Vikram Solar bagged an order to supply 289.87 megawatts-peak (MWp) of solar photovoltaic (PV) modules for an 810 MW solar power project at the RUVN Solar Park in Pugal, Bikaner, Rajasthan. The order strengthens the company’s position in India’s utility-scale solar market and supports the country’s ongoing renewable energy expansion. Vikram Solar will supply N-type tunnel oxide passivated contact (N-TOPCon) solar modules to NLC India Ltd (NLCIL) on behalf of NLC India Renewables Ltd (NIRL), a wholly owned subsidiary of NLC India Ltd.

Rajasthan Solar Park Supports Renewable Energy Growth

Located in the Thar region, the RUVN Solar Park will harness Rajasthan’s abundant solar resources to contribute to India’s expanding renewable energy capacity. The project also reflects the growing importance of large-scale solar installations in meeting India’s clean energy targets. As demand for renewable electricity increases, high-efficiency solar modules are becoming essential for improving energy generation and project performance.

N-TOPCon Technology Enhances Solar Module Performance

Vikram Solar’s N-TOPCon modules use advanced N-type solar cell technology designed to deliver higher energy yields and stable performance under high solar irradiance and elevated temperatures.

These characteristics make the modules suitable for Rajasthan’s climatic conditions, where intense sunlight and high temperatures can affect solar power generation. Consequently, the technology can help utility-scale projects improve energy output and maintain reliable performance.

Furthermore, the order adds to Vikram Solar’s project pipeline as demand for high-efficiency, India-manufactured solar modules continues to grow. This trend aligns with India’s efforts to strengthen domestic solar manufacturing capabilities and reduce dependence on imported products.

Vikram Solar Emphasises Technology and Supply Reliability

Sameer Nagpal, Chief Executive Officer of Vikram Solar, highlighted the growing importance of advanced technology and reliable supply partnerships as India expands its renewable energy infrastructure. He noted that the order for nearly 290 MWp of solar modules demonstrates confidence in the company’s N-TOPCon technology and its ability to serve large-scale solar projects. Nagpal also emphasised that Vikram Solar continues to strengthen its integrated manufacturing capabilities, with a focus on delivering consistent module performance and dependable supplies for utility-scale installations.

Order Strengthens India’s Solar Energy Expansion

The 289.87 MWp module supply order highlights the role of domestic solar manufacturers in supporting India’s growing renewable energy sector. As reported by manufacturingtodayindia.com, by supplying advanced solar modules for the Rajasthan project, Vikram Solar will contribute to the development of utility-scale solar infrastructure and the wider transition towards clean energy.

The 14th edition of India Chem 2026 concluded in Mumbai under the theme “Advantage Bharat: An Emerging Global Chemicals Hub.” The event brought together industry leaders, government representatives and international stakeholders to explore investment opportunities, strengthen global partnerships and accelerate innovation in India’s chemical and petrochemical sectors. Organised jointly by the Department of Chemicals and Petrochemicals and the Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FICCI), the event provided a platform for discussions on industry priorities, regulatory frameworks and strategic challenges.

India Strengthens Chemical Industry Partnerships with Global Markets

International collaboration remained a key focus of India Chem 2026, with Japan serving as the partner country. India and Japan share strong trade relations, particularly in the chemical and petrochemical sectors. Furthermore, dedicated discussions under the India–Japan, India–US and India–EU Chemicals and Petrochemicals Forums explored opportunities to expand trade, attract investments and strengthen technology cooperation. These discussions aimed to encourage cross-border partnerships and support the development of a more competitive and globally integrated Indian chemical industry.

Roundtables Address Key Chemical Industry Challenges

The event also hosted focused roundtable discussions on several important segments of the chemical and petrochemical value chain. Key topics included:

Specialty chemicals

Infrastructure for chemicals and petrochemicals

Agrochemicals

Environmental issues

Plant machinery

Pumps and valves

Through these discussions, participants examined sector-specific challenges and explored potential solutions to improve infrastructure, encourage investment and support sustainable industrial growth.

India Chem Youth Innovation Challenge Recognises Emerging Talent

Innovation and youth participation featured prominently at India Chem 2026 through the India Chem Youth Innovation Challenge. The initiative invited students to develop solutions to problem statements provided by the chemical industry, encouraging practical problem-solving and industry-academia collaboration. Soumya Bhole and Sarthak Kale from the Institute of Chemical Technology (ICT), Mumbai, secured first place. Suman Batwe and Saloni Mhadesar from Visvesvaraya National Institute of Technology (VNIT), Nagpur, won second place, while Jash Prasad and Smit Bambhorliya from the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT), Gandhinagar, secured third place. The challenge highlighted the role of young innovators in addressing industrial needs and developing solutions for the future of the chemical sector.

