Lupin Pharmaceuticals aims to be among the first generic drugmakers to launch GLP-1 receptor agonists, drugs used for treating Type II diabetes and obesity, as part of its broader strategy for market expansion.

The company revealed plans to enter this lucrative market with a focus on products such as semaglutide, the popular weight-loss drug sold globally as Ozempic by Novo Nordisk.

With the patent protection for this category expected to expire in certain markets by 2026, Lupin is positioning itself to capitalize on this opportunity.

Launch Plans

Lupin introduce GLP-1 products to introduce in 2026, with a clear strategy for India and other emerging markets, according to Managing Director Nilesh Gupta.

The company’s approach will involve a combination of in-house development and licensing partnerships to bring the drugs to market efficiently.

Lupin introduce GLP-1 for the internal capabilities to both develop and manufacture these drugs will enable them to enter the segment competitively. Gupta emphasized that a detailed strategy would unfold next year, setting the stage for their market entry.

Target Regions

Lupin is focusing on several regions where the GLP-1 products will become available following patent expiry.

These regions include India, South Africa, Latin America, the Philippines, and parts of Eastern Europe.

CEO Vinita Gupta highlighted these areas as strategic for launching generic GLP-1 products. Lupin’s goal is to capture market share in these high-growth areas as demand for diabetes and obesity treatments continues to rise.

Market Competition

Lupin is not alone in its pursuit of the GLP-1 market. Other Indian pharmaceutical giants such as Cipla, Dr. Reddy’s Laboratories, Wockhardt, and Mankind Pharma are also eyeing the segment.

These companies are looking to develop their own generics for diabetes, obesity, and weight-loss treatments as more GLP-1 drugs lose patent protection.

Novo Nordisk’s injectable version of semaglutide, widely endorsed by celebrities for its weight-loss benefits, has created significant demand, leading to supply pressures.

As reported by thehindubusinessline.com, Cipla’s Managing Director Umang Vohra expressed interest in the category, signalling the company’s intent to partner with Eli Lilly, the maker of Mounjaro (tirzepatide), another weight-loss drug.

Hindalco Industries Limited, the metals flagship of the Aditya Birla Group, has once again been recognized as the world’s most sustainable aluminium company. This marks its fifth consecutive year securing the top position in the 2024 S&P Global Corporate Sustainability Assessment (CSA) rankings.

Top Ranking in Global Sustainability Assessment

As of October 30, 2024, Hindalco achieved an impressive score of 87 points, marking a 9-point increase from 2023. The company was the only aluminium manufacturer to reach the top position, outperforming its closest competitor by 22 points. The rankings are part of the prestigious DJSI World Index, which recognizes the top 10 percent of the largest 2,500 companies by market capitalization in the S&P Global Broad Market Index, based on long-term economic and ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) performance.

Commitment to Sustainability and ESG Excellence

Satish Pai, Managing Director of Hindalco Industries, credited the company’s outstanding ranking to its persistent commitment to enhancing its environmental, social, and governance standards. He emphasized the company’s dedication to key initiatives, such as maintaining biodiversity, achieving water positivity, and reducing waste to landfill. Hindalco is also working toward achieving net-zero emissions.

Exemplary Performance Across ESG Dimensions

Hindalco’s performance stood out in all three ESG dimensions. The company earned the 100th percentile in areas including climate strategy, environmental and social reporting, water-related risks, and operational eco-efficiency. Other notable areas of achievement include waste management, resource consumption, cybersecurity, community engagement, and employee development.

Leading in Climate Action and Emissions Reduction

Hindalco’s sustainability efforts continue to make significant strides, particularly in climate action and emission reduction. A key initiative is the establishment of a 100 MW round-the-clock carbon-free power project at its Odisha smelter. This project not only supports Hindalco’s sustainability goals but also earned the “Energy Transition Changemaker” award at COP28.

Waste Reduction and Circular Economy Practices

In FY24, Hindalco demonstrated a strong commitment to waste reduction by recycling 85 percent of its operational waste. Additionally, three of its units earned zero-waste-to-landfill certification. This achievement aligns with the company’s ambitious goal of reaching zero-waste-to-landfill status by 2030.

Through continuous improvement and dedicated efforts across all aspects of sustainability, Hindalco maintains its leadership in environmental responsibility and corporate governance.

Infineum, a UK-based automotive chemical manufacturer and a joint venture between ExxonMobil and Shell, is strengthening its position in the global market by establishing an advanced blending facility in India.

