Shilpa CDMO, a dedicated contract development and manufacturing organisation (CDMO) focused on complex small molecules, will officially launch its new brand at CPHI Milan 2026. The event will take place from 6–8 October at Fiera Milano. The new business, which operates separately from its parent company Shilpa Medicare, will provide specialist development and commercial manufacturing services to biotechnology and pharmaceutical companies working with complex small molecules. The launch builds on Shilpa’s more than 30 years of experience in oncology and pharmaceutical development.

Shilpa CDMO Expands Focus on Complex Molecules

According to Keshav Bhutada, Chief Executive Officer, Shilpa CDMO, the organisation has established a strong reputation among its existing partners for handling challenging molecules. “We have long been known among our existing partners as incredibly capable, particularly for challenging molecules such as HPAPIs and peptides, and more recently ADC payloads and linkers, PROTACs and oligonucleotides,” Bhutada mentioned.  Bhutada explained that the growing opportunities within the CDMO business prompted Shilpa to establish a more distinct identity in the global market. The company will therefore take its CDMO division to market as Shilpa CDMO, with a clear focus on the development and manufacture of novel and complex molecules. The new brand aims to demonstrate the breadth of its contract development and manufacturing capabilities to a wider range of biotechnology and pharmaceutical innovators.

Growing Demand for Complex-Molecule CDMO Services

The launch comes at a time when biotechnology companies in the US and Europe are increasingly looking to diversify their drug development and manufacturing strategies beyond China. Although the global CDMO market includes hundreds of service providers, specialised expertise and infrastructure for genuinely complex molecules remain concentrated among a smaller group of organisations. Furthermore, many providers have limited near-term capacity, maintain a strong China-centric manufacturing footprint or prioritise their largest customers. As a result, pharmaceutical and biotechnology companies are increasingly seeking CDMO partners that combine technical expertise, available manufacturing capacity and experience with complex drug programmes. Yagnesh Solanki, Director – CDMO at Shilpa CDMO, highlighted the importance of selecting the right manufacturing partner for complex drug programmes. He added that the right CDMO can significantly influence the success and speed of a next-generation drug programme. By choosing a partner with the necessary technical capabilities and infrastructure, companies can potentially avoid redevelopment, delays and additional costs.

Large-Scale Small-Molecule Development Platform

To address this growing demand, Shilpa CDMO continues to invest in its small-molecule development and manufacturing infrastructure. The platform currently includes 230 kL of reactor capacity, three R&D centres, more than 400 scientists and two dedicated API manufacturing sites. As per the press release, in addition to its commercial manufacturing infrastructure, Shilpa CDMO has dedicated R&D teams specialising in HPAPIs and oncology, peptides, ADC payloads and linkers, oligonucleotides and PROTACs.

Its integrated capabilities cover the complete development journey, from discovery and route scouting to process development, analytical development, commercial drug-substance manufacturing and finished-dose manufacturing. This integrated model enables Shilpa CDMO to support biotechnology and pharmaceutical companies throughout different stages of complex-molecule development.

Integrated Capabilities for ADC and Conjugate Programmes

Shilpa CDMO also offers a closely integrated solution for antibody-drug conjugate (ADC) and conjugate programmes. Its payload and linker chemistry operations are located within 200 miles of sister company Shilpa Biologicals, which provides antibody production, conjugation and fill-finish services. Consequently, the proximity between the two organisations can reduce the need for intercontinental shipment of intermediates. It can also help shorten development timelines while simplifying the supply chain for ADC and conjugate programmes.

Commercial-Scale Peptide Manufacturing

At CPHI Milan, Shilpa CDMO will also announce details of its new commercial-scale peptide manufacturing capabilities. The expansion will further strengthen the company’s ability to support complex peptide programmes from early development through to commercial supply. With its expanded capabilities across complex small molecules, peptides, HPAPIs, ADC payloads and linkers, PROTACs and oligonucleotides, Shilpa CDMO is positioning itself as a specialist partner for biotechnology and pharmaceutical companies developing the next generation of complex medicines.