More Than 5,000 Visitors Attended India Chem 2026

India Chem 2026 attracted more than 5,000 visitors over three days, demonstrating continued interest in India’s chemical and petrochemical industries. By bringing together policymakers, manufacturers, technology providers, investors and young innovators, the event strengthened opportunities for knowledge exchange and business networking. As reported by newsonair.gov.in, overall, India Chem 2026 reinforced India’s ambition to emerge as a global chemicals hub, with investment, international cooperation, technological innovation and sustainable development shaping the industry’s future growth.

Birla Carbon, one of the world’s largest suppliers of carbon materials, will showcase its advanced carbon black and sustainable material solutions at the International Rubber Conference (IRC) 2026, scheduled for November 2–6 in Nagoya, Japan. The company will highlight innovations that improve tire durability, energy efficiency and circularity while addressing the evolving requirements of the automotive and rubber industries.

As electric mobility gains momentum, tire manufacturers are placing greater emphasis on tire wear, rolling resistance and energy efficiency. Similarly, automotive rubber components must deliver long-lasting performance without compromising ride comfort. Birla Carbon will present application-specific solutions to address these challenges at its exhibition booth.

Advancing Mobility Through Material Innovation

Amit Kumar, President, Asia, Birla Carbon, said that Asia’s tire and rubber manufacturers are shaping the next phase of mobility, creating demand for increasingly advanced materials. He highlighted Birla Carbon’s commitment to application-focused innovation, reliable local supply and stronger customer partnerships. Furthermore, the company aims to advance performance and circularity together by expanding its capabilities across Asia and helping manufacturers respond to changing market requirements.

High-Performance Carbon Black for Tire Durability

At IRC 2026, Birla Carbon will present its Very High Structure (VHS) carbon black grades for passenger car, light truck, truck and bus tires. Designed to address the demands of electric mobility and evolving regulations, including Euro 7, these materials support improved tire wear performance, energy efficiency and durability. Consequently, the portfolio aims to help tire manufacturers meet increasingly stringent performance requirements while adapting to changes in vehicle design and mobility technologies.

Sustainable Carbon Materials Support Circularity

Birla Carbon will also showcase its Continua™ Sustainable Carbonaceous Materials (SCM) and Sustainable Carbon Blacks (SCB) for tire applications. These materials incorporate higher proportions of recycled or bio-based content, helping manufacturers advance their circularity objectives. In addition, consistent product quality and reliable large-scale supply support the integration of sustainable materials into industrial production. The Continua™ portfolio is backed by ISCC PLUS certification, supporting the company’s focus on sustainable material solutions.

Improving Automotive Rubber Component Performance

For mechanical rubber goods, Birla Carbon will highlight carbon black grades designed for specific automotive applications.

Bushings: Improved mixing and dispersion help enhance fatigue resistance and component durability.

Automotive mounts: Materials combining low hysteresis, low stiffness and reinforcement help manufacturers develop durable components while maintaining ride comfort.

These application-specific solutions aim to balance mechanical performance, durability and comfort in automotive rubber components.

Enhancing Extrusion Efficiency and Product Quality

Birla Carbon will also present clean, drop-in carbon black grades for rubber extrusion applications. These materials can help manufacturers reduce product defects, material scrap and screen-pack changes, thereby improving production throughput. Moreover, the grades support fatigue resistance and extend the service life of finished rubber products, helping manufacturers improve both manufacturing efficiency and product performance.

Global Technical Expertise and Supply Reliability

Birla Carbon combines scientific expertise, material simulation and technical support to help customers evaluate solutions for tires, industrial rubber products and specialty applications. Its global manufacturing footprint, together with capacity expansion across Asia, further strengthens its ability to support customers’ long-term supply requirements. As per the press release, through its participation at IRC 2026, Birla Carbon aims to demonstrate how advanced carbon materials can help the rubber industry achieve higher performance, improved manufacturing efficiency and greater sustainability.

Transport Corporation of India Ltd. (TCI), a leading integrated multimodal logistics and supply chain solutions provider in India, announced its financial results for the quarter and half year ended September 30, 2026. The company reported strong revenue growth, supported by expanding logistics operations and rising demand for integrated supply chain solutions.

