The West Region of the Indian Exhibition Industry Association (IEIA) successfully celebrated the 11th edition of Global Exhibitions Day (GED) 2026 on 3rd June 2026 at the Jio World Convention Centre, Mumbai, bringing together exhibition organizers, venue operators, service providers, exhibitors, industry associations and stakeholders to recognize and celebrate the transformative impact of exhibitions on economic growth, trade, innovation and business development.

Industry Leaders with Mashaal Relay at GED 2026 Celebration in Mumbai

Held under the global theme “Exhibitions Drive Opportunities,” the celebrations formed part of IEIA’s integrated national initiative connecting Mumbai, Delhi, Bengaluru and Kolkata through a first-of-its-kind ‘Mashaal Relay,’ symbolizing the exhibition industry’s enduring role in creating opportunities, fostering collaboration and driving national progress.

The event highlighted the exhibition sector’s significant contribution to India’s economy through business generation, investment attraction, knowledge exchange, market access, employment creation and industry development. The gathering also underscored the industry’s growing role in positioning India as a preferred destination for international exhibitions, conventions and business events.

Global Exhibitions Day, an initiative of UFI, the global association of the exhibition industry, is celebrated worldwide to recognize the impact of exhibitions and business events in advancing trade, investment, innovation and sustainable development. The occasion serves as a tribute to the collective efforts of organizers, venue operators, exhibitors, service providers, visitors and industry stakeholders who contribute to the success of the exhibitions ecosystem.

Highlighting the significance of the nationwide celebrations, Satyendra Mehra, Chief Coordinator – GED 2026 Celebrations and EC Member, IEIA, said, “Global Exhibitions Day is a celebration of the opportunities, partnerships and economic impact that exhibitions create every day. The Mashaal Relay beautifully reflected the spirit of continuity, collaboration and collective progress that defines our industry. Through exhibitions, we connect businesses with markets, ideas with investments and aspirations with opportunities, creating value that extends far beyond the exhibition floor.”

The Mumbai celebration provided a platform for industry leaders to reflect on the sector’s achievements while discussing future opportunities and challenges in an evolving global landscape. Deliberations focused on industry resilience, technological transformation, sustainability, business continuity, emerging market opportunities and strengthening India’s global competitiveness in the exhibitions and events sector.

Speaking on the occasion, Ravi Boratkar, Regional Chair – West Region, IEIA, said “Mumbai continues to play a pivotal role in India’s exhibition and business events ecosystem. Global Exhibitions Day is an opportunity to celebrate the tremendous economic value our industry generates through trade, innovation, investments and employment. Today’s celebrations reaffirm our collective commitment to supporting India’s growth journey and strengthening its position as a leading global business destination.”

Mukund Rao, Regional Co-Chair – West Region, IEIA, added “Exhibitions are powerful platforms that connect industries, markets and communities. Through collaboration, innovation and shared purpose, our sector continues to create meaningful opportunities for businesses while contributing significantly to economic development. Global Exhibitions Day allows us to showcase this impact and inspire future growth.”

Welcoming delegates to the venue, Puneet Narula, Business Head, Jio World Convention Centre, said, “We are delighted to host this important industry celebration. India’s world-class venues, combined with a dynamic exhibition ecosystem, are creating new opportunities for international engagement and business growth. Events such as Global Exhibitions Day reinforce the importance of collaboration in strengthening India’s position as a preferred destination for global exhibitions and business events.“

As the industry commemorated 11 years of Global Exhibitions Day, stakeholders reaffirmed their commitment to fostering innovation, sustainability, talent development and global competitiveness. The celebrations concluded with a strong message of unity and shared purpose, reflecting the spirit of ‘One Industry. One Nation. One Mashaal. Infinite Opportunities.’

The successful observance of Global Exhibitions Day 2026 in Mumbai served as both a celebration of the industry’s achievements and a reaffirmation of the critical role exhibitions continue to play in shaping the future of trade, commerce, innovation and economic development in India and across the world.