Industrial Chemicals Limited expanded its caustic soda storage capacity in the UK with a new storage facility in Birkenhead. The investment strengthens the company’s infrastructure and supports the continued growth of its caustic soda business. The storage tank adds capacity at the Birkenhead site and complements ICL’s existing UK infrastructure. As a result, the company can strengthen its storage, distribution and logistics capabilities across its network.

Facility Strengthens Caustic Soda Distribution

The Birkenhead facility has been developed to support the efficient handling and storage of bulk caustic soda. In addition, the expanded infrastructure gives ICL greater flexibility to manage inventory, logistics and product distribution from a strategically located site. This will help the company respond more effectively to customer requirements across the UK. The investment also forms part of ICL’s broader efforts to develop its caustic soda operations and strengthen its presence in the UK industrial chemicals market.

ICL Highlights Increased Operational Flexibility

Ian Harry, Commercial Manager at Industrial Chemicals Limited, said the Birkenhead investment represents an important addition to the company’s UK caustic soda infrastructure. “The investment in Birkenhead is an exciting development for ICL and represents a significant addition to our UK caustic soda infrastructure. Increasing our storage capacity gives us greater operational flexibility and allows us to continue developing our business in the UK.”

Caustic Soda Supports Multiple Industries

Caustic soda, also known as sodium hydroxide, is one of the most widely used industrial chemicals. It serves as an essential raw material across a broad range of industries. Key applications include water and wastewater treatment, chemical manufacturing, food processing, pharmaceutical production and metal processing and production. Because of its wide industrial use, reliable storage and distribution infrastructure remains important for maintaining consistent supply to customers.

Investment Supports ICL’s UK Growth

The new Birkenhead facility marks another milestone in the development of ICL’s UK caustic soda operations. By adding storage capacity to its existing network, ICL is strengthening the infrastructure needed to support inventory management, logistics and distribution. Furthermore, the investment provides a foundation for the company to expand its caustic soda business in the UK. As reported by alchempro.com, with its latest infrastructure investment, ICL continues to enhance its position in the UK industrial chemicals market while building additional capacity to support future business growth.

Avantium N.V., a developer of renewable and circular polymer materials, entered into a strategic partnership with Sojitz Pla-Net Corporation to accelerate the adoption of plant-based furandicarboxylic acid (FDCA) and polyethylene furanoate (PEF) in Japan. The companies will promote Avantium’s PEF, marketed under the releaf® brand, across the Japanese market. The partnership combines Avantium’s polymer technology with Sojitz Pla-Net’s commercial network and expertise in plastics, packaging materials and sustainable solutions. As one of Japan’s leading plastics trading companies and a member of the Sojitz Group, Sojitz Pla-Net will support market development and customer engagement for releaf® across Japan. In addition, the partners will explore opportunities to jointly develop business with customers and industry partners in international markets.

FDCA and PEF Offer Plant-Based Alternative to Conventional Plastics

FDCA (furandicarboxylic acid) is a plant-based chemical building block used to produce PEF (polyethylene furanoate), Avantium’s flagship polymer marketed as releaf®. PEF is plant-based and recyclable, while also offering enhanced barrier properties compared with conventional plastics. Consequently, the material has potential applications across packaging, textiles, consumer goods and other high-performance markets. These properties make PEF an attractive option for companies seeking materials that combine performance with renewable and circular feedstocks.

Partnership Targets Japan’s Sustainable Materials Market

Japan represents an important market for sustainable materials, as demand continues to grow for renewable and circular packaging solutions. Through the partnership, Avantium and Sojitz Pla-Net will work to increase awareness of releaf® among Japanese brand owners, converters, packaging manufacturers and other value-chain partners. Furthermore, Sojitz Pla-Net’s established customer relationships and market expertise will help Avantium identify new commercial opportunities for FDCA and PEF in Japan.

Avantium Eyes Broader Opportunities Through Sojitz Network

Yuzhong Chen, Business Development Manager Asia at Avantium, said Japan has remained an important market for the company because of its strong interest in sustainable, high-performance materials. Chen highlighted Sojitz Pla-Net’s market knowledge, customer relationships and sustainability focus as key strengths that can help expand opportunities for FDCA and PEF. While the initial focus will remain on Japan, the companies also plan to explore international opportunities through the broader Sojitz network. As reported by alchempro.com, the partnership marks another step in Avantium’s efforts to commercialise renewable and circular polymer materials and accelerate the adoption of plant-based PEF as an alternative to conventional plastics.