TCI Financial Highlights for Q2 FY2027

TCI delivered growth across key financial indicators in the second quarter of FY2027 compared with the corresponding quarter of the previous financial year.

Revenue: Consolidated revenue increased by 14.8% to ₹13,979 million from ₹12,174 million in Q2 FY2026.

EBITDA: Earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortisation (EBITDA) rose by 8.3% to ₹1,759 million, compared with ₹1,624 million in the year-ago quarter.

Profit After Tax (PAT): Net profit grew by approximately 3% to ₹1,169 million from ₹1,135 million in Q2 FY2026.

Multimodal Logistics Supports Business Growth

Vineet Agarwal, Managing Director of Transport Corporation of India Ltd., highlighted the strength of the company’s integrated logistics model amid expanding domestic consumption and trade flows. He noted that TCI’s diversified portfolio, strong customer relationships and technology-driven supply chain solutions enable the company to respond effectively to evolving customer requirements. Its integrated network spans road, rail, coastal shipping, warehousing and technology-enabled logistics services. TCI continues to see healthy demand across third-party logistics (3PL), warehousing and multimodal transportation. By combining rail, road and coastal shipping, the company supports efficient, lower-emission long-haul transportation.

Expanding Warehousing and Digital Capabilities

TCI is strengthening its warehouse and logistics hub network to capture emerging opportunities in e-commerce, quick commerce and omnichannel retail. These expanding channels are increasing the need for flexible, reliable and efficient supply chain infrastructure.

Technology also remains central to the company’s growth strategy. Through Unified Logistics Interface Platform (ULIP)-enabled digital integration, TCI provides customers with real-time visibility and data-driven supply chain solutions.

In addition, the company is scaling artificial intelligence (AI)-based forecasting, route optimisation and automation. These initiatives aim to improve service quality, enhance asset productivity and reduce operating costs.

Positive Outlook for the Coming Quarters

As per the press release, TCI expects favourable business opportunities as festive-season demand strengthens across consumption-driven sectors. The company plans to continue investing in multimodal infrastructure, digital capabilities and green logistics to improve operational efficiency and deliver sustainable long-term value for customers and stakeholders. With its expanding logistics network, technology-led operations and diversified service portfolio, TCI aims to strengthen its position in India’s evolving logistics and supply chain industry.

The global chemical industry is undergoing a major transformation as companies respond to economic uncertainty, rising operating costs and growing sustainability requirements. Against this backdrop, AUTOMA Chem 2026 brought industry leaders together in Berlin on October 26–27 to explore digitalisation, innovation and the future of the chemical sector. Evonik co-hosted the event with regional partners WACKER, Covestro, LyondellBasell and Worley. The conference connected stakeholders across the chemical value chain, including chemical manufacturers, engineering, procurement and construction (EPC) companies, technology providers and industry experts.

Global Chemical Industry Faces Growth and Sustainability Challenges

In 2025, the global chemical industry was valued at approximately $6.324 trillion, representing year-on-year growth of 2.3%. Although chemicals underpin around 96% of manufactured goods, the sector continues to face uneven regional growth, trade tensions and increasing pressure to adopt greener production methods. Looking ahead, the industry’s growth outlook for 2026 points to a slowdown, with output growth expected to moderate to between 1.5% and 2.0%. Regional trends, however, remain varied. India continues to emerge as a major growth market, with projected growth of 10.9%, while China’s growth is expected to range from 1.3% to 3.6%. Meanwhile, Europe’s chemical industry faces stagnation amid persistently high energy costs. These contrasting market conditions are encouraging chemical companies to reassess their strategies, improve operational efficiency and accelerate the transition towards sustainable production.

AUTOMA Chem 2026 Promoted Industry Collaboration

To address these challenges, AUTOMA Chem 2026 provided a platform for industry leaders to exchange ideas, explore new technologies and develop practical solutions. Building on the AUTOMA event series, the conference aims to strengthen collaboration across the chemical value chain. Furthermore, pre-arranged business meetings enabled participants to discuss project-specific requirements, explore partnerships and identify opportunities for technology adoption. The approach combined industry networking with focused business discussions in an established professional environment.

