increasingly scrutinizing businesses. This pressure is pushing companies toward greater transparency, lower environmental impact, and stronger supply-chain sustainability.

As per the press release, Astec LifeSciences’ achievement underscores its proactive approach to sustainability. It reinforces the company’s position as a responsible industry leader. The company will reduce its carbon and ecological footprint while meeting global standards of excellence.

Kemira completed the acquisition of Ohio-based AquaBlue, Inc., a privately held company specialising in industrial and wastewater treatment services. Although valued at approximately $10 million, the deal significantly reinforces Kemira’s footprint in North America and deepens its capabilities in the global industrial water treatment segment.

Expanding Capabilities Across Key End-Use Sectors

Through the acquisition, Kemira broadens its service offering for industrial customers across food and beverage, manufacturing and healthcare sectors. AquaBlue brings strong operational expertise in wastewater and industrial water treatment, complementing Kemira’s advanced chemical technologies and solution portfolio. As a result, the combined capabilities enable Kemira to deliver more integrated, value-added water treatment solutions tailored to complex industrial needs.

Driving Customer Value Through Integration

Tuija Pohjolainen-Hiltunen, Executive Vice President, Water Solutions at Kemira, emphasised, “The acquisition enhances our ability to create greater value for customers by combining AquaBlue’s service expertise with Kemira’s technologies”. “Importantly, it marks our first acquisition since the purchase of Water Engineering, Inc., which has provided us with a strong platform for both organic and inorganic growth in industrial water treatment services across North America,” she added.

Integration into Kemira’s Water Solutions Group

Following the acquisition, AquaBlue will be fully integrated into Kemira’s Water Solutions group while continuing to operate from its existing location in Ohio. This approach ensures operational continuity while enabling closer collaboration and accelerated growth within Kemira’s regional water services business.

Building on Prior Strategic Acquisitions

The AquaBlue deal follows Kemira’s acquisition of Nebraska-based Water Engineering, Inc. in fall 2025 for approximately $150 million. That transaction significantly expanded Kemira’s industrial water services platform in North America and also saw Water Engineering integrated into the Water Solutions group. Together, these acquisitions underline Kemira’s long-term strategy to scale its industrial water treatment services through targeted investments.

Industrial Water Treatment on a Growth Trajectory

Elgi Equipments Limited, one of the world’s leading air compressor manufacturers, inaugurated a state-of-the-art vacuum pump assembly line at its headquarters in Coimbatore. The new facility marks a key milestone in ELGi’s strategic expansion into vacuum technology. It reinforces the company’s commitment to manufacturing excellence, quality leadership, and global competitiveness.

Strategic Entry into Vacuum Solutions

The new assembly line builds on ELGi’s multi-year technology licensing agreement with D.V.P. Vacuum Technology S.p.A., Italy. Under this partnership, ELGi manufactures, assembles, tests and markets D.V.P.’s proprietary vacuum products in India. Vacuum technology is a natural extension of compressed air. This move strengthens ELGi’s vision of building a future-ready portfolio of integrated industrial air and vacuum solutions.

Deming-Driven Quality at the Core

A recipient of the Deming Prize for Total Quality Management (TQM), ELGi has designed the vacuum pump assembly line in strict alignment with its TQM philosophy. As a result, the facility enables end-to-end control over quality and reliability. This allows ELGi to deliver globally competitive vacuum solutions, backed by a two-year warranty.

Leadership Perspective on the Expansion

Dr. Jairam Varadaraj, Managing Director, Elgi Equipments, said, “The inauguration of our vacuum pump assembly line marks an important step in ELGi’s journey to build globally competitive industrial solutions from India. Vacuum technology is a natural extension of our compressed air business. By combining proven European technology with ELGi’s Deming-recognised manufacturing discipline, quality culture and service reach, we are well positioned to deliver highly reliable vacuum solutions in India and, over time, across global markets.”

