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HomePosts Tagged "Gujarat"
Investments, Supply Chain

New plant to be build across 1M + square feet of area with investment planned of Rs 60 crores to establish new state-of-the-art manufacturing unit. New facility will have a production capacity of 2,50,000 MTPA by 2027-28 and pioneer the production of bio-based additives, solvents, and specialty additives.

Leading speciality chemicals manufacturer, Shivtek Spechemi Industries Ltd, a flagship company of the Shiva Group of Industries, today announced the finalization of a new manufacturing facility near Hazira, spread across 1M+ square feet. The new facility, to be operational from 2027, will add to the production capacity of 2,50,000 MTPA by 2027-28 and offers cost-effective logistics and seamless connectivity to both domestic and international markets.

The location offers easy access to major ports including Hazira, Dahej, Kandla, and Mundra, ensuring seamless connectivity for both imports and exports. Its proximity to the dedicated freight corridor further enhances the efficient and cost-effective movement of raw materials and finished goods. Additionally, being just 70 kilometers from the Dahej plant significantly reduces logistics costs, making it a strategic advantage for streamlined supply chain operations.

The expansion is further supported by a 5000 KL storage facility and a dedicated warehousing space of 1,50,000 square feet for export orders and products from the Dahej plant.

Commenting on the milestone, Dr. Amitt Nenwani, Managing Director, Shivtek Spechemi Industries Ltd, said, “Investment in Hazira aligns with the company’s long-term vision of sustainable innovation in the specialty chemicals sector. The upcoming plant represents a significant strategic expansion for Shivtek, driven by clear logistical, industrial, and market-oriented considerations. By expanding our manufacturing capacities, we are not only investing in our future, but also reinforce our commitment to environmental responsibility, technological advancement, and market leadership.”

The new Hazira plant will pioneer the production of oil additives, Proteogenic to Aprotic solvents, and specialty petrochemicals.

“This investment is a testament to our robust financial planning and disciplined approach to leverage market opportunities. By strategically aligning our expansion with the many business opportunities in Gujarat, we are well-positioned to unlock significant growth and deliver value to all stakeholders. These new plants will not only enhance our production capabilities but also strengthen our resilience and agility in a dynamic global marketplace”, shared Mrs. Kashiish A Nenwani, Director, Shivtek Spechemi Industries Ltd

Notably, Shivtek has registered with Vibrant Gujarat 2027 Summit, the state’s flagship investment summit. The company looks forward to showcasing its completed project on the occasion, highlighting its commitment to industrial growth, innovation, and regional development.

New plant to be build across 1M

Agribusiness, Cold Storage

Union Home and Cooperation Minister Amit Shah inaugurated Falcon Agrifriz’s cutting-edge frozen potato products facility in Kadi, located in Gujarat’s Mehsana district. Developed with an investment of $126.5 million, the plant stands as India’s largest production hub for frozen French fries, potato wedges, hash browns, and nuggets

The newly inaugurated plant is poised to become a catalyst for regional economic growth by generating significant employment opportunities, both directly within the facility and indirectly through its extensive supply chain. By engaging in contract farming, Falcon Agrifriz aims to empower local farmers by providing them with stable income opportunities, access to modern agricultural practices, quality inputs, and assured markets for their produce. This farmer-centric approach aligns with the Government of India’s broader mission to fortify the food processing industry and double farmers’ income, while ensuring the integration of small and marginal growers into formal market systems.

Built with an investment of $126.5 million, the facility is equipped with cutting-edge processing and freezing technology, enabling high-volume production while maintaining global standards for food safety and quality. Special attention has been given to hygiene, waste management, and energy efficiency, ensuring that the plant operates in an environmentally responsible manner. The integration of sustainable practices, such as water recycling systems and energy-saving equipment, underscores Falcon Agrifriz’s commitment to minimizing its environmental footprint.

More than just a production center, the plant represents Falcon Agrifriz’s vision for innovation-driven and responsible manufacturing. Its operational model is designed not only to meet rising domestic demand for processed foods but also to strengthen India’s export capabilities in the global frozen foods market.

