The AM Green Kakinada Cluster has officially joined the World Economic Forum’s (WEF) “Transitioning Industrial Clusters Initiative”, a program designed to foster collaboration among co-located companies and public institutions.

The initiative seeks to create a shared vision that drives economic growth, boosts employment, and significantly reduces CO2e emissions.

By participating in the initiative, the AM Green Kakinada Cluster reinforces the importance of collective efforts in achieving global industrial decarbonization.

The cluster aims to build an integrated green industrial ecosystem, delivering economic, social, and environmental benefits for India.

Economic Boost and Job Creation

The Kakinada Cluster represents a significant investment of over $3 billion, expected to generate more than 10,000 direct and indirect jobs.

It will support key industries, including construction, equipment manufacturing, and housing, while contributing to local and national economic development.

Leadership Perspective

Anil Chalamalasetty, Chairman, AM Green emphasized, “Global decarbonisation solutions at scale and speed are the need of the day to bring in the new vision of global energy transition to life. We believe that this is a wonderful opportunity and a challenge that we have been working tirelessly for over the past many years”.

Chalamalasetty highlighted AM Green’s commitment to the WEF initiative. He stated the cluster’s goal of sharing knowledge, adopting best practices, and contributing to global decarbonization.

Welcomed by WEF

Roberto Bocca, Head of the Centre for Energy and Materials and Member of the Executive Committee at WEF, welcomed the AM Green Kakinada Cluster into the global network of 25 industrial clusters.

He noted the region’s potential to advance green ammonia and hydrogen production through Andhra Pradesh’s renewable resources.

“As part of the Transitioning Industrial Clusters community, AM Green Kakinada will have the opportunity to share insights and contribute to the collective progress in industrial decarbonization,” he added.

Pioneering Green Technologies

The Kakinada Cluster will begin operations in 2026, starting with a one MTPA green ammonia production capacity.

Key components include:

*Two GW electrolyzer manufacturing plant.

*Facilities for green molecule production, ensuring a robust supply chain.

*A commitment to Zero Emissions with projected emissions at 0 Mt CO2e during initial operations.

To ensure uninterrupted sustainability, the cluster will rely on 24/7 carbon-free energy powered by pumped storage projects.

Integrated utilities such as green steam, desalinated water, and effluent treatment facilities will enhance operational efficiency.

Global Decarbonization

AM Green aims to position India as a key player in the global energy transition through its pioneering green industrial cluster.

The cluster supports India’s decarbonization goals by producing essential green molecules. These include green ammonia, green hydrogen, sustainable aviation fuel, and green olefins.

The company’s ambitious green ammonia production target of five MTPA by 2030 equates to approximately 1 MTPA of green hydrogen.

This achievement represents:

• 20% of India’s target under the National Green Hydrogen Mission.
• 10% of Europe’s target for green hydrogen imports.

Additionally, AM Green is exploring capabilities for producing green caustic soda, e-methanol, olefins, and biofuels to decarbonize hard-to-abate industries.

Sustainable Future

AM Green is developing one of the world’s largest green ammonia platforms. The company is committed to driving India’s net-zero targets and contributing to a sustainable global future.

The Kakinada Cluster, as stated in the press release, is a testament to the country’s capability. It highlights India’s leadership in energy transition and industrial decarbonization efforts.

Dr. Reddy’s Laboratories, through its US subsidiary, is recalling multiple strengths of morphine sulfate extended-release tablets due to manufacturing issues.

The recall, initiated on October 22, 2024, affects two different strengths of the medication, which is used for managing severe and persistent pain.

The company is recalling 2,040 bottles of the 15 mg strength due to ‘Failed Impurities/Degradation Specification’.

In addition, 532 bottles of the 30 mg strength (100-count) are being recalled for the same reason.

The recall is classified as Class II, indicating that while the product poses a risk of temporary or reversible health consequences, the likelihood of serious adverse effects is low.