The strategic move highlights the company’s commitment to India’s growing automotive sector and reflects the increasing competition within the industry.

The Timeline

The new facility, set for completion by March 2025, will commence trial production mid-year and expects to begin full commercial operations by the third quarter.

“We plan to have it fully operational by Q3 2025,” confirmed S. K. Raghuram, Infineum’s Country Head in India.

The Focus

Specializing in blending sulfonate and salicylate packages, Infineum launches new blending facility will produce essential additives for automotive lubricants.

Sulfonates prevent sludge and varnish build-up, ensuring engine cleanliness, while salicylates provide anti-wear and anti-corrosion protection, crucial for meeting stricter environmental standards.

These additives are vital for automakers striving to improve engine durability and align with tighter regulatory demands.

Customized Solutions

Infineum’s Indian facility will offer clients a new level of customization in their lubricant formulations.

By enabling precise blending of sulfonates and salicylates, customers can adjust their products to meet specific performance attributes, such as enhanced engine cleanliness and fuel efficiency.

This flexibility positions Infineum as an ideal partner for automakers seeking high-performance, regulatory-compliant solutions to meet shifting consumer preferences.

Localized Production

Infineum’s expansion into India places it in direct competition with other companies eager to tap into the rising demand for high-quality lubricants and additives as vehicle sales increase across the country.

Amid global supply chain challenges, this facility supports Infineum’s regional strategy by prioritizing localized production.

Infineum Launches Blending Facility will complement its existing operations, providing full-service support. It will include chemical testing and supply chain management, tailored to local needs.

A Global Network

Infineum has steadily expanded its global footprint. With production facilities and technology centers in key locations, including New Jersey, Rio de Janeiro, Cologne, Vado Ligure, Singapore, and Zhangjiagang. Infineum’s new Indian facility adds a strategic hub in South Asia.

As reported by themachinemaker.com, the expansion reinforces the company’s regional strategy and global network. It will also includes partner-operated sites in France.

The Aditya Birla Group expands its presence in the United States (US) through strategic investments aimed at bolstering the group’s position in the metals and chemicals sectors.

$50 Million Investment

A major component of the US expansion involves a $50 million investment in Texas, where the group will establish an advanced materials manufacturing and Research and Development (R&D) centre.

The state-of-the-art facility will focus on producing epoxy resins and specialty products for industrial and consumer markets.

The new centre aims to support the growing demand for innovative materials and align with the group’s commitment to advanced technology in manufacturing.

Footprints in Alabama

Additionally, the Aditya Birla Group expands to open a new recycling and rolling plant in Alabama by next fiscal year, which will introduce cutting-edge technology in sustainable manufacturing.

The Alabama facility will strengthen the group’s eco-friendly production capabilities. It aims to meet rising U.S. demand for high-precision, sustainable materials.

Long-Term Commitment

The Aditya Birla Group’s current ventures in the US span multiple industries, with over $15 billion invested in projects across the country.

Subsidiaries like Novelis and Aditya Birla Chemicals already operate in the US. They contribute to local economies through sustainable innovation.

The latest expansion aligns with the group’s long-term goal to scale operations in North America. It also aims to diversify its manufacturing base and enhance its reputation as a leader in sustainable industrial solutions.

Environmentally Responsible Production

As the group looks to the future, it aims to leverage its manufacturing expertise to meet rising global demands. The focus will be on eco-friendly production.

As reported by manufacturingtodayindia.com, the commitment to sustainability reflects Aditya Birla Group’s strategic vision. It aims to lead in responsible manufacturing and strengthen its competitive edge in key markets worldwide.

In a strategic move to expand its market presence and production capabilities, Sadhana Nitro Chem Ltd. (SNCL) secures approval from the National Company Law Tribunal (NCLT) to acquire Calchem Industries (India) Ltd.

The acquisition, valued at Rs. 9.50 crore, was confirmed on November 8, 2024, and is scheduled for completion by January 27, 2025.

The acquisition aligns with SNCL’s long-term strategy to scale production, streamline operations, and reinforce its market position in Maharashtra.

Operational Synergies

The acquisition includes Calchem’s 14.5-acre production site, located just 250 meters from SNCL’s existing plant in MIDC Roha.

The close proximity is anticipated to significantly boost operational efficiency and reduce logistics costs.

With an installed capacity of 78,000 TPA, Calchem’s facility offers large-scale chemical production capabilities but has remained inactive since its insolvency proceedings.

By bringing this site under its ownership, SNCL aims to maximize resource allocation, integrate operations, and strengthen its overall production network.