This strategic development marks a transformative milestone in India’s food processing journey, reinforcing the nation’s potential as an emerging global hub for high-quality frozen food products. It signals a shift toward value-added agriculture, technological excellence, and inclusive growth—positioning India as a key player on the world stage in the processed food industry.

Union Home and Cooperation Minister Amit Shah

Climate, Collaborations, Company News, Environment, Finance, Funding, Interaction, Microfinance, Sustainability, Sustainable Energy

In partnership with Gram Panchayat, UPL is developing a 11-acre pond in Talodra and a 2.5-acre pond in Dadheda village

UPL, as part its “Inclusive Development and Growth” thematic focus area, in partnership with Gram Panchayat, continues to strengthen its commitment to
sustainable development through impactful projects in Talodra and Dadheda villages in Gujarat. These initiatives focus on preserving natural resources while fostering community engagement. Under this initiative, UPL is developing a 11-acre pond in Talodra village to enhance rainwater conservation and promote sustainability. As part of this effort, a tree plantation drive was conducted along the pond’s boundary, with 100 trees planted to boost biodiversity and foster a greener ecosystem. The event was graced by Mr. Dhandhal, Additional Collector, Bharuch, Mr. R.D. Jadeja, Assistant Conservator of Forests, Bharuch, Ms. Meena, Range Forest Officer (Wildlife), Jhagadia, Mr. R. S. Rahaveer, Range Forest Officer (Social Forestry), Jhagadia, Mr Pravindan Gadhavi, Unit Head, UPL Jhagadia and Mr. Rishi Pathania, Vice President – CSR, UPL Ltd.

The pond is being transformed with walkways and seating, creating a space for both environmental and community benefit. Similarly, in Dadheda, UPL is developing a 2.5-acre pond to enhance water conservation and support sustainable development. The project includes deepening the pond to optimize rainwater harvesting, benefiting local agriculture and replenishing groundwater resources. To engage the community and highlight the importance of collective action in conserving natural resources, a friendly cricket match was organized to promote community engagement. The event brought together local teams in a
spirited competition and was attended by dignitaries such as Police Inspector Mr. Rathod, GIDC Police Station, and Mr. Aakash Vasava, Assistant Engineer, Notified Area Authority, GIDC Jhagadia, and Mr Pravindan Gadhavi, Unit Head, UPL Jhagadia.

Speaking about the initiative, Mr. Rishi Pathania, Vice President – CSR, UPL, said, “At UPL, our objective is to drive sustainable and positive change within society through responsible practices. Inclusive Development and Growth is at the heart of our community initiatives. By developing ponds, planting trees, and promoting ecological balance, we are committed to restoring natural resources and enhancing community well-being. These efforts empower rural communities to become stewards of their environment, aligning with our vision for a greener, more resilient future for all.”

Encouraging the localities, Mr. Dhandhal, Additional Collector, Bharuch, said, “The work being done by UPL in Dadheda and Talodra sets a great example of how public-private partnerships can address critical needs like water conservation and biodiversity. These initiatives will have a lasting impact on
both the environment and the well-being of the community.” In addition to these, UPL has made significant strides in protecting and restoring ecosystems through various conservation efforts. The Sarus Conservation Project has seen a remarkable 186% increase in the crane population, rising to 1,431 in 2023-24 from 500 in 2015-16. In 2023-24, over 132 vultures were documented in Khambhat, Gujarat. UPL has also planted over 2,10,255 trees in different areas of
Gujarat and 4.17 lakh mangrove saplings across 200 acres of the coastal belt in Vagra Taluka, Dahej, Gujarat. In the last five years, 20+ water conservation structures have been built, conserving approximately 24 lakh cubic meters of water. UPL has also established 125 eco-clubs in schools, involving over 5,400 members and sensitizing 17,000+ students to environmental protection. These efforts reflect UPL’s dedication to environment conservation and sustainable development, ensuring that communities thrive alongside a healthier ecosystem.