About Global Exhibitions Day (GED)
Global Exhibitions Day (GED) is an annual worldwide initiative led by UFI – The Global Association of the Exhibition Industry – to recognize and celebrate the significant contribution of exhibitions and business events to economic growth, trade promotion, innovation, and knowledge exchange. In India, the exhibition industry, through the Indian Exhibition Industry Association (IEIA), actively participates in and supports the global celebrations. The initiative aims to unite the exhibition ecosystem, enhance the industry’s visibility and reinforce exhibitions as one of the most powerful platforms for business networking, marketing, branding and economic development. The Indian exhibition industry joined the global observance of GED 2026 on June 3, 2026 through coordinated celebrations across major cities, including Mumbai, Delhi, Bengaluru and Kolkata.

To know more about ‘Indian Exhibition Industry Association’ visit : www.ieia.in

NKN Media is set to host one of its biggest and first-of-its-kind International Property Expo at Taj Palace, New Delhi, on 4th and 5th July 2026, bringing together leading real estate developers from across the globe. Designed for India’s high-net-worth individuals and investors exploring overseas real estate opportunities, the two-day event will showcase premium residential and investment-led properties from Dubai, London, Singapore and other global cities.
 

Brand Ambassador of International Property Expo – Chitrangada Singh with Group CEO & MD NKN Media Mr. Abdul Majid Khan
 

Featuring over 30 leading developers, the expo will offer Indian buyers direct access to global real estate opportunities across key international destinations. Leading film stars – Jacqueline Fernandez, Nargis Fakhri, Chitrangada Singh and Arbaaz Khan are the brand ambassadors for the expo, bringing much credibility and validation to the show. From luxury residences and holiday homes to long-term investment opportunities, the platform is curated for buyers looking to diversify their investment portfolios and explore international property ownership with direct access to developers and market experts. This is the first time that such a grand real estate expo is being organised in India, bringing global real estate giants under one roof.

Speaking on the upcoming showcase, Mr. Abdul Majid Khan, Group CEO & Managing Director, NKN Media, said, “The International Property Expo 2026 reflects our continued vision of connecting global real estate opportunities with serious Indian investors. We have successfully hosted similar showcases internationally, and bringing this platform to India is both timely and exciting. Indian buyers today are increasingly looking at international real estate from an investment and lifestyle perspective, and this expo creates a direct opportunity to explore some of the world’s most sought-after property markets under one roof.”

Jacqueline Fernandez, who has also been part of NKN Media’s other shows said, “Global real estate today is as much about lifestyle as it is about investment and I am super excited that NKN Media is bringing such a grand expo to India.” Nargis Fakhri added, “It is exciting to see Indian buyers getting direct access to international opportunities.”

The International Property Expo in New Delhi marks an important milestone for NKN Media, which has built a strong presence through successful international property showcases in Dubai, Singapore and London. Known for creating focused global real estate platforms and facilitating high-value investment conversations, the company is now bringing its internationally established property showcase to India at a time when interest in overseas property investment continues to grow among Indian buyers.
 

With the International Property Expo 2026, NKN Media brings global property closer to Indian investors, creating a premium platform for cross-border investment and international real estate discovery.

About NKN Media

NKN Media is a global media conglomerate headquartered in Dubai, with a strong presence across the UAE, UK, Singapore, Malaysia, Canada, Bahrain, India, and Sri Lanka. A 360-degree media powerhouse, it partners with leading broadcast networks including Republic TV, Aaj Tak, India Today, and Times Now, while also publishing SpiceRoute, the in-flight magazine of SpiceJet. With a growing portfolio of proprietary IPs, NKN Media continues to drive innovation and expansion across international markets.

In a heart-warming gesture that extends beyond entertainment, DRA, one of the fastest growing real estate developers in India, has announced sponsorship of music education for two young contestants from the popular television reality show Sa Re Ga Ma Pa Lil Champs. The initiative aims to support the musical journeys of Kiruthika and Mithra, two talented students whose perseverance and determination in overcoming significant personal challenges while pursuing their dreams have inspired audiences across borders.

A special moment on Sa Re Ga Ma Pa Lil Champs Season 5 as DRA announces music education sponsorship of Mithra and Kiruthika

Kiruthika, a Class X student, has emerged as a pillar of strength for her family following a life-altering accident that left her father unable to work. Despite the circumstances, she has continued to pursue her passion for music while contributing towards supporting her household.

Mithra, also a Class X student, has displayed remarkable resilience through a difficult period in her family’s life. Following serious health complications faced by both her parents during a kidney transplant journey, she remained steadfast in her commitment to music while supporting her family through challenging times.

