India Launches First Biopolymers Demonstration Facility in Pune to Drive Sustainable Innovation.
Pune:
In a significant move towards establishing India as a global economic leader and a champion of environmental sustainability, Union Minister Dr. Jitendra Singh inaugurated the country’s first Demonstration Facility for Biopolymers at Jejuri, Pune, on October 13, 2024. Built by Praj Industries, this facility aims to advance the production of Polylactic Acid (PLA) bioplastic, marking a pivotal step in India’s commitment to eco-friendly alternatives to fossil-based plastics.
During the inauguration, Dr. Singh emphasized the facility’s role in addressing the global plastic pollution crisis while fostering economic growth. “This pioneering effort represents our resolve to transition to sustainable solutions and showcases India’s advancements in science and technology,” he stated.
Highlighting India’s burgeoning bioeconomy, which surpassed Rs. 150 billion in 2023, Dr. Singh projected that it could reach Rs. 300 billion by 2030. He attributed this growth to Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of an “Atmanirbhar Bharat,” aimed at promoting self-reliance and sustainable practices.
The minister also referenced the Union Budget’s emphasis on Green Growth and the government’s BioE3 (Biotechnology for Economy, Environment, and Employment) Policy, which seeks to tackle climate change and promote ethical growth. India now ranks 12th globally in biotechnology and boasts the largest vaccine manufacturing capacity.
Dr. Singh noted the rapid rise of biotech startups in India, from 50 in 2014 to over 8,500 in 2023, highlighting the importance of collaboration between industry, academia, and government in translating innovative ideas into viable solutions.
Concluding his address, he called for greater synergy across sectors to achieve the “Amrit Kaal” goals over the next 25 years, reinforcing India’s potential as a leader in the global bioplastics movement and sustainable innovation.
