Category Archives: News

Apollo Health Resources Limited and Sri Ramachandra Institute of Higher Education and Research Join Hands to Launch Advanced Certification in Genomics

Chennai, 3rd June 2025

Apollo Health Resources Limited (AHRL), a pioneer in the training, skilling, and placement of healthcare professionals worldwide in association with Sri Ramachandra Institute of Higher Education and Research (SRIHER), a leading institution in clinical and genomic education, has announced the launch of an Advanced Certification in Genomics (ACG) program. This initiative is part of a strategic partnership between AHRL and SRIHER, and falls under AHRL’s Global Workforce Development (GWD) initiative that aims to address global healthcare workforce shortages by preparing healthcare professionals for international healthcare careers. The ACG program focuses on nurturing the next generation of Clinical Scientists in the field of Genomics, creating pathways for global healthcare careers.

An agreement to this effect was recently signed between AHRL and SRIHER, underscoring their joint commitment to delivering internationally benchmarked healthcare-focused education and training programs in rapidly advancing fields such as Genomics.

The one-year, full-time program, commencing in August 2025, will be conducted in person at the SRIHER campus in Chennai. Applicants must hold a postgraduate degree (M. Sc. or M. Tech.) in any of the following disciplines: Human Genetics, Biomedical Genetics, Biotechnology, Bioinformatics, Biomedical Sciences, Stem Cell Sciences, Clinical Research, Medical Laboratory Technology, Genetic Engineering, Medical Microbiology, Molecular Biology, Biochemistry, Genetics or Genomic Counselling, Life Sciences, or a related discipline.

Designed in direct alignment with the curriculum specified by the National Health Service (NHS) in England, the program offers comprehensive clinical and experiential training in genomics. Core focus areas include Genetic Testing, Bioinformatics and Genomic Medicine, Cancer Genomics, Prenatal, Pediatric, and Adult Genomics, as well as Genetic and Genomic Counselling.

As part of the program, students will benefit from hands-on training delivered by national and international experts from both academia and industry.

To facilitate global mobility and enhance student readiness for international careers, the program also includes:

• English language training
• Soft skills development
• Interview preparation for careers within the NHS and with other UK-based employers.

The agreement was exchanged between Prof. Uma Sekar, Vice Chancellor of SRIHER and Mr. Sivaramakrishnan Venkateswaran, CEO of Apollo Knowledge, in the presence of Dr. S. Senthil Kumar, Registrar of SRIHER, and Prof. P. Venkatachalam, Head of the Department of Human Genetics, SRIHER.

Speaking on the occasion, Mr. Sivaramakrishnan Venkateswaran remarked, “This partnership embodies Apollo Health Resources’ commitment to empowering healthcare professionals in India and abroad through internationally benchmarked training programs in domains such as Genomics. Through our Global Workforce Development (GWD) initiative, we are preparing professionals for international healthcare careers by equipping them with technical skills, and language and soft skills required to succeed on the  global stage. The ACG program, being jointly offered with SRIHER, is a strong step forward in this mission and aligns with the Indian Government’s ‘Heal by India’ vision to strengthen the global healthcare workforce”

Prof. Uma Sekar added: “We are delighted to collaborate with Apollo Health Resources Limited to deliver a program of such international relevance”. She added that SRIHER possesses a wealth of clinical and genomic expertise, with professionals who have over two decades of experience in the fields of prenatal, neonatal, adult, and cancer genomics. Supported by advanced genomic laboratories, clinical diagnostic units, and strong collaborations with national and international organizations, the institution is well-positioned to train students in cutting-edge technologies in the field of genomics.

This program provides a clear pathway for Indian students to aim for careers such as Clinical Scientists in Genomics within healthcare systems such as the NHS in England, equipping them with both academic knowledge and practical skills aligned with NHS Clinical Scientist roles.

RCB vs KXIP – The Ultimate Clash on the Big Screen: PVR INOX to Screen TATA IPL 2025 Final Live Across India

National, June 2, 2025: PVR INOX, India’s largest and most premium cinema exhibitor, is all set to bring the electrifying IPL 2025 Final to the big screen, offering fans the chance to experience the most anticipated match of the season like never before. Royal Challengers Bangalore will take on Kings XI Punjab in a high-octane clash on June 3, and cricket lovers can witness the action unfold LIVE in the cinematic glory of PVR INOX cinemas across 30+ cities.