Speaking about the initiative, Mr. Manoj Vasudevan, Chief Sales & Marketing Officer, DRA Homes said, “Every child deserves the opportunity to dream without limitations. Kiruthika and Mithra represent the spirit of determination, resilience and hope. While their talent has earned them a place on a celebrated platform, it is their strength of character that truly moved us. We believe education and mentorship can transform lives, and we are honoured to play a small role in supporting their musical journeys. At DRA, we have always believed that a home is more than a physical space—it is a foundation where dreams take shape. Through this, we hope to encourage and empower young talent to pursue their passions with confidence, regardless of the challenges they may face. We look forward to seeing these young artists continue to shine and inspire many others.”

The announcement was made during a recent episode of Sa Re Ga Ma Pa Lil Champs Season 5, aired on Zee Tamil and streamed on ZEE5, where DRA, the Proud Home Partner of the show, reaffirmed its commitment to nurturing young talent by supporting the musical aspirations of deserving contestants. Through this initiative, DRA seeks to empower young individuals who have displayed remarkable resilience in the face of adversity, helping them access opportunities that can pave the way for growth, achievement and a brighter future.

For more information, please visit: Flats in Chennai, Properties in Chennai.

About DRA

DRA, with an impressive legacy of over 40 years, has become a trusted name in the real estate industry, delivering world-class projects across Chennai. With more than 12,000 satisfied customers, DRA is synonymous with trust, transparency, and timely delivery. Under the visionary leadership of Mr. Ranjeeth Rathod, Managing Director, DRA goes beyond just building apartments by offering its customers a ‘Home of Pride’ — thoughtfully designed living spaces that cater to evolving lifestyles and embody a sense of accomplishment and belonging.

Driven by a culture of innovation and customer-centricity, DRA has introduced several industry-first initiatives. The company is the first builder in India to conduct 1,357 quality checks before customer handover and the first builder in India to make all its employees co-owners, reinforcing a strong sense of ownership and accountability across the organisation. DRA is also the first builder to introduce a Construction Timeline Meter, enabling customers to track project progress with greater transparency while supporting faster delivery timelines.

Reflecting the trust it has earned among homebuyers, DRA maintains an industry-leading 93% Customer Delight Score. The company’s projects have also delivered up to 60% price appreciation within three years of launch, creating long-term value for homeowners and investors alike.

Innovations like the Timeline Meter for project updates and the Customer Delight Meter reflect DRA’s unwavering focus on customer satisfaction, while its online customer portal ensures hassle-free access to project details and documentation. Signature developments such as DRA Tuxedo, 90 Degrees, Ascot, Skylantis, Infinique and iHeart exemplify the company’s commitment to blending modernity with value-driven investments.

Recognized with awards such as FICCI’s REISA and the Times Business Awards, DRA holds the distinction of being Chennai’s first developer with CRISIL’s 7-star grading. Beyond real estate, the company actively contributes to society through initiatives such as pond restoration, nurturing young sporting talent and supporting community development. Upholding its motto, “Timeless Homes, Timely Delivery,” DRA continues to inspire pride and trust in every home it creates, turning dreams into lasting legacies.

Following its successful India debut last year, Liquid I.V., the #1 powdered hydration brand in the U.S.A., has announced the launch of Liquid I.V. Sugar-Free in India. Introduced by Hindustan Unilever Limited, the new launch marks the next step in the brand’s mission to redefine hydration for modern Indian consumers through science-backed, functional wellness solutions.

Liquid I.V. Expands its Hydration Portfolio in India with the Launch of Sugar-Free Range

As wellness-led lifestyles continue to shape consumer choices, Liquid I.V. Sugar-Free has been developed for consumers seeking cleaner, smarter hydration solutions without compromising on performance or taste. The launch further strengthens the brand’s growing presence in India’s rapidly evolving functional beverage space.

India’s sugar-free beverage category continues to witness strong growth, driven by increasing awareness around wellness, fitness, and mindful consumption. Consumer interest in no-sugar hydration beverages has also seen a sharp rise, reflecting the growing demand for cleaner and more functional alternatives.