The Second Company

FDC Ltd., a Mumbai-based pharmaceutical company, has also initiated a recall in the US market.

The company is recalling 1,55,232 bottles of Timolol Maleate ophthalmic solution, used to treat high pressure inside the eye caused by glaucoma.

The recall, which was launched on October 29, 2024, stems from a defect in the container design. The cap’s spike became lodged in the nozzle, making it impossible for users to dispense the solution.

Similar to Dr. Reddy’s recall, FDC’s action is classified as a Class II recall, signalling that the defective product could lead to temporary health issues, but serious harm is unlikely.

Classification of Class II Recalls

The US Food and Drug Administration (USFDA) classifies recalls based on the potential risks to consumer health.

A Class II recall occurs when exposure to the product may lead to temporary or reversible adverse health effects. However, the probability of severe health consequences is deemed remote.

Global Generic Medicine Supplier

India remains a leading player in the global generic medicine market, contributing approximately 20% of the world’s supply.

With 60,000 different generic brands across 60 therapeutic categories, Indian manufacturers export their products to over 200 countries worldwide. The key markets include the US, Japan, Australia, and Western Europe.

As reported by thehindubusinessline.com, the recent recall highlights the importance of stringent manufacturing practices in ensuring the safety of medications exported globally.

SAMSUNG E&A, a total solutions provider for the global energy industry, announced the signing of a contract with Ras Laffan Petrochemicals (RLP) of Qatar for the construction of the Qatar RLP Ethylene Storage Plant.

The agreement was finalized on November 14, 2024.

Joint Venture

SAMSUNG E&A will execute the project in collaboration with CTCI, a Taiwanese engineering firm, forming a joint venture to handle the project.

The total value of the contract is approximately $418 million, with SAMSUNG E&A’s share amounting to $215 million.

The contract is expected to be completed over thirty-four months.

Project Scope and Location

The primary scope of the project involves building ethylene storage facilities and utility infrastructure (U&O) at the Ras Laffan industrial complex, located 80 kilometers north of Doha, Qatar’s capital.

The facility will store ethylene during plant maintenance and repair periods, ensuring continuous availability for emergency needs.

The new storage plant will be located within the same complex as the RLP ethylene project, which SAMSUNG E&A was awarded in 2023 and is currently executing.

Key Responsibilities

As part of the project, SAMSUNG E&A will take responsibility for the engineering, procurement, and construction (EPC) of key infrastructure.

This includes the installation of 30,000-metric-ton storage tanks, compressors, and pumps.

These facilities will play a crucial role in maintaining uninterrupted ethylene supply, particularly during maintenance downtime.

Execution Capabilities

The awarding of this contract went to SAMSUNG E&A due to its proven track record in executing complex projects.

The company’s exceptional performance in delivering the RLP ethylene project in 2023 contributed significantly to securing this linked order.

The project will also leverage on-site resources, maximizing efficiency and reinforcing SAMSUNG E&A’s strong partnership with CTCI.

Commitment to Innovation

Hong Namkoong, President and CEO, SAMSUNG E&A stated, “By securing this linked order with Ras Laffan Petrochemicals, we will successfully execute the project and strengthen our position in the Qatari market based on our extensive experience and strategic approach”.

At the ongoing 29th Conference of the Parties (COP29) climate conference in Baku, Azerbaijan, India raises concerns about dissatisfaction with the push from developed countries to broaden the scope of the Mitigation Ambition and Implementation Work Programme (MWP).

The demand goes beyond the agreements established in previous climate talks. The statement came in response to India’s call for grant-based long-term climate finance under the New Collective Quantified Goal (NCQG).

India, representing the interests of like-minded developing countries (LMDCs), emphasized the need for developed nations to commit to mobilizing at least $1.3 trillion annually in climate finance through the NCQG until 2030.

India made it clear that climate finance should remain a unidirectional provision from developed to developing countries, and cannot be turned into an investment goal.

