The government announced an ambitious ₹7,280 crore initiative to ramp up domestic production of sintered Rare Earth Permanent Magnets (REPM). The scheme is designed to reduce reliance on China and secure critical supply chains for the electric vehicle, aerospace, and green energy sectors.

Comprehensive Domestic Manufacturing Chain

The initiative aims to create an end-to-end domestic manufacturing ecosystem, converting rare earth oxide (REO) into sintered NdFeB magnets. The scheme will incentivize indigenously produced magnets through sales-linked benefits and capital subsidies, encouraging the establishment of 6,000 MTPA REO to sintered NdFeB REPM facilities across the country.

Transparent Allocation and Material Supply

The scheme will follow a transparent bidding process to allocate manufacturing capacities to selected applicants. IREL (India) Ltd will supply rare earth material to the three beneficiaries offering the lowest bids, ensuring fair access and efficient utilization of resources.

Seven-Year Plan to Foster Indigenous Capability

Spanning seven years, the initiative addresses India’s current import-heavy REPM landscape. As reported by devdiscourse.com, by nurturing domestic manufacturing capabilities, the scheme aims to strengthen India’s strategic autonomy, create jobs, and support critical industries reliant on high-performance magnets.

Suzlon Group and Yanara have expanded their long-standing partnership by signing two new wind power contracts of 153 MW each, totaling 306 MW, for Yanara’s firm and dispatchable renewable energy (FDRE) projects in Barmer, Rajasthan. Through the collaboration, Suzlon strengthens its leadership in Rajasthan’s wind energy market. Yanara, meanwhile, accelerates the growth of its multi-technology clean energy portfolio.

Suzlon Reinforces Market Leadership in Rajasthan

Suzlon has more than 2.3 GW of installed wind capacity and a 44% market share in Rajasthan. The company continues to play a pivotal role in positioning the state as a leading renewable energy hub. In parallel, the company is executing additional large-scale engineering, procurement, and construction (EPC) projects in the state, together accounting for 791 MW.

Advanced Turbine Deployment for Hybrid Projects

As part of Yanara’s two FDRE projects in Barmer, which together total around 800 MWp, Suzlon will contribute by installing 102 advanced S144 wind turbine generators. Each turbine, rated at 3 MW and mounted on hybrid lattice towers. It will contribute to meeting Yanara’s power purchase agreement commitments with utilities such as NTPC and NHPC.

Supporting Round-the-Clock Clean Power

Leadership Perspectives on the Partnership

Girish Tanti, Vice Chairman of Suzlon Group, highlighted the value of collaboration. He stated that strong partnerships like Suzlon and Yanara are central to driving India’s energy transition. He emphasized that repeat orders reflect deep trust, proven technology, and consistent execution across projects spanning Maharashtra to Rajasthan.

Jerome Ortiz, Chief Executive Officer, Yanara, said the partnership aligns with Yanara’s mission to accelerate the transition away from fossil fuels across Asia-Pacific. He added that Suzlon’s ability to deliver at scale makes it a trusted partner for Yanara’s complex hybrid projects in India.

Driving India’s Energy Transition Forward

As per the press release, together, Suzlon and Yanara are advancing high-quality, utility-scale renewable solutions that enable faster and deeper electrification. Through sustained collaboration and innovation, the partnership continues to create long-term value for communities, customers, and India’s clean energy future.

Tata Power plans to finalise its proposed ₹6,500 crore, 10 GW wafer and ingot manufacturing project by January, a move expected to significantly strengthen its renewable energy strategy and deepen its integration across the solar value chain. The announcement was confirmed by Praveer Sinha, CEO and Managing Director, Tata Power, who highlighted the project as a key pillar of the company’s long-term clean energy roadmap.

Discussions Underway with State Governments

Sinha said Tata Power is currently in discussions with multiple state governments and will soon decide on the project’s final location. “We expect to make an announcement in January. In the meantime, we are continuing to explore potential sites for the project,” he said.

Multiple Locations Under Evaluation

Tata Power is evaluating several locations for the manufacturing facility, including Odisha, Tamil Nadu, and Andhra Pradesh. The final decision will depend on state-level policies, incentives, and infrastructure support. “We are closely assessing the policy environment and incentives offered by various states before finalising the location,” Sinha added.