Commenting on the launch, Guntas Randhawa, Head of Liquid I.V., India, said, “The wellness and hydration category in India is evolving rapidly, driven by consumers who are increasingly prioritizing informed choices, functional benefits, and cleaner formulations. The launch of Liquid I.V. Sugar-Free reflects our commitment to expand the category with solutions that address emerging consumer needs while broadening access to science-backed hydration. As we continue to build the brand in India, this launch represents an important step in strengthening our portfolio and driving long-term growth within the wellness space.”

Built for India’s affluent Gen Z and millennial consumers, Liquid I.V. Sugar-Free is designed for those who have made wellness an everyday lifestyle choice from movement and recovery to mindful nutrition and overall well-being.

Liquid I.V. Sugar-Free is formulated with a proprietary amino acid blend including L-Glutamine and L-Alanine, which support sodium-dependent transport pathways in the gut to help enhance fluid absorption and support functional hydration — without glucose.

The formula also contains:

• Sodium, potassium, calcium, magnesium, and chloride.

• 9 vitamins and minerals

• Plant-based stevia

• No artificial sweeteners or artificial colours

• Proprietary Amino Acid Blend: Formulated with a proprietary amino acid blend that serves as an alternative to glucose, delivering the intended functional benefits while supporting the product’s sugar-free proposition.

The product is formulated to maintain optimal osmolarity while delivering superior hydration and replenishment.

Launching in three distinct flavours — Mango Pineapple, Raspberry Melon, and Juicy Peach the range combines functionality, convenience, and taste for Indian consumers looking to integrate hydration into their everyday wellness routines.

Liquid I.V. Sugar-Free is available on Liquid I.V. India’s official website, leading e-commerce and quick-commerce platforms, and select retail channels across India.

For more information, follow @liquidiv.in | #HydrationMultiplier #LiquidIVIndia

About Liquid I.V.

Liquid I.V. is the #1 powdered hydration brand in the U.S.A., known for its science-backed hydration solutions designed to support faster and more efficient hydration. Built on its proprietary LIV HydraScience technology, the brand combines electrolytes, vitamins, and functional ingredients to support hydration, recovery, and everyday wellness.

Launched in India by Hindustan Unilever Limited, Liquid I.V. continues to expand its hydration portfolio for the evolving Indian wellness consumer through innovative, functional, and convenient hydration solutions.

About Hindustan Unilever Limited (HUL)

Hindustan Unilever Limited (HUL) is India’s largest Fast-Moving Consumer Goods company, with its products touching the lives of nine out of ten households in the country. HUL works to create a better future every day.

For more information, visit our website: www.hul.co.in.

Neeman’s, the homegrown footwear brand known for blending comfort with contemporary style, has announced the launch of its latest sneaker range, ‘The Street Collection’ a lifestyle sneaker line-up inspired by the spirit, nostalgia and emotional familiarity of Indian streets.
 

Every Indian street has a story, Neeman’s turned them into a collection
 

At a time when consumers are increasingly moving away from mass, one-size-fits-all fashion narratives and looking for stories that feel more personal, rooted and culturally familiar, Neeman’s brings a distinctly Indian lens to street-inspired sneakers. Instead of borrowing inspiration from global streetwear cultures, The Street Collection draws from lived experiences that feel deeply relatable to Indian consumers.
 

The collection introduces four distinct sneaker styles – Street Heart, Remix Icon, Remix Modish and Remix Vintage – each designed to interpret street culture in its own way. Blending expressive aesthetics with everyday versatility, the range is created for consumers who want sneakers that feel individual, effortless and emotionally connected to the world around them. The range is available at a price of INR 4,999.

Neeman’s Street Collection Inspired by Real India

Watch Neeman’s Street Collection Inspired by Real India: www.youtube.com/watch?v=M_ZgDbvK-Pc

Speaking about the inspiration behind the collection, Taran Chhabra, Co-founder and CEO of Neeman’s, said, “For a long time, streetwear conversations have largely been shaped by cultures from around the world, and while that has always been exciting to see, we felt there was an opportunity to tell stories that felt closer to home. The inspiration for The Street Collection came from the everyday Indian street experiences we all carry with us — the energy, the nostalgia, the little rituals and moments that become memories over time. This collection was born out of our love for those streets and the joy of simply being out there.”