In partnership with Gram Panchayat, UPL is

Agro chems – Chemicals, India, Speciality Chemicals

Field efficacy studies have underscored the safety and positive impact of Ray Nano Science & Research Centre’s Nano Urea, positioning it as a non-toxic and environmentally friendly alternative

In a momentous achievement for the agricultural sector, India has firmly established itself as a global leader in Nano Agri Inputs, encompassing Nano fertilisers and Nano micro-nutrients, heralding a transformative era in sustainable farming practices. The notable progress in nanotechnology-driven agricultural solutions has catapulted India to the forefront of innovation, providing groundbreaking solutions that reduce dependence on conventional bulk fertilisers like Urea, promoting self-reliance, and mitigating environmental impact without compromising crop yield, thereby ensuring food security. Additionally, these advancements significantly alleviate the government’s expenditure on subsidies.

Beyond established fertiliser companies, pivotal contributors to India’s ascendancy in this domain include innovative start-ups such as Ray Nano Science & Research Centre, focusing primarily on Nano technology-driven research. Actively engaged in developing avant-garde products leveraging nanotechnology for agricultural benefits, they have played a key role in shaping India’s leadership.

With a commitment to innovation and technological progress, the organisation has successfully introduced Nano Urea, utilising its patented Green Technology, and initiated operations at its fully automated nano urea plant in Mogar, Gujarat, a mere five months after receiving Fertiliser Control Order permission.

Field efficacy studies have underscored the safety and positive impact of Ray Nano Science & Research Centre’s Nano Urea, positioning it as a non-toxic and environmentally friendly alternative. This product not only enhances crop productivity but also ensures the well-being of users and the surrounding environment.

Field efficacy studies have underscored the safety

India, Nature, Sustainability, Sustainable Energy

The plant is anticipated to produce an average of 953 gigawatt-hours of clean energy annually, helping to avoid approximately 783,855 tonnes of carbon dioxide emissions annually

The Asian Development Bank (ADB) and SAEL Industries Limited, through its subsidiary SAEL Solar P4 Private Limited, have signed a loan of up to 12.23 billion Indian rupees (about $147 million equivalent) for the development of a 400-megawatt (MW) greenfield solar power plant in Gujarat, India, to support the country’s ongoing transition toward clean energy and low-carbon growth.

The financing package comprises 12.23 billion Indian rupees from ADB and a parallel loan of up to 6.11 billion Indian rupees underwritten by Tata Capital. ADB led the structuring of the financing package as well as the mobilisation of domestic private capital.

“The private sector must play a pivotal role in the transition from fossil fuels to renewable energy generation, particularly in Asia and the Pacific region, which contributes over half of global greenhouse gas emissions. As the region’s climate bank, ADB provides long-term local currency financing to stimulate private sector investment in clean energy,” said Suzanne Gaboury, ADB Director General for Private Sector Operations. “ADB’s partnership with SAEL supports the Government of India’s objective of achieving 500 gigawatts of renewable energy generation capacity by 2030.”

SAEL Solar P4 Private Limited will build and operate the solar powerplant, situated within the Khavda Ultra Mega Solar Park in Gujarat, India. The electricity generated by the solar plant will be supplied to Gujarat Urja Vikas Nigam Limited, the state-owned power distribution company, through a 25-year purchase agreement. The plant is anticipated to produce an average of 953 gigawatt-hours of clean energy annually, helping to avoid approximately 783,855 tonnes of carbon dioxide emissions annually. SAEL and ADB have previously partnered in a biomass power generation project that uses agricultural residue.

The plant is anticipated to produce an

Agro chems – Chemicals, Agrotech, Company News, India

This plant can synthesise a variety of agro intermediates for the global supply of several agro-actives

Jubilant Ingrevia Limited today announced the commissioning of its state-of-the-art multipurpose agro intermediate plant to produce value-added derivatives at its manufacturing facility at Bharuch, Gujarat. The plant aims to cater to the growing demand for agro intermediates across the globe.

Speaking on the occasion, Deepak Jain, CEO & Managing Director, of Jubilant Ingrevia Limited said, “We are delighted with the commissioning of our new multipurpose agro intermediate plant. This aligns with our key strategy to shift structurally towards value-added agrochemicals business. Our deep expertise in offering solutions to our global customers using multistep chemistries has led us to become a partner of choice for our global agrochemical customers, including innovators.

The inauguration of this state-of-the-art facility demonstrates our commitment to expand our business towards more value-added agro intermediates.” This plant can synthesise a variety of agro intermediates for the global supply of several agro actives.