Industry 4.0 and Artificial Intelligence Transform Chemical Operations

Industry 4.0, artificial intelligence (AI) and digitalisation are becoming increasingly important to the chemical industry’s transformation. Companies are using these technologies to improve research and development (R&D), strengthen technical sales, optimise supply chains and enhance operational efficiency. According to the event information, nearly 75% of chemical industry leaders are investing in AI for applications spanning R&D, sales enablement and operational performance.

At the opening panel, Eduardo Sopalda, Global D&T Data and AI Governance Expert at
DSM-Firmenich, shared insights into how effective data management and AI governance can support sustainable digital transformation in the chemical industry. His session highlighted the importance of establishing reliable governance frameworks as companies integrate AI into business processes and industrial operations.

Emissions Tracking and Life Cycle Assessment Support Decarbonisation

Alongside digitalisation, sustainability and green chemistry featured prominently at the conference. Chemical manufacturers increasingly need reliable methods to measure emissions, evaluate environmental impacts and improve the effectiveness of decarbonisation initiatives. Gianluca Di Lecce, who leads the Subcontracting division at Technip Energies, discussed how automated emissions tracking and life cycle assessment (LCA) intelligence can strengthen decarbonisation strategies. These approaches can help companies assess environmental impacts more systematically, identify improvement opportunities and make better-informed decisions throughout the project lifecycle.

Industry Leaders Shared Practical Insights

AUTOMA Chem 2026 brought together companies from across the chemical, engineering and technology sectors to discuss emerging challenges and opportunities. Reflecting on the broader AUTOMA series, Luigi Anselmi, Construction Operations Head of Department at Kinetics Technology (KT), described the event as a community rather than simply a conference. He emphasised the strong foundation of trust and shared commitment that encourages participants to engage with one another. This collaborative approach is particularly relevant as companies seek to implement new technologies, improve sustainability performance and respond to rapidly changing market conditions.

Major Companies Participated in AUTOMA Chem 2026

The inaugural AUTOMA Chem event welcomed industry participants, including Repsol Materials S.A., BASF SE, Merck, SABIC, McDermott, Wood plc and Linde plc, among others. Their participation reflected the growing importance of collaboration between chemical producers, engineering companies and technology providers. By sharing expertise and exploring digital strategies, these organisations aim to address the industry’s priorities of sustainability, productivity and operational efficiency. As per the press release, through discussions on AI, Industry 4.0, green chemistry and emissions management, AUTOMA Chem 2026 aimed to advance collaboration and accelerate the chemical industry’s transition towards a more efficient, digitally connected and sustainable future. https://sh.bgs.group/57k

Honeywell Technologies launched Forge Plant Cognition, an industrial artificial intelligence (AI) platform developed using NVIDIA AI and accelerated computing capabilities, alongside Dell Technologies’ AI infrastructure. The platform aims to help refinery, petrochemical and liquefied natural gas (LNG) operators improve asset performance, increase productivity and unlock greater operational value.

The platform will be deployed first at Dangote Petroleum Refinery in Lekki, Nigeria, one of the world’s largest single-train refineries. The initiative aims to increase throughput while strengthening the capabilities of local engineering and operations teams.

Honeywell estimates that AI-enabled optimisation through Forge Plant Cognition could deliver operational benefits exceeding $0.29 per barrel at the Lekki refinery. At full-capacity throughput, this could translate into more than $60 million in gross annual benefits for the facility.

Industrial AI to Improve Productivity and Profitability

Rajesh Gattupalli, President of Honeywell Technologies UOP, said industrial facilities offer significant opportunities to improve performance and generate value through digital technologies and connected solutions. He added that the collaboration with Dangote demonstrates how industrial AI can enhance productivity, reliability and profitability at scale.

Built on Honeywell Technologies’ Forge Cognition platform, Forge Plant Cognition combines process engineering expertise, industrial automation and AI capabilities. It helps operators identify performance bottlenecks, anticipate potential problems and translate operational insights into practical actions.

Unlike conventional AI solutions that primarily analyse data and provide recommendations, the platform integrates real-time operating data, engineering knowledge, trusted calculations and physics-based models. It also draws on Honeywell Technologies UOP’s process expertise to support more informed operational decisions.

Three Key Areas of Industrial Optimisation

Forge Plant Cognition is designed to deliver operational benefits across three critical areas:

Maximising operational value: The platform identifies bottlenecks and helps optimise throughput, product yield and value across interconnected processes.

Improving plant reliability: It detects emerging equipment and process issues, recommends corrective actions and helps minimise unplanned downtime.