Backward Integration

The company had earlier indicated that the wafer and ingot facility forms a core part of its backward integration strategy, with greater clarity expected in the last quarter of FY26. Once operational, the facility will enable Tata Power to become a fully integrated solar manufacturer, as it already operates solar cell and module manufacturing units. As a result, the project will significantly boost domestic manufacturing capabilities and reduce reliance on imports.

Exploring Opportunities Beyond Renewables

Beyond solar manufacturing, Tata Power is also exploring opportunities in the nuclear energy sector. The company plans to assess small modular reactor (SMR) projects with capacities ranging from 20 MW to 50 MW, once regulatory and legal frameworks permit private sector participation.

Strengthening India’s Clean Energy Ecosystem

As reported by manufacturingtodayindia.com, the wafer and ingot project represents a strategic investment that aligns with India’s push for self-reliance in solar manufacturing. By expanding upstream capabilities, Tata Power aims to reinforce its position as a key player in the country’s clean energy transition.

Ipseity Diagnostics and Research, a U.S.-based molecular diagnostics company, entered into a scientific collaboration with Vignan’s Foundation for Science, Technology and Research to strengthen advanced molecular research capabilities in Andhra Pradesh. The partnership aims to introduce transcriptomics, low-cost PCR technologies, and Next Generation Sequencing (NGS) to the State.

Collaboration to Strengthen High-End Molecular Capabilities

Through the collaboration, the two institutions seek to build a robust research ecosystem focused on cutting-edge molecular diagnostics. By integrating advanced technologies with academic research, the initiative will support the development of innovative and scalable diagnostic solutions tailored to India’s healthcare needs.

MoU Signed in Presence of Academic Leadership

The Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was formally exchanged at the Vignan University campus in the presence of Chairman Lavu Rathaiah, Vice-Chancellor Prof. P. Nagabhushan, and Advisor M. Malakondaiah. Representing Ipseity Diagnostics, Dr. Sandeep Nadendla, CEO, and Dr. Kalyan Chakravarthy K., CMO, signed the agreement with Prof. P.M.V. Rao and Prof. Vijaya Ramu Dirisala of Vignan’s Foundation.

Translating Research

The collaboration is expected to accelerate the translation of molecular science from “bench to bedside.” It will focus on developing advanced diagnostics for sepsis, drug-resistant and uncontrolled infections, and other critical illnesses. At the same time, the research programme will prioritise the creation of indigenous, affordable diagnostic technologies, ensuring wider accessibility across the Indian healthcare system.

Positioning Andhra Pradesh as a Biomedical Research Hub

Dr. Kalyan Chakravarthy K. said the initiative positions Andhra Pradesh as an emerging hub for high-end biomedical research. He added that the collaboration could benefit millions of patients by enabling faster, more accurate, and cost-effective diagnostic tools.

Driving Affordable Innovation in Healthcare

As reported by thehindu.com, the partnership underscores a shared commitment to innovation, affordability, and clinical impact. By combining global molecular diagnostics expertise with strong academic research, Ipseity Diagnostics and Vignan University aim to reshape diagnostic science and improve patient outcomes across India.

ION Exchange (India) Ltd bagged water and wastewater treatment contracts worth approximately ₹205 crore from Rayzon Energy Private Ltd and INOX Solar Ltd. The contracts cover the design, supply, and execution of ultra-pure water and wastewater treatment systems for large-scale solar manufacturing projects in India.

Rayzon Energy Order

As part of the agreements, Rayzon Energy Private Ltd has awarded a contract valued at around ₹95 crore to ION Exchange. The scope includes process and utility systems, comprising ultra-pure water generation units, effluent treatment plants (ETPs), and zero liquid discharge (ZLD) facilities. ION Exchange will implement these systems at Rayzon Energy’s 5.1 GW photovoltaic solar manufacturing facility located at Kathwada village near Surat, Gujarat. The project strengthens sustainable water management practices in high-capacity solar manufacturing.