Meeting Market Demand

Integrating Calchem’s assets positions SNCL to meet rising market demands more effectively and support its ongoing growth trajectory.

SNCL Secures Approval for the acquisition enables to enhance its foothold in chemical manufacturing and expand into upstream products, which supports its strategic vision for forward integration.

This move allows the company to optimize production, reduce costs, and establish synergies that improve its competitive edge in the industry.

Value Creation and Innovation in Production

Abhishek Asit Javeri, Managing Director of SNCL, expressed optimism about the acquisition’s impact, emphasizing that Calchem’s nearby infrastructure will support SNCL’s expansion goals.

Javeri noted that the combined facilities would increase production efficiency, reduce operational challenges, and foster innovation.

He also highlighted the enhanced capacity as a vital asset for SNCL’s continued growth and efficiency.

Product Line

Sadhana Nitro Chem Ltd. specialises in intermediate chemicals with applications across diverse industries, including pharmaceuticals, aerospace, and electronics.

SNCL is one of only two companies worldwide that produces para amino phenol (PAP) from nitrobenzene. PAP is a critical component in paracetamol and other pharmaceutical products.

As reported by business-news-today.com, the acquisition further empowers SNCL to support these essential sectors. It reinforces the company’s commitment to excellence and innovation in chemical manufacturing.

Vishnu Chemicals Ltd, a player in the global specialty chemicals sector, has signed a definitive agreement to acquire a significant Chrome Mining Complex in South Africa from Volclay Group of Companies.

The acquisition, facilitated through Vishnu’s wholly owned subsidiary, Vishnu South Africa (Pty) Limited (Vishnu SA), includes a chrome mine, processing plant, and comprehensive infrastructure assets.

The strategic move, achieved through a combination of share and asset deal, highlights Vishnu’s commitment to vertical integration and sustainable growth.

Expansion Path

Vishnu Chemicals has consistently adapted to evolving market demands by remaining agile and pursuing growth through both organic and inorganic means.

The acquisition represents another milestone in Vishnu’s strategy to strengthen its supply chain through backward integration.

With secure access to chrome ore, the company is positioned to meet both current and future production demands effectively. This supports its commitment to building a robust and integrated manufacturing operation.

Complex Importance

The acquired chrome mining complex spans approximately 1,800 hectares. It has an estimated resource of around ten million tons of chrome ore, ensuring substantial reserves for Vishnu’s operations.

The site includes a chrome processing plant and essential mining infrastructure.The mine is located in South Africa, home to the world’s largest reserves of chrome ore. It offers ore quality well-suited to Vishnu’s production requirements.

South Africa presents several strategic advantages for Vishnu Chemicals. These include a skilled mining workforce, a stable business climate, and developed logistics that facilitate efficient transportation.

These factors contribute to a supportive environment for sustainable and cost-effective operations.

Acquisition Benefits  

The acquisition of the chrome mining complex is anticipated to provide several strategic and financial advantages for Vishnu Chemicals:

*Stable Supply Chain: Ensures a consistent and reliable source of Chrome Ore, a critical raw material for Vishnu’s manufacturing needs.

*Vertical Integration: Enables a streamlined process from sourcing raw materials to manufacturing finished products.

*Cost Efficiency: Offers a more cost-effective expansion route compared to initiating a new greenfield project.

Expected Timeline

The company expects to complete the acquisition process within twelve months.

As reported by bseindia.com, Vishnu Chemicals Limited specializes in high-performance specialty chemicals, including chromium and barium chemicals. The specialty chemicals industry recognizes the company for its commitment to innovation and sustainable growth.

On November 10, 2024, the Department of Biotechnology (DBT) under the ministry of science and technology, with cabinet approval, established the Biotechnology Research and Innovation Council (BRIC).

The new council subsumed fourteen autonomous institutions (AIs) to drive advancements in the biotech sector.

Dr. Jitendra Singh, minister of state (independent charge) for science and technology, played a key role in this strategic transformation, reinforcing India’s commitment to research and innovation in biotechnology.

BRIC’s First Foundation Day Celebration

BRIC celebrated its first Foundation Day on November 9–10, 2024, at the National Institute of Immunology (NII), a BRIC-affiliated institution.

Amitabh Kant, India’s G20 Sherpa, delivered the Foundation Day lecture. Dr. Anand Deshpande, founder of Persistent Systems, attended as the special guest.

The event attracted leaders in biotechnology, including Dr. Rajesh S. Gokhale, Secretary of DBT and Director-General of BRIC, along with directors, officials from DBT and BIRAC, researchers, and students from iBRIC institutions.