Speaking about the business strategy behind the collection, Amar Preet Singh, Co-founder and COO of Neeman’s, said, “The footwear category today has become far more repertoire-driven, with consumers looking for different styles for different occasions. Sneakers, in particular, have become an important part of everyday lifestyle dressing. For us, this launch is a strategic step towards expanding occasions for our existing consumers while strengthening our presence in the lifestyle and sneaker space. The Street Collection allows us to play a bigger role in the consumer’s wardrobe while increasing our share of wallet, all while staying true to the comfort-first philosophy Neeman’s is known for.”

With The Street Collection, Neeman’s continues to evolve its product portfolio by combining comfort-led design with culturally relevant storytelling, building a stronger lifestyle expression for the brand.

The collection is now available across Neeman’s stores, the brand’s official website (neemans.com) and Myntra, ensuring accessibility across pan-India.

About Neeman’s

Founded in 2017 by Taran Chhabra and Amar Preet Singh, Neeman’s is one of India’s leading homegrown, comfort-first footwear and lifestyle brands. Built on the belief that everyday essentials should combine comfort, functionality and contemporary style, the brand has steadily built a strong presence among modern Indian consumers looking for versatile footwear solutions across occasions.

Over the years, Neeman’s has also pioneered the use of innovative and sustainable materials across its product portfolio, incorporating natural and recycled materials such as merino wool, recycled PET bottles, and responsibly sourced components into its footwear designs, while continuing to evolve its portfolio across lifestyle and casual categories.

With a growing omnichannel presence across its website, 40 exclusive stores, and all leading e-commerce platforms, Neeman’s continues to strengthen its connection with consumers seeking products that feel personal, effortless and relevant to their everyday lives. By blending comfort with culture-led storytelling and contemporary design, the brand is building a modern lifestyle ecosystem rooted in simplicity, mindful innovation and comfort as a cultural identity.

Ramaiah Institute of Science and Management (RISM), in collaboration with the University at Albany (State University of New York), today held a high‑level Curtain Raiser convening leaders from academia, industry, research and technology to outline a shared vision for reimagining higher education in India. Framed as a strategic forum, the event set out RISM’s institutional roadmap to close systemic gaps between learning, capability and measurable societal impact through interdisciplinary education, AI‑enabled pedagogy and translational research.
 

Dr. M R Jayaram and Havidán Rodríguez with senior leaders of RISM and the University at Albany during the launch of the Ramaiah Institute of Science and Management

Prof. Gurucharan, Executive Director and Chief Strategic Officer, Gokula Education Foundation (Medical), called for a fundamental reorientation of universities’ purpose: to prepare students for an AI‑shaped world where human judgement, creativity and ethics remain central. He urged institutions to ensure AI amplifies learning, not replaces it, and to shift academic programmes toward interdisciplinary problem‑solving and systems thinking that mirrors real‑world complexity.

A fireside conversation between Dr M. R. Jayaram, Chairman of Gokula Education Foundation (Medical) and Chancellor of RISM, and Dr. Havidan Rodriguez, President of the University at Albany, underscored the partnership’s global ambition. Dr. Jayaram described the new university’s mission to bridge the industry–academia divide and transition from publication‑centred output to deep science translational research that delivers products, processes and societal solutions. President Dr. Rodríguez emphasised co‑creation rather than replication: the collaboration seeks to build a new higher‑education model that augments, not replaces, human capabilities with AI.
 

Three focused panels explored actionable pathways:

• The Future of Engineering Education: Moderated by Prof. Shivakumar Sastry, experts from academia and industry highlighted the need to move beyond siloed curricula to outcome‑driven, systems‑oriented learning. Recommendations included embedded industry capstones, long‑term projects, faculty support for new pedagogy, and student agency in problem selection.

• AI in Higher Education — The Creative Disruptor: Led by Prof. C. Pandu Rangan, and panellists agreed that generative AI commoditises execution while increasing the value of critical thinking, ethics and process‑oriented assessment. Institutions must redesign learning and assessment to cultivate human–AI teaming and higher‑order skills.

• Translational Research & Industry Partnerships: Moderated by Mr Venkatesh Valluri, the discussion showcased case studies where industry collaboration and iterative, society‑engaged research accelerated product development and impact. Panellists urged prioritising translation over patents, and equipping students and faculty to innovate with market orientation.
   

In closing, Prof. B. N. Raghunandan Chairman RISM Task Force synthesised five priorities: systems approaches, social skills, unified multidisciplinary engineering, continuous faculty development, and a focus on translational research.
 