Developing Nations Push for $5-6.8 Trillion in Climate Finance

At COP29, developing nations have proposed a climate finance target of $5-6.8 trillion for the period leading up to 2030.

India speaking for LMDCs, stressed that developed countries must honor their commitment to provide climate finance, especially given the significant vulnerabilities faced by the Global South.

Vulnerability of Developing Countries

In a powerful statement during the closing plenary of the Subsidiary Bodies on the Sharm el-Sheikh Mitigation Ambition and Implementation Work Programme (MWP), India raises concerns about the lack of progress in areas crucial for developing nations.

India highlighted that countries in the Global South are experiencing some of the most severe impacts of climate change. It has limited capacity to recover or adapt.

India argued that these nations bear little responsibility for the climate crisis, yet they face disproportionate consequences.

Opposition to Expanded MWP Targets

India’s statement at the conference was a direct response to calls from developed countries. These calls urged the inclusion of mitigation goals from the Global Stocktake of the Dubai Accord (COP28) into the MWP.

India and its allies in the LMDCs, Arab Group, and African Group of Negotiators (AGN) strongly opposed this. They argued that the MWP, created at COP27 in Sharm-el-Sheikh in 2022. The intention was not to impose new targets or force any country into specific actions.

Clarifying the Mandate

India reiterated that the MWP was established with the primary goal of facilitating the sharing of ideas, experiences, and solutions for reducing emissions.

It was designed to support countries in scaling up their mitigation efforts and achieving the goal of limiting global warming to 1.5°C above pre-industrial levels.

India stressed that the MWP should remain non-prescriptive and non-punitive. Outcomes should respect national sovereignty and the differing circumstances of each country.

India emphasized that developed countries should not use it as a tool to impose new targets or goals on developing nations.

Conclusion

India’s statement at COP29 emphasized the importance of equity principles. It also highlighted the need for common but differentiated responsibilities in climate negotiations.

India and its allies called for continued dialogue and collaboration under the MWP. They emphasized that this should occur without imposing unfair burdens on developing countries.

The country’s concerns reflect broader frustrations among the Global South. It seeks greater climate finance and a more equitable approach to global emissions reductions.

The Solar Energy Corporation of India Limited (SECI), a government-owned entity, announced a tender for the manufacturing and supply of 400 megawatt peak (MWp) solar photovoltaic (PV) modules.

The initiative is part of the government’s broader effort to strengthen domestic manufacturing in the renewable energy sector.

Strengthening Domestic Manufacturing

The tender, issued on November 14, seeks to source domestically produced solar modules, including the production of solar cells, testing, packing, and transportation.

By integrating these steps, SECI aims to ensure a smooth and efficient process, from manufacturing to delivery.

The move reflects the government’s commitment to the ‘Make in India’ initiative, reducing reliance on imported solar components.

Key Details and Submission Deadline

Interested bidders has to submit proposals online by December 12.

SECI will open the techno-commercial bids later that day. The tight deadline highlights the urgency and importance of the project, which is integral to India’s renewable energy goals.

Pre-Bid Meeting

To support potential bidders, SECI has scheduled a pre-bid meeting for November 20.

This will provide an opportunity for bidders to clarify any doubts and gain a better understanding of the tendering process, ensuring transparent and informed participation.

Advancing Renewable Energy

As the government’s nodal agency for renewable energy auctions, SECI has played a crucial role in advancing India’s renewable energy sector.

The latest tender aligns with the country’s ambitious targets to expand solar capacity under its renewable energy roadmap, furthering the government’s goal of achieving energy security and environmental sustainability.

Solar Manufacturing Ecosystem

By including testing, packing, and transportation within the scope of the tender, SECI aims to streamline procurement and improve project efficiency.

This approach is expected to attract significant interest from domestic manufacturers. Thereby stimulating India’s solar manufacturing ecosystem.

Conclusion

With the December 12 deadline approaching, SECI’s proactive efforts such as the pre-bid meeting. They are set to ensure robust participation and successfully execute the ambitious solar project.

The initiative supports India’s renewable energy targets. It also contributes to the country’s economic and environmental objectives, as reported by knnindia.co.in.

NTPC Green Energy Ltd. is set to build India’s largest green hydrogen hub in Pudimadaka, Andhra Pradesh, with operations projected to commence within the next three years.

Massive Facility Spanning 1,200 Acres

The project covers 1,200 acres, of which 600 acres are earmarked for constructing a state-of-the-art green hydrogen production plant.

The facility will produce 1,100 tonnes of green hydrogen daily, amounting to approximately half a million tonnes annually.

Focus on Green Hydrogen and Derivatives

In addition to green hydrogen, the hub will manufacture derivatives like green ammonia, green methanol, and sustainable aviation fuel.

NTPC Green Energy Ltd. CEO Rajiv Gupta emphasized the company’s dual focus on meeting domestic demand and catering to export markets, particularly the European Union and Southeast Asia.

Industrial Hub for Manufacturing and Infrastructure

The remaining 600 acres will support industrial development.

Around 300 acres will be dedicated to plug-and-play facilities for manufacturing electrolysers, solar PV modules, battery energy storage systems, and fuel cells.

Another 200 acres will house common infrastructure such as effluent treatment and sewage treatment plants.

Green Hydrogen Production Timeline

While the hub’s core facilities will be ready in three years, green hydrogen production may take five to six years to commence.

Gupta noted that establishing a green hydrogen ecosystem requires significant time and investment.

Tackling High Costs of Green Hydrogen

Currently, producing green hydrogen costs between $4.10 and $7 per kilogram. For the industry to become economically viable, costs must drop below $3 per kilogram, according to industry experts.

Investment Plans

NTPC Green Energy is also planning to raise ₹10,000 crore through an initial public offering (IPO) to support thr ambitious project and its future expansion plans.

As reported by ndtvprofit.com, the development positions India as a key player in the global green hydrogen market while supporting sustainable energy goals.

Hindustan Zinc Limited (HZL), the world’s second-largest integrated zinc producer and third-largest silver producer, bagged the Dugocha gold block in Rajasthan through state government auctions held on November 13, 2024.

Preferred Bidder

The department of mines and geology, Rajasthan, declared Hindustan Zinc as the “Preferred Bidder” for the Dugocha gold block through a notification on November 15, 2024.

The acquisition is a significant step forward in the company’s strategic journey, solidifying its position as a leading player in the precious metals sector.

CEO Talk

Arun Misra, CEO Hindustan Zinc Limited said, “Bagging the Dugocha gold block is a testament to our expertise in mineral exploration and our commitment to supporting India’s rapid economic growth. This acquisition not only diversifies our precious metals portfolio but also strengthens our ability to deliver long-term value to shareholders and stakeholders. Additionally, it will create significant direct and indirect employment opportunities while spurring investments in Rajasthan”.

Key Features

The Dugocha gold block spans 472 hectares and is currently at the G3 level of exploration. Preliminary estimates reveal 1.74 million tonnes of resources with a gold grade of 1.63g/t.

With its in-house expertise in mining and exploration, Hindustan Zinc is well-positioned to maximize the potential of this asset and drive substantial growth.

Strengthening Precious Metals Portfolio

The win aligns with Hindustan Zinc’s long-term strategy to secure high-quality assets with robust mining potential.

In November 2024, the company was declared the preferred bidder for two tungsten blocks. These blocks, along with associated metals, are located in Andhra Pradesh and Tamil Nadu.

The acquisitions significantly bolster its position in the critical and precious metals sector.

Sustainability and Innovation

Hindustan Zinc, a Vedanta Group company, continues to set benchmarks in the metals and mining industry.

Hindustan Zinc is recognized as one of the world’s most sustainable companies in metals and mining. This recognition comes from S&P Global’s Corporate Sustainability Assessment 2023. It prioritize operational excellence and environmental stewardship.