INOX Solar Contract

Defined Execution

Strengthening Water Infrastructure

The orders highlight ION Exchange’s growing role in enabling sustainable water solutions for India’s expanding solar manufacturing ecosystem. As reported by cnbctv18.com, the company delivers advanced ultra-pure water and ZLD systems. Through these solutions, it continues to support the sector’s transition toward resource-efficient and environmentally responsible operations.

iGM Resins, a global leader in energy-curing raw material solutions, announced an exclusive distribution partnership with IDCC Global Chem Private Limited for the entire Indian market. The collaboration marks a significant step in strengthening iGM Resins’ presence across India.

Strategic Partnership

Through this partnership, iGM Resins aims to expand its global footprint while ensuring improved market access and customer service across the fast-growing Indian subcontinent. The agreement will take effect from January 1, 2026.

Full Portfolio Coverage Across India

Under the partnership, IDCC Global Chem will distribute iGM Resins’ complete product portfolio, including:

*Photoinitiators: Omnirad®, Esacure®, Omnipol®, Omnicat®

*Energy-curing resins: Photomer®, PureOmer®, Omnimer®, Omnilane®

*Specialty additives: Omnivadd®, PureVadd®

As a result, customers will gain easier access to high-performance UV/EB curing solutions across multiple applications.

Distribution Strength and Market Expertise

With over 51 years of experience in specialty chemical distribution, IDCC Global Chem Private Limited brings deep market knowledge, strong technical capabilities, and an extensive distribution network spanning India’s major industrial hubs. Consequently, the partnership is expected to significantly enhance product availability. It will also strengthen technical support across key segments such as inks, coatings, and adhesives.

Leadership Perspectives on the Collaboration

Ankit Saxena, Global Product Management and Marketing Director at iGM Resins, said the Indian market plays a vital role in the company’s global growth strategy. “Partnering with IDCC Global Chem Private Limited ensures that our customers in India receive faster service, stronger technical support, and reliable supply. Their expertise and logistics capabilities make them an ideal partner for supporting the growing demand for energy-curing solutions,” he said.

Bharat Arora, Managing Director at IDCC Global Chem Private Limited, noted that the collaboration strengthens IDCC’s offering in a high-growth sector. “We are proud to partner with iGM Resins and bring their world-class photoinitiators, resins, and additives to our customer base. This partnership allows us to deliver innovative, reliable, and sustainable UV/EB curing materials to the Indian market,” he said.

Seamless Transition and Customer Continuity

BASF has signed a definitive agreement with Catexel for the sale of its optical brightening agent business, a key ingredient segment used in laundry detergent formulations. The business currently operates under BASF’s Care Chemicals division. While the companies have not disclosed financial terms, they expect to complete the transaction in the first quarter of 2026, subject to customary closing conditions.

Transaction Scope Includes Swiss Production and Workforce

The agreement covers BASF’s international optical brightening agent business, including the production facility in Monthey, Switzerland, and approximately 80 employees. Through this transfer, Catexel will assume responsibility for operations, manufacturing, and future development of the business.

Divestment Supports BASF’s Portfolio Transformation

This divestment aligns with BASF’s ongoing strategic portfolio transformation. As part of its “Winning Ways” strategy, BASF continues to actively manage its business portfolio and sharpen its strategic focus. Mary Kurian, President, Care Chemicals at BASF, said, “Through active portfolio management and prioritization, we are creating the right conditions for long-term value creation. With Catexel as a dedicated and focused new owner, the optical brightening agent business can continue to grow and fully realize its potential.”

Catexel Expands Care Chemicals Portfolio

Dr. Alexander Snell, President and CEO of Catexel, added, “The transaction marks another important step in Catexel’s growth journey. With a state-of-the-art production facility and a highly experienced team in Switzerland, we are building a strong foundation for innovation and future expansion. The acquisition reinforces our commitment to customers and advances our long-term strategic direction”.

Strengthening Long-Term Market Position

As per the press release, overall, the transaction underscores BASF’s disciplined approach to portfolio optimization while enabling Catexel to scale its care chemicals platform. As a result, both companies are positioning themselves for focused growth and long-term value creation in their respective markets.

Technip Energies bagged a detailed engineering contract for the Arthit Carbon Capture and Storage (CCS) facilities project in the Gulf of Thailand. Thoresen Jutal Offshore Engineering Heavy Industries Limited (Thailand) awarded the contract, supporting PTTEP’s initiative to pioneer CCS adoption in the country.

