Balrampur Chini Mills to Set Up India's First PLA Biopolymer Plant

24 Feb 2025 CW Team

Strategically located next to BCML’s sugar factory in Kumbhi, the plant will integrate cutting-edge global technology and enhance resource efficiency. With a total investment of Rs 2,850 crore, the facility will run entirely on renewable energy, making it the world’s first PLA plant with a fully sustainable production process.

With an annual capacity of 80,000 tonne, the PLA produced will be 100 per cent bio-based and compostable, offering a viable alternative to single-use plastics such as straws, cutlery, food trays, and bottles. The plant’s production process emits sixty-eight per cent less greenhouse gases than conventional plastics. Additionally, PLA waste can be processed to generate biogas and fertiliser, further promoting a circular economy.

The project is expected to generate 225 direct jobs in manufacturing, R&D, and operations, along with over 2,000 indirect jobs across the value chain. BCML will also collaborate with technical institutions to develop skills in sustainable industries, particularly empowering women and young professionals.

Economically, the plant will strengthen Uttar Pradesh’s position as a biopolymer hub, attracting both domestic and foreign investment while reducing India’s reliance on imported plastics. It aligns with the Atmanirbhar Bharat and Swachh Bharat initiatives, reinforcing India's leadership in green manufacturing.

Vivek Saraogi, Chairman & Managing Director, Balrampur Chini Mills, stated: “We are deeply honoured as the ground-breaking ceremony of this project commenced in the auspicious presence of Hon’ble CM Shri Yogi Adityanath Ji. The establishment of India’s first PLA biopolymer manufacturing facility represents a monumental leap in our nation’s industrial sustainability journey. By producing PLA at industrial scale, we are not only reducing dependence on fossil fuels but also setting new benchmarks for responsible manufacturing. I extend my heartfelt congratulations to our team for achieving this significant milestone. With this biggest investment in the company’s 50 years legacy, Balrampur Chini Mills Limited continues to pave the way for an eco-friendly, self-reliant India, positioning the country as a global leader in biopolymer manufacturing.”

Ms Avantika Saraogi, Executive Director, Balrampur Chini Mills, added: “This plant is a testament to the synergy between progressive policy frameworks and private sector innovation. This plant will augment in positioning Uttar Pradesh as a leader in biopolymer production, boosting industrial growth and making India a key player in the bio-based economy, globally by tapping into the rich biomass reserves of the country and paving the way for its emergence as a key export hub. By attracting both domestic and foreign investments, we can meaningfully contribute in strengthening India's circular economy and reduce reliance on plastic imports.”

"Join industry leaders at RAHSTA Expo, India's premier platform for roads, highways and traffic infrastructure. Register now to explore innovations, network with experts and shape the future of mobility."

Balrampur Chini Mills (BCML) has laid the foundation stone for India's first industrial-scale Polylactic Acid (PLA) biopolymer manufacturing facility in Kumbhi, Uttar Pradesh. The ceremony was held in the presence of Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath. This landmark project positions Uttar Pradesh as a leader in sustainable industrial growth.Strategically located next to BCML’s sugar factory in Kumbhi, the plant will integrate cutting-edge global technology and enhance resource efficiency. With a total investment of Rs 2,850 crore, the facility will run entirely on renewable energy, making it the world’s first PLA plant with a fully sustainable production process.With an annual capacity of 80,000 tonne, the PLA produced will be 100 per cent bio-based and compostable, offering a viable alternative to single-use plastics such as straws, cutlery, food trays, and bottles. The plant’s production process emits sixty-eight per cent less greenhouse gases than conventional plastics. Additionally, PLA waste can be processed to generate biogas and fertiliser, further promoting a circular economy.The project is expected to generate 225 direct jobs in manufacturing, R&D, and operations, along with over 2,000 indirect jobs across the value chain. BCML will also collaborate with technical institutions to develop skills in sustainable industries, particularly empowering women and young professionals.Economically, the plant will strengthen Uttar Pradesh’s position as a biopolymer hub, attracting both domestic and foreign investment while reducing India’s reliance on imported plastics. It aligns with the Atmanirbhar Bharat and Swachh Bharat initiatives, reinforcing India's leadership in green manufacturing.Vivek Saraogi, Chairman & Managing Director, Balrampur Chini Mills, stated: “We are deeply honoured as the ground-breaking ceremony of this project commenced in the auspicious presence of Hon’ble CM Shri Yogi Adityanath Ji. The establishment of India’s first PLA biopolymer manufacturing facility represents a monumental leap in our nation’s industrial sustainability journey. By producing PLA at industrial scale, we are not only reducing dependence on fossil fuels but also setting new benchmarks for responsible manufacturing. I extend my heartfelt congratulations to our team for achieving this significant milestone. With this biggest investment in the company’s 50 years legacy, Balrampur Chini Mills Limited continues to pave the way for an eco-friendly, self-reliant India, positioning the country as a global leader in biopolymer manufacturing.”Ms Avantika Saraogi, Executive Director, Balrampur Chini Mills, added: “This plant is a testament to the synergy between progressive policy frameworks and private sector innovation. This plant will augment in positioning Uttar Pradesh as a leader in biopolymer production, boosting industrial growth and making India a key player in the bio-based economy, globally by tapping into the rich biomass reserves of the country and paving the way for its emergence as a key export hub. By attracting both domestic and foreign investments, we can meaningfully contribute in strengthening India's circular economy and reduce reliance on plastic imports.”

Resources

26 Jun 2026

G R Infraprojects Founder Vinod Agarwal Passes Away

Vinod Kumar Agarwal, Founder and Promoter of G R Infraprojects, has passed away. He had been associated with the company since its inception in 1995. His vision, determination and entrepreneurial acumen laid the foundation for the company and helped shape its growth into a leading name in India’s infrastructure sector.Agarwal served as Managing Director from 2008 to 2021 and later as Chairman and Whole-time Director from 2021 to 2025. He stepped down from the office of Director on 10 November 2025. During his leadership tenure, the company moved through significant phases of growth, operatio..

Infrastructure Energy

25 Jun 2026

Centre Prioritising Energy Security With Coal Gasification

Union minister for Coal and Mines G Kishan Reddy said the Centre is prioritising energy security through a strategic shift to coal gasification and has announced incentives totalling Rs 460 billion (bn) to support the effort. He said more than 35 companies will start coal gasification activities in India within two months and that the government is encouraging firms that bring technology to close the domestic technology gap. The minister described the initiative as aimed at reducing import dependence and developing indigenous capacity. India has the fifth-largest coal reserve in the world, and..

Infrastructure Urban

25 Jun 2026

BHEL and Coal India Invest Rs 250 bn in Odisha Gasification

Bharat Heavy Electricals (BHEL) and Coal India (CIL) are jointly investing Rs 250 billion in a coal gasification project in Odisha, with the Prime Minister laying the foundation stone in Jharsuguda. Union Coal and Mines Minister G Kishan Reddy described the initiative as a transformative shift in coal utilisation that will open industrial avenues for the state. The project moves coal beyond conventional power generation to industrial feedstocks. Coal gasification will convert coal into synthesis gas, a versatile feedstock for chemicals, fertilisers and synthetic fuels, and the technology is ex..