India's NRL set to pioneer bamboo-based ethanol production in Assam

11 Oct 2023 CW Team

India's Numaligarh Refinery (NRL), a subsidiary of Oil India, is set to commence ethanol production at its bio refinery in Assam's north-eastern state in March, according to the company's managing director, Bhaskar Phukan. As the world's third-largest consumer and importer of oil, India is actively working to reduce its crude oil consumption by embracing sustainable alternatives like biofuels. The country has ambitious plans to increase ethanol blending with gasoline to 20% by 2025.

The Assam bio refinery, a joint venture involving NRL and its Finnish partners Chempolis and Fortum, represents a significant stride in India's sustainable energy endeavours. With an investment of 40 billion rupees, this facility stands as India's pioneer in utilising bamboo as a feedstock. It is anticipated to produce 50,000 tonnes of ethanol, 16,000 tonnes of furfural (utilised in adhesives), and 11,000 tonnes of acetic acid annually. Bamboo, abundantly available due to the closure of paper mills in the region, serves as the primary raw material for the project.

NRL holds a 50% stake in this innovative initiative. Phukan revealed plans to obtain the necessary certifications for exporting furfural to European markets after meeting local demands. Moreover, he hinted at future ventures in Mizoram and Meghalaya, focusing on smaller-sized projects. These expansions are expected to benefit from substantial cost optimisation, although specific timelines for these projects were not provided during his announcement.

Resources

09 Mar 2026

Haworth India Hosts Women’s Leadership Panel Series

Haworth India marked International Women’s Day by hosting a leadership roundtable series titled ‘Give to Gain’, bringing together senior women leaders from architecture and design firms, corporates and project management consultancies. The series has been conducted in Delhi and Mumbai, with upcoming sessions scheduled in Bengaluru and Hyderabad on 27 March 2026. Structured as moderated panel discussions followed by audience interaction, the initiative examined the business impact of women’s leadership and the role of inclusive workplaces in supporting professional growth. Manish Khan..

Max Estates Secures RERA For Max One Project

Max Estates has secured RERA approval (UPRERA No.: UPRERAPRJ9759) for its Max One development around Max Towers in Sector 16B, Noida, bringing renewed progress to a project previously stalled following the insolvency of its earlier developer. Spread across around 10 acres with an estimated development potential of about 2.5 million sq ft, Max One is planned as an integrated mixed-use campus combining serviced residences, premium offices, retail spaces and a private club. The project is expected to generate total sales potential of about Rs 20 billion along with an estimated annuity rental inc..

Hindware Introduces Starc Smart Wall Mount Toilet

Hindware has introduced the Starc Smart Wall-Mount Toilet under its Hindware Italian Collection, designed to combine automation, hygiene and contemporary bathroom aesthetics. The model features automatic flushing, sensor-based seat opening and closing, and remote-controlled functions. It also includes an oscillating water spray and warm air dryer for cleaning, along with a self-cleaning nozzle designed to maintain hygiene. Additional features include adjustable heated seating, customisable water temperature and pressure settings, a foot-touch flush system and an LCD control interface. The wa..