Dr. Jayaram Chairman and Chancellor said, “Our Vision for 2035 is RISM aims to be recognised as the university that prepared a generation not merely for jobs, but for shaping the future.”

Cancer continues to be one of the leading health concerns among women worldwide. While breast cancer remains the most commonly diagnosed cancer among women, cancers of the cervix, ovary, uterus, and thyroid also contribute significantly to the disease burden. The encouraging news is that advancements in medical science, early diagnosis, and modern treatment options are helping women achieve better outcomes and improved quality of life.
 

Dr. Naveen Padmanabhan, Consultant & Head of Surgical Oncology at Equitas Hospital, Chennai, Expert in GI, breast, and thoracic oncology
 

The Importance of Awareness and Early Detection

One of the most effective ways to combat cancer is through awareness and timely medical intervention. Many cancers develop gradually and may not show obvious symptoms in their early stages. Regular health check-ups, understanding family medical history, and paying attention to unusual changes in the body can play a crucial role in early diagnosis.
 

Common warning signs that women should not ignore include:

• Unexplained lumps or swelling

• Persistent abdominal bloating

• Abnormal bleeding or discharge

• Sudden weight loss

• Chronic fatigue

• Changes in bowel or bladder habits

• Persistent pain that does not resolve
   

Seeking medical attention at the earliest sign of concern can significantly improve treatment success rates.
 

How Cancer Treatment Has Evolved

Cancer treatment has witnessed remarkable advancements over the past decade. Today, treatment plans are personalized based on the type of cancer, stage of disease, and overall health of the patient. Multidisciplinary teams comprising surgeons, oncologists, radiologists, and pathologists work together to deliver comprehensive care.
 

Among the most significant developments has been the evolution of surgical techniques that focus on effective cancer removal while preserving healthy tissue and improving recovery outcomes.
 

Advanced Surgical Options for Women’s Cancers

Modern cancer surgery has moved beyond traditional open procedures in many cases. Advanced techniques now offer greater precision, reduced pain, and faster recovery.
 

Minimally Invasive Surgery Many gynecological and abdominal cancers can now be treated using minimally invasive techniques. These procedures require smaller incisions, resulting in less blood loss, reduced postoperative discomfort, shorter hospital stays, and quicker return to daily activities.
 

Laparoscopic Surgery Laparoscopic procedures utilize specialized instruments and high-definition cameras to remove tumors with exceptional precision. This approach has become increasingly common in the treatment of certain uterine, ovarian, and cervical cancers.
 

Robotic-Assisted Surgery Robotic technology has further enhanced surgical precision by providing surgeons with improved visualization and greater control during complex procedures. This enables more accurate tumor removal while preserving surrounding healthy structures whenever possible.
 

Organ-Preserving Surgeries Advances in surgical planning and imaging allow doctors to remove cancerous tissue while preserving organ function whenever clinically appropriate. Such approaches can significantly improve long-term quality of life for patients.
 

Dr. Naveen Padmanabhan, Consultant & Head – Surgical Oncology at Sringeri Sharada Equitas Hospital says that, “Cancer is no longer viewed solely as a life-threatening diagnosis. With increasing awareness, timely diagnosis, advanced surgical techniques, targeted therapies, and comprehensive cancer care, many women are successfully overcoming cancer and leading healthy, fulfilling lives.”
 

He also emphasized that awareness, regular medical consultations, and prompt attention to symptoms remain the strongest tools in the fight against cancer. By prioritizing their health and seeking timely medical advice, women can greatly improve their chances of successful treatment and long-term well-being.
 

Remember: Early action can make all the difference. Awareness today can save lives tomorrow.

Chemco Group, an international manufacturing and plastic packaging group, has received authorisation from the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) to manufacture food-grade recycled PET (rPET) resin for food contact applications under the Food Safety & Standards (Packaging) Regulations, 2018.

Chemco’s rPET recycling facility in Gujarat featuring the Starlinger recoSTAR PET art SSP line

The authorisation places Chemco among a select group of companies in India approved to manufacture food-grade rPET resin suitable for direct food-contact packaging applications, marking an important milestone in the country’s transition towards a more circular and compliant packaging ecosystem.