Part of the brand’s ongoing Alternative Content initiative, this live screening underscores PVR INOX’s commitment to transforming cinemas into multi-dimensional entertainment destinations—where audiences come not just for movies, but for music concerts, gaming events, and live sports like the IPL.

Cricket lovers can enjoy the final in a stadium-like atmosphere, complete with high-definition visuals, Dolby surround sound, plush seating, and curated match-day food & beverage combos. Fan zones, themed offerings, and in-cinema excitement are all part of the experience, making this screening the perfect way to celebrate the culmination of IPL 2025.

The IPL T20 2025 Final between RCB and PBKS will be screened live across major cities like Mumbai, Delhi-NCR, Ahmedabad, Bengaluru, Kolkata, Pune, Hyderabad, Jaipur, Lucknow, and more—at select PVR INOX cinemas nationwide.

Gautam Dutta, CEO – Revenue & Operations, PVR INOX Ltd, said, “The IPL final is more than a match – it’s a moment of collective passion for millions of Indians. As part of our vision to go beyond cinema, the IPL final screening is a testament to how entertainment is evolving. The sheer passion fans have for cricket deserves a setting that amplifies every cheer, every moment. With our Alternative Content initiative, we’re creating shared experiences that go beyond watching—we’re making memories in real time, on the big screen.”

From die-hard fans to casual viewers, this is your chance to be part of the most awaited match of the year in surround sound and stadium-style energy.

Breaking the Cycle of Stunting: How Early Detection and Proper Nutrition Can Empower Children’s Health and Nation’s Growth

Malnutrition is a staggering crisis, stripping millions of children of their health, dreams, and the chance to build a better future. This crisis stems from inadequate intake of calories, proteins, vitamins, and minerals, or the body’s inability to absorb them effectively. Though it impacts people of all ages, its effects on children particularly, are devastating, hindering physical growth, weakening immune systems, and making them more prone to diseases. One of the most severe consequences of malnutrition is stunting—a condition that impairs growth and development, leaving long-term impacts on a child’s health and future.

Stunting in children is a significant global health issue, particularly in India, where it affects millions. According to the National Family Health Survey (NFHS-5), approximately 35% of children under five years ^[i]are stunted, a condition that reflects chronic malnutrition and can lead to long-term physical and cognitive impairments.^[ii]

Dr Vivekanand Kustagi, MBBS MD BNB FIAA, Consultant Pediatrician and Neonatologist Special interest in pediatric nutrition highlights “Stunting not only affects a child’s physical height and weight but also hinders cognitive development, immunity, and overall well-being, leading to lifelong consequences. To combat this, regular screening and monitoring of children’s growth and development are vital. This practice enables the early detection of malnutrition and developmental delays, allowing timely interventions to address the underlying issues. Furthermore, emphasizing the importance of screening to identify nutritional gaps is crucial in fostering healthier futures for our children. Adding nutrient-rich foods like fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and proteins can help address these nutritional gaps and support overall growth.”

Proper nutrition is critical to help children grow and reach their full potential, yet worldwide there are approximately 149 million stunted children below the age of five—and one-third, or 40.6 million, are in India. Therefore, parents and caregivers play a pivotal role in monitoring their children’s growth and development.

Let’s deep dive into why screening is important and how to identify signs of stunting:

Recognizing the Signs of Stunting

Stunting often goes unnoticed in its early stages, but there are key signs that caregivers and healthcare professionals can look for to intervene before the condition worsens. These include:

• Height-for-Age Ratio: Children who are significantly shorter than their peers may be stunted. The World Health Organization (WHO) defines stunting as a height-for-age Z-score of less than -2 standard deviations from the median. A child’s height consistently falling below the expected growth standards for their age^[iii]
• Inadequate Weight: Poor or stagnant weight gain over time, despite age progression, can be an early indicator of stunting
• Physical Appearance: Look for visible signs such as loose skin around the upper arms or thighs, visible ribs, or a noticeable lack of muscle mass may indicate stunting
• Delayed Developmental Milestones: Stunted children may exhibit delays in reaching critical developmental milestones, such as walking or speaking, delayed developmental milestones, such as walking or speaking^[iv]
• Frequent Illnesses: A weakened immune system resulting in recurring infections or illnesses can also be a sign of stunting

Stunting is a critical challenge, but with consistent screening, awareness, and nutritional interventions, parents and caregivers can combat this silent threat to children’s growth and potential.

