MiniMines Cleantech Solutions announced a ₹350-crore investment to set up a giga critical minerals refining complex in Bengaluru, Karnataka. The project marks a significant step toward strengthening India’s domestic supply chain for clean energy and advanced manufacturing sectors.

First Phase to Refine Key Minerals

In its first phase, the complex will refine 15,000 MTPA of essential minerals, including:

*Lithium

*Nickel

*Cobalt

*Copper

*Graphite

*Rare earth elements

These materials are critical for sectors such as electric vehicles (EVs), renewable energy, aerospace, defence, and electronics. By refining these minerals locally, India aims to reduce import dependence and boost self-reliance in strategic raw materials.

Driving Economic and Employment Impact

The complex is expected to generate approximately ₹1,300 crore in annual turnover. The investment aligns with India’s broader vision of developing a robust critical minerals ecosystem to support the country’s clean energy transition and advanced manufacturing ambitions.

Leadership Highlights Strategic Importance

Anupam Kumar, Co-Founder and CEO of MiniMines, stated, “This MoU marks a major step in India’s journey toward self-reliance in critical minerals. By establishing this refining complex, we are laying the foundation for a sustainable and resilient supply chain for India’s clean energy and high-tech industries.”

Strengthening India’s Strategic Supply Chain

The Bengaluru complex will not only enhance domestic refining capacity but also position India as a global player in critical minerals processing. As reported by projectstoday.com, by leveraging advanced technology and strategic investments, MiniMines aims to support India’s clean energy goals while driving economic growth and technological advancement.

India is set to significantly expand its refining capacity, increasing it from 258.1 million ton per annum (MTPA) to 309.5 MTPA by 2030. The expansion supports the country’s fast-growing energy needs and strengthens its position as a leading global refining hub.

Petrochemical Capacity Strengthens with Higher PII

Alongside refining growth, the Petrochemical Intensity Index (PII) of public sector refineries will rise from 4.1 to 9.3 through ongoing and upcoming petrochemical projects. The sharp increase underscores India’s push to produce more value-added petrochemicals domestically and reduce import dependence.

Accelerating the Shift to Sustainable Fuels

To advance its clean-energy goals, the government has rolled out numerous initiatives promoting biofuels, green hydrogen, and LNG. Key measures include:

*20% ethanol blending under the Ethanol Blending Programme

*Promotion of Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) through the PM JI-VAN Yojana

*Expansion of Compressed Biogas (CBG) production via the SATAT scheme

These efforts aim to reduce emissions while supporting farmers, rural industries, and domestic green-fuel producers.

Green Hydrogen Mission to Drive Low-Carbon Growth

Under the National Green Hydrogen Mission, India aims to produce 5 MTPA (million tonnes per annum) of green hydrogen by 2030. This cleaner fuel will play a critical role in decarbonising hard-to-abate sectors such as transportation, cement, steel, and heavy industry.

Supporting India’s Low-Carbon Transition

By expanding refining capacity and simultaneously pushing for green fuels, India is adopting a balanced, future-ready energy strategy. As reported by projectstoday.com, the initiatives are central to the country’s efforts to cut emissions, strengthen energy security, and move steadily toward a low-carbon economy aligned with global climate goals.

The Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE) proposed raising the minimum efficiency requirements for solar cells to qualify for the Approved List of Modules and Manufacturers (ALMM). ALMM approval is mandatory for any solar modules or cells sold within India.

Align with Technological Advancements

MNRE stated that increasing efficiency thresholds—measuring how effectively sunlight converts into electrical energy—will ensure the ALMM reflects the latest advancements in solar PV technology. The ministry added that the higher benchmark will also serve as a barrier to low-efficiency and obsolete technologies, keeping them out of the approved list.

