Nalco is preparing to start operations at its Pottangi bauxite mines in Odisha by June next year. The move is part of the company’s strategy to expand mining capacity and strengthen its integrated aluminium business.

Project Advances

Nalco CMD Brijendra Pratap Singh confirmed that Dilip Buildcon has emerged as the lowest bidder for developing and operating the mine. He added that the project is progressing as planned and remains on track to meet the targeted launch timeline.

Capacity Boost at Damanjodi Refinery

To support higher production, Nalco is expanding alumina output at its Damanjodi refinery. The company is installing a fifth stream that will add 1 MTPA to the existing 2.275 MTPA capacity. This upgrade will significantly strengthen Nalco’s aluminium value chain. The Odisha government has already granted a 50-year mining lease covering nearly 698 hectares at Pottangi, ensuring long-term raw material security for the expanded refinery.

Ensuring Uninterrupted Bauxite Supply

Singh also reassured that bauxite supply will remain uninterrupted even if mining operations begin later than planned. “Already we have a separate project where alternate sourcing of bauxite is there,” he said, highlighting the company’s contingency measures.

Strengthening Odisha’s Industrial Growth

Nalco’s mining and refinery expansion will strengthen the company’s leadership in the aluminium sector. As reported by projectstoday.com, the project will also support Odisha’s industrial growth, creating new economic opportunities in the region.

Dr Reddy’s Laboratories Ltd received permission from the Delhi High Court to export its diabetes and anti-obesity drug semaglutide to international markets. The ruling allows the BSE-listed company to manufacture the drug in India, although it cannot sell it domestically for now.

Court Allows Manufacturing

The order enables Dr Reddy’s to continue producing semaglutide, a key ingredient used in several Novo Nordisk medicines such as Ozempic, Wegovy, and Rybelsus, prescribed for type-2 diabetes and weight-loss management. However, domestic sales remain restricted while the patent dispute continues. Novo Nordisk launched Wegovy in India in June, pricing it between ₹17,000 and ₹25,000 per month. The company later approached the court, alleging that Dr Reddy’s and OneSource Specialty Pharma violated its patent by importing the active ingredient and formulating the drug without approval.

Patent Challenge

Novo Nordisk argued that even manufacturing drugs for export-only purposes amounts to patent infringement under the Patents Act, which grants patent holders exclusive rights to make, use, or export a patented invention.

Dr Reddy’s countered this claim on two grounds:

*The Danish drugmaker’s secondary patent lacked novelty and constituted an attempt at evergreening beyond the expiry of the primary patent.

*The company was exporting only to countries where no patent existed, making its actions legally compliant.

*OneSource Specialty Pharma presented similar arguments during the proceedings.

Companies Maintain No-Sales Pledge in India

Both Dr Reddy’s and OneSource had earlier assured the court that they would not sell or market their versions of semaglutide within India until the matter is resolved. The court’s latest order allows them to continue manufacturing and build export inventory without violating their previous commitments.

Positive Outlook for Export Markets and Future Launch

The decision provides a strategic advantage for Dr Reddy’s and OneSource. By permitting uninterrupted production, the ruling enables the companies to:

*Maintain supply chains for international markets

*Build inventory for future commercial rollout

*Prepare for a potential India launch once the patent expires

As reported by outlookbusiness.com, the development strengthens India’s growing position in global pharmaceutical manufacturing and export.

Kochi is gearing up to host the Seventh India International Seaweed Expo & Summit on January 29–30, 2026, strengthening its position as a hub for global seaweed innovation and blue economy development. The event will bring together leading researchers, policymakers, and industry stakeholders to explore fast-growing opportunities in India’s marine algae sector.

Strong Global Participation Expected

The summit will welcome delegates from Brazil, Sri Lanka, the Netherlands, and Sweden, creating a platform for international knowledge exchange and collaboration. The two-day programme will include:

*High-level discussions

*Technology showcases

*Industry exhibitions

*B2B networking sessions

These engagements will strengthen Kochi’s role in the global seaweed ecosystem.

Organisers and Institutional Collaboration

The event is jointly organised by three major institutions:

*ICAR–Central Marine Fisheries Research Institute (CMFRI)

*Indian Chamber of Commerce (ICC)

*CSIR–Central Salt and Marine Chemicals Research Institute (CSMCRI)

Together, their expertise in marine science, aquaculture, biotechnology, and industrial applications adds strong scientific and commercial depth to the expo.