The company’s flagship initiative, EcoZen, Asia’s first low-carbon ‘green’ zinc brand, underscores its commitment to sustainability.

Produced using renewable energy, EcoZen has a carbon footprint of less than 1 tonne per tonne of zinc, nearly 75% lower than the global average.

Hindustan Zinc is also a certified 2.41 times water-positive company. It aims to achieve net zero emissions by 2050 or sooner.

Driving Energy Transition

Hindustan Zinc’s strategic acquisitions and innovations are pivotal to the global energy transition.

As per the press release, by expanding its presence in critical metals. The company ensures its continued contribution to India’s sustainable development and global energy needs.

Indian pharma Industry, under the Indian Pharmaceutical Alliance (IPA), have urged reforms to the nation’s drug quality inspection system to align it with global standards.

This call follows a recent alert by the Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation (CDSCO) identifying over 50 drugs as “Not of Standard Quality” (NSQ), raising public concerns about medicine safety.

 IPA Proposes Streamlined Investigation Process

In a letter to Dr. Rajeev Singh Raghuvanshi, the Drugs Controller General of India (DCGI), the IPA outlined recommendations for improving drug investigation processes.

The Pharma industry body proposed giving companies a thirty-day notice to respond to allegations before releasing information about NSQ drugs publicly.

Sudhanshu Jain, Secretary-General of the IPA, emphasized the confusion caused by the interchangeable use of terms like ‘counterfeit’ and ‘spurious’.

He stressed the need for clearer distinctions to protect consumer trust and the pharmaceutical industry’s reputation.

The IPA also recommended that drug inspectors specify whether samples come from licensed or unlicensed premises.

Companies should have the opportunity to classify samples as NSQ or spurious, with justifications provided.

Additionally, the IPA advised the CDSCO to issue drug alerts only after thorough investigations confirm the samples’ status.

“These improvements would align India’s drug investigation process with global practices observed in markets such as the European Union and the United States,” Jain explained.

Government Responds

Dr. Raghuvanshi addressed the issue, stating that the government had recalled 45 drugs flagged as substandard or counterfeit by the CDSCO.

However, he clarified that only five drugs were classified as spurious, which involves deliberate falsification akin to counterfeiting.

He also differentiated between substandard drugs, which may have formulation issues, and spurious drugs, which involve false labelling.

“The CDSCO immediately notifies manufacturers and orders recalls for drugs identified as either substandard or spurious,” Raghuvanshi said.

Tackling Counterfeit Drugs

To combat counterfeit and substandard drugs, Jain outlined three focus areas:

*Capability Building: The IPA is educating field teams to report counterfeit issues promptly and assisting the government in capacity building.

*Process Improvements: Emphasizing purchases from authorized retailers and monitoring supply chains, especially in states like Maharashtra.

*Legislative Advocacy: Strengthening laws to report counterfeit incidents and increasing the role of testing laboratories. The IPA has filed a Supreme Court case seeking police involvement in severe counterfeit cases.

Regulatory Reforms

The Indian government has taken significant steps to address drug quality concerns. In 2022-23, authorities identified 3,053 substandard drugs and 424 spurious or adulterated ones.

Amendments to the Drugs and Cosmetics Act now impose stricter penalties, including non-bailable offences for counterfeit drug production.

Additionally, revised Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) introduced in December 2023 set higher standards for pharmaceutical production. The CDSCO collaborates with state drug control bodies to ensure uniform enforcement.

In August 2023, the introduction of barcodes and QR codes on top medicine brands marked a milestone in combating counterfeit drugs. These codes allow consumers to verify product details, enhancing transparency and patient safety.

Moving Towards Safer Pharmaceuticals

The IPA and government agree on the need for reforms to ensure safer medicines. While the IPA seeks process enhancements, the government continues to tighten regulations.

As reported by businesstoday.in, together, these efforts aim to restore trust in India’s pharmaceutical industry and protect public health.