Proposed Efficiency Increase from 2027

In its Draft for Stakeholder Consultation, MNRE has recommended:

*A 1 percentage-point increase in efficiency across categories starting January 1, 2027

*An additional 0.5 percentage-point increase effective January 1, 2028

These revised thresholds apply across four categories:

*Utility and grid-scale

*Rooftop solar and pumping

*Off-grid systems with domestic requirement

*Other applications

Each category includes specific efficiency benchmarks for crystalline silicon and thin-film (CdTe) technologies.

Utility-Scale Solar Efficiency

For the utility-scale category:

Current requirement:

*20% (crystalline silicon)

*19% (cadmium telluride)

Proposed from 2027:

*21% (crystalline silicon)

*19.5% (cadmium telluride)

Existing Modules May Be Delisted

Importantly, MNRE has stated that once the new efficiency norms take effect, all modules currently listed in ALMM—as well as those added in the coming months—will be removed unless they meet the updated thresholds. This move aims to push manufacturers toward higher-performance technologies.

Industry Advancements Support the Move

The solar industry has already achieved significant improvements in cell efficiency:

*Mono-PERC and TOPCon technologies now deliver up to 24% efficiency at the cell level.

*HJT technology promises even higher performance.

*In research labs, experimental cells have surpassed 30% efficiency.

As reported by thehindubusinessline.com, with such advancements, MNRE’s proposed revisions aim to ensure India’s ALMM-approved modules keep pace with global technology standards and support the country’s fast-growing renewable energy sector.

Neogen Ionics Limited, a wholly owned subsidiary of Neogen Chemicals Limited, finalized its joint venture agreement with Morita Investment Limited of Japan, a subsidiary of Morita Chemicals Industries Co. Ltd. This follows the initial agreement signed on August 31, 2025. The partnership combines Neogen’s manufacturing strength with Morita’s advanced technology. It aims to capitalize on the rapidly expanding Lithium-Ion Battery (LiB) market.

Joint Venture Structure and Investment Plan

Both partners will invest in the newly formed entity, Neogen Morita New Materials Limited (NML). NIL will hold an 80% majority stake, while MIL will hold 20%, contributing $20 million to the venture. NML will focus on producing, developing, and selling solid LiPF6 salt, a critical component for Lithium-Ion battery electrolytes. The company will also offer other related materials and services essential for the energy storage ecosystem.

Strengthening Global Supply Chain Diversification

This Indo-Japan JV stands out as one of the first collaborations in India’s LiB materials sector. It addresses the global push to diversify supply chains away from China and positions the JV as the only non-FEOC compliant electrolyte salt plant in India. The JV integrates Japan’s proven technology with India’s manufacturing ecosystem. It offers customers unmatched cost efficiency, faster supply, and high reliability.

Boosting India’s Aatmanirbhar Bharat Mission

The JV strongly supports the Aatmanirbhar Bharat initiative by increasing domestic value addition and enabling major import substitution in battery materials. NIL will gain from the Morita Group’s 30 years of validated LiPF6 technology, improving the reliability and efficiency of its current electrolyte salt production. The collaboration will also accelerate NIL’s access to international markets and global customer approvals.

Leadership Perspective on the Strategic Milestone

Dr. Harin Kanani, Managing Director, Neogen Chemicals Limited, said, “This landmark JV represents a pivotal moment for Neogen Chemicals and our role in accelerating India’s energy transition. By integrating our robust manufacturing capabilities with the Morita Group’s globally validated LiPF6 technology, a legacy spanning nearly three decades, we are strategically positioned to capitalize on the rapid growth in the Lithium-Ion Battery market. Our majority stake in NML underscores our commitment to establishing a dominant position within the electrolyte salt sector. This collaboration is a game-changer, promising enhanced efficiency, significant cost competitiveness, and accelerated access to international markets.”

A Strategic Leap for India’s Battery Ecosystem

Alchempro.com reports that Neogen and Morita will strengthen India’s position in the global battery materials value chain. Their combined expertise will drive innovation, cut import dependency, and accelerate the country’s clean energy transition.

In a major step toward reshaping the future of food and farming, global food leader Kellanova has partnered with Varaha, Asia’s leading carbon removal project developer, to roll out a large-scale, five-year insetting regenerative corn program in Maharashtra. The initiative will bring 5,000 smallholder farmers and 12,500 acres of corn farmland under sustainable practices over the next five years.

Strengthening India’s Role in Global Sustainability

This project positions India as a key geography in Kellanova’s global sustainability agenda. It reinforces the company’s commitment to climate action and regenerative sourcing from smallholder farmers. By helping corn growers transition to practices that improve soil health, reduce fertilizer use, and improve yields, the program aims to sequester and reduce nearly 100,000 tons of CO₂e emissions. This impact directly supports Kellanova’s goal of lowering its supply chain carbon footprint.

Insetting Approach for Real Climate Impact

A standout feature of the program is its insetting approach. Instead of offsetting emissions elsewhere, the project generates climate benefits within Kellanova’s own supply chains. The initiative aligns with the Greenhouse Gas Protocol and major global carbon standards. To ensure transparency, Varaha will use its scientifically robust digital MRV systems to monitor every acre. This technology brings accuracy, credibility, and accountability to the program’s climate outcomes.

Boosting Farmer Livelihoods Through Regenerative Practices

Beyond climate action, the program focuses on improving farmer livelihoods. By encouraging practices such as:

*In-situ residue management

*Raised-bed planting

*Cover cropping

*Improved nitrogen-use efficiency

Farmers are expected to experience lower fertilizer costs, healthier soils, and more resilient harvests. The program also takes a proactive approach to food safety. Through partnerships with scientific organizations and improved farm management, Varaha and Kellanova aim to address aflatoxin contamination, a major challenge in corn production.

Industry Leaders Highlight Shared Vision

“We believe that a key to running a good business is doing good for our communities, planet and people. Kellanova is proud to continue the Better Days Promise™ social and environmental purpose strategy. Our program with Varaha proves that climate action and farmer prosperity can go hand in hand,” said Shaughan Kennedy, Vice President, AMEA Supply Chain at Kellanova. “Consumers today expect the food they eat to be responsibly sourced, and this program sets a model that others in the industry can follow.”

For Varaha, the initiative highlights India’s leadership in regenerative agriculture. “With this project, we’re combining strong science, cutting-edge digital tools, and deep farmer engagement to deliver measurable climate and livelihood impact,” said Madhur Jain, Co-founder and CEO, Varaha.

Scalable Regenerative Agriculture

As per the press release, the program is built on a multi-stakeholder model that brings together farmers, Farmer Producer Organizations, local NGOs, and scientific partners. Kellanova is placing regenerative corn at the core of its supply chain, advancing its Scope 3 emissions goals. The company is signaling to the global food industry that regenerative agriculture at scale is possible, replicable, and urgently needed.

Himadri Speciality Chemical Ltd (HSCL), a global player in speciality chemicals and advanced carbon materials, has successfully executed its first-ever liquid coal tar pitch export to the Middle East from its terminal at the New Mangalore Port. The milestone highlights Himadri’s operational capabilities and underscores India’s growing stature in the global carbon materials trade.

High-Volume Shipment Demonstrates Operational Excellence

The consignment, totalling 3,600 tons of liquid coal tar pitch, was shipped from Himadri’s New Mangalore terminal. Alongside its established Haldia terminal on India’s eastern coast, this new western export corridor enhances the company’s ability to meet critical industrial demand across key global regions, including the Middle East and the Americas.

Himadri leveraged integrated logistics, robust port infrastructure, and meticulous planning to ensure seamless delivery. The company maintained stringent quality standards, demonstrating its capability to handle high-volume international shipments reliably.

Strategic Importance of Liquid Coal Tar Pitch

Liquid coal tar pitch serves as a critical raw material for aluminium smelting, graphite electrode manufacturing, and other high-temperature industrial applications. These industries demand performance consistency, structural purity, and thermal stability. Himadri consistently delivers these qualities through advanced manufacturing processes and technical expertise.