Key Themes

The expo will highlight emerging trends that are shaping the future of the seaweed industry. Key themes include:

*Advanced seaweed farming and cultivation technologies

*Processing, extraction, and value-added product development

*Industrial applications such as nutraceuticals, bioplastics, fertilizers, and biofuels

*Sustainable livelihood opportunities for coastal communities

The summit arrives at a critical time as India expands seaweed farming across its southern and western coastal regions.

Boosting India’s Marine Algae Ecosystem

With rising global demand for seaweed-based nutrition, sustainable packaging, pharmaceuticals, and agricultural solutions, India is pushing to scale domestic production and attract fresh investments. The Kochi summit will play an important role in:

*Advancing research collaborations

*Promoting innovation in value-added products

*Strengthening industry partnerships

*Positioning India as a future leader in the blue economy

As reported by tradefairtimes.com, by bringing together global expertise and local innovation, the expo is set to accelerate India’s growth in the marine algae sector.

In one of the biggest joint ventures between Indian and foreign partners in the fertiliser sector outside India, Rashtriya Chemicals and Fertilizers Ltd (RCF), National Fertilizers Ltd (NFL) and Indian Potash Ltd (IPL) have signed an MoU with Russia’s Uralchem Group to build a 1.8–2 million tons urea plant in Russia.

A Landmark Agreement Signed During Putin’s Visit

The agreement was finalised during the visit of Russian President Vladimir Putin to India. The collaboration marks one of the most significant joint ventures by Indian fertiliser companies to establish a production facility overseas. Currently, the largest such project is the Oman India Fertiliser Company (OMIFCO) in Oman, which produces around 1.65 million tons of urea annually with IFFCO and KRIBHCO as partners. The new Russia project will surpass it in scale once operational.

Uralchem: A Global player in Fertiliser Production

Uralchem JSC—part of the Uralchem Group—is among the world’s largest producers and exporters of nitrogen and compound fertilisers. Its production sites span Kaliningrad, Kirov, Moscow, and Perm regions of Russia. The broader Uralchem Group, which includes Uralchem JSC, Uralkali PJSC and Togliattiazot (Toaz JSC), has a combined production capacity of around 25 million tonnes.
The proposed urea plant will also receive ammonia supply from Toaz JSC, ensuring steady raw material input.

Indian Firms to Finance the Project Initially

Indian companies will fund the project until commercial operations begin. Technical parameters, financial viability and governance structures are currently under detailed examination. Both sides are working on the corporate framework for the joint venture. Uralchem Group CEO Dmitry Konyaev welcomed the partnership. He noted that India is a major global agricultural power and one of the world’s largest consumers of mineral fertilisers. For Uralchem, India remains a strategic long-term market, and the company is committed to expanding collaboration.

Russia’s Growing Role in India’s Fertiliser Supply

Even without this new venture, Russia has rapidly become one of India’s largest fertiliser suppliers. Imports from Russia have surged in recent years. Between 2017–18 and 2023–24, India’s urea imports from Russia grew at a CAGR of 62.31%. Imports of all Russian fertiliser products, including DAP and NPKS, grew at 22.01% CAGR in the same period. Russia’s share in India’s total fertiliser imports jumped from 7.68% in 2017–18 to nearly 27% in 2023–24, making it a major partner in India’s fertiliser landscape.

Beyond Fertilisers

Beyond the urea plant, both nations are exploring opportunities in the marine and aquaculture sectors. This adds to the growing strategic and economic partnership between India and Russia. The upcoming 1.8–2 million tons’ urea plant represents a bold step in ensuring long-term fertiliser availability for India. As reported by business-standard.com, with rising demand, higher import dependence and volatile global markets, this joint venture strengthens India’s position and deepens cooperation with a trusted partner.

As the world battles the twin crises of plastic pollution and climate change, India is preparing for a major shift—replacing petroleum-based plastics with sustainable, bio-based alternatives. Powered by biotechnology and growing policy momentum, bioplastics are emerging as both an environmental necessity and a strategic economic opportunity.

A Surge in Innovation Across India

New breakthroughs are rapidly expanding India’s bioplastics ecosystem. In September 2025, a Vizag-based researcher patented a bioplastic made from ghee residue—a biodegradable, non-toxic material suitable for dry food packaging. At the same time, researchers at IIT Guwahati enabled Indian Railways in the Northeast to switch to bioplastic bags for packaging linen, marking a significant step toward greener operations.