For years, the pharmaceutical industry has invested significantly in automation, digitalisation and smart manufacturing technologies. However, despite these advances, pharmaceutical manufacturers continue to face persistent challenges, including production delays, technology transfer gaps, disconnected functions, rising operating costs, workforce shortages and implementation failures. At the same time, organisations face growing pressure to increase productivity, improve quality and deliver more with fewer resources. The 8th Annual Pharma Manufacturing & Automation Convention (PM&AC) 2026 to be held on October 27^th and 28^th at Novotel Hyderabad Airport is designed to address these challenges from a business and leadership perspective. Instead of simply asking, “What technology should we adopt next?”, PM&AC 2026 focuses on a more strategic question: “How can better business decisions create sustainable manufacturing excellence?”

Moving Beyond Automation

Under the theme “Beyond Automation: Building Faster, Smarter & More Adaptive Pharma Enterprises,” PM&AC 2026 goes beyond discussions about machines, software and individual technologies. Instead, the convention examines the leadership, decision-making, collaboration and enterprise-wide strategies required to achieve meaningful and sustainable transformation. Across a focused two-day programme, delegates will explore how smarter production planning, effective technology transfer, practical AI adoption, workforce development and cross-functional collaboration can work together to improve manufacturing performance and business outcomes.

Practical Insights for Real Manufacturing Challenges

The programme has been developed through extensive discussions with senior pharmaceutical leaders across manufacturing, quality and operational excellence. As a result, PM&AC 2026 combines strategic perspectives with practical learning.

The two-day programme will feature:

Visionary keynote presentations

Real-world industry case studies

Interactive workshops

Boardroom simulations

Expert panel discussions

Technology and solution showcases

Consequently, delegates will gain practical insights and actionable ideas that they can apply within their own organisations.

PM&AC Boardroom War Room

One of the key highlights of PM&AC 2026 will be the PM&AC Boardroom War Room—an immersive business simulation designed to challenge participants with real-world manufacturing investment decisions. Participants will evaluate scenarios involving predictive maintenance, artificial intelligence, digital batch records and automation projects from the perspectives of CEOs, CFOs and plant leaders. The interactive experience will help participants strengthen strategic decision-making, financial thinking and technology evaluation, while demonstrating how organisations can connect technology investments with measurable business value.

Pharma Manufacturing Excellence Awards 2026

PM&AC 2026 will take place alongside the Pharma Manufacturing & Automation Excellence Awards (PM&AE Awards) 2026, creating a comprehensive platform for knowledge exchange and industry recognition. The convention will bring together pharmaceutical manufacturing leaders, quality professionals, technology experts, solution providers and business decision-makers at Hotel Novotel Hyderabad Convention Centre (HICC), Hyderabad. While PM&AC 2026 focuses on learning, collaboration and future-ready manufacturing strategies, the PM&AE Awards will recognise organisations and individuals who demonstrate outstanding excellence, innovation and leadership in pharmaceutical manufacturing and automation. Together, the convention and awards will create an integrated platform for learning, benchmarking, networking and celebrating manufacturing excellence.

Why Attend PM&AC 2026?

Gain Strategic Insights

Discover how leading pharmaceutical companies are moving beyond automation to strengthen decision-making, enterprise agility and manufacturing performance.

Experience Practical Learning

Engage with case studies, workshops, boardroom simulations and interactive discussions that address real-world pharmaceutical manufacturing challenges, rather than focusing solely on theoretical concepts.

Explore Future-Ready Technologies

Understand practical applications of AI, digital manufacturing, production planning, automation and workforce transformation through industry case studies and technology showcases.

Network with Industry Leaders

Connect with manufacturing heads, quality leaders, digital transformation experts, technology partners and senior decision-makers from across the pharmaceutical ecosystem.

Who Should Attend?

PM&AC 2026 is designed for professionals and decision-makers involved in pharmaceutical manufacturing, technology, operations and business transformation, including:

Manufacturing, Production and Plant Heads

Digital Transformation, Automation, IT and OT Leaders

Operations, Engineering and Maintenance Leaders

Continuous Improvement, Operational Excellence and Lean Practitioners

Quality Assurance, Quality Control and Technology Transfer Professionals

Supply Chain, Planning and Warehouse Professionals

Shaping the Future of Pharmaceutical Manufacturing

As pharmaceutical manufacturing becomes increasingly connected, intelligent and data-driven, technology alone will not determine future success. Better decisions, stronger collaboration, skilled workforces and adaptive operating models will be equally important. PM&AC 2026 provides a platform for industry leaders to explore these priorities, exchange practical experiences and identify strategies that can deliver faster, smarter and more adaptive pharmaceutical enterprises.

JK DryChem Industries LLC, a subsidiary of JK Cement, commissioned a 5,000 square metre manufacturing facility in the Ras Al Khaimah Economic Zone (RAKEZ), strengthening its presence in the UAE and expanding its reach across regional construction markets. The facility will manufacture advanced construction chemicals and additives, enabling JK DryChem to serve customers more efficiently across key markets.

Production of Advanced Construction Chemicals

The facility will manufacture a broad portfolio of construction chemical products, including liquid admixtures, prepared additives, dry-mix materials and coatings. These solutions are designed to improve construction efficiency, enhance material performance and support more sustainable building practices. As construction activity continues to expand across the UAE and the wider region, the new facility will enable JK DryChem to provide locally manufactured solutions while improving supply reliability and customer responsiveness.

Strengthening Regional Supply Chains

Ramy Jallad, CEO, RAKEZ Group, said the facility represents an important addition to Ras Al Khaimah’s industrial ecosystem. He highlighted that investments of this nature strengthen the emirate’s manufacturing base while creating new production capabilities and supporting regional supply chains. He also noted that RAKEZ supported JK Cement throughout the development process and expects the company’s operations to expand from Ras Al Khaimah into regional and international markets.

Expanding JK Cement’s Construction Chemicals Business

Dr. Raghavpat Singhania, Managing Director, JK Cement Group, said the facility marks a significant step in strengthening the company’s UAE presence and expanding its construction chemicals business in international markets. By establishing local manufacturing, JK DryChem can move closer to customers, improve supply capabilities and create a strong platform for future growth. Furthermore, the investment positions the company to respond more effectively to growing demand for construction chemical solutions across international markets.

UAE and GCC Markets to Lead Initial Expansion

The new facility will serve customers across the UAE and Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) markets. Subsequently, JK DryChem plans to expand exports to Africa and other international markets. Located in RAKEZ’s Al Ghail Industrial Zone, the plant benefits from established industrial and logistics infrastructure. This strategic location will facilitate the movement of raw materials and finished products while supporting efficient regional distribution.

Building a Stronger International Footprint

With the new manufacturing facility, JK DryChem is strengthening its production capabilities and creating a scalable platform for international expansion. As reported by manufacturingtodayindia.com, the investment also supports the company’s strategy of combining local manufacturing, stronger supply chains and customer-focused construction chemical solutions to drive long-term growth.

Deep Industries Limited bagged a significant contract from Oil and Natural Gas Corporation Limited (ONGC) for providing gas compression services at Balol GGS-1 in the Mehsana Asset. The estimated value of the contract is ₹88.15 crore, strengthening Deep Industries’ presence in India’s oil and gas services market.

Contract Covers Gas Compression Services

Deep Industries will provide gas compression services at the Balol GGS-1 facility. The contract will remain valid for three years, providing the company with a sustained business engagement with one of India’s leading state-owned oil and gas companies. Gas compression plays a critical role in oil and gas production and processing by maintaining the required pressure for efficient gas transportation and handling. Therefore, the contract highlights the importance of reliable compression services across upstream energy operations.

Strengthening Deep Industries’ Energy Sector Presence

The ONGC order further expands Deep Industries’ portfolio of domestic oil and gas projects. Moreover, the three-year engagement provides the company with an opportunity to strengthen its capabilities and deepen its presence across India’s energy infrastructure sector. The contract also supports Deep Industries’ strategy of expanding its participation in the country’s growing oil and gas services market.