The Company has developed cost-competitive value-added products by using captive raw materials based on its completely backward integrated Pyridine capability, where it holds a global leadership position. Jubilant Ingrevia Limited continues to remain committed towards the introduction of key agro intermediates with a focus on ESG aspects, helping its strategic partners to address their journey towards carbon footprint reduction. The Company is already synthesising several agro intermediates in its facility at Bharuch, Gujarat and this new plant will help in expanding its presence further in the agrochemicals space.

This plant can synthesise a variety of

AgroPolicy, Dairy, India

The new headquarters building will be a 100 per cent green building

Amit Shah, Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation laid the foundation stone of the headquarters of National Cooperative Dairy Federation of India (NCDFI) Limited in Gandhinagar, Gujarat and addressed the e-Market Awards 2023 ceremony. Many dignitaries including Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel, Gujarat Legislative Assembly Speaker Shankar Choudhary, IFFCO Chairman Dilip Sanghani, NDDB Chairman Dr Meenesh Shah and NCDFI Chairman Dr Mangal Rai were present on the occasion.

In his address, Amit Shah said that the dairy and especially the cooperative dairy sector in our country has achieved multi-dimensional goals. He said that if the cooperative sector does not do milk trading, then milk production remains limited to a middleman and the milk user. But suppose the cooperative sector cooperatively trades milk. In that case, many dimensions are integrated into it, because the aim is not to make profit only and it has multidimensional benefits to the society, agriculture, villages, milk producers and ultimately the country. He said India has experienced this success story in the last 50 years.

The Minister of Cooperation said that today India has reached first place in the world’s milk production with a 24 per cent share. He said that if a cooperative dairy is to be run, then many institutions will have to be formed to nurture it and NCDFI will do this work. In a way, NCDFI is doing the work of guiding all dairies. Shah said that White Revolution started in the village ‘Vasi’ and now the headquarters of NCDFI is going to be built in the same Anand district in an area of about 7000 square meters. It will be built at an expense of about Rs 32 crore and will be operated through a solar power plant. He said that the new headquarters building will be a 100 per cent green building.

The new headquarters building will be a

Agbiologicals, Agribusiness, Biofertilizers

The development and operational commencement of agro-biological production facility is scheduled for mid-2025.

IPL Biologicals signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Gujarat government for setting up a Rs 400 crore bio-fertilizer and bio-pesticide facility in Gujarat according to the statement by company.

The MoU was signed in the presence of Gujarat Chief Minister, Bhupendra Patel. The development and operational commencement of IPL Biologicals’ agro-biological production facility is scheduled for mid-2025. IPL Biologicals envisions the MoU with the Gujarat Government to develop a new facility as a significant contributor to sustainable agriculture. The major focus of the first phase of production will be on the company’s agriculture products, followed by probiotics and enzyme products. The project shall be on reducing chemical usage in the agribusiness sector and providing safe food production to the world, the release added.

“As we embark on this transformative journey with the Gujarat government for the establishment of a new bio-fertilizer and bio-pesticide production facility in Gujarat, we are driven by a profound commitment to redefine the future of agriculture. Our vision goes beyond traditional boundaries, encapsulating a holistic approach towards sustainable farming practices. Our commitment to Global Standard Manufacturing is a testament to our aspiration to produce high-quality products that meet and exceed global standards. This manufacturing unit will be a fully automated, state-of-the-art facility, probably the best in the world and it will not only contribute to the local economy, but also elevate India’s standing in the global arena of biotechnology,” said Harshvardhan Bhagchandka, President of IPL Biologicals.

The development and operational commencement of agro-biological

Agribusiness, Agro chems – Chemicals, Company News, India

The new plant will be the company’s third Indian facility for active ingredients in agrochemicals.

 Tokyo-based agrochemical manufacturer, Sumitomo Chemical plans to develop its new agrochemical plant in the western part of Gujarat. The Japanese company will obtain about 50 acres of land in the western state of Gujarat and aim to complete construction around 2027. The initial investment is expected to be over 5 billion yen ($35 million). The total amount will exceed several tens of billions of yen in the mid- to long-term as the plant gradually expands.