Leadership Perspective

Anurag Choudhary, Chairman and Managing Director and CEO of Himadri Speciality Chemical Ltd, said, “This first-ever coal tar pitch shipment from New Mangalore Port to the Middle East is a defining milestone for Himadri. It reflects our capability to deliver large-scale, high-quality exports while reaffirming our commitment to reliability, consistency, and operational excellence. This achievement demonstrates the confidence global markets have in our products and capabilities, as we continue to expand our international footprint and reinforce India’s position as a trusted supplier of advanced carbon materials.”

Strategic Growth and Global Expansion

Building on this success, Himadri has outlined an ambitious expansion strategy aimed at becoming a leading player in the global coal tar pitch market. The company plans to focus on the Middle East and the Americas. These regions have growing demand for high-performance carbon materials, driven by aluminium production, infrastructure development, and energy-intensive industries.

Himadri will strengthen its global presence through enhanced capacity planning, diversified port utilisation, and targeted market outreach. The company leverages its advanced integrated manufacturing capabilities, technical know-how, and sustainable production practices. It aims to establish itself as a long-term, reliable supplier in key international markets.

Commitment to Sustainability and Technology-Led Growth

The milestone reinforces Himadri’s position as a preferred global supplier of advanced carbon materials. The company continues to invest in quality systems, infrastructure optimisation, and supply-chain resilience to ensure consistent delivery, scalability, and sustainability. As per the press release, Himadri remains committed to technology-led growth, operational excellence, and world-class manufacturing standards. This commitment drives India’s leadership in the global carbon materials industry.

INOX Air Products (INOXAP) has signed a long-term agreement with ReNew Photovoltaics to supply ultra-high purity (UHP) nitrogen to its upcoming TOPCON solar cell manufacturing facility in Dholera, Ahmedabad. The partnership marks a critical step in strengthening India’s solar manufacturing capabilities and advancing the country’s clean energy ambitions.

State-of-the-Art Infrastructure for Reliable Supply

As part of the engagement, INOXAP will invest in building a state-of-the-art Air Separation Unit (ASU) at Dholera. This dedicated facility will ensure a reliable and uninterrupted supply of UHP nitrogen, tailored to meet the stringent purity and consistency requirements essential for high-efficiency solar cell production. INOXAP expects the ASU to be fully operational by the end of next year. This milestone demonstrates its commitment to advancing India’s clean energy transition and manufacturing ecosystem.

Commitment to Operational Excellence

Diganta Sarma, Head of Business Development and Strategy at INOXAP, said, “We are proud to deepen our partnership with ReNew through the establishment of dedicated infrastructure for the supply of high-purity nitrogen to their advanced solar cell facility.” He added that the investment reflects INOXAP’s confidence in India’s potential to emerge as a global hub for sustainable and advanced manufacturing.

Strengthening India’s Solar Manufacturing Footprint

ReNew’s Dholera facility represents a crucial milestone in India’s journey to become a global centre for solar PV cell production using the latest TOPCON technology. INOXAP’s proven expertise in reliable gas solutions will play a pivotal role at the plant. It will help ensure operational excellence, efficiency, and sustainability.

Tailored Gas Solutions for High-Efficiency Cells

The new ASU will deliver UHP nitrogen with exceptional reliability, meeting the exacting quality standards required for advanced solar cell manufacturing. INOXAP has already been supplying critical electronic gases to ReNew’s existing PERC cell manufacturing plant. These include Nitrous Oxide, Ammonia, and Silane. Since 2024, this supply has been strengthened through a robust logistics system featuring owned ISO containers and tube trailers.

Comprehensive Gas Management for Growth

Beyond supply, INOXAP provides a comprehensive gas management solution for the distribution and onsite handling of electronic specialty gases. As reported by thehindubusinessline.com, INOX Air Products ensures that ReNew meets its operational requirements. The company maintains the highest levels of quality, reliability, and safety. This support underpins both current operations and future solar manufacturing expansion.

