FICCI : Industry's Voice for Policy Change

Aditya Thackeray, Minister for Tourism, Environment, Protocol, Government of Maharashtra, has said that the state will see a major boost in tourism in the post-COVID era.

Addressing an Interactive session with FICCI Tourism Committee, Thackeray said that tourism can be revived with a two-way approach, one to promote the destination and another by creating a destination and establishing a local industry around it.

“We have to divide the tourism experience into formal and informal experience.” The Maharashtra Government and the Department is working on ecotourism aided by sustainable goals, he said.

To encourage the tourist vibe, it is important to keep the tourists engaged, which needs larger connectivity. “We have funds allocated but it needs to be used wisely,” said the Minister. Thackeray said in terms of tourism and hospitality, a major boost has been given to the sector in the past month.

The Maharashtra government has rejuvenated the state’s tourism sector with a focus on local heritage, culture, and history. “We have everything in Maharashtra,” he said. The Sahyadri, white beaches and the state’s tiger sanctuary continues to attract wildlife lovers and the growing number of visitors also highlights the eco-tourism potential.

Elaborating on the government's future initiatives he said, it is important to narrate the history of Maharashtra to the tourists through its valuable heritage. “Historical monuments like the BMC building, the High Court and Wankhede Stadium will be open for day tourists,” he said.

“I firmly believe that the travel-tourism-hospitality sector will generate major revenue and employment opportunities in the post-Covid-19 world,” said Thackeray.

Valsa Nair Singh, Principal Secretary, Enquiry Officer, GAD, Civil Aviation & Excise and Tourism & Cultural Affairs (Additional Charge), Government of Maharashtra said that since the COVID-19 pandemic the hospitality and tourism industry has been working very closely with the Government of Maharashtra.

She further mentioned that Government of Maharashtra is taking concrete steps to boost infrastructure development and ease of doing business by reducing the number of licenses required from seventy to ten and soon this will be reduced to only one license. “Infrastructure status has been granted to the hospitality industry effective from 2021 to further boost this segment and seven MTDC properties in key tourist destinations will soon be available for private investment,” she said.

The state, she said is also working on separate policies for development of Agro tourism, horticulture tourism, adventure tourism, caravan tourism, beach shacks and vacation homes. She further stated that cricket tourism and Bollywood tourism are also being developed as part of experiential tourism and the department is also working on a mobile app that will be handy for all tourists visiting the state. “Maharashtra will be the gateway of Indian tourism soon,” said Ms Singh.

Ranveer Brar, Renowned Celebrity Chef said that there is a home cooking revolution brewing among home chefs and it’s time to structure, monitor and cradle the home-cooking industry.

Dr Jyotsna Suri, Past President - FICCI, Chairperson - FICCI Tourism Committee and CMD - The Lalit Suri Hospitality Group, said that the domestic tourism will revive the tourism industry in India. She further said that we aim to bring a synergy between the states. Tourism and hospitality will bring back the vibrancy in the Indian economy.

Sanjoy K Roy, Co-Chair, FICCI Art & Culture Committee and Managing Director, Teamwork Arts Pvt Ltd said that we must encourage local crafts and develop local crafts technique and bring them in smaller heritage sites to boost the tourism industry.

Dipak Deva, Co-Chair, FICCI Tourism Committee and Managing Director, SITA, TCI & Distant Frontier said that Maharashtra offers varied experiences, and we must focus on creating experiences.

Dhruv Shringi, Co-Chair, FICCI Tourism Committee & Co-Founder & CEO, Yatra Inc said that Domestic tourism has rebounded strongly in India in the last few months and we are living in an era of high frequency with short breaks.

Anil Chadha, Co-Chair, FICCI Tourism Committee and Chief Operating Officer, ITC Hotels said that there is a green signal that things are looking ahead in the tourism and hospitality sector.

Dilip Chenoy, Secretary General FICCI, said that Maharashtra is one of the most popular destinations for national and international tourists.

The interactive session was also attended by Ms Aditi Balbir, Managing Director, V Resorts, Ms Vineeta Dixit, Head Public Policy India, Airbnb, Mr Anant Goenka, Co-Chairman, FICCI Maharashtra State Council and Executive Director, Indian Express Group, and Mr Ashish Kumar, Co-Chair, FICCI Travel Technology Committee & Managing Partner, Agnitio Consulting.

Travel Trends Today | Dec 17, 2020

Tourism in Maharashtra will Flourish Post-COVID: Aditya Thackeray

Maharashtra will see a major boost in tourism in the post-COVID era, Aditya Thackeray, Minister for Tourism, Environment, Protocol, Government of Maharashtra, said yesterday while addressing an Interactive session with FICCI Tourism Committee.

Thackeray said that tourism can be revived with a two-way approach, one to promote the destination and another by creating a destination and establishing a local industry around it.

“We have to divide the tourism experience into formal and informal experience. The Maharashtra Government and the department is working on ecotourism aided by sustainable goals,” he added.

To encourage the tourist vibe, it is important to keep the tourists engaged, which needs larger connectivity. ” We have funds allocated but it needs to be used wisely,” the Minister said.

The Maharashtra government has rejuvenated the state’s tourism sector with a focus on local heritage, culture, and history. “We have everything in Maharashtra,” he said. The Sahyadri, white beaches and the state's tiger sanctuary continues to attract wildlife lovers and the growing number of visitors also highlights the eco-tourism potential.

Ranveer Brar, Renowned Celebrity Chef said that there is a home cooking revolution brewing among home chefs and it’s time to structure, monitor and cradle the home-cooking industry.

eTurbo News | Dec 17, 2020

Minister Comments on Maharashtra Tourism Post-COVID

Minister for Tourism, Environment, Protocol, Government of Maharashtra, Aditya Thacker Mr. Aditya Thackeray, today said that the region will see a major boost in tourism in the post-COVID era.