The new plant will be the company’s third Indian facility for active ingredients in agrochemicals. If the entire site is utilised, the company’s annual production capacity is expected to increase 80 per cent in India.

The company’s agrochemical business in India generated sales of about $430 million in the fiscal year ended March 2023. The Company aims to achieve a sales volume of $500 million by fiscal 2025.

The new plant will be the company's

Agro chems – Chemicals, Company News, India

This strategic collaboration aims to foster growth, innovation, and sustainability in the chemical manufacturing sector

Arete Group, a renowned business conglomerate, announced a significant transaction involving the acquisition of 35 acres of prime industrial land by Silox India Private Limited at PIP (Payal Industrial Park) in Dahej Gujarat. Silox India is a leading manufacturer of inorganic chemicals headquartered in Belgium. This strategic collaboration aims to foster growth, innovation, and sustainability in the chemical manufacturing sector.

PIP, developed and promoted by Arete Group, stands as India’s largest privately integrated industrial park, strategically located within the Gujarat PCPIR (Petroleum, Chemicals, and Petrochemicals Investment Region). Approved by the Government of Gujarat, PIP offers world-class infrastructure and facilities, creating an ideal environment for manufacturing plants and large-scale industries. The park, sprawling over 3,500 acres, has been meticulously planned by engineering and construction giant CH2M Hill, catering to the specific requirements of water-intensive and polluting industries.

The facilities at PIP, including water access, an effluent treatment plant, and environmentally friendly plans, align perfectly with Silox’s commitment to sustainability. The collaborative environment at PIP is expected to enhance Silox India’s capacity by 30-40 per cent compared to its current capabilities, fostering growth and innovation.

Prakash Raman, MD of Silox India Private Limited, shared his perspective on the partnership: “As a manufacturer of inorganic chemicals, our collaboration with PIP signifies a strategic move towards achieving our growth objectives. The facilities offered by PIP, coupled with its environmentally conscious approach, provide us with a collaborative environment to thrive. We anticipate that this partnership will not only enhance our production capacity but also contribute to the overall success of both Silox India and PIP.”

This strategic collaboration aims to foster growth,

AgroPolicy, Dairy, India, Live Stock, R&D

Rahuri Semen station in Maharashtra tops the list of 55 players with 97 per cent score in the Evaluation report by Central Monitoring Unit followed by 95 per cent for Animal Breeding Centre, Salon In U.P

The government of India has put the NDDB Dairy Services (NDS) owned Rahuri Semen Station in Maharashtra as India’s numbero Uno on parameters ranging from quality and animal genetics to health and safety protocols, with its other semen station getting an “A” ranking, the Company said here.

 A Technical Audit report of 55 Semen Station across the country for 2022-23 by the Central Monitoring Unit (CMU) was submitted to the Department of Animal Husbandry and Dairy Development, Government of India earlier this month where Rahuri was given a marking of 97 followed by 95 for Animal Breeding Centre Salon, a NDS station, in Utter Pradesh.

 The CMU report accorded a total of nine semen stations a score of 90 and above under Grade A. The other seven include the two NDS stations – Sabarmati Ashram Gaushala, Bidaj in Gujarat and Alamadhi Semen station in Tamil Nadu; Karnataka Govt’s station at SLBTC Hessarghetta; Kerala Government’s station at Dhoni; Bihar Govt’s station at Purnea (Under NDS), BAIF’s station at Uralikanchan and BSSRC Hisar.

Dr Meenesh Shah, Chairman, of NDDB, who is also the Chairman of NDS said “It is a proud moment for all of us and this will spur us to do more for the service of the dairy farmers. Credit for this goes to the dedication of the teams of Veterinary experts and scientists who are working to enhance the productivity of the milch animals and propagation of the genetics of the indigenous breeds. 

“The semen stations run by NDDB Dairy Services are amongst the best professionally managed semen stations not only in India but also in the world. These stations adhere strictly to the quality protocols and have in place stringent bio-security measures to produce disease-free semen. The evaluation report of CMU and the scores received by our stations revalidate our processes and expertise,” he said. 

 The NDS stations have close to 1800 high genetic merit bulls of 35 breeds and together sold over 5.2 crore doses during the evaluation period 2022-23. These stations are also actively involved in In vivo and Invitro embryo production and transfers.