Why Bioplastics Matter Now

“The economic opportunity is undeniable,” says US-based biotechnology and sustainability expert Ravi Venkatachalam. India produces over 3.4 million tons of plastic waste each year, much of which ends up choking waterways, landfills, and oceans. Despite bans on single-use plastics, viable substitutes remain limited. According to experts, bioplastics can fill this gap and create a new pathway for industries to grow responsibly. “Organisations that have a winning product will make it big,” he adds.

Understanding Bioplastics: Two Main Categories

Bioplastics fall into clear, easy-to-understand groups:

*Biodegradable Bioplastics – Materials like PHA and PLA naturally break down under the right conditions.

*Bio-Based but Non-Biodegradable Plastics – Variants such as bio-PET and bio-PE are recyclable but not compostable.

Their use cases continue to expand across food packaging, textiles, agriculture, consumer goods, and medical devices.

Breakthrough Research Driving the Sector Forward

New production methods are unlocking more sustainable and cost-effective alternatives.
Scientists are now:

*Turning food waste into biodegradable plastic using microbes

*Creating algae-based bioplastic factories

*Using low-energy enzyme processes to reduce production costs

Vizag researcher Dr. Rasheeda Khanam, who patented the ghee-residue bioplastic, said,
“We have tested the material for tensile strength and food contact safety. Its usage is now being evaluated for packaging food grains.” Similarly, Prof. Vimal Katiyar, leading the IIT Guwahati project for Indian Railways, highlighted, “Replacing conventional plastic packaging with biodegradable alternatives will significantly reduce plastic waste and protect fragile ecosystems.”

Environmental Advantages That India Cannot Ignore

Unlike petroleum-based plastics, bioplastics offer clear sustainability benefits. They can:

*Reduce greenhouse gas emissions by up to 73%

*Use up to 65% less energy in manufacturing

*Provide options for compostability or recyclability

A Powerful Economic Opportunity for India

Beyond environmental gains, the shift to bioplastics can reshape India’s industrial landscape. Scaling production can:

*Reduce reliance on imported petrochemicals

*Create new green jobs in rural and semi-urban regions

*Strengthen Make in India manufacturing

*Support compliance with EPR (Extended Producer Responsibility) guidelines

The Road Ahead

Bioplastics offer more than an eco-friendly alternative—they can become a cornerstone of India’s sustainable industrial future. As reported by indiacsr.in, as ecological stress intensifies, India has both the biotech capability and the agricultural backbone to drive a global bioplastics revolution. With the right policies and investments, India can turn its plastic crisis into a powerful opportunity for global leadership.

Archroma, a global player in specialty chemicals and sustainable solutions, has supported the Institute of Chemical Technology (ICT), Mumbai, in renovating and developing a state-of-the-art sustainable textile laboratory through its Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) program.

Upgraded Facility to Boost Research and Innovation

The newly upgraded laboratory strengthens the department’s research capabilities. It enables the development of next-generation technologies in textile processing, manufacturing, and effluent treatment. The facility aims to address ongoing industrial challenges while encouraging innovation in sustainable and resource-efficient textile technologies.

Enhancing Student Learning and Skill Development

Through its CSR contribution, Archroma is improving the learning environment for students. It provides modern infrastructure for hands-on training and scientific exploration. These enhancements will help students gain the technical skills and practical expertise needed to meet the evolving requirements of the textile industry.

Strengthening Academic and Technological Capabilities

The initiative significantly boosts the department’s technological capacities, helping it stay aligned with changing educational and industrial demands. This support is especially valuable now. Only a limited number of institutes continue to offer specialized expertise in textile processing.

“Our support to ICT is part of Archroma’s ongoing commitment to education and community development under our CSR program. We aim to contribute to an improved learning environment that enables students and researchers to develop skills relevant to sustainable textile practices. We are pleased to collaborate with ICT in strengthening academic infrastructure that benefits society,” said Anjani Prasad, Regional Vice President, India.

Promoting Community Outreach and Sustainable Practices

As per the press release, beyond academics, the new laboratory is expected to serve as a platform for community outreach. The department plans to organize training programs for small business entrepreneurs, artisans, and local stakeholders. These programs will promote eco-friendly processing practices, knowledge sharing, and value-added techniques that support long-term sustainable development goals.