Contract Awarded on an Arm’s-Length Basis

According to the company’s disclosure, the contract does not involve any related-party transaction. In addition, there is no interest of the promoter or promoter group in the entity that awarded the contract. Consequently, the agreement has been undertaken on an arm’s-length basis and in the ordinary course of business.

₹88.15-Crore Order Boosts Business Outlook

The ONGC contract marks another important order win for Deep Industries. With a three-year tenure and an estimated value of ₹88.15 crore, the project is expected to contribute to the company’s order book and reinforce its position as a provider of oil and gas field services in India. As reported by businessupturn.com, the contract underscores Deep Industries’ continued focus on gas compression, energy infrastructure and domestic oil and gas services, while strengthening its relationship with major players in India’s energy sector.

GAIL (India) Limited and Petronet LNG Limited partnered with the MC² Foundation and the iTIC Incubator at IIT Hyderabad to accelerate startup-led innovation in India’s energy sector. The collaboration focuses on deploying digital technologies to improve asset performance, operational efficiency and sustainability across the energy value chain. As part of the initiative, the organisations hosted the MC² Plus IGNITE Hyderabad Connect at IIT Hyderabad, bringing together energy-sector leaders, academics, startups, entrepreneurs and technology experts. The event provided a platform to identify emerging industry challenges and explore technology-driven solutions.

AI and Digital Technologies Transform Asset Management

The Hyderabad edition focused on Digital Asset Management, highlighting how emerging technologies can transform conventional energy infrastructure into intelligent, connected assets. Participants explored applications of artificial intelligence (AI), machine learning, advanced analytics, sensors, robotics, drones and digital twins to improve asset monitoring, maintenance and operational decision-making. These technologies can help energy companies move beyond traditional maintenance models and improve equipment reliability while reducing downtime and operating costs.

GAIL Highlights Need for Energy Technology Innovation

GAIL CMD Deepak Gupta said India is at a “remarkable inflection point”, as rapidly rising energy demand coincides with the country’s ambition to become a developed economy while maintaining affordable and reliable energy supplies and meeting its climate commitments. According to Gupta, the energy industry must simultaneously address rising demand, the transition towards cleaner energy, energy security and the development of smarter and more resilient infrastructure. He also highlighted the need to reduce dependence on imported technologies and critical systems.

From Startup Ideas to Commercial Deployment

Gupta said MC² Plus IGNITE aims to bring startups, academic institutions, research organisations and the oil and gas industry onto a common platform. The programme seeks to help promising ideas progress from laboratory research to prototypes, pilot projects, deployment and commercialisation. Importantly, Gupta stressed that innovation should ultimately be measured by successful implementation and its real-world impact. He also highlighted the potential of digital asset management to take the industry beyond preventive and predictive maintenance towards prescriptive maintenance. In this approach, digital technologies can identify potential equipment failures and recommend appropriate interventions before disruptions occur.

Five Priorities for India’s Energy Sector

Gupta outlined key priorities for the energy industry, including improving operational efficiency, strengthening technology self-reliance, advancing towards net-zero emissions, developing
self-sustaining energy systems and building domestic technological capabilities. He further called for greater emphasis on “Make in India” and “Invent in India”, with the long-term objective of developing technologies domestically, deploying them at scale and eventually exporting them to global markets.

Petronet LNG Sees Digital Opportunities Across LNG Value Chain

Akshay Kumar Singh, MD & CEO, Petronet LNG, said MC² Plus IGNITE is connecting India’s energy industry with the country’s growing startup and innovation ecosystem. He highlighted the potential of technologies such as AI, advanced sensors, robotics and digital twins to make LNG infrastructure smarter, safer, more reliable and more efficient. Singh pointed to opportunities to utilise the cold energy generated during LNG regasification. This energy could potentially support applications in areas such as data centres, cold storage and air separation units. He also highlighted opportunities to improve compressed biogas (CBG) yields and optimise value-added by-products, which could contribute to greater resource efficiency and import substitution.