Addressing an Interactive session with FICCI Tourism Committee, Mr. Thackeray said that India tourism in Maharashtra can be revived with a two-way approach, one to promote the destination and another by creating a destination and establishing a local industry around it.

“We have to divide the tourism experience into formal and informal experience.” The Maharashtra Government and the department is working on ecotourism aided by sustainable goals, he said.

To encourage the tourist vibe, it is important to keep the tourists engaged, which needs larger connectivity. “We have funds allocated but it needs to be used wisely,” said the minister. Thackeray said in terms of tourism and hospitality, a major boost has been given to the sector in the past month.

Elaborating on the government’s future initiatives he said, it is important to narrate the history of Maharashtra to the tourists through its valuable heritage. “Historical monuments like the BMC building, the High Court and Wankhede Stadium will be open for day tourists,” he said.

“I firmly believe that the travel-tourism-hospitality sector will generate major revenue and employment opportunities in the post-Covid-19 world,” said Mr. Thackeray.

Ms. Valsa Nair Singh, Principal Secretary, Enquiry Officer, GAD, Civil Aviation & Excise and Tourism & Cultural Affairs (Additional Charge), Government of Maharashtra said that since the COVID-19 pandemic the hospitality and tourism industry has been working very closely with the government of Maharashtra.

Mr. Ranveer Brar, Renowned Celebrity Chef said that there is a home cooking revolution brewing among home chefs and it’s time to structure, monitor and cradle the home-cooking industry.

Dr Jyotsna Suri, Past President – FICCI, Chairperson – FICCI Tourism Committee and CMD – The Lalit Suri Hospitality Group, said that the domestic tourism will revive the tourism industry in India. She further said that we aim to bring a synergy between the states. Tourism and hospitality will bring back the vibrancy in the Indian economy.

Mr. Sanjoy K Roy, Co-Chair, FICCI Art & Culture Committee and Managing Director, Teamwork Arts Pvt Ltd said that we must encourage local crafts and develop local crafts technique and bring them in smaller heritage sites to boost the tourism industry.

Mr. Dipak Deva, Co-Chair, FICCI Tourism Committee and Managing Director, SITA, TCI & Distant Frontier said that Maharashtra offers varied experiences, and we must focus on creating experiences.

Mr. Dhruv Shringi, Co-Chair, FICCI Tourism Committee & Co-Founder & CEO, Yatra Inc said that Domestic tourism has rebounded strongly in India in the last few months and we are living in an era of high frequency with short breaks.

Mr. Anil Chadha, Co-Chair, FICCI Tourism Committee and Chief Operating Officer, ITC Hotels said that there is a green signal that things are looking ahead in the tourism and hospitality sector.

Mr. Dilip Chenoy, Secretary General FICCI, said that Maharashtra is one of the most popular destinations for national and international tourists.

The interactive session was also attended by Ms. Aditi Balbir, Managing Director, V Resorts, Ms. Vineeta Dixit, Head Public Policy India, Airbnb, Mr. Anant Goenka, Co-Chairman, FICCI Maharashtra State Council and Executive Director, Indian Express Group, and Mr. Ashish Kumar, Co-Chair, FICCI Travel Technology Committee & Managing Partner, Agnitio Consulting.

KNN | Dec 17, 2020

Maharashtra to focus on eco-tourism: Aditya Thackeray

Minister for Tourism, Environment, Protocol, Aditya Thackeray on Thursday said that Maharashtra said that the region would see a major boost in tourism in the post-COVID era.

Addressing an interactive session with FICCI Tourism Committee, Thackeray said that tourism can be revived with a two-way approach, one to promote the destination and another by creating a destination and establishing a local industry around it.

He further said that the Maharashtra Government and the department is working on ecotourism aided by sustainable goals, adding “We have to divide the tourism experience into formal and informal experience.''

To encourage the tourist vibe, it is important to keep the tourists engaged, which needs larger connectivity. “We have funds allocated but it needs to be used wisely,” said the minister.

Thackeray said in terms of tourism and hospitality, a major boost has been given to the sector in the past month.

The Maharashtra government has rejuvenated the state’s tourism sector with a focus on local heritage, culture, and history. “We have everything in Maharashtra,” he said.

The Sahyadri, white beaches and the state’s tiger sanctuary continues to attract wildlife lovers and the growing number of visitors also highlights the eco-tourism potential.

“I firmly believe that the travel-tourism-hospitality sector will generate major revenue and employment opportunities in the post-Covid-19 world,” said Thackeray.

She further mentioned that the Government of Maharashtra is taking concrete steps to boost infrastructure development and ease of doing business by reducing the number of licenses required from seventy to ten and soon this will be reduced to only one license.

“Infrastructure status has been granted to the hospitality industry effective from 2021 to further boost this segment and seven MTDC properties in key tourist destinations will soon be available for private investment,” she said.

The state, she said, is also working on separate policies for development of Agro tourism, horticulture tourism, adventure tourism, caravan tourism, beach shacks and vacation homes. She further stated that cricket tourism and Bollywood tourism are also being developed as part of experiential tourism and the department is also working on a mobile app that will be handy for all tourists visiting the state.

“Maharashtra will be the gateway of Indian tourism soon,” said Singh.

MENAFN | Dec 17, 2020

India- Maharashtra to focus on eco-tourism: Aditya Thackeray

Minister for Tourism, Environment, Protocol, Aditya Thackeray on Thursday said that Maharashtra said that the region would see a major boost in tourism in the post-COVID era.