Scaling industrial expertise: By embedding specialised process knowledge into AI-powered workflows, the platform helps engineers and operators make faster, more consistent decisions.

With more than a century of experience in refinery design and operation, Honeywell Technologies UOP brings extensive process engineering knowledge to the platform. This expertise helps AI systems identify how changes in operating conditions affect efficiency, throughput and overall plant performance.

NVIDIA AI and Dell Technologies Power the Platform

The platform runs on Dell AI Factory with NVIDIA and receives support from Dell Services. It combines several NVIDIA technologies to analyse plant data, simulate operations and improve decision-making.

Key technologies include:

NVIDIA Nemotron: Open models power AI agents that interpret and understand operational data.

NVIDIA Omniverse: Its libraries support the creation of digital twins of plants and processes for simulation-based training and planning.

NVIDIA Cosmos and Metropolis VSS Blueprint: These technologies enable vision AI agents to detect anomalies and generate real-time alerts.

NVIDIA PhysicsNeMo: This framework supports the development, training and fine-tuning of physics-based AI models at scale.

Together, these capabilities support digital-twin-integrated optimisation workflows, helping operators evaluate potential changes and improve plant performance.

Dangote Refinery to Integrate AI-Driven Optimisation

At Dangote Petroleum Refinery in Lekki, Nigeria, the platform will combine operational data with Honeywell Technologies’ process engineering expertise and AI-powered optimisation tools. This integration aims to identify operating constraints, accelerate troubleshooting and enable better-informed decisions.

David Bird, CEO and Managing Director of Dangote Petroleum Refinery and Petrochemicals FZE, said the company selected Forge Plant Cognition for its combination of industrial expertise and advanced AI capabilities. He highlighted its potential to optimise performance, unlock operational value and support the refinery’s commitment to technological advancement and operational excellence.

Developing Local Engineering and Operations Talent

Beyond improving operational performance, Forge Plant Cognition will support Dangote’s efforts to develop a skilled local workforce. By embedding specialised process knowledge into AI-powered tools, the platform will give engineers and operators access to expert guidance, accelerate problem-solving and strengthen technical capabilities. Furthermore, as Dangote expands its workforce, these tools will support its goal of developing a workforce comprising 70% Nigerian employees, gradually reducing dependence on external expertise.

Honeywell and Dangote Expand Their Long-Term Partnership

The launch builds on nearly a decade of collaboration between Honeywell Technologies and Dangote. In November 2025, the companies announced plans to increase the refinery’s capacity from 650,000 barrels per day to 1.4 million barrels per day within three years.

The expansion initiative focuses on optimising existing assets and accelerating the delivery of refined products to the market. With the introduction of Forge Plant Cognition, the partnership is extending its focus to AI-driven optimisation, operational efficiency and workforce development. As per the press release, by combining industrial expertise, digital twins and advanced AI technologies, Honeywell Technologies and Dangote aim to improve refinery performance while establishing a more intelligent, efficient and technology-driven model for industrial operations.

Petronet LNG is diversifying its energy portfolio by investing ₹1,200 crore in compressed biogas (CBG) production. The company has signed a binding term sheet with Gruner Renewable Energy to establish a 50:50 joint venture that will develop 10 compressed biogas plants across India. The move marks Petronet LNG’s entry into large-scale domestic renewable gas production. It also comes amid growing concerns over the risks of relying on imported liquefied natural gas (LNG), as geopolitical tensions and supply disruptions continue to affect global energy markets.

Ten CBG Plants to Deliver 180 Tonnes per Day

Under the proposed joint venture, Petronet LNG and Gruner Renewable Energy will establish 10 CBG plants, each with a production capacity of 18 tonnes per day. The project will require an estimated investment of ₹1,200 crore. Once operational, the facilities will have a combined production capacity of 180 tonnes of CBG per day, equivalent to approximately 63,000 tonnes annually, assuming 350 operating days. However, the companies have yet to announce the plant locations and commissioning schedules. The project represents Petronet LNG’s first major move into large-scale domestic gas production and will provide an additional revenue stream beyond its core LNG business.