IIT Hyderabad Strengthens Industry-Academia Collaboration

Prof. B. S. Murty, Director, IIT Hyderabad, said the institute’s collaboration with MC² Foundation would bring together industry, academia and startups to address critical energy-sector challenges. The partnership will leverage IIT Hyderabad’s faculty expertise, research capabilities and infrastructure to help promising technologies move closer to real-world deployment. Ayush Gupta, Director (HR), GAIL, said MC² Plus IGNITE would give innovators access to mentors and support to convert real-world industry challenges into scalable solutions. He encouraged students and startup founders to challenge conventional approaches and develop technologies that can support affordable, sustainable and energy-secure growth.

MC² Plus IGNITE Focuses on Seven Innovation Themes

MC² Plus is an energy innovation accelerator envisioned by the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas in collaboration with leading organisations in the energy sector. The programme focuses on seven priority areas – Digital Asset Management, AI-Driven Subsurface Intelligence, Next-Generation Drilling and Well Completion, Refinery Process Intensification and Catalysis, Bio-Energy, with a focus on Compressed Biogas, Hydrogen and Mobility and Other Energy-Sector Innovations. Through these focus areas, the accelerator aims to encourage startups to develop solutions for some of the energy industry’s most pressing operational and technological challenges.

Startups to Receive Funding and Industry Support

Selected startups can receive convertible funding of up to ₹50 lakh as well as milestone-based funding of up to ₹1.5 crore. The accelerator aims to support 30 high-potential early-stage startups through a combination of mentorship, technical expertise, pilot opportunities, funding and industry networks. Consequently, the programme could help shorten the path between technology development and commercial deployment by giving startups access to industry partners and real-world testing environments.

Hyderabad Connect Brings Energy Innovation Ecosystem Together

The Hyderabad Connect also featured a panel discussion on energy innovation and the startup ecosystem, bringing together representatives from startups working in energy technology, pipeline integrity, robotics, artificial intelligence and digital solutions. In addition, IIT Hyderabad conducted a session on innovation and entrepreneurship. The programme also included a presentation by the Federation of Indian Petroleum Industry (FIPI) on Avinya’27, its energy startup challenge and India Energy Week 2027. As reported by psuwatch.com, the initiative highlights the growing role of AI, digitalisation, automation and startup innovation in transforming India’s energy sector. As the country balances rising energy demand with sustainability and energy-security goals, such industry-academia partnerships could accelerate the development and deployment of home-grown technologies.

The government’s ₹37,500-crore coal and lignite gasification scheme has attracted seven applications in its first bidding round, signalling strong industry interest in India’s coal gasification programme. Adani Enterprises Ltd has emerged as the leading applicant, submitting bids for three projects focused on urea production. Other applicants include state-owned NTPC Ltd and Talcher Fertilizers, along with private-sector companies Gallantt Ispat and Shyam SEL & Power. The applications cover multiple downstream products, including urea, synthetic natural gas (syngas) and direct reduced iron (DRI).

Urea Emerges as a Key Focus

The first-round bids highlight strong industry interest in using coal gasification to support domestic fertiliser production. Adani Enterprises has proposed three urea projects, while Talcher Fertilizers has submitted an application for another urea project. Meanwhile, NTPC and Shyam SEL & Power have proposed projects to produce synthetic natural gas (syngas). Gallantt Ispat has applied for a project that will produce direct reduced iron (DRI) and syngas. Applications received during the first round will now undergo detailed evaluation in line with the scheme’s guidelines and the request for proposal.

Coal Gasification Scheme Targets 75 Million Tonnes by 2030

The cabinet approved the ₹37,500-crore scheme in May to accelerate the development of coal and lignite gasification capacity in India. The programme aims to support the development of 75 million tons (mt) of coal gasification capacity by 2030, contributing to the country’s broader target of achieving 100 mt of coal gasification capacity by 2030. According to the ministry of coal, the scheme could potentially catalyse investments of ₹2.5-3 trillion and generate direct and indirect employment across the coal gasification value chain.

Reducing Dependence on Imported Energy and Chemicals

Coal gasification converts coal into syngas, which can subsequently be used to manufacture a range of industrial products, including urea, methanol, ammonia, hydrogen and synthetic natural gas. Consequently, the government sees coal gasification as a potential route to reduce India’s dependence on imports of LNG, urea, ammonia and methanol. These products collectively accounted for imports worth approximately ₹2.77 trillion in 2024-25, according to the ministry of coal. By promoting domestic production, the government expects coal gasification to strengthen energy security while also supporting the development of domestic chemical and fertiliser industries.

Ministry Calls Seven Bids a Vote of Confidence

The first-round response comes amid earlier concerns about whether the flagship coal gasification programme would attract sufficient industry participation. However, the ministry of coal described the seven applications as a “vote of confidence” in the scheme and India’s National Coal Gasification Mission. Alok Kumar Singh, Advisor (Projects), Ministry of Coal, said the industry’s response demonstrated that concerns about a lack of bidders were premature. He also highlighted the participation of major industrial groups and public-sector undertakings in the first round.

Scheme Builds on Earlier ₹8,500-Crore Programme

As reported by business-standard.com, the latest initiative builds on an earlier ₹8,500-crore financial incentive scheme approved in 2024. Under that programme, eight coal gasification projects are already under implementation. The new scheme therefore represents a significant expansion of government support for coal gasification and aims to accelerate commercial-scale projects across the country.

Imperial College London and the Indian Institute of Technology Bombay (IIT Bombay) have launched a strategic partnership covering research, innovation and education, marking a new phase of collaboration between the two leading institutions. The partnership will initially focus on clean technology and medical technology, bringing together researchers, academics, students and innovators from the UK and India to address major technological and societal challenges.

Expanding UK-India Research Collaboration

IIT Bombay is one of Imperial’s key collaborating institutions in India. The new agreement builds on several years of successful joint research projects involving academics from both countries. Under the partnership, the institutions will develop a range of initiatives, including joint research and innovation programmes, academic workshops and student entrepreneurship programmes. Furthermore, students and researchers will have opportunities to collaborate through placements and exchange programmes in London and Mumbai. These initiatives will allow participants to work on joint projects while sharing knowledge, expertise and research data. The partnership therefore strengthens the growing collaboration between scientists and academic institutions in the UK and India.

Supporting India-UK Technology and Innovation Goals

The agreement comes as India and the UK deepen their broader cooperation in science, technology and innovation. Last year, the two countries signed a Free Trade Agreement and announced the India-UK Vision 2035, which aims to expand cooperation in areas including advanced technology and research. The partnership also builds on the Technology Security Initiative, which focuses on future telecommunications, artificial intelligence and critical minerals. In addition, the initiative is expected to create opportunities for further cooperation in semiconductors, quantum technologies, biotechnology and advanced materials. The Imperial-IIT Bombay partnership was formally celebrated at an event in Mumbai attended by Professor Shireesh B. Kedare, Director of IIT Bombay, and Professor Anthony Bull, Director of Imperial’s School of Convergence Science.

Combining Global Expertise in Science and Technology

Imperial College London, ranked second globally and first in the UK and Europe in the QS World University Rankings 2027, will use the partnership to expand its activities through Imperial Global India. The initiative supports high-impact science and technology programmes with partners across India and provides an additional platform for researchers from both institutions to develop solutions with international applications. Professor Peter Haynes, Provost and Deputy President of Imperial College London, said the partnership builds on Imperial’s longstanding links with India and will bring together complementary expertise to tackle shared challenges. He added that closer collaboration with IIT Bombay could accelerate research and innovation with the potential to benefit people in India, the UK and beyond. Professor Shireesh B. Kedare, Director of IIT Bombay, said the partnership would strengthen the longstanding relationship between the two institutions. He highlighted the potential to combine their strengths in research, innovation and education, particularly in clean technology and medical technology, while creating opportunities for students, researchers and innovators to develop solutions with global impact.