He further said that the Maharashtra Government and the department is working on ecotourism aided by sustainable goals, adding 'We have to divide the tourism experience into formal and informal experience.'

To encourage the tourist vibe, it is important to keep the tourists engaged, which needs larger connectivity. 'We have funds allocated but it needs to be used wisely, said the minister.

Thackeray said in terms of tourism and hospitality, a major boost has been given to the sector in the past month.

The Maharashtra government has rejuvenated the state's tourism sector with a focus on local heritage, culture, and history. 'We have everything in Maharashtra, he said.

The Sahyadri, white beaches and the state's tiger sanctuary continues to attract wildlife lovers and the growing number of visitors also highlights the eco-tourism potential.

Elaborating on the government's future initiatives he said, it is important to narrate the history of Maharashtra to the tourists through its valuable heritage. 'Historical monuments like the BMC building, the High Court and Wankhede Stadium will be open for day tourists, he said.

'I firmly believe that the travel-tourism-hospitality sector will generate major revenue and employment opportunities in the post-Covid-19 world, said Thackeray.

'Infrastructure status has been granted to the hospitality industry effective from 2021 to further boost this segment and seven MTDC properties in key tourist destinations will soon be available for private investment, she said.

'Maharashtra will be the gateway of Indian tourism soon, said Singh.

The Free Press Journal | Sep 28, 2020

Maha govt launches first grape park in Nashik, plans to place state on global tourism map

On World Tourism Day, Maharashtra raised a toast to the first grape park in Nashik. Chief Minister Uddhav Thackeray launched the first grape park resort developed by the Maharashtra Tourism Development Corporation in Nashik, one of the leading grape and wine-producing hubs in the country. Spread over 14.48 hectares near the Gangapur dam, the resort was constructed with an investment of Rs 72 crore and comprises four twin villas, 28 suites, restaurants and a boat club. Primarily, 11 boats will be operated, on trial basis.

The state government has chosen Nashik, not only because it is a holy city on the banks of the Godavari river but over the years, has emerged as the wine capital of India, with half of the nation's vineyards and wineries located there.

It was the guardian minister of Nashik district, Chhagan Bhujbal, who, during his stint as tourism minister in the Congress-NCP government, had conceived the idea of a grape park resort. He told The Free Press Journal, ‘‘The Grape Park Resort and Boat Club launched today (Sunday), will give a big boost to tourism in Nashik. Many tourist spots in the area are being developed for visitors, so that they will hang around for longer instead of just going to pilgrimage spots and ancient temples. Connectivity with Shirdi, Trimbakeshwar, Saptashrungigad and other tourist destinations has been enhanced.’’

Tourism Minister Aaditya Thackeray said his department has been working on many fronts to put Maharashtra on the global tourism map. ‘‘The Grape Park in Nashik, with its boat club, adds thrill to the scenic environs of the property,’’ he noted.

MTDC managing director Ashutosh Salil said the MTDC would strive to make it the finest boat club in the country. In a related development, CM Uddhav Thackeray also launched MTDC residences at Kharghar and released the Maharashtra Tourism database.

Tourism Minister Aaditya Thackeray said the state government was not only providing fiscal incentives but also facilitating and supporting the tourism and hospitality sector on the policy and easeof-doing business fronts. ‘‘The number of approvals required has been substantially reduced, from 80 three years ago, to 20. This will be further whittled down to a single digit. Policies such as Beach Shack policy, to promote the pristine beaches of Konkan belt, agri tourism policy for encouraging farmstays, the caravan policy for promoting outdoor tourism and the policy to support the live events industry with pre-approved venues will further strengthen Maharashtra’s presence on the world tourism map,’’ he opined.

On waterways, Aaditya said the state government planned to utilise the coast and connect Thane, Ghodbunder, Uran and Murud, not only for RO-RO services but also invite investors to bring in private speedboats, to create taxi services. Minister of State for Tourism Aditi Tatkare said the department was working towards strengthening the infrastructure, to support tourism beyond cities as well.

Tourism Department Principal Secretary Valsa Nair Singh said the government proposed to extend support on fixed costs, including property tax, electricity tariff and excise fees, to handhold the industry during the pandemic.

FICCI Maharashtra State Council chairperson Sulajja Firodia Motwani said the government could address the concerns of the traveller and bolster confidence by removing travel barriers and developing strong healthcare infrastructure around major tourist destinations.

Orissadiary.com | Mar 08, 2020

Maha Vikas Aghadi Government Presents a Balanced Budget on Completion of 100 days in office : FICCI

“In an increasingly challenging economic environment and slowdown, the Maha Vikas Aghadi Government in Maharashtra, led by Mr Uddhav Thackeray, presented a ‘Balanced Budget’ for FY20-21, keeping in mind all the stakeholders including Farmers, Unemployed Youth, Women and Industry and Priority sectors including Agriculture, Health, Education, Tourism, Manufacturing and Real Estate,” said Ms Sulajja Firodia Motwani, Chairperson, FICCI Maharashtra State Council.

“FICCI also welcomes the reduction in electricity duty on industrial use from 9.3 per cent to 7.5 per cent of the consumption charges, which will marginally support the industries hit by slowdown in the state, especially the power intensive industries. This will also create positive sentiments among industries during the uncertain times due to corona virus impact and economic slowdown,” added Ms Firodia.

“Concession of 1% on stamp duty for Mumbai, Pune and Nagpur regions is a welcome move. This shows the government recognizes the need to create some demand-side stimulus to the ailing Real Estate sector, which is a major employer and wealth creator in the state” said Mr Anant Goenka, Co-Chair, FICCI Maharashtra State Council.

