India’s chemical sector plays a pivotal role in our economy and has shown remarkable resilience and to advance further, we need increased investments, research, and technological development said Nivedita Shukla Verma, Secretary, Department of Chemicals & Petrochemicals, while speaking at the 59th Annual ICC Awards Presentation and the 15th Annual Seminar on the topic of ‘Recognizing Excellence of Performance in Various Facets of the Chemical Industry’ organised by Indian Chemical Council. 

I would like to take this opportunity to congratulate the Indian Chemical Council (ICC) for all the good work that they have been doing, added Verma.

The seminar began with a ceremonial lighting of the lamp by dignitaries followed by welcome remarks from Incoming Vice President of ICC, Ramya Bharathram, Managing Director & CFO, Thirumalai Chemicals Ltd.

Ramya Bharathram said, “As Indian Chemical Council steps into the 86th year, I look back with immense satisfaction on the key initiatives undertaken by ICC during the past year. ICC’s programs and initiatives have multiplied in numbers and have grown further in quality and relevance, providing our members with valuable resources, networking opportunities, and skill development. Congratulating all winners in various categories, she welcomed all the ICC Award winning organizations and academic institutions for their amazing and innovative work.”

Incoming ICC President, R. Kartik Bharat Ram congratulated Deepak C. Mehta for winning the Lifetime Achievement Award and all the ICC Award winning organizations for their amazing and innovative work.

Kartik Bharat Ram said, “It is with great honour and humility that I stand before you today as the incoming president of this esteemed organization, ICC. I want to express my deep gratitude to all the members for entrusting me with this responsibility and for your unwavering commitment to the growth and development of our industry. As I assume this role, my vision for our industry is clear. We must continue to innovate, adopt sustainable practices, and position India as a global manufacturing hub in the chemical sector. The future of our industry will be shaped by key trends: sustainability, technological advancement, innovation, regulatory changes, and global trade dynamics.”

Dimitri De Vreeze, CEO, dsm-firmenich, gave insights on the global chemical industry. He said, “Sustainability is integral and vital to the industry, driving energy reduction, water conservation, and use of renewable resources. We are proud to receive recognition from Gujarat’s Pollution Control Board for our commitment to safe chemical management and environmental health. The only way forward is the path of sustainability. We want to help drive continuous improvement in safe chemicals management and achieve excellence in environmental health and security.”

An engaging fireside chat between Padma Vibhushan Dr. R. A. Mashelkar, FRS, and Professor Aniruddha B. Pandit shed light on the future of the chemical industry, how it will evolve and adapt? The event provided ample networking opportunities for attendees to connect, exchange ideas, and explore potential collaborations to drive the industry forward.

The seminar concluded with a valedictory address by Bimal Goculdas, Immediate Past President of ICC, MD & CEO, DMCC Specialty Chemicals Ltd, and a vote of thanks by Shraddha Rane, Secretary General, ICC.

D. Sothi Selvam, Director General, ICC concluded the event with a vote of thanks, reiterating that the Indian chemical industry stands tall because of organisations and individuals, contributing to the sustainable and responsible growth of the industry in India.

“The Indian Chemical Council extends heartfelt gratitude to all participants, sponsors, co-branding partners, and supporting partners for contributing to the success of this annual celebration. ICC remains dedicated to promoting excellence and supporting the growth of the chemical industry in India,” added Selvam.

The event witnessed participation of more than 500 industry leaders, academic experts, innovators, and policymakers to celebrate the remarkable contributions shaping India’s chemical landscape.