Provivi, a player in pheromone-based crop protection, has joined forces with Godrej Agrovet Limited (GAVL), a research-driven food and agri-business conglomerate.

Together, they aim to deliver innovative and sustainable pest control solutions tailored to the needs of Indian rice and corn farmers.

Under the collaboration, GAVL will bring Provivi’s YSB Eco-Dispenser, designed to combat Yellow Stem Borer (YSB) in rice, to the Indian market.

Additionally, GAVL will exclusively commercialize the FAW eco-dispenser, which targets fall armyworm (FAW) in corn.

These cutting-edge, pheromone-based technologies promise environmentally friendly pest management tools to empower millions of farmers whose livelihoods depend on these essential crops.

Empowering Farmers with Sustainable Technologies

Balram Singh Yadav, Managing Director, GAVL commented, “Empowering Indian farmers with innovative, sustainable technologies is critical to enhancing productivity. As a research-driven agri-conglomerate, we are committed to delivering solutions that uplift farming communities. This collaboration with Provivi combines their expertise with our extensive distribution network, ensuring farmers have access to effective support”.

Food Security and Economy

Rice and corn play vital roles in India’s agricultural landscape, serving as staples for food security and driving the economy.

India is one of the largest rice exporters globally. It is a significant producer of corn used across food, animal feed, and industrial applications.

However, pests like YSB and FAW continue to threaten these crops, increasing costs and reducing yields for farmers.

Innovative Solutions

Rajavelu NK, CEO, GAVL’s Crop Protection Business highlighted, “Yellow Stem Borer and Fall Armyworm are persistent threats to rice and corn cultivation. It leads to higher production costs. By partnering with Provivi, we aim to equip farmers with eco-friendly tools to manage these pests. Our shared commitment to Integrated Pest Management ensures effective, sustainable solutions that protect these crucial crops”.

Expanding Sustainable Agriculture

Corey Huck, CEO of Provivi added, “Provivi and Godrej Agrovet partnership allows us to make a significant impact in one of the world’s fastest-growing agricultural regions. With Godrej Agrovet as our trusted partner, we can provide science-based, sustainable pest control solutions that enhance productivity while safeguarding the environment”.

Biodegradable and Environmentally Friendly

The Provivi YSB and FAW Eco-Dispensers, crafted from biodegradable materials. It delivers long-lasting efficacy while minimizing environmental impact.

These products will be available to Indian farmers starting in 2029. It marked a milestone in the country’s pursuit of sustainable agriculture.

According to the press release, the collaboration reflects a shared vision to transform pest management in Indian agriculture. It prioritizes environmental conservation and farmer welfare.

GPS Renewables (GPSR), one of the largest biogas engineering company globally, has partnered with OIL India Limited (OIL) to establish a network of Compressed Biogas (CBG) plants across India.

The joint venture will be equally owned by both companies, each holding a fifty percent stake. The collaboration aims to boost the adoption of sustainable energy sources in the country.

Eight CBG Plants

The two companies will set up eight CBG plants, managing the entire lifecycle of each project.

This will include design, construction, financing, operation, and eventual transfer under a DBFOOT (Design, Build, Finance, Own, Operate, and Transfer) model.

This approach guarantees long-term project sustainability and enhances operational efficiency.

Energy Security and Sustainability

Mainak Chakraborty, CEO and Co-Founder of GPS Renewables, emphasized the growing interest among Indian oil companies in biofuels like CBG to strengthen energy security and support India’s net-zero goals.

He stated, “Our partnership with OIL India represents a significant step towards accelerating biofuel adoption. Together, we aim to build a nationwide network of CBG plants, reducing reliance on fossil fuels and cutting down on greenhouse gas emissions”.

Shared Vision

GPS Renewables and OIL India both commit to expanding CBG production capacity. Their goal is to meet India’s growing demand for sustainable energy solutions.

As reported by krishijagran.com, the brands will continue working together. Their goal is to achieve a cleaner, greener future for India.