Creation of Green Fund to tackle the challenges of Global Warming and Climate Change through increase in VAT on Petrol and Diesel will help in conservation of environment and overall increase in the VAT may not be very effective on retail prices due to constantly declining crude prices worldwide.

Enhanced outlay on tourism promotion, infrastructure development of existing tourist destination and creation of international standard tourist complex comprising of world class aquarium in Mumbai are some of the major initiatives proposed in the budget and will help state in attracting more domestic and overseas tourists.

Maharashtra Apprenticeship Scheme for supporting educated unemployed youth between the age of 21-28, for internship in private sector, where 75% of the stipend with maximum cap of Rs 5,000 per youth per month, will encourage placement in private sector and help state government in reaching the ambitious target of creating 10 lakh jobs in next 5 years.

The Hindu Business Line | Mar 06, 2020

Maha Vikas Aghadi government presented a balanced budget for FY20-21: FICCI Maharastra Council

In an increasingly challenging economic environment and slowdown, the Maha Vikas Aghadi government in Maharashtra presented a balanced budget for FY20-21, keeping in mind all the stakeholders said Sulajja Firodia Motwani, Chairperson, FICCI Maharashtra State Council in a media statement.

The concession of one per cent on stamp duty for Mumbai, Pune and Nagpur regions is a welcome move. This shows the government recognizes the need to create some demand-side stimulus to the ailing real estate sector, which is a major employer and wealth creator in the state said Anant Goenka, co-chair, FICCI Maharashtra State Council in the statement.

The statement said that creation of a green fund to tackle the challenges of global warming and climate change through an increase in VAT on petrol and diesel will help in conservation of the environment, but overall increase in the VAT may not be very effective on retail prices due to constantly declining crude prices worldwide,

Enhanced outlay on tourism promotion, infrastructure development of existing tourist destination and creation of international standard tourist complex comprising of a world-class aquarium in Mumbai are some of the major initiatives proposed in the budget and will help the state in attracting more domestic and overseas tourists, the FICCI statement added.

Manufacturing Today | Nov 14, 2019

PCPIR Rejuvenation Study launched at Summit on Global Chemicals & Petrochemicals Manufacturing Hubs in India 2019

In endeavour to strive robust advancement in the Indian Chemical & Petrochemical Industry, Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce & Industry (FICCI) jointly with the Ministry of Chemicals and Fertilizers, Government of India launched PCPIR Rejuvenation Study at the Summit on Global Chemicals & Petrochemicals Manufacturing Hubs in India 2019.

The PCPIR Rejuvenation Study, by FICCI and their knowledge partner Mott MacDonald, highlights the continuous development of Petroleum, Chemicals and Petrochemicals Investment Regions (PCPIR), its current scenario and government’s roadmap for policy interventions to rejuvenate investment in PCPIRs. It has stated that India is the sixth largest producer of chemicals in the world and contributes 3.4% to the global chemical industry. The chemicals market in India has grown at 3% over the last decade. The industry comprises of 13.38% of manufacturing GVA and 2.39% of National GVA which employs about 2 million people.

The Government of India adopted a policy in 2007 to set up Petroleum, Chemicals and Petrochemicals Investment Regions (PCPIR). Currently there are four identified regions – Dahej (Gujarat), Vishakhapatnam (Andhra Pradesh), Paradip (Odisha) and Cuddalore (Tamil Nadu). However, due to a wide range of issues (ranging from overall infrastructure development to project financing), attracting investment to Vizag, Paradip and Cuddalore has been relatively challenging in comparison to Dahej. Considering the overall scenario, the government has now planned for policy interventions to rejuvenate investment in PCPIRs.

Speaking about extraordinary role of Chemicals and Petrochemicals Industry in shaping the other industries, D.V. Sadananda Gowda, Minister of Chemicals & Fertilizers, Government of India said, “The Indian Chemical & Petrochemical Industry is currently witnessing a rapid expansion. The untapped potential of this industry needs to be addressed which holds the power to bring a revolution in the country. The industry is expected to grow at a CAGR of 9.3% from USD 163 billion to USD 304 billion market by 2025, which not only emphasizes the important role it can play in the growth of Indian economy but to become the global leaders in petrochemicals and emerge itself as world’s next manufacturing hub. We are honoured to partner with FICCI to host first of its kind Summit on Global Chemicals & Petrochemicals Manufacturing Hubs in India 2019.”

Commenting on the significance of the report launch, Deepak C. Mehta, Chairman – FICCI Chemical Industry Committee and CMD, Deepak Nitrite said, “It is my privilege to be a part of Summit on Global Chemicals & Petrochemicals Manufacturing Hubs in India 2019 and meet the entire industry fraternity at this important event. The Indian Chemical and Petrochemical industry is an integral part of the Indian economy and possess huge unrealized potential to strengthen the Indian economy. The PCPIR Rejuvenation Study connotes the chemicals market in India has grown at 3% over the last decade, current development and policy interventions to rejuvenate investment in PCPIRs.”

“The government’s initiative towards successful implementation of Petroleum, Chemicals and Petrochemicals Investment Regions (PCPIR), shoring up existing infrastructure to world class level is truly commendable. We at FICCI are really obligated to Department of Chemicals & Petrochemicals, Government of India for their valuable support and guidance in organizing the first ever summit of its kind.” he added.

Across the summit, eminent speakers from the industry like Nikhil Meswani, Executive Director, Reliance Industries, R Mukundan, Managing Director & CEO, Tata Chemicals, Sanjeev Gandhi, Members of the Board of Executive Directors, BASF SE, Walmir Soller, CEO, Braskem Europe, Prabh Das, Chairman – FICCI Petrochemical and Plastic Industry Committee, MD & CEO, HPCL Mittal Energy, amongst others were a part of it.