“The upgrade of our textile laboratory, supported through the funding from Archroma, will significantly enhance our teaching and research ecosystem. This will help students, researchers, and community stakeholders access improved facilities and work on solutions aligned with sustainable development. We appreciate Archroma’s support in strengthening academic capability for the broader societal benefit,” said Ashok Athley, Head of the Department of Fibers & Textile Processing Technology at ICT Mumbai.

Waaree Energies announced that its subsidiary Waaree Solar Americas secured a major order to supply 288 MW of solar modules in the United States. The company stated that the order came from a well-known customer who develops and operates utility-scale solar and energy storage projects across the country.

Delivery Timeline Set for FY 2026–27

The delivery of the 288 MW of solar modules is scheduled for the financial year 2026–27, marking another step in Waaree’s expanding global footprint. Waaree Energies remains India’s largest manufacturer of solar PV modules.

The company currently operates with:

*15.1 GW of installed module manufacturing capacity in India

*2.6 GW of module capacity in the United States, which includes:

*1.6 GW of TOPCon capacity in Texas

*1 GW of HJT capacity in Arizona, recently acquired from Meyer Burger

As of September 30, 2025, Waaree also maintains 5.4 GW of solar cell manufacturing capacity in India.

New Manufacturing Lines Commissioned

In the third quarter of FY 2026, Waaree expanded its production capabilities further. The company commissioned:

*A 2.1 GW module line in Chikli, Gujarat

*A 1.5 GW module line in Samakhiali-Kutch, Gujarat

As reported by etenergyworld.com, these additions reinforce Waaree’s leadership in both domestic and international solar markets.

The Department of Chemicals and Petrochemicals (DCPC), under the ministry of chemicals and fertilizers, issued multiple notifications announcing the withdrawal of six previously issued Quality Control Orders (QCOs). The decision, made in consultation with the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) under Section 16 of the BIS Act, 2016, took effect immediately.

Why the Withdrawals Took Place

DCPC rescinded these QCOs in the public interest after reviewing industry feedback and regulatory requirements. Although the orders are now withdrawn, any compliance actions completed or initiated before the withdrawal remain valid and unaffected.

What This Means for Industry

With these QCOs revoked, the specified chemicals and polymers are no longer subject to mandatory BIS certification. As a result, manufacturers, importers, and traders can now operate without the compliance obligations imposed earlier.

Continued Validity of Past Compliance

Any certification steps already taken under the previous orders will continue to hold good and do not require reversal. Requirements for Chemicals Still Under Active QCOs.

While six QCOs have been withdrawn, several others remain fully active. For these chemicals:

*Manufacturers must obtain a BIS license once the QCOs are implemented.

*Products must carry the BIS Standard Mark before being sold in the Indian market.

*Chemicals produced exclusively for export continue to remain exempt from QCO requirements.

Legal Obligations and Penalties

As reported by cirs-group.com, all manufacturers dealing with chemicals under active QCOs must follow the BIS regulations without exception. Violations of these requirements can attract legal penalties under the BIS Act, 2016.

India currently has over 450 crore litres of unused ethanol production capacity, slowing the growth of the biofuel sector, according to the Indian Sugar and Bio-Energy Manufacturers Association (ISMA). The association has called on the government to approve ethanol exports to better utilize this surplus.

Massive Production Capacity Remains Idle

ISMA Director General Deepak Ballani highlighted that India has already built the necessary infrastructure to produce ethanol but much of it is lying idle. “India can produce up to 1,900 crore litres of ethanol annually—900 crore litres from sugar-based feedstock and 1,000 crore litres from grains such as rice and maize,” Ballani explained. However, the current allocation of only 289 crore litres of ethanol to the sugar sector for ESY 2025–26 — just 27.5% of total allocations — has created a significant imbalance. As a result, a large portion of distillery capacity remains underutilized.

Call for Export Approval and Higher Blending

ISMA urges the government to permit the export of surplus ethanol. Ballani also recommended increasing the level of ethanol blending in petrol, which would further strengthen the sector and help meet domestic energy needs.

Economic and Environmental Benefits

Ethanol blending has already provided substantial benefits to the country:

*Saved ₹1.55 lakh crore in foreign exchange

*Boosted farmers’ income by around ₹1.36 lakh crore

*Reduced CO₂ emissions by nearly 790 lakh metric tonnes, equivalent to taking 175 lakh vehicles off the road

As reported by chinimandi.com, Ballani emphasized that leveraging unused capacity through exports and higher blending could significantly enhance India’s energy security, support farmers, and contribute to environmental goals.