LNG Supply Disruptions Highlight Import Risks

Petronet LNG’s diversification plans come as geopolitical disruptions expose the vulnerabilities of import-dependent energy businesses. The company’s flagship Dahej LNG terminal recorded throughput of 192 trillion British thermal units during the April–June 2026 quarter, down from 207 trillion units in the corresponding period a year earlier. Restrictions and disruptions affecting shipping through the Strait of Hormuz also affected Qatari gas supplies. Meanwhile, rising spot LNG prices highlighted the potential impact of global supply shocks on energy costs and availability. Although the proposed CBG capacity remains small compared with India’s annual LNG imports of approximately 25.5 million tonnes, the project will help Petronet establish a presence in the domestic renewable gas market.

Major Investments Continue in LNG and Petrochemicals

Alongside its CBG plans, Petronet LNG continues to expand its conventional energy and petrochemical infrastructure. The company is investing ₹20,685 crore in an integrated petrochemical complex at Dahej. It is also developing the ₹6,355 crore Gopalpur LNG terminal, which is expected to increase its regasification capacity to 32.5 million tonnes per annum, representing an increase of nearly 18%. Together, these investments reflect Petronet’s strategy of expanding its core LNG infrastructure while exploring alternative sources of gas to diversify its business.

Government Mandates Support CBG Demand

Government policies could further support the growth of compressed biogas in India. City gas distribution companies must progressively blend CBG with transport compressed natural gas (CNG) and household piped natural gas. The blending obligation is scheduled to rise from 3% in FY2027 to 5% from FY2029. Consequently, these mandates could create additional demand for domestically produced CBG and encourage investment in renewable gas infrastructure.

Feedstock Supply Remains a Key Challenge

Despite the potential opportunities, Petronet LNG and Gruner Renewable Energy must address several operational challenges to make the project commercially successful. Unlike conventional LNG operations, which rely on imported cargoes, CBG production depends on securing a consistent supply of agricultural residues and organic waste. Therefore, the joint venture will need reliable feedstock procurement networks, efficient waste collection systems and effective plant operations across multiple locations. As reported by thehindubusinessline.com, if the partners manage these requirements effectively, the project could strengthen Petronet LNG’s domestic gas portfolio while supporting India’s renewable energy and energy-diversification goals.

Jakson Solar planning to invest up to ₹5,000 crore ($525.2 million) to establish 3 GW each of solar cell and solar ingot-wafer manufacturing capacity in India. The investment aims to expand domestic solar manufacturing and strengthen the country’s solar supply chain.

Solar Cell Manufacturing to Begin by December 2027

Jakson Solar aims to commission its proposed 3 GW solar cell manufacturing facility by December 2027. In addition, the company plans to establish 3 GW of solar ingot and wafer manufacturing capacity by the third quarter of fiscal year 2028. According to Jakson Solar Managing Director Ivan Saha, the new facilities will primarily serve the merchant market. The company has also secured equipment procurement tie-ups to support the planned manufacturing expansion. Jakson Solar already operates a 1.2 GW solar module manufacturing plant. With the proposed investment, the company intends to expand its presence across the solar manufacturing value chain.

Domestic Solar Manufacturing to Reduce Import Dependence

Saha emphasised the importance of developing a domestic manufacturing ecosystem across the solar supply chain. According to him, strengthening local production capacity will help India reduce its exposure to potential global supply disruptions. India is increasingly relying on solar energy to support its long-term climate goals, including its target of achieving net-zero emissions by 2070. Consequently, the government has introduced domestic sourcing requirements for solar modules and cells to encourage local manufacturing.

New Local-Content Rules for Solar Ingots and Wafers

The government has also established a framework to extend domestic content requirements to solar ingots and wafers from June 1, 2028. This move aims to deepen domestic manufacturing capabilities and reduce India’s dependence on imports, particularly from China. Against this backdrop, Jakson Solar’s proposed investment could support the development of India’s upstream solar manufacturing sector. As reported by thehindubusinessline.com, by expanding production of solar cells, ingots and wafers, the company aims to strengthen domestic supply capabilities and contribute to the country’s renewable energy ambitions.

Engineers India Limited (EIL) bagged the FICCI Chemicals & Petrochemicals Award 2026 in the category of “Outstanding Contribution to Society”. The award recognises the company’s efforts to promote sustainable business practices and generate positive social impact through its Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiatives. The recognition highlights EIL’s commitment to responsible business conduct, sustainable development and inclusive growth. Through its targeted CSR programmes, the company continues to support community development and address social needs while contributing to a more equitable and sustainable future.

EIL Recognised for CSR and Sustainability Initiatives

The FICCI Chemicals & Petrochemicals Awards recognise companies that adopt sustainable practices and make meaningful contributions to society through their CSR initiatives. EIL’s achievement reflects its focus on integrating social and environmental considerations into its business approach. Beyond its core operations, the company actively supports initiatives that promote community welfare and create long-term social value.