Tapping into a Growing Global Market

Anvar Jay Varadaraj, Chief Operating Officer, Elgi Equipments, said, “The global vacuum pump market continues to grow steadily, driven by rising demand across manufacturing, packaging, pharmaceuticals, electronics and process industries. With this new assembly line, ELGi strengthens its position as a trusted global manufacturer, reaffirming our commitment to innovation, quality and sustainable growth while creating long-term value for customers and stakeholders.”

Advanced Manufacturing for Superior Performance

Built with a focus on quality, reliability and customer confidence, the new vacuum pump assembly line integrates best-in-class manufacturing practices. These include automated, sensor-driven assembly processes, comprehensive end-of-line testing, and ergonomically designed 360-degree swivel assembly benches.

Together, these features ensure consistent build quality, high operational reliability and superior product performance.

Strengthening Customer Support and Service Ecosystem

In addition, local assembly of vacuum pumps significantly enhances ELGi’s customer support capabilities. The press release states that local manufacturing and parts availability enable faster response times, while ELGi’s pan-India service network, backed by trained and qualified engineers, provides robust aftermarket support. Consequently, customers across industries benefit from greater uptime, faster service and long-term peace of mind.

Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi outlined an ambitious roadmap to transform the state into a leading green energy hub by 2036. The vision places renewable energy, sustainable industrial practices and long-term environmental planning at the centre of Odisha’s growth strategy, aligning closely with India’s national climate and clean energy goals.

From Mineral-Driven Growth to Clean Development

Traditionally known for its mineral-rich resources and heavy industrial base, Odisha is now pivoting toward low-carbon growth. The state government plans to reduce emissions across key sectors while leveraging its geographic advantages and natural resources to scale up renewable energy generation. This shift aims to balance industrial expansion with ecological responsibility, ensuring sustainable development over the long term.

Scaling Up Solar Power Across the State

Solar energy forms a key pillar of Odisha’s green transition. The roadmap includes the development of large-scale solar parks across suitable districts to tap the state’s growing solar potential. At the same time, the government plans to promote decentralised solar adoption across government buildings, industrial clusters and rural communities. In addition, Odisha is exploring floating solar projects, canal-top solar installations and hybrid renewable parks, further diversifying its clean energy portfolio.

Unlocking Wind Energy Potential Along the Coast

Alongside solar, wind energy development is gaining momentum, particularly along Odisha’s coastal belts. The government is assessing wind potential in multiple coastal districts and actively exploring partnerships with leading developers to establish wind farms and hybrid solar-wind projects. The initiatives are expected to strengthen grid resilience and create a more balanced and reliable energy mix.

Green Hydrogen as a Strategic Growth Engine

Green hydrogen represents another cornerstone of Odisha’s long-term strategy. The state aims to attract investments in hydrogen production and storage infrastructure, particularly to support its steel, aluminium and chemical industries. By promoting hydrogen valleys and integrated industrial clusters, Odisha plans to position itself as a major supplier of clean fuels to both domestic and global markets.

Strengthening Power Infrastructure and Grid Connectivity

To support large-scale renewable deployment, the government is prioritising transmission and infrastructure upgrades. Key initiatives include the development of green energy corridors, modernisation of substations and improvements in grid integration and evacuation capacity. These measures will ensure stable power supply, support industrial demand and enable efficient integration of renewable energy into the grid.

Driving Jobs and Local Economic Growth

The Chief Minister also highlighted the employment potential of the green energy ecosystem. Manufacturing of solar modules, wind turbine components, hydrogen equipment and energy storage systems is expected to generate jobs across skilled and semi-skilled categories.

Importantly, the state plans to roll out training and capacity-building programmes to ensure that local communities benefit directly from the energy transition.

Policy Reforms to Attract Private Investment

To accelerate implementation, Odisha is advancing policy reforms aimed at attracting private and global investment. Proposed measures include developer incentives, streamlined approval processes and land facilitation mechanisms. Together, these reforms seek to position Odisha as a preferred destination for green energy investments.