Fibre2fashion | Nov 14, 2019

Indian chemicals-petrochemicals sector to see 9.3% CAGR

The Indian chemicals and petrochemicals sector has the potential to help India reach its goal of a $5-trillion economy by 2025 as the sector is expected to grow at a compounded annual growth rate (CAGR) of 9.3 per cent from a $163-billion market to a $304-billion one by 2025, minister of chemicals and fertilizers D V Sadananda Gowda said recently.

Speaking at the 'Summit on Global Chemicals and Petrochemicals Manufacturing Hubs in India 2019' in Mumbai jointly organised by the Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FICCI) and his ministry, Gowda said the rapid growth in the sector will help India emerge as the world’s next manufacturing hub.

The summit witnessed the launch of the FICCI-Mott MacDonald 'Petroleum, Chemicals and Petrochemicals Investment Regions (PCPIR) Rejuvenation Study'. The study highlights the continuous development of PCPIRs, and the government's road map for rejuvenating investment in PCPIRs, according to a FICCI press release.

The study points out that India is the sixth-largest producer of chemicals in the world and contributes 3.4 per cent to the global chemical industry. The chemicals market in India has grown at 3 per cent over the past decade. The industry comprises 13.38 per cent of manufacturing gross added value (GVA) and 2.39 per cent of national GVA, which employs about 2 million people.

The Indian government adopted a policy in 2007 to set up PCPIRs. Currently, there are four identified regions: Dahej in Gujarat, Visakhapatnam in Andhra Pradesh, Paradip in Odisha and Cuddalore in Tamil Nadu.

However, due to a wide range of issues ranging from overall infrastructure development to project financing, attracting investments to Visakhapatnam, Paradip and Cuddalore have been relatively challenging in comparison to Dahej, the press release said.

At the summit, Alok Masterbatches, one of India’s leading masterbatch producers, was conferred the FICCI Chemicals & Petrochemicals Award in the category ‘Sustainability for excellence in safety (petrochemicals).’

The company was recognised for exhibiting safety processes and cutting-edge technologies, deployed at its manufacturing plant in Ranipet.

The Arunachal Times | Nov 12, 2019

Odisha calls for investment in petrochemicals manufacturing hubs

States on the East coast of the country including Andhra Pradesh and Odisha have called on domestic and industrial giants to invest in making them chemicals and petrochemicals manufacturing hubs. Speaking at the ‘Summit on Global Chemicals and Petrochemicals Manufacturing Hubs in India 2019’ Andhra Pradesh’s Industries, Commerce, Information Technology Minister Mekapati Goutham Rao said the state, with abundant gas and petroleum reserves can be the best bet for both domestic and international investors in the sector.

“We are taking all the necessary policy measures as well as creating an infrastructure to facilitate investors to make Andhra Pradesh the manufacturing hub of the country. We also, want other states to support us and grow along with us,” the minister said. He further said the state wants to become a major contributor in the Prime Minister Narendra Modi government’s ambitious target of becoming a USD 5 trillion economy by 2025.

Present on the occasion, Odisha Energy, Industries and MSME Minister Dibya Shankar Mishra said the state has huge natural resources and 500 kilometers of coastline, and it wants to tap it.

“Odisha has huge natural resources and 500 kilometers of coastline, we want to cash on this. Last year we attracted an investment of Rs 2 lakh crore, of which Rs 15 lakh crore as been grounded. Overseas investors from Singapore, China showed interest in investing in the state. Chinese companies have invested in setting up shoe manufacturing units in the state. We are targeting Rs 1 trillion investment into the state by 2025,” he added.

Odisha has water, land and energy in abundance and urged investors to invest in the state which has single clearance windows for ease of doing business, he said. “We have six focus sectors, including electronics manufacturing, petroleum, chemicals and petrochemicals, textiles, tourism and downstream to metal and food processing. We want to scale up the investments and make the state the petrochemicals hub,” he added.

Meanwhile, speaking at the event, Reliance Industries Executive Director Nikhil Meswani said there is a need to remove a few anomalies that are affecting the sector to provide a level playing field to the domestic industry. “Removal of the anomalies in this sector will be a key to a new facilitative policy regime. Several taxes such as cess, levies on power, electricity duty and tax paid on fuel, do not get a rebate in GST. We need to rebate them to provide a level playing field to the domestic industry,” he said.

Meswani further said that such a move will make sure that the high factor cost of India are addressed in a WTO compatible regime. “Our tariff structure needs to be comparable to China and the US across the board,” he added.

SME Times | Nov 12, 2019

'Chemicals-petrochemicals sector to grow into $304 bn market'

Minister of Chemicals and Fertilizers D.V. Sadananda Gowda said on Monday that the Indian chemicals and petrochemicals sector has a significant potential to help India reach its goal of a $5 trillion economy by 2025.

He indicated that the sector is expected to grow at a CAGR of 9.3%, from a $163 billion to $304 billion market by 2025.

Speaking at the 'Summit on Global Chemicals and Petrochemicals Manufacturing Hubs in India 2019', organized by FICCI, in association with the Ministry of Chemicals and Fertilizers, Government of India, Gowda said, "The Indian chemical and petrochemical industry is currently witnessing a rapid expansion. The untapped potential of this industry, which holds the power to bring a revolution in the country, needs to be addressed."

Gowda added that the rapid growth in the sector will help India to become the global leaders in petrochemicals and emerge as the world?s next manufacturing hub.

P Raghavendra Rao, Secretary, Chemicals and Petrochemicals, Ministry of Chemicals and Fertilizers, GoI, said, "With strong growth drivers, the Indian chemicals and petrochemicals industry is projected to grow much faster than the global industry."