Strengthening Commitment to Inclusive Growth

Furthermore, the award reinforces EIL’s emphasis on responsible business practices and sustainable development. By aligning its CSR programmes with community needs, the company aims to create lasting benefits and support inclusive growth. As reported by indianmasterminds.com, the recognition also highlights the growing importance of corporate social responsibility in the chemicals and petrochemicals sector. By combining business objectives with sustainability and social development, companies such as EIL can contribute to broader societal progress and a more sustainable future.

Indian petrochemical producers are exploring investments in specialty chemicals and seeking technology partnerships with international companies to reduce the country’s dependence on imports. Industry representatives discussed these opportunities at the India Chem 2026 conference in Mumbai. Indian Oil Executive Director Sumit Basu highlighted the significant gap in India’s specialty chemicals sector, particularly in engineering plastics. “We are evaluating many specialty products. Apart from the commodity plastics, there is a huge deficiency in specialty chemicals in India, like engineering plastics,” Basu said.

He also suggested that foreign companies with advanced production technologies could invest in India through joint ventures as the country signs free trade agreements (FTAs). Citing China’s experience, he noted that partnerships between domestic and international companies had helped expand its chemical production capacity despite similar feedstock constraints.

Technology Transfer Could Strengthen Domestic Manufacturing

India continues to rely on imports for several chemicals, leaving domestic industries vulnerable to global supply disruptions and geopolitical tensions, including the Iran war. These disruptions prompted the government to waive import duties on more than 40 chemicals from April to mid-July.

To address these challenges, the Department of Chemicals and Petrochemicals (DCPC) is considering technology transfer as part of India’s trade negotiations. G Venkatesh, Joint Secretary at the DCPC, said the government would take up the issue with the Department of Commerce. Such collaborations could help Indian manufacturers access advanced technologies, strengthen domestic production and reduce dependence on overseas suppliers.

Feedstock Availability Remains a Key Challenge

Despite growing interest in specialty chemicals, industry participants identified feedstock availability and project viability as major barriers to establishing new manufacturing units. Integrated Indian refiners generally consume most of their monomer output in their own downstream plants. Consequently, standalone units that depend on monomers such as propylene face commercial risks because of uncertain feedstock availability. However, capacity expansion plans among several domestic producers could create opportunities for smaller manufacturers to secure additional feedstock. Atul Khanwalkar, Head of Petrochemicals at Bharat Petroleum Corporation Ltd (BPCL), expressed the company’s willingness to explore such arrangements. “We would certainly be evaluating opportunities to share some of our feedstock,” he said. BPCL is building a 1.2-million-tonne-per-year steam cracker at Bina in Madhya Pradesh, alongside downstream polyolefin production facilities. The project could strengthen the domestic petrochemical supply chain as India expands its manufacturing capabilities.

Industry Calls for Faster Joint Venture Approvals

Several state-controlled petrochemical companies also urged the government to simplify approval procedures for joint ventures and reduce delays in establishing new projects. Faster regulatory clearances could encourage foreign technology providers to partner with Indian manufacturers, accelerate investment decisions and support the development of specialty chemical production facilities.

India Plans National Petrochemical Feedstock Policy

Meanwhile, the government plans to develop a national petrochemical feedstock policy to address supply uncertainties highlighted by the Iran war. Tejveer Singh, Secretary of the DCPC, said the government intended to consult industry stakeholders and the Chemicals & Petrochemicals Manufacturers’ Association (CPMA) to develop the policy. “I think this is something we would like to sit with the industry and the Chemicals & Petrochemicals Manufacturers’ association (CPMA) and see how we can work on it,” he said. The conflict has already prompted India to introduce several feedstock conservation measures. These include diverting propane, butane and propylene towards liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) production to manage domestic supply requirements.

Specialty Chemicals Emerge as a Strategic Growth Opportunity

As reported by argusmedia.com, India’s push towards specialty chemicals reflects a broader effort to strengthen domestic manufacturing, diversify supply chains and improve access to advanced production technologies. By encouraging foreign technology partnerships, improving feedstock availability and streamlining project approvals, the country could create new opportunities for specialty chemical producers. At the same time, a coordinated national feedstock policy could help address supply risks and support the long-term growth of India’s petrochemical industry.