Oil India launched a major offshore drilling campaign in the Kerala-Konkan Basin, marking a significant push to expand India’s domestic energy exploration. The project reflects the country’s broader ambition to strengthen energy security and reduce dependence on imports.

First Deepwater Well Spudded

Union petroleum minister Hardeep Puri announced the spudding of the first well, calling it a key milestone in India’s energy strategy shaped by Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision. Engineers plan to drill the 6,000-metre deepwater well about 20 nautical miles offshore, making it one of the deepest in Indian waters.

To support this effort, more than 1,028 sq. km of 3D seismic surveys have already been completed. According to the minister, this scientific groundwork will help Oil India target promising Cretaceous plays and accelerate India’s search for new energy frontiers.

Why the Project Matters

India currently imports nearly 80% of its crude oil and about 50% of its natural gas. Because of this, the government has intensified exploration efforts across offshore regions, including the Andaman Sea. The Kerala-Konkan drilling campaign will play a crucial role in identifying new reserves and boosting domestic production.

Strategic Partnerships Strengthen Deepwater Push

Earlier this month, Oil India and TotalEnergies signed a Technology Service Agreement. The deal will support deep and ultra-deep-water exploration in India’s sedimentary basins. This collaboration aims to unlock vast untapped offshore potential by combining advanced technologies with local expertise.

Moving India Closer to Energy Self-Reliance

With the launch of this deepwater drilling campaign, India is taking another decisive step toward building a more secure, self-reliant energy future. As reported by projectstoday.com, the

Strong technical preparation and global partnerships will enable the Kerala-Konkan Basin project to play a key role in shaping India’s long-term energy landscape.

The government signalled that it is considering opening the highly regulated nuclear sector to private players. Such a move would boost India’s energy security, expand power generation, and support long-term electricity needs. The Adani Group has already expressed clear interest in entering the nuclear energy space.

How Nuclear Projects can Move Ahead Under the PPP Model

Adani Group said it stands ready to participate if the government adopts a public–private partnership (PPP) model for nuclear energy. It also highlighted that liability laws—specifically, who bears responsibility in a nuclear accident—pose the biggest challenge in the sector.

If the rules are clarified, private companies will find it much easier to enter the nuclear power segment. Adani also pointed out that if foreign firms can build reactors in India, domestic companies have the capability to do so as well.

Adani Group’s Ambitious Investment Plans

Alongside its interest in nuclear power, the Adani Group has updated its massive capital expenditure programme. The company is working on an investment plan worth ₹1.57 lakh crore and is preparing to raise nearly ₹90,000 crore in loans to support it.

CFO Jukhshinder Singh said, Nearly ₹80,000 crore has already been invested. Around ₹36,000 crore will come from internal accruals. Approximately ₹44,000 crore will be raised through equity and debt. With these steps, the company has created a clear roadmap to achieve its full capex target.”

Why This Shift Matters for India’s Nuclear Future

Opening the nuclear sector to private companies could mark a major transformation in India’s energy strategy. Private investment would not only increase power generation but also help India move closer to technological self-reliance in nuclear capabilities.

As reported by ndtvprofit.com, with the involvement of large domestic groups like Adani, nuclear energy can become a stronger contributor to India’s base-load electricity supply in the coming years. This shift could significantly support the country’s growing demand for clean, reliable, and long-term power.

Tanfac Industries Ltd. has signed a significant supply contract worth ₹336 crore with Krishna Organics, Vadodara, as disclosed in its exchange filing dated November 28. The agreement covers the long-term supply of High Purity Diluted Hydrofluoric Acid, a critical chemical used in several industrial applications.

Long-Term Supply Agreement Through FY 2028–29

According to the filing, the contract will run for 3.5 years, extending up to FY 2028–29. Tanfac confirmed that the order is entirely domestic and based on mutually agreed technical specifications. As reported by businessupturn.com, the arrangement reinforces the company’s position as a reliable supplier in India’s specialty chemicals segment.