Deepak C. Mehta, Chairman, FICCI Chemical Industry Committee, said, "The Indian chemical and petrochemical industry is an integral part of the Indian economy and possesses huge unrealized potential to strengthen the Indian economy."

Mehta added, "The government's initiative towards successful implementation of Petroleum, Chemicals and Petrochemicals Investment Regions (PCPIRs), and shoring up existing infrastructure to a world-class level is truly commendable."

Prabh Das, Chair, FICCI Plastics and Petrochemicals Industry Committee, delivered the vote of thanks to conclude the inaugural session.

The study points out that India is the sixth-largest producer of chemicals in the world and contributes 3.4% to the global chemical industry.

The chemicals market in India has grown at 3% over the past decade. The industry comprises 13.38% of manufacturing GVA and 2.39% of national GVA which employs about 2 million people.

The Government adopted a policy in 2007 to set up PCPIRs. Currently, there are four identified regions - Dahej (Gujarat), Visakhapatnam (Andhra Pradesh), Paradip (Odisha) and Cuddalore (Tamil Nadu).

The New Indian Express | Nov 12, 2019

AP will play vital role in USD 5 trillion economy dream: IT Minister Mekapati Goutham Reddy

Industries and Information Technology Minister Mekapati Goutham Reddy has said that the State plans to play a vital role in the Centre’s goal of making India a USD 5 trillion economy by 2025.

Speaking on the inaugural day of the two-day ‘Summit on Global Chemicals and Petrochemicals Manufacturing Hubs in India’ in Mumbai on Monday, Goutham Reddy said Andhra Pradesh is willing to play a more participatory role in the development of the national economy.

The State, under the leadership of Chief Minister YS Jagan Mohan Reddy, is more focussed on ensuring transparency in governance, friendly industrial policy, and creating world-class infrastructure and international workforce, he said, adding that Andhra Pradesh had the second-largest coastal line in the country after Gujarat and abundant petroleum and gas resources.

Due to the presence of natural deposits and other resources, the State has a huge potential for growth, he stated and invited other States to invest in Andhra Pradesh. “The coastal and petrochemical corridors, which play a key role in the global economy, will contribute to the growth of the nation as well.”“We have a very customised policy for MSMEs that want to invest in the petroleum, chemicals and petrochemicals investment region (PCPIR),” he said and added, “the RINL has one of the major operations in the K-G basin.”

Goutham Reddy assured the companies who would invest in the State that all necessary assistance and cooperation would be provided to them, and invited Union Minister Sadananda Gowda to visit the PCPIR region. He also requested the Centre to advocate the benefits of investing in Andhra Pradesh to the multi-national companies.

Dr Rajat Bhargava, Principal Secretary, Industries, Infrastructure, Investment and Commerce, gave a Powerpoint presentation on the PCPIR in the State. He explained to the audience about the infrastructure and other facilities available in Visakhapatnam and Kakinada. He asked the Centre to provide fund for further infrastructure development in the region, which will help in contributing to the $5 trillion economy goal.

Union Minister for Chemicals and Fertilizers DV Sadananda Gowda, Odisha State Minister of Home, Power, Industries, Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises Captain Dibya Shankar Mishra, Chief Secretary of Union Chemicals and Fertilizers Raghavendra Rao, Deepak Nitrate P Mehta company chairman Deepak P Mehta, Prabh Das from FICCI Plastic and Petrochemicals Industry Committee and senior officials of Central Chemicals and Fertilizers Department also took part in the summit.

The New Indian Express | Nov 12, 2019

Odisha MSME Minister Dibya Sankar Mishra calls for investment in petrochemicals

Minister of State for Industries and MSME Dibya Sankar Mishra on Monday invited investors to take the benefit of business reforms and state-of-the-art infrastructure facilities in Odisha and set up manufacturing units in the State.

Addressing a two-day summit on ‘Global Chemicals and Petrochemicals Manufacturing Hubs in India’ in Mumbai Mishra said chemicals and petrochemicals are one of the major priority sectors in Odisha.

“Odisha is an ideal destination for investment as it enjoys a stable political environment, has zero tolerance to corruption, low operation cost and a seamless single window scheme for faster clearance of projects,” Mishra said.

The State Government is giving special emphasis to the development of Petroleum, Chemicals and Petrochemicals Investment Region (PCPIR) at Paradip and has also developed a plastics park at Paradip, he added.

Investment in petrochemicals will help boost the State’s economy and bring a qualitative change in the lives of the poor and downtrodden.

The event was inaugurated by Union Minister of Chemicals and Fertilizers D V Sadananda Gowda.Making a presentation on chemicals and petrochemicals eco-system in Odisha, Industries and MSME Secretary Hemant Sharma said the coastal State is the most favourable investment destination in the country.

Stressing that all PCPIRs are in collaborative approach, Sharma said the real competition is with China, Vietnam and Singapore. He said Odisha enjoys a competitive advantage in terms of low manpower cost, conducive power tariffs and low cost of living.

Naturally endowed with coal, bauxite and chromium, Odisha is an ideal investment destination and with a revenue surplus budget which is well suited to address the concern of the industries, he added.

Andhra Pradesh Minister for Industries, Commerce and Information Technology Mekapati Goutham Reddy was the other speaker of the event.

The Hindu | Nov 12, 2019

State ideal investment destination: Minister

Minister for Industries and Commerce and Information Technology Mekapati Goutham Reddy has said the Andhra Pradesh government will roll out the red carpet for those investing in the State where natural resources and opportunities are abundant. The State has massive petroleum and natural gas reserves and its vast coastline is a boon, according to the Minister.

