Daijiworld Media Network - Mumbai
Mumbai, Mar 12: Devendra Fadnavis, chief minister of Maharashtra, has proposed a dedicated policy for the chemical industry and the creation of plug-and-play manufacturing hubs to position the state as a global chemicals hub.
Speaking at a CEO roundtable organised by the Indian Chemical Council (ICC) during the India Chemical Industry Outlook Conference in Mumbai, Fadnavis interacted with more than 100 CEOs from Indian and multinational chemical and petrochemical companies.
The chief minister said the chemical sector already contributes nearly 10% to Maharashtra’s industrial GDP and assured industry leaders that the government would support its growth through policy initiatives and infrastructure development.
He suggested that the state government work with ICC to formulate a comprehensive policy outlining the future roadmap for the sector. The proposed policy would include the development of chemical parks, improved infrastructure and a clear investment strategy.
Fadnavis also recommended the establishment of plug-and-play chemical manufacturing hubs on the lines of industrial facilities at Dahej, Gujarat. He emphasised the need for stronger collaboration between industry and academic institutions to develop skilled manpower, suggesting partnerships with institutes such as the Institute of Chemical Technology and Industrial Training Institutes.
The roundtable discussion, moderated by ICC vice-president Samir Somaiah and additional vice-president Jayant Dhobley, focused on enhancing India’s global competitiveness in the chemicals sector, strengthening supply chains and promoting sustainable manufacturing practices.
A presentation by McKinsey & Company highlighted the strategic importance of the chemical industry to India’s economic growth. Industry leaders noted that the sector is currently at a critical inflection point and has the potential to expand significantly in global value chains amid changing geopolitical and supply chain dynamics.
Participants stressed the importance of policy stability, reliable feedstock supply, research and innovation, and closer industry–government collaboration to unlock the sector’s growth potential.
Ramya Bharathram, president of the Indian Chemical Council, said platforms such as the CEO roundtable help facilitate meaningful dialogue between policymakers and industry leaders and assist in shaping a shared roadmap for the future of the sector.
The annual conference organised by ICC brings together policymakers, global CEOs, technology providers and industry experts to discuss the outlook and emerging opportunities in the chemical industry.