Fostering Entrepreneurship

On November 9, 2024, BRIC hosted a competition, ‘Race from Science to Entrepreneurship’ (RaSE), to promote entrepreneurial skills among young researchers.

The competition challenged students from iBRIC+ institutes to explore the complexities of commercializing biosciences, particularly in alignment with the BioE3 (Biotechnology for Economy, Environment, and Employment) Policy.

Students from all fifteen iBRIC+ institutions showcased their ideas, reflecting the rich potential of India’s biotech talent pool.

Strengthening Bonds and Team Spirit

DBT Establishes BRIC also encourages harmony, physical fitness, and teamwork. BRIC organized a sports meet on November 10, 2024, bringing its members together.

The event featured cricket, badminton, table tennis, and chess, fostering camaraderie and a sense of community within the DBT-iBRIC+ family.

BRIC’s Vision

Dr. Rajesh Gokhale highlighted BRIC’s significant role in enhancing the impact and value of biotechnology research and innovation in India.

Dr. Gokhale mentioned, “BRIC is pivotal in bringing research synergy, transforming and amplifying the power of Science, Technology, and Innovation”.

Amitabh Kant praised BRIC’s mission, adding that it would be a landmark institution for India’s future in biotechnology.

As reported by pib.gov.in, DBT establishes BRIC to elevate India’s biotechnology sector. Through collaboration, research excellence, and innovative programs, BRIC sets a foundation for ground-breaking scientific progress and entrepreneurial growth.

India is grappling with substantial hurdles in its drive toward India’s renewable energy targets as highlighted in a recent report by Zero Carbon Analytics. Despite setting an ambitious target to achieve 500 GW of non-fossil fuel capacity by the early 2030s, progress remains slower than needed to meet this goal.

Investment Falling Short of Demand

In 2023, India’s renewable energy attracted $12.4 billion investments, but this sum pales in comparison to the estimated $200 billion required to meet its clean energy targets. To reach 500 GW of non-fossil fuel capacity, the country must add 300 GW of renewable energy within this decade. However, the pace of new additions has been insufficient. Between 2022 and 2023, they installed only 13 GW, with another 20.7 GW added from January to September 2024.These figures fall short of the 50 GW annual benchmark necessary to stay on track.

Surging Electricity Demand Increases Urgency

Compounding these challenges is India’s rapidly growing energy demand. According to Neelima Jain, Director of State Initiatives at the International Energy and Climate Center (IECC), electricity demand in India grew by 7% in 2023—more than triple the global average of 2.2%. This surge pushed peak demand from 182 GW in 2019 to 250 GW in 2024, marking an annual growth rate of 6.5%. With evening demand spikes placing additional strain on the grid, the need for dependable energy solutions is more pressing than ever.

Battery Storage as a Key Solution

Battery storage has emerged as a critical solution to balance India’s renewable energy generation with demand surges. Recent auctions in Gujarat and SECI have seen co-located storage costs decline to $150 per kW, driven by global trends of reduced material costs and overcapacity in Chinese production. Analysts predict an additional cost reduction of 15-20% by 2030, potentially making battery storage a financially viable alternative to coal.

“Battery storage in India could be a game-changer,” said Jain. “If we don’t accelerate storage deployment, we’ll be forced to rely on coal to meet growing demand, which could lead to stranded assets. It’s crucial that the 41 GW of firm capacity currently under construction is completed on time, and that storage deployment becomes a priority at both national and state levels.” Accelerating storage deployment could help mitigate the risks of coal dependency, especially with rising energy needs.

Overreliance on Imported Materials

India’s dependence on imports for key materials also hampers its renewable energy transition. China dominates the global solar photovoltaic (PV) module market, controlling nearly 80% of it, while India’s share was under 2% in 2022. India primarily imports critical minerals like lithium, cobalt, and nickel, emphasizing the need for a robust, domestic supply chain.

The wind sector shows more resilience, with India producing 70-80% of its turbines domestically. However, in solar PV, reliance on imports remains a bottleneck. For India to secure its renewable future, experts recommend developing a self-reliant supply chain and prioritizing the recycling of components from solar and wind technologies. This approach could create a sustainable cycle for future manufacturing and reduce dependence on imported resources.

A Strategic Pivot Needed

The report by Zero Carbon Analytics underscores that India must focus now on scaling up storage solutions and developing a resilient domestic supply chain. Without strategic investments and policy interventions, rising energy demand could risk locking India back into coal reliance, jeopardizing its clean energy ambitions.