Joint Research Tackling Real-World Challenges

Researchers from IIT Bombay and Imperial are already working together on dozens of projects spanning areas such as water management, energy security, disease modelling and climate science.One collaborative project, led by Dr Angela Kedgley of Imperial and Dr Darshan S. Shah of IIT Bombay, aims to improve the accuracy of remote monitoring of upper-limb movements. The research could support the development of more affordable and accessible diagnostic, physiotherapy and rehabilitation tools for people with neuromusculoskeletal conditions affecting the arm. Meanwhile, researchers from Imperial, IIT Bombay and industry partners are working on data-driven reforms in India’s power sector. As per the press release, led by Dr Mirabelle Muûls of Imperial and Professor Suryanarayana Doolla of IIT Bombay, the team has facilitated discussions on how demand flexibility could strengthen grid resilience while supporting decarbonisation and improving affordability. Another project combines quantum computing and biotechnology to help farmers develop stronger crops that can better withstand the effects of climate change. The research is being led by Dr Po-Heng Lee of Imperial and Dr Indrajit Chakraborty of IIT Bombay.

Encouraging Student Entrepreneurship

The partnership also places a strong emphasis on entrepreneurship and student innovation. In 2026, 170 IIT Bombay students participated in Imperial Enterprise Lab’s Global Challenge Lab, a programme that enables participants to develop startup ideas from the ground up with mentoring from global industry experts. Going forward, the expanded collaboration between Imperial and IIT Bombay is expected to create further opportunities for student entrepreneurship, research exchanges and technology innovation, while strengthening the UK-India partnership in science and education.

Novartis India Ltd signed an agreement to acquire the ‘Minipress’ and ‘Minipres’ trademarks in India, along with certain related intellectual property rights, from Pfizer Inc and Pfizer Products Inc. The transaction is valued at ₹1,250 crore. The acquisition will strengthen Novartis India’s presence in the cardiovascular and hypertension treatment segment while adding an established brand to its existing pharmaceutical portfolio.

Minipress XL Used for Hypertension and BPH

Minipress XL, which contains the active pharmaceutical ingredient prazosin, is primarily prescribed for the treatment of hypertension, or high blood pressure. It is also used to manage urinary symptoms associated with benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). According to industry tracker IQVIA, Minipress XL generated ₹228.6 crore in revenue during the 12 months ended July 2026. The brand recorded a four-year growth rate of 6.3%, compared with 9% growth for the overall category during the same period, Novartis India said.

Acquisition Follows ChrysCapital’s Takeover

The latest deal comes shortly after private-equity firm ChrysCapital acquired a 70.68% stake in Novartis India Ltd, which was previously held by Swiss pharmaceutical major Novartis AG. Following the transaction, Novartis India has a new management team and is also expected to operate under a new name. Industry observers view the acquisition of the Minipress brands as part of a broader strategy to expand and strengthen the PE-owned company’s India business. Novartis India currently operates across several therapeutic segments, including pain management, calcium supplementation, gynaecology, neurosciences and transplant immunology. Its established brands include Voveran, Calcium Sandoz and Tegrital, among others.

Pfizer to Discontinue Minipress XL Sales

Pfizer India has announced that it will discontinue the marketing, distribution and sale of Minipress XL from September 7, 2026. The decision follows Pfizer Inc.’s move to discontinue the manufacture of Minipress XL. In connection with the decision, Pfizer India said it would receive a lump-sum payment of $13.9 million, or approximately ₹131.38 crore, from Pfizer Inc., USA. The transition is expected to pave the way for Novartis India to take control of the acquired trademarks and associated rights in the Indian market.

Novartis India Undergoing Business Transformation

The Minipress acquisition follows a broader restructuring of Novartis India. The listed Indian company was put up for sale after Novartis AG announced in 2024 that it was reviewing its stake in the business. In February 2026, the proposed transaction was valued at ₹1,446 crore. Following the change in ownership, the company is being rebuilt with a new management structure and a workforce of around 40 employees. At the same time, Novartis India continues to rely on its established network of contract manufacturers and business relationships as it develops its standalone operations. The company reported a turnover of ₹354 crore for the financial year ended March 2026.

Strategic Move to Strengthen India Operations

The acquisition of the Minipress and Minipres trademarks represents an important step in Novartis India’s efforts to expand its branded pharmaceutical portfolio. With an established hypertension brand, an existing customer base and significant annual revenue, the deal could provide the company with a stronger platform for growth in India’s chronic-care market. As reported by thehindubusinessline.com, as Novartis India transitions under its new ownership and management, further acquisitions and portfolio expansion could play a key role in shaping its next phase of growth.