A Model for Clean Energy Leadership

Overall, Odisha’s vision to emerge as a green energy hub by 2036 reflects a strong commitment to sustainability, industrial modernisation and long-term economic resilience. As reported by eqmagpro.com, if executed effectively, the state could serve as a national model for clean energy leadership. It would also make a meaningful contribution to India’s future energy security and independence.

Uniper Global Commodities SE (Uniper) and AM Green Ammonia India Private Limited (AM Green Ammonia) have signed a long-term, binding offtake agreement for renewable ammonia certified as a Renewable Fuel of Non-Biological Origin (RFNBO). This marks the first such agreement involving an Indian company.

Up to 5,00,000 Tons per Year from India

Under the agreement, Uniper will offtake up to 5,00,000 tons of renewable ammonia per year from AM Green’s green ammonia projects in India. The first shipments will be in 2028, originating from AM Green Ammonia’s first 1 million tons per annum (MTPA) plant currently under construction in Kakinada, Andhra Pradesh. Importantly, the contract represents a major milestone in India’s ambition to emerge as a global exporter of green hydrogen and green ammonia, aligning closely with the Government of India’s National Hydrogen Mission.

Strengthening Europe’s Supply of Low-Carbon Molecules

For Uniper, the agreement marks a significant step forward in building a diversified portfolio of renewable and low-carbon molecules for European customers. As both a feedstock and a hydrogen carrier, renewable ammonia plays a crucial role in decarbonising hard-to-abate sectors such as chemicals, fertilisers, refining, and—over time—shipping.

Enabling India’s Role in the Global Energy Transition

Anil Kumar Chalamalasetty, Founder, Greenko Group and AM Green, said, “The partnership is a milestone for India’s role in the global energy transition. AM Green’s renewable ammonia is designed to meet stringent European RFNBO compliance standards. Through our firm and dispatchable clean electricity solutions, we are enabling multiple downstream sectors—including ammonia, aluminium and chemicals—to significantly lower emissions, first in India and now globally.”

Building Scalable Pathways to Decarbonisation

Michael Lewis, CBE, CEO of Uniper, emphasised, “This agreement with AM Green Ammonia is a key building block in our strategy to provide reliable access to renewable and low-carbon molecules at scale. Green ammonia stands out as one of the most promising solutions to decarbonise CO₂-intensive industries such as chemicals, fertilisers and refining. Importantly, it offers among the lowest CO₂ avoidance costs due to its mature production process and the absence of carbon feedstock requirements.” He added that clear and stable regulatory frameworks will be essential to accelerate decarbonisation. He also noted that demand-side measures, such as renewable molecule quotas, are crucial to preserving Europe’s industrial competitiveness.

Creating a New India–Europe Green Energy Corridor

Mahesh Kolli, Co-Founder, Greenko Group and AM Green, highlighted, “Our partnership with Uniper reinforces our ability to deliver hydrogen and ammonia with the lowest possible carbon footprint at the right price point for large-scale adoption. This outcome reflects focused collaboration, disciplined execution and the strong support of our investors—Gentari, GIC and ADIA—together creating an integrated ecosystem capable of delivering green ammonia globally with speed and reliability.”

Aligning Supply, Certification and Demand

John Roper, CEO Middle East, Uniper Global Commodities, described, “This landmark agreement demonstrates what can be achieved through genuine partnership. By aligning supply, certification and demand-side incentives, we can deliver competitive renewable molecules to European industry at scale—resulting in real and measurable emissions reductions.”

Advancing the Global Renewable Molecules Market

The government scrapped the mandatory three-year existence requirement for deep-tech startups seeking recognition under the Industrial Research and Development Promotion Programme of the Department of Scientific and Industrial Research (DSIR), under the Ministry of Science & Technology.