Arthit CCS Project: A National Landmark in Decarbonization

The Arthit CCS Project, led by PTTEP, will serve as a pilot project to build expertise and accelerate carbon capture deployment across Thailand. The project aligns with the Nationally Determined Contribution (NDC) Action Plan on Mitigation 2021–2030. It leverages existing Arthit field infrastructure while adding new facilities to enhance carbon capture capacity. Once operational, the project will gradually capture up to 1 million tonnes of CO₂ per year. This will support Thailand’s efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and meet its climate targets.

Technip Energies’ Role and Scope

Technip Energies will lead detailed engineering for the project, including:

*New CCS processing units

*CO₂ injection facilities

*Brownfield modifications to the existing Arthit Central Processing Platform

The contract builds on Technip Energies’ prior engagement, having successfully delivered the Pre-FEED and FEED phases between 2022 and 2023.

Leadership Perspective

Mario Tommaselli, Senior Vice President, Gas and Low Carbon Energies, commented, “This award highlights our long-standing partnership with PTTEP and demonstrates our proven expertise in engineering and carbon capture solutions. We are proud to contribute to Thailand’s first CCS project, recognized as a national milestone in the country’s decarbonization journey. Leveraging our global engineering capabilities and CCS know-how, we will support PTTEP throughout this strategic initiative.”

Advancing CCS Adoption in Thailand

As per company press release, the Arthit CCS Project represents a critical step in scaling carbon capture technology in Southeast Asia. By integrating new facilities with existing infrastructure, the project sets a precedent for future CCS deployments. It also reinforces Thailand’s commitment to sustainable energy and carbon mitigation.

Onix Solar secured a Letter of Intent (LoI) from Vikran Engineering to supply non-DCR TOPCon 620 Wp solar modules. The company confirmed that the order value stands at ₹148.80 crore, excluding GST. Vikran Engineering is an emerging engineering, procurement, and construction (EPC) player with operations across multiple infrastructure sectors.

Order Pricing Aligns with Market Benchmarks

The contract pricing works out to under ₹13 per watt, which aligns with prevailing market rates for non-DCR solar modules. As a result, the order reflects competitive pricing while supporting project viability.

Scope Includes Design, Manufacturing, and Testing

Under the terms of the LoI, Onix Solar will handle the design, manufacturing, factory acceptance testing, and supply of the modules. Specifically, the company will deliver 1,93,550 non-DCR TOPCon 620 Wp solar modules for Vikran Engineering’s solar project. This comprehensive scope positions Onix Solar as a full-solution module supplier for large-scale installations.

Three-Month Supply Timeline Post Clearance

Following manufacturing clearance from Vikran Engineering, Onix Solar plans to complete supplies within three months. This timeline underscores the company’s execution capability and manufacturing readiness. As reported by pv-magazine-india.com, overall, the order strengthens Onix Solar’s footprint in high-efficiency TOPCon technology and reinforces its role as a reliable supplier for utility-scale and EPC-led solar projects.

Gujarat Mineral Development Corporation (GMDC) has invited Expressions of Interest (EOIs) from qualified developers for the development of the Gujarat Rare Earth Elements (REE) downstream hub. The initiative aims to create a safe, compliant, and investment-ready industrial ecosystem that supports domestic value addition in rare earth elements.

Building a Competitive REE Value Chain in Gujarat

Through this project, GMDC seeks to strengthen India’s REE capabilities by enabling downstream processing and manufacturing at globally competitive costs. The proposed hub will support industries that rely on rare earth materials, while reducing dependence on imports and enhancing supply chain resilience.

Scope of Work for the Selected Developer

The selected developer will assume end-to-end responsibilities for developing the hub. These include detailed engineering, construction of trunk infrastructure, and provision of common utilities. In addition, the developer will install environmental protection systems and create shared facilities to ensure operational efficiency and full regulatory compliance.

Public–Private Partnership to Accelerate Industrial Development

GMDC plans to work closely with the chosen developer to fast-track the establishment of a comprehensive REE value chain in Gujarat. As reported by manufacturingtodayindia.com, the collaborative approach is expected to attract investments, promote advanced manufacturing, and significantly enhance the region’s industrial ecosystem. Interested developers must submit their Expressions of Interest by 20 January 2026.