The Petroleum, Chemicals and Petrochemicals Investment Region (PCPIR) between Visakhapatnam and Kakinada and Visakhapatnam-Chennai Industrial Corridor (VCIC) have tremendous potential, he has stated exhorting entrepreneurs to consider it their investment destination.

He has also invited Union Minister of Chemicals and Fertilizers Sadananda Gowda to visit the State to see for himself the evolving industrial scenario.

Addressing the international summit on global chemicals and petrochemicals manufacturing hubs in India jointly organised by the Departments of Chemicals and Petrochemicals of Government of India and the Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry in Mumbai on Monday, Mr. Goutham Reddy said a high-level consultation jointly held by Minister of Petroleum and Natural Gas Dharmendra Pradhan and A.P. Chief Minister Y.S. Jagan Mohan Reddy in Vijayawada with the CMDs of IOCL, HPCL and BPCL on investment prospects augurs well for the State.

New industrial policy

Those public sector giants promised to invest ₹2 lakh crore in A.P. in the next five years.

The State government was working on a new industrial policy with focus on faster clearances and transparency and accountability in land allotments.

It has been the State’s endeavour to increase its share in the national GDP, the Minister said.

Andhra Pradesh Government Principal Secretary (Industries, Infrastructure and Investments) Rajat Bhargava gave a presentation on the policy framework and facilities available in the State.

Later, Mr. Goutham Reddy had an interaction with Odisha Minister for Energy, Industries and Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises Dibya Shankar Mishra on investment avenues in A.P.

Money Control | Nov 12, 2019

Andhra Pradesh govt revives petrochemical project

Two big-ticket projects have been lined up as anchors for the PCPIR in Kakinada with an aggregate investment of over USD 15.72 billion.

Principal secretary to the department Rajat Bhargava unveiled the Master Plan at the two-day summit on 'Global Chemicals and Petrochemicals Manufacturing Hubs in India' in Mumbai on Monday.

In May 2008, the state government constituted the PCPIR special development authority to undertake all developmental works and in October 2009 a memorandum of agreement was signed with the Centre for executing the project.

Years of political turmoil till 2014 did not help the project take off while it remained grounded during the TDP rule post-bifurcation. Upon becoming Chief Minister in May this year, Y S Jagan Mohan Reddy decided to revive the project that was conceived by his late father Y S Rajasekhara Reddy in 2007.

The PCPIR would be developed in three major zones Visakhapatnam, Nakkapalli and Kakinada spread over a 640 sq km area, a top official said.

While the region currently has a mix of petrochemicals, steel, metallurgical, textile and food processing industries, the government plans to bring in non- metallic, mixed and non-polluting industries apart from petroleum refineries.

Haldia Petro Chemicals would set up a refinery in the Kakinada Special Economic Zone with an investment of USD 11.43 billion to serve as the anchor unit with supply of required feedstock.

HPCL, in a joint venture with GAIL, would set up a greenfield refinery, a 1.5-million metric tonne per annum petrochemical complex in Kakinada with an investment of USD 4.29 billion.

As part of the VK-PCPIR Master Plan, a dedicated Expressway would be developed to connect Kakinada to markets in and outside the PCPIR.

The state government expects that the development of Vizag-Chennai Industrial Corridor would further boost industrial growth in Kakinada and create lakhs of jobs.

HPCL, which currently has a refinery at Visakhapatnam with an 8.33 MMTPA capacity, would expand it to 15 MMPTA.

It would also set up a hydrocracker unit with a capacity of 3.053 MMTPA as part of the Visakha Refinery Modernisation Project (VRMP).

An olefins and aromatics complex is also proposed at APSEZ in Visakhapatnam.

Orissadiary.com | Nov 12, 2019

Current growth of petrochem industry can be further accelerated with a mix of policy changes and right coordination : D.V. Sadananda Gowda

The Indian chemicals and petrochemicals sector has a significant potential to help India reach its goal of $5 trillion by 2025, stated Union Minister of Chemicals & Fertilizers, Shri D.V. Sadananda Gowda while inaugurating the ‘Summit on Global Chemicals & Petrochemicals Manufacturing Hubs in India 2019’ in Mumbai today (November 11, 2019). Noting that this industry is currently witnessing a rapid expansion in India, Shri Gowda further stated, the current growth of the petrochemicals industry can be further accelerated with a mix of policy changes and right coordination. The Petroleum, Chemicals and Petrochemicals Investment Regions (PCPIR) Rejuvenation Study, which is a joint endeavour of the Union Ministry of Chemicals & Fertilizers and the Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce & Industry (FICCI) was launched on the occasion. This study highlights the continuous development of PCPIR, its current scenario and Union Government’s roadmap for policy interventions to rejuvenate investment in PCPIRs.

Speaking on the occasion, the Minister said, untapped potential of chemicals & petrochemicals industry needs to be addressed. Stating that the chemicals & petrochemicals industry plays an extraordinary role in shaping the other industries of the country and also holds the power to bring a revolution in the country, the Minister mentioned, this industry is expected to grow at a CAGR of 9.3% from USD 163 billion to USD 304 billion market by 2025. This emphasizes the important role chemical and petro-chemicals industry can play in the growth of Indian economy to become the global leaders in petrochemicals and emerge itself as world’s next manufacturing hub, the Minister further said.

Shri P. Raghavendra Rao, Secretary, Union Ministry of Chemicals and Fertilizers, who was also present amongst the dignitaries, stated that with strong growth drivers, the Indian chemicals and petrochemicals industry is projected to grow much faster than the global industry.

Shri Deepak C. Mehta, Chairman of FICCI Chemical Industry Committee, commented on the significance of launching the PCPIR Report. He said, with changes happening across the market, vital changes are happening in the country’s approach as it looks at how it will do its business in the future.

