The Indian Chemical Council (ICC) acknowledged the contributions of leaders and organisations by conferring upon the awards from the cross-section of the industry. The awards were presented by Jitin Prasada, Minister of State for Commerce & Industry, Govt. of India, presented the coveted Lifetime Achievement Awards to visionary pioneers in the presence of a powerful gathering of industry titans, policymakers, and academic leaders during the Council’s 60th Annual awards ceremony.

The recipients honoured for their unparalleled impact on the sector are:

* Shyam Bhartia and Hari Bhartia, Founders of the Jubilant Bhartia Group, jointly awarded the ICC Lifetime Achievement Award.

* Sandra Shroff, Ex Vice Chairman and Co-Founder of UPL Limited, awarded the ICC D. M. Trivedi Lifetime Achievement Award for Management of Industry.

* Dr. S. Chandrasekhar, Former Director of CSIR-IICT and Former Secretary of the DST, awarded the ICC D. M. Trivedi Lifetime Achievement Award for Education & Research.

Dr. S. Chandrasekhar receiving the award 

In his address, Prasada articulated a clear and supportive vision of the Government for the chemical industry, identifying it as a critical engine for India's ambition to become a $5 trillion economy. The Minister highlighted on the government’s focus on easing business, reducing compliance burdens, and fostering an environment where innovation and investment can thrive.

Prasada discussed the strategic negotiation of Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) to open new markets and ensure competitive access to raw materials. A significant focus was placed on the government's plan to develop world-class integrated chemical clusters with state-of-the-art infrastructure and common utilities to reduce logistics costs and enhance global competitiveness. He also urged the industry to focus on the mandate of job creations in the sector and assured the industry leaders that the government in continuously focusing on anti-dumping measures, QCOs, and environmental clearances to help the Indian Chemical Indsutry.

The proceedings began with a welcome address by Kartik Bharat Ram, the Outgoing President of ICC and Joint Managing Director of SRF Limited. Kartik provided a panoramic overview of the Council's pivotal role, particularly during his tenure which included the prestigious 2024 OPCW-The Hague Award, for ICC, becoming the first industry body in the world to be recognized for its contribution to Chemical Safety and security.

Kartik Bharat Ram handed over the presidential mantle to Ramya Bharathram

The event also marked the transition of leadership within the ICC. Kartik Bharat Ram, Joint Managing Director of SRF Limited, passed the presidential mantle to Ramya Bharathram, Managing Director & CFO of Thirumalai Chemicals Ltd and the first female President of ICC. In her concluding remarks, the new President acknowledged the responsibility and pledged to build upon the strong foundation laid by her predecessors. She committed to steering the Council towards even greater heights, focusing on advocacy, member engagement, and promoting the sustainable and responsible growth of the chemical industry.

Deepankar Aron, Joint Secretary – Chemicals, Government of India, who was the Guest of Honour, provided a deep dive into the sector's growth trajectory and future prospects. He emphasized the dual imperative of rapid growth and sustainable practices. He emphasized that the future of the chemical industry lies in sustainability, innovation, and a robust industry-academia partnership. He connected the industry's ambitions with national missions like Atmanirbhar Bharat (Self-Reliant India), urging companies to leverage government initiatives to build domestic capabilities and reduce import dependence.

The keynote address was delivered by Vikas Kaushal, Chairman & Managing Director of Hindustan Petroleum Corporation Ltd. He masterfully linked the petrochemical and chemical value chains, underscoring their pivotal role in national economic progress.

Earlier in the day the 16th Annual Seminar on "Recognizing Excellence of Performance in Various Facets of Chemical Industry, was organized and graced by Deepankar Aron as the Chief Guest and Prof. Shireesh Kedare, Director of IIT Bombay, as the Keynote Speaker. The seminar featured presentations from award-winning companies, showcasing innovation and best practices that are driving the industry forward.

Ravi Goenka Executive Chairman of Laxmi Organics, while delivering the valedictory address, appealed to the industry to learn and work together towards the common goal of a sustainable, innovative and globally leading Indian Chemical Industry.

The events concluded with a vote of thanks by D Sothi Selvam, Director General, ICC.