Chemco’s rPET recycling facility in Gujarat featuring the Starlinger recoSTAR PET art SSP line

The approval follows Chemco’s recent commissioning of its large-scale bottle-to-bottle recycling facility in Sanand, Gujarat, representing an investment of approximately Rs. 125 crore. The integrated facility has been developed to recycle more than 1 billion post-consumer PET bottles annually, converting them into high-quality food-grade recycled PET resin suitable for use in food and beverage packaging applications.

Chemco’s food-grade rPET facility is supported by a state-of-the-art Starlinger bottle-to-bottle recycling system, incorporating globally recognised recycling technology designed for food-contact applications. The facility has been developed to meet India’s food-contact regulatory requirements under the Food Safety & Standards (Packaging) Regulations, 2018, along with applicable Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) requirements governing recycled PET materials. Its compliance framework is supported by robust quality, traceability, and food safety systems, including FSSC 22000 certification, alongside recycling process frameworks recognised by US FDA and the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) for food-contact recycled PET applications.

FSSAI authorisation for food-contact applications represents a significant regulatory milestone for India’s recycled plastics sector, given the stringent standards governing recycled materials intended for direct contact with food and beverages. Under the Food Safety & Standards (Packaging) Regulations, 2018, manufacturers are required to demonstrate robust traceability, process control, testing, and compliance measures to ensure material safety and suitability for food-contact use.

Commenting on the development, Vaibhav Saraogi, Director of Chemco Group, said, “Receiving FSSAI authorisation for food-grade rPET is an important milestone not only for Chemco, but also for the broader development of circular packaging infrastructure in India. As demand for compliant recycled content continues to increase, particularly in food and beverage packaging, it becomes essential to build credible domestic manufacturing capabilities supported by regulatory discipline, traceability, and consistent quality standards. Our investment in bottle-to-bottle recycling was made with a long-term view of supporting both sustainability and supply-chain reliability for brand owners. This approval reinforces our ability to offer food-grade recycled material that meets stringent safety and compliance expectations while supporting India’s transition towards circular packaging.”

The approval comes at a particularly important time for India’s packaging industry as mandatory recycled-content obligations under the Plastic Waste Management (PWM) Rules continue to tighten. For Category I rigid plastic packaging, including PET bottles and containers, minimum recycled-content requirements have been prescribed at 40% for FY 2026–27, 50% for FY 2027–28, and 60% from FY 2028–29 onwards. These obligations are expected to significantly increase demand for domestically available, compliant food-grade recycled materials, particularly for beverage, food, and FMCG packaging applications. Industry participants are increasingly seeking reliable local sources of food-grade rPET capable of supporting both regulatory compliance and long-term sustainability commitments.

The Sanand facility has been developed as a fully integrated bottle-to-bottle platform, strengthening Chemco’s ability to support brands with compliant recycled packaging solutions through an end-to-end manufacturing approach. By combining food-grade rPET resin production with downstream packaging capabilities within the Group, Chemco offers enhanced traceability, supply-chain reliability, and quality consistency. This integrated model positions the Group among very few packaging manufacturers in the world capable of supporting large-scale recycled-content packaging requirements for leading consumer brands.

Beyond environmental impact, the project contributes to skilled employment generation, strengthens Gujarat’s position as a manufacturing and sustainability hub, and supports India’s broader objectives of resource efficiency, waste reduction, and circular manufacturing.

With FSSAI authorisation now in place, Chemco further strengthens its position as a long-term partner for companies seeking credible, compliant, and scalable food-grade recycled packaging solutions in India.

About Chemco Group
Chemco is an international manufacturing group with over four decades of operating history across plastics and polymer-based products. The Group operates a diversified network spanning 23+ locations across India, the Middle East, and the United States, serving leading domestic and global brands across multiple industries. Chemco processes over 125,000 tonnes of plastic polymers annually and has established capabilities across rigid and flexible packaging, technical textiles, medical devices, baby care products, and sustainable materials. The Group serves a wide range of sectors through advanced manufacturing capabilities across moulding, extrusion, recycling, and engineered polymer applications. Sustainability and circularity remain central to Chemco’s long-term growth strategy, with recent investments focused on food-grade bottle-to-bottle rPET recycling and rPET FIBC and industrial packaging solutions. Chemco remains focused on responsible manufacturing, regulatory compliance, operational scale, and long-term value creation.