Greenzo Energy, the provider of green hydrogen energy solutions, announced the successful acquisition of the engineering, procurement, and construction (EPC) contract for a 120 MW ground-mounted solar project in Nepal.

The project, valued at Rs. 500 crore, will increase Greenzo Energy’s order book to Rs. 1,900 crore.

Details and Timeline

The solar installation will be built in phases, with the completion targeted for 2025. The project will be divided into twelve clusters, each consisting of a 10 MW solar installation.

The company will entirely ground-mount the infrastructure and construct an advanced high-tension transmission line to directly connect to the Nepal Electricity Authority (NEA) grid.

Sustainable Energy Flow

Once operational, the surplus power generated will be fed back into the national grid. This ensures an optimized and sustainable energy flow, contributing to grid stability and improving energy access for the region.

Timely Execution

Sandeep Agarwal, Managing Director of Greenzo Energy, said, “We have secured the Letter of Credit and begun work. We fully dedicate ourselves to executing each phase with precision and transparency.”

Collaborations

Greenzo Energy has been working closely with Nepalese authorities and the project developer for over two years to facilitate the project.

Leadership and Execution

Kushal Agarwal, Executive Director at Greenzo Energy, will lead the project. Greenzo Energy will oversee the end-to-end execution, handling engineering, procurement, and on-the-ground installations. Agarwal highlighted the importance of the company’s long-standing relationship with Nepalese stakeholders. “Our collaboration with local authorities will ensure that this project delivers substantial, community-centered benefits,” he added.

Brand Talk

Greenzo Energy develops, owns, and operates renewable and green hydrogen infrastructure to provide zero-emission energy services.

The company has developed modular alkaline electrolyzers and boasts a diverse portfolio, including solar, wind, ammonia, and hydrogen projects.

As reported by pv-magazine-india.com, Greenzo has completed over two GW of solar EPC and consultancy projects across India and other international markets.

Epsilon Advanced Materials (EAM) and South Korea’s Daejoo Electronic Materials (Daejoo) announced a strategic partnership to develop a Gen-1 graphite-rich silicon composite material aimed at enhancing the performance and efficiency of lithium-ion batteries (LiB) used in electric vehicles (EVs).

Joint Development Program

The collaboration will leverage EAM’s expertise in graphite and Daejoo’s advanced silicon materials to create a product that surpasses current lithium-ion battery anode technologies.

With support from Nagase, a Japanese trading company, the two companies aim to develop a cutting-edge solution that offers superior performance.

EAM and Daejoo plan to create Gen-1 graphite-rich silicon composite anode materials with a target capacity of 450 – 600 mAh/g.

The development promises to increase discharge capacity by 50% and extend the battery lifespan by thousands of charge cycles, which will contribute to the growing demand for longer-lasting and more efficient batteries in EVs and other applications.

Collaborative Efforts

As part of the agreement, EAM will supply synthetic graphite to produce and test SiOx-graphite composites in Daejoo’s laboratories.

Concurrently, Daejoo will provide samples for EAM’s testing. This will enable both companies to tailor the composite materials and assess their performance in different environments.

Both companies are working to qualify the SiOx-Graphite composite materials with their customers. It aims to introduce these innovative solutions to the market.

EAM expects to finalize the development and evaluation phase by the end of 2024. Afterward, they will collaborate with cell manufacturers to qualify the materials for commercial use.

Strengthening Position

Vikram Handa, Managing Director, Epsilon Group stated, “Through continuous R&D efforts like these, we are focused on driving battery innovation. Upon completing our rigorous in-house evaluations, we will be positioned to meet the evolving needs of the mobility industry. We will offer high-performance, safe battery solutions.

Dae Woon Park, MD of Daejoo Electronic Materials, highlighted the strategic importance of the partnership. He emphasized its role in expanding their global footprint, particularly in India.

Park said, “Collaborating with EAM strengthens our presence in the rapidly growing Indian market. It also supports our global strategy of developing advanced materials tailored to the diverse needs of our customers.”

The Benefits

The silicon-graphite composite materials represent a major leap forward in lithium-ion battery technology.

By combining the high capacity of silicon with the stability of graphite. These composites provide a more efficient and durable alternative to traditional graphite-only anodes.

As reported by pv-magazine-india.com, the breakthrough addresses the demand for higher performance, faster charging, and longer battery life. This makes the materials ideal for the automobile industry and other sectors that require high-power energy storage solutions.