Rahuri Semen station in Maharashtra tops the

Agro chems – Chemicals, Agro chems – Pesticides, Company News, India

PIP, the industrial park arm of Arete Group, has emerged as an ultimate destination for establishing Chemicals industries such as Agrochemicals, pesticides, speciality chemicals, inorganic chemicals

Arete Group, a Gujarat-based leading business conglomerate and Industrial park developer has onboarded Gharda Chemicals Limited, a prominent player in the chemical manufacturing industry, by selling 38 acres of prime industrial land at its Industrial Park project PIP (Payal Industrial Park) in Dahej, Gujarat. With a total investment commitment of INR 600 crores, Gharda Chemicals Limited is set to establish a cutting-edge manufacturing facility at this site.

PIP, the industrial park arm of Arete Group, has emerged as an ultimate destination for establishing Chemicals industries such as Agrochemicals, pesticides, specialty chemicals, inorganic chemicals, dyes & pigments chlor-alkali and other such chemical industries today in India.

Situated in Dahej, Gujarat, PIP spans an expansive area of 3,500 acres dedicated to large-scale industrial development, logistics parks, and utilities. Developed within the Gujarat PCPIR (Petroleum, Chemicals, and Petrochemicals Investment Region) as declared by the Government of India under the PCPIR Policy 2007, PIP is strategically surrounded by fast-growing industrial projects within Gujarat PCPIR. The park has received government approval and boasts world-class infrastructure facilities.

With plans of establishing a greenfield project at PIP Gharda Chemicals Limited gains access to, proximity to essential vendors, and the opportunity to be a part of a thriving industrial cluster. By situating itself within an ideal hub for water-intensive and chemical-related industries, Gharda Chemicals Limited secures a significant competitive edge in the Indian market.

“We are excited to welcome Gharda Chemicals Limited to PIP,” said Siraj Saiyed, Director of Arete Group. “On-boarding Gharda Chemicals Limited into our Park reflects our commitment to providing world-class infrastructure and enabling a conducive ecosystem for businesses to excel. We believe that Gharda Chemicals’ presence will not only benefit their operations but also contribute to the overall industrial growth in the region.” He further added.

The upcoming chemical manufacturing facility at PIP will specialise in the production of API and agrochemicals-based formulations, further reinforcing Gharda Chemicals Limited’s commitment to delivering high-quality chemical products. The partnership marks a significant milestone in the development of the Agrochemical industry in Gujarat. Both parties anticipate a fruitful collaboration that will contribute to the growth and prosperity of the sector.

PIP, the industrial park arm of Arete

AgroPolicy, India, Logistics, Supply Chain, Transportation

The new Next-Gen Container terminal will cater to future trade demand from Northern, Western and Central India, connecting the regions to global markets.

A concession agreement signed between Deendayal Port Authority and DP World in the presence of Sarbananda Sonowal, Union Minister for Ports, Shipping & Waterways and AYUSH, HE Sultan Ahmed Bin Sulayem, Group Chairman and CEO, DP World; Rizwan Soomar, DP World, CEO & MD, Middle East, North Africa and India, Sanjay Mehta, IFS, Chairperson and other senior officials of the ministry in New Delhi.

This state-of-the-art container terminal at Tuna-Tekra will cater to future trade demand from Northern, Western and Central India, connecting the regions to global markets. The project involves the construction of a mega-container terminal at Tuna-Tekra near the existing Deendayal Port, at a cost of Rs 4,243.64 crores ($510 million) through a Public Private Partnership (PPP). Once completed the terminal will have an annual capacity of 2.19 million TEUs, and will include a 1,100m berth capable of handling next-generation vessels carrying more than 18,000 TEUs.

The Container Terminal is expected to transform the economic landscape of Kutch, with creation of several ancillary services like warehousing, etc. and also result in creation of direct and indirect employment opportunities to hundreds of people.

In addition to increasing the business potential of Kandla, the project will boost the economy and generate employment. The container terminal will be fully compliant with the green port guidelines ensuring sustainability in port operations by adopting best practices of port environment management contributing towards the long-term sustainability goals set out by the Government of India.

Container Terminal Highlights:

• Annual capacity of 2.19 million TEU

• 1,100m berth to handle next-generation vessels

• Fully compliant with the green port guidelines

• The terminal will connect Northern, Western and Central India with Global market

• The project aligns with India’s Vision 2047 to quadruple port handling capacity

• The terminal will be a part of the National Infrastructure Pipeline complementing PM Gati Shakti

The new Next-Gen Container terminal will cater

AgroPolicy, Biofuel industry, India

Additionally, Rs 6000 crore can be saved annually by blending 20 per cent DME

Methanol is a low-carbon, hydrogen carrier fuel produced from high ash coal, agricultural residue, CO2 from thermal power plants and natural gas. It is the best pathway for meeting India’s commitment to COP 21.

NITI Aayog’s ‘Methanol Economy’ programme is aimed at reducing India’s oil import bill, greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, and converting coal reserves and municipal solid waste into methanol. 

Although slightly lower in energy content than petrol and diesel, methanol can replace both these fuels in the transport sector (road, rail and marine), energy sector (comprising DG sets, boilers, process heating modules, tractors and commercial vehicles) and retail cooking (replacing LPG [partially], kerosene and wood charcoal). The blending of 15 per cent methanol in gasoline can result in at least a 15 per cent reduction in the import of gasoline/crude oil. In addition, this would bring down GHG emissions by 20 per cent in terms of particulate matter, NOx, and SOx, thereby improving the urban air quality.

The methanol Economy will also create close to 5 million jobs through methanol production/application and distribution services. Additionally, Rs 6000 crore can be saved annually by blending 20 per cent DME (Di-methyl Ether, a derivative of methanol) in LPG. This will help the consumer in saving between Rs 50-100 per cylinder.

The Bureau of Indian Standards has notified 20 per cent DME blending with LPG, and a notification for M-15, M-85 and M-100 blends has been issued by the Ministry of Road, Transport and Highways. Test standards and plans for the M-15 blend are being evolved in consultation with the Indian Oil Corporation Limited, the Automotive Research Association of India and the Society of Indian Automobile Manufacturers. In the railway sector, RDSO is working towards blending methanol in the range of 5-20 per cent through direct fuel injection in locomotives.

On 5 October 2018, Assam Petrochemicals launched Asia’s first canister-based methanol cooking fuel programme. This initiative is an extension of our Hon’ble Prime Minister’s vision of reducing the import of crude oil and striving towards the provision of a clean, cost-effective and pollution-free cooking medium. Methanol stoves can result in at least 20% savings for households. After the success of the pilot, the methanol cooking programme was scaled up to 1,00,000 households in the States of Uttar Pradesh, Maharashtra, Gujarat, Telangana, Andhra Pradesh, Goa, Karnataka, Jharkhand and Manipur.

Five methanol plants based on high ash coal, five DME plants, and one natural gas-based methanol production plant with a capacity of 20 MMT/annum, in a joint venture with Israel, have been planned to be set up. Three boats and seven cargo vessels are being built by the Cochin Shipyard Limited for the Inland Waterways Authority of India to use methanol as a marine fuel.

Thermax Ltd has successfully developed a 5 KW methanol-based reformer on a Direct Methanol Fuel Cell (DMFC). This module is being tested to replace DG sets in mobile towers. For direct electricity generation, Kirloskar Oil Engines Ltd has converted a 5 KW generator set to run on 100% methanol. Kirloskar is working towards converting generator sets of 150-300 KVA/KW capacity, in collaboration with Dor Chemicals, Israel.

Under R&D, work is in progress to set up coal-to-methanol plants in the country using indigenous technology, which is being developed by BHEL (Hyderabad and Trichy), Thermax, and IIT Delhi. Thermax and IIT Delhi are working on a TPD demonstration plant, while BHEL Hyderabad and Trichy are working on 1 TPD and 40 TPD demonstration plants, respectively. 

An R&D project has also been sanctioned by the Department of Biotechnology to IISc Bengaluru and Praj Industries Pune for the production of methanol from biomass. Phase-I of the production of syngas from biomass was demonstrated in January 2019.

Additionally, Rs 6000 crore can be saved