Notably, the Union Government had adopted a policy in 2007 to set up Petroleum, Chemicals and Petrochemicals Investment Regions (PCPIR). Currently there are four identified regions – Dahej (Gujarat), Vishakhapatnam (Andhra Pradesh), Paradip (Odisha) and Cuddalore (Tamil Nadu). However, due to a wide range of issues (ranging from overall infrastructure development to project financing), attracting investment to Vishakhapatnam, Paradip and Cuddalore has been relatively challenging in comparison to Dahej. Considering the overall scenario, the Government has now planned for policy interventions to rejuvenate investment in PCPIRs.

Devdiscourse | Nov 11, 2019

AP govt revives petrochemical project

Andhra Pradesh government has revived the petroleum, chemicals and petrochemical investment region (PCPIR) project along the Bay of Bengal coast between Visakhapatnam and Kakinada to attract investments to the tune of Rs 2 lakh crore to make the state the largest petrochemical hub of the country. Two big-ticket projects have been lined up as anchors for the PCPIR in Kakinada with an aggregate investment of over USD 15.72 billion.

The state government's industry, infrastructure and investments department has drawn up the VK-PCPIR Master Plan- 2031 to develop industrial clusters, expressway and major transport network, residential townships and knowledge hubs as part of the project. Principal secretary to the department Rajat Bhargava unveiled the Master Plan at the two-day summit on 'Global Chemicals and Petrochemicals Manufacturing Hubs in India' in Mumbai on Monday.

It was the first PCPIR to be approved by the government of India way back in 2009 and was supposed to attract an investment of Rs 3.43 lakh crore and create 12 lakh jobs (5.25 lakh direct and 6.75 lakh indirect) by 2017-18. In May 2008, the state government constituted the PCPIR special development authority to undertake all developmental works and in October 2009 a memorandum of agreement was signed with the Centre for executing the project.

The PCPIR would be developed in three major zones Visakhapatnam, Nakkapalli and Kakinada spread over a 640 sq km area, a top official said. While the region currently has a mix of petrochemicals, steel, metallurgical, textile and food processing industries, the government plans to bring in non- metallic, mixed and non-polluting industries apart from petroleum refineries.

Haldia Petro Chemicals would set up a refinery in the Kakinada Special Economic Zone with an investment of USD 11.43 billion to serve as the anchor unit with supply of required feedstock. HPCL, in a joint venture with GAIL, would set up a greenfield refinery, a 1.5-million metric tonne per annum petrochemical complex in Kakinada with an investment of USD 4.29 billion.

About 6,750 hectares of land is available for industrial operations in the KSEZ, out of a total 9,120 Ha of allottable land available in the Kakinada region for establishment of petrochemical downstream industries. As part of the VK-PCPIR Master Plan, a dedicated Expressway would be developed to connect Kakinada to markets in and outside the PCPIR.

The state government expects that the development of Vizag-Chennai Industrial Corridor would further boost industrial growth in Kakinada and create lakhs of jobs. HPCL, which currently has a refinery at Visakhapatnam with an 8.33 MMTPA capacity, would expand it to 15 MMPTA.

It would also set up a hydrocracker unit with a capacity of 3.053 MMTPA as part of the Visakha Refinery Modernisation Project (VRMP). An olefins and aromatics complex is also proposed at APSEZ in Visakhapatnam..

Financial Express | Nov 11, 2019

Odisha calls for investment in petrochemicals manufacturing hubs

“We are taking all the necessary policy measures as well as creating an infrastructure to facilitate investors to make Andhra Pradesh the manufacturing hub of the country. We

also, want other states to support us and grow along with us,” the minister said. He further said the state wants to become a major contributor in the Prime Minister Narendra Modi government’s ambitious target of becoming a USD 5 trillion economy by 2025.

Present on the occasion, Odisha Energy, Industries and MSME Minister Dibya Shankar Mishra said the state has huge natural resources and 500 kilometers of coastline, and it wants to tap it.

“Odisha has huge natural resources and 500 kilometers of coastline, we want to cash on this. Last year we attracted an investment of Rs 2 lakh crore, of which Rs 15 lakh crore

has been grounded. Overseas investors from Singapore, China showed interest in investing in the state. Chinese companies have invested in setting up shoe manufacturing units in the state. We are targeting Rs 1 trillion investment into the state by 2025,” he added.

Business Standard | Nov 11, 2019

Chemicals and petrochemicals industry witnessing rapid expansion in India

Noting that this industry is currently witnessing a rapid expansion in India, Gowda further stated, the current growth of the petrochemicals industry can be further accelerated with a mix of policy changes and right coordination. The Petroleum, Chemicals and Petrochemicals Investment Regions (PCPIR) Rejuvenation Study, which is a joint endeavour of the Union Ministry of Chemicals & Fertilizers and the Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce & Industry (FICCI) was launched on the occasion. This study highlights the continuous development of PCPIR, its current scenario and Union Government's roadmap for policy interventions to rejuvenate investment in PCPIRs.

The Times of India | Nov 11, 2019

Andhra Pradesh govt revives petrochemical project

Two big-ticket projects have been lined up as anchors for the PCPIR in Kakinada with an aggregate investment of over USD 15.72 billion.

Principal secretary to the department Rajat Bhargava unveiled the Master Plan at the two-day summit on 'Global Chemicals and Petrochemicals Manufacturing Hubs in India' in Mumbai on Monday.

Years of political turmoil till 2014 did not help the project take off while it remained grounded during the TDP rule post-bifurcation.

Upon becoming chief minister in May this year, YS Jagan Mohan Reddy decided to revive the project that was conceived by his late father Y S Rajasekhara Reddy in 2007.