Announcement Made on DSIR Foundation Day

Boost for Young and Emerging Startups

Explaining the rationale, the minister said that while the ₹1 lakh crore Research, Development and Innovation (RDI) Fund is intended for startups that have reached a certain level of technological maturity, the relaxation of eligibility norms will create new opportunities for young deep-tech companies.

He noted that several support mechanisms already exist for early-stage innovators across departments such as the Department of Science and Technology (DST), Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) and the Technology Development Board (TDB). “The removal of the three-year existence requirement is a significant incentive that will help deep-tech startups scale faster, even before they become fully independent,” Singh said.

Earlier Conditions Limited Access to Funding

Growing Participation of Women in R&D Ecosystem

Highlighting inclusive growth, Singh said that over 10,000 women beneficiaries are currently availing DSIR schemes. This includes more than 55 women-led self-help groups, reflecting the increasing participation of women in India’s science and innovation ecosystem.

India’s Transition from Self-Reliance to Global Leadership

Looking at the broader picture, the minister observed that India has moved beyond the phase of ‘Atmanirbhar Bharat’ and is now entering a stage where other countries are increasingly dependent on India’s capabilities. As reported by business-standard.com, citing examples from vaccines, medical devices and indigenous technologies, Singh said that India has successfully transitioned from import dependence to exports worth several crores, demonstrating the growing global acceptance of Indian science, research and technology.

Shivtek Spechemi Industries Ltd, a specialty chemicals manufacturer and the flagship company of the Shiva Group of Industries, announced the appointment of Dr. Trusar D. Bagul as an Independent Director on its board. The strategic move underscores Shivtek’s focus on strengthening governance, technical leadership and innovation-led growth.

Strengthening Scientific and Governance Capabilities

Dr. Bagul brings a rare blend of deep academic research and extensive industrial experience. Through this appointment, Shivtek aims to enhance scientific governance and informed decision-making as it advances its long-term expansion and innovation roadmap.

Nearly Three Decades of Scientific and Industry Experience

With close to three decades of experience across drug discovery, pharmaceuticals, fine chemicals and specialty chemicals, Dr. Bagul combines strong scientific acumen with business and operational insight. A prolific researcher, he has authored multiple international publications and holds several U.S. and Indian patents. Importantly, he has led research and operations teams in translating complex synthetic chemistry into commercially viable solutions. His expertise in high-value, low-volume projects and cost-effective chemical development will play a pivotal role in Shivtek’s upcoming R&D initiatives.

Management Perspective on the Appointment

Amitt Nenwani, Managing Director, Shivtek Spechemi Industries Ltd, said, “We are delighted to welcome Dr. Trusar D. Bagul to our Board. As Shivtek embarks on an expansion journey focused on strengthening India’s self-reliance in the chemical sector through green manufacturing and advanced import-substitution products, his profound expertise and scientific guidance will be invaluable. This appointment reinforces our commitment to strong governance and informed leadership.”

Role as Independent Director

As an Independent Director, Dr. Bagul will work closely with Shivtek’s research and development teams, providing deep technical oversight as the company navigates increasingly complex and technology-driven expansions. His role strengthens strategic alignment between innovation, sustainability, and commercial execution.

Dr. Bagul’s Vision for Shivtek

Dr. Trusar D. Bagul said, “I am pleased to join Shivtek Spechemi Industries Ltd at a pivotal stage of its growth. The company’s commitment to sustainability, quality and global expansion resonates strongly with my professional values. I look forward to working with the Board and management to support strategic priorities and help position Shivtek as a global hub for green specialty chemistry.”

Global Research Exposure and Advisory Experience

An accomplished organic and medicinal chemist, Dr. Bagul has held senior leadership roles across chemistry-focused enterprises, working closely with global pharmaceutical and biotechnology clients. He is also an entrepreneur and currently provides scientific and strategic advisory services to pharma, biopharma and chemical companies.