The Business Bytes
THEBUSINESSBYTES BUREAU
BHUBANESWAR, JANUARY 28, 2025
Odisha’s robust infrastructure and conducive industrial environment have positioned the state as a prime destination for investments in the Chemicals, Petrochemicals, and Plastics sectors. Deputy Chief Minister Pravati Parida lauded the collective efforts that have transformed Odisha into “Utkarsh Odisha,” a thriving hub for industrial growth. She highlighted the increasing interest from both domestic and international investors in the state.
Speaking at the seminar titled “Chemicals, Petrochemicals, and Plastics Sector,” organized as part of the Utkarsh Odisha celebrations, Parida emphasized the state’s progress in these sectors. “Odisha has not only strengthened domestic industrial production but has also built a global reputation for its high-quality products and services,” she said.
Minister for Industries, Skill Development, and Technical Education, Sampad Chandra Swain, echoed this sentiment, emphasizing Odisha’s pivotal role in India’s journey toward becoming a developed nation. “With advancements in infrastructure and long-term industrial policies, Odisha has emerged as a key hub for Chemicals, Petrochemicals, and Plastics. The establishment of the IOCL refinery in Paradip and the Paradip Plastic Park has led to significant growth in ancillary industries and commercial ventures,” said Swain. He also stressed the government’s focus on promoting value-added products to enhance industrial growth.
The event featured a detailed presentation by Bhupinder Singh Punia, Managing Director of IPICOL and IDCO, on “Catalyzing Future: Odisha’s Roadmap for the Chemical and Petrochemical Sectors.” His insights highlighted the state’s strategic initiatives and long-term vision for industrial development.
The session began with a welcome address by Manas Majumdar, Partner and Leader, Oil and Gas Sector, PWC India. Industry leaders, including Ravi Goenka, Chairman and Managing Director of Laxmi Organic Ltd.; Aditya Beri, President of Chemours Inc.; N. Suresh Krishnan, Managing Director of PPL; and Manish Kiri, Chairman of Kiri Industries Ltd., shared their perspectives on the importance of the sector. Ranjit Rath, CMD of Oil India Ltd., delivered a special address on the role of IOCL in anchoring India’s next-generation industries.
Adding to the discourse on innovation, Amlan Kanti Das, Senior Vice-President of Operations and R&D at Luminous Power Technologies, presented on “New-Age Emerging Technologies and Advanced Chemistry in Battery Cell Manufacturing,” shedding light on cutting-edge advancements shaping the future.