Why Regular Health Screenings Matter?

Prioritizing proactive health management is essential in fostering a healthier and more resilient population. Regular screening helps with the below:

• Early Detection: Identifying stunting early allows for interventions that can significantly improve a child’s nutritional status and overall health
• Informed Decision-Making Parenting: Screening educates parents about their child’s growth patterns, enabling them to make informed decisions regarding nutrition and health
• Access to Resources: Early identification often leads to access to nutritional programs and resources designed to combat malnutrition^[v]

Role of Nutrition in Preventing Stunting and Strategies for Fussy Eaters

Proper nutrition plays a critical role in preventing stunting by ensuring children receive the essential nutrients needed for optimal growth and development. A balanced diet rich in proteins, vitamins, minerals, and healthy fats supports physical growth, strengthens the immune system, and aids in cognitive development. Early nutritional interventions, particularly during the first 1,000 days of life, can significantly reduce the risk of stunting and set a strong foundation for a healthier future. Encouraging healthy eating in fussy children is challenging but vital to prevent stunting and support growth. Here are strategies to ensure they get the nutrients they need:

• Introduce Variety Gradually: One of the best ways to expand a child’s diet is by offering new foods alongside familiar favorites. This approach helps ease children into trying different flavors and textures, making them more likely to accept new foods over time. For instance, adding fruits and vegetables, which are rich in vitamins and minerals, can provide essential nutrients for overall health
• Make Meals Fun: Engaging children in meal preparation or using creative presentations can spark interest in food. This approach not only makes eating enjoyable but also encourages the consumption of nutritious foods like proteins from eggs, dairy products, and lean meats, essential for their growth and development
• Set Regular Mealtimes: Establishing consistent meal routines helps children develop healthy eating habits. Offering balanced meals at set times ensures that children receive a variety of whole grains (like whole grain bread or cereals) and healthy fats (such as nuts and canola/mustard/soybean oil), both of which support energy levels and brain development

Screening is key for early detection, empowering parents to act against stunting. A balanced diet boosts nutrient absorption and growth, crucial for fussy eaters. Regular screenings and proper nutrition support children’s health, addressing immediate needs and building healthier futures across India.

KIIT World School Hosts CBSE Pre-Subroto Cup Football Tournament

Gurugram: KIIT World School, Sohna Road, hosted the CBSE Pre-Subroto Cup Central Zone Football Tournament for Under-15 and Under-17 Boys and Under-17 Girls categories. The event witnessed the enthusiastic participation of young athletes from various schools. The event was graced Sagar Raikwar from CBSE Bhopal and Adil and Rahul from the Haryana Football Association.

The tournament saw seven teams comprising around 108 students compete in different categories. Participating schools included Navy Children School, KIIT World School (Pitampura), New Era Public School (Dwarka), among others. Navy Children School secured the first position in all three categories – Under-15 Boys, Under-17 Boys, and Under-17 Girls. KIIT World School (Pitampura) also performed remarkably and finished as the first runner-up in all categories. The winning teams will now advance to the finals of the tournament.

Speaking on the occasion, KIIT World School, Principal Neelima Kamrah said, “Such events not only provide a platform for students to showcase their sports talent but also help them build confidence, discipline, and team spirit. It is a matter of pride and inspiration for us to host this tournament. These competitions play an important role in the holistic development of students.”

NXP Reaffirms Sustainability Commitment on World Environment Day, Aligns with India’s Net Zero Vision

By-Mr. Hitesh Garg, Vice President and India Managing Director at NXP Semiconductors

“At NXP, caring for our environment and our workforce are deeply interconnected. This World Environment Day, we reaffirm our commitment to building a sustainable future through measurable action — from reducing Scope 1, 2, and 3 emissions and scaling renewable electricity, to recycling over 89% of our waste and 55% of our wastewater. Supported by global certifications, strong oversight, and continuous workforce training, our efforts are rooted in accountability and action. These steps not only reflect our global ESG goals but also align closely with India’s Net Zero ambitions — a national mission to achieve carbon neutrality by 2070. Together, we’re turning environmental ambition into action, and action into long-term impact.”

This World Bicycle Day, Sony SAB artists share how cycling helps them recharge and reflect

Mumbai, June 2, 2025: The energetic artists of Sony SAB, Shabir Ahluwalia, Naveen Pandita, Sheehan Kapahi, and Deshna Dugad are pedaling their way to fitness, fun, and freedom this World Bicycle Day! For these actors, cycling isn’t just a mode of transport: it’s a lifestyle choice that fuels their body, clears their mind, and adds a sense of joy to their busy routines. Whether it’s Shabir who rides to the set, Naveen finding balance through scenic rides, Deshna escaping screen time for some two-wheeled ‘me-time’, or Sheehan, who has a heartwarming memory to recount, each artist shares how cycling has become a meaningful part of their lives. Here’s how they’re making every ride count!

 Shabir Ahluwalia, who plays the role of Yug in Ufff… Yeh Love Hai Mushkil, said, “Cycling has been a game-changer for me. I cycle to the set at least twice a week, and since it’s about 20–25 km one way, that’s nearly 40–45 km a day. It’s not just a great workout, but it also clears my mind, keeps my energy up, and sets a positive tone for the day. Whether riding through the city or on a more scenic route, cycling gives me a sense of freedom and balance that no other activity does. It’s one of the most sustainable and effective ways to stay active, and I genuinely look forward to it every week.”

 Naveen Pandita, who essays the role of Ashwin in Pushpa Impossible, said, “For me, cycling is more than just a fitness activity, it’s therapy on two wheels. In between shoot schedules and city chaos, riding clears my mind and brings me back to balance. I feel this day is a reminder that the simplest things, like a bicycle ride, can bring the most joy. Plus, it’s a great way to stay fit without hitting the gym!”

 Deshna Dugad, who plays the role of Rashi Patel in Pushpa Impossible, said, “My elder brother taught me how to ride a two-wheeler cycle, and once I got the hang of it, I taught my best friend too! We’d go cycling in the mornings or after tuition, meet friends, and even head out for snacks. I have two cycles—one with gear and one without—and I proudly say I can ride in any outfit, whether it’s a saree, dress, or suit! Cycling makes me feel free, like I’m flying without wings. It’s always been my little escape from screens, studies, or stress. On World Bicycle Day, I think every teenager should try swapping their phones for pedals, even if it is just for a while. It’s fun, healthy, and the best kind of ‘me-time’.”

 Sheehan Kapahi, who plays the role of Atharva Wagle in Wagle Ki Duniya-Nayi Peedhi Naye Kissey, said, “I’ve always loved cycling — it’s one of the first things that ever made me feel independent. One of my favourite memories ever is riding with my sister while my dad jogged beside us. I still remember it suddenly started pouring, but instead of rushing back, we just kept going. My dad kept his hand on the back of my neck the whole time, just to make sure I wouldn’t fall, and even though we were all soaked, it was so much fun. When we finally got home, my mom had made hot pakoras for everyone and hot chocolate just for me and my sister. That whole evening still feels like a warm memory I can go back to anytime. I think more people should take time out to cycle. It helps your body, clears your mind, and sometimes… creates the kind of memories you never forget.”

Vertiv Accelerates AI Infrastructure Evolution in Alignment with NVIDIA 800 VDC Power Architecture Announcement

Mumbai, India- June 2 2025 – Vertiv, a global provider of critical digital infrastructure, today confirmed its strategic alignment with NVIDIA’s announcement of an AI roadmap to deploy 800 VDC power architectures for the next generation of AI-centric data centers. Paving the way for future-ready designs, Vertiv’s 800 VDC power portfolio is scheduled for release in the second half of 2026 — ahead of NVIDIA Kyber and NVIDIA Rubin Ultra platform rollouts.

Vertiv aligns with the NVIDIA AI roadmap to stay one GPU generation ahead, enabling customers to deploy their power and cooling infrastructure in sync with NVIDIA’s next-generation compute platforms. Vertiv provides end-to-end power, cooling, integrated infrastructure and services to support AI factories and other data center deployments.

As rack power requirements in AI environments scale beyond 300 kilowatts, 800 VDC enables more efficient, centralized power delivery by reducing copper usage, current, and thermal losses. Vertiv’s upcoming portfolio will feature centralized rectifiers, high-efficiency DC busways, rack-level DC-DC converters, and DC-compatible backup systems, expanding its broad, end-to-end power management portfolio that already includes a robust AC power train.

“As GPUs evolve to support increasingly complex AI applications at giga-watt scale, power and cooling providers need to be equally innovative to provide energy-efficient and high-density solutions for the AI factories. While the 800 VDC portfolio is new, DC power isn’t a new direction for us, it’s a continuation of what we’ve already done at scale,” said Scott Armul, executive vice president of global portfolio and business units at Vertiv. “We’ve spent decades deploying higher-voltage DC architectures across global telecom, industrial, and data center applications. We’re entering this transition from a position of strength and bringing real-world experience to meet the demands of the AI factory.”

Vertiv’s experience in DC power spans more than two decades of ±400 VDC deployments, broadened by strategic acquisitions during the early 2000’s. These solutions support critical loads in global telecom networks, integrated microgrids, and mission-critical facilities. This foundation establishes Vertiv as a trusted leader in the safe design, deployment, and operation of higher-voltage DC architectures, with proven scale, portfolio, and long-term serviceability.

“ It is important development and opportunity for Vertiv to march next level journey of High Density Accelerated Computing Infrastructure.” said Subhasis Majumder, VP/GM at Vertiv India. “We have been in DC Power space for more than two decades serving Telecom and Industrial segment. With this collaboration, we are enhancing our portfolio to support Innovative AI Factory at large scale with minimising energy losses ”

Designed for homogeneous AI zones in hyperscale environments, Vertiv’s 800 VDC portfolio is a key pillar of its “unit of compute” strategy — a systems-level design engineered to enable all infrastructure components — to interoperate as one modular and scalable system, matching infrastructure demands of next-generation GPUs. Vertiv’s support for both AC and DC architectures is a strategic differentiator in the evolving AI data center landscape.

World No Tobacco Day Gathering Brings Tears, Hope, and Healing to Cancer Warriors and Their Families

NEW DELHI, June 2, 2025 – In a room filled with both tears of pain and tears of joy, Dharamshila Narayana Hospital’s Head and Neck Cancer Support Group event on May 31st proved that healing extends far beyond medicine. The “Let’s Stand Against Tobacco” gathering, held on World No Tobacco Day, created an unforgettable tapestry of human resilience, expert guidance, and profound connection that left attendees forever changed.
Over 150 patients, survivors, families, and healthcare professionals gathered at the Onco OPD Reception Area, transforming what could have been a clinical space into a sanctuary of hope and understanding.

 Moments That Moved Hearts
The event’s most powerful moments came during the patient journey segments, where survivors Mr. Harinder, Mr. Manoj Jain, and Mr. Pushpinder shared their deeply personal stories. There wasn’t a dry eye in the room as Mr. Harinder spoke about the day he thought his voice would never matter again, or when Mr. Manoj described how his family’s unwavering support became his lifeline during the darkest treatment days.

 Dr. Shubham Garg, who delivered the opening remarks, reflected on the day’s impact: “Witnessing these brave souls share their journeys reminded everyone present that head and neck cancer patients face challenges that touch every aspect of their identity – their voice, their ability to eat, their confidence. Today proved that when we create space for their stories, we create space for healing.”

 The lamp lighting ceremony became an especially poignant moment, with survivors and their families lighting candles together, symbolically illuminating the path for others still fighting their battles.

 Expert Care Meets Human Compassion
Dr. Manish Tandon, Clinical Director, whose welcome address set the tone for the day, observed: “What struck me most was seeing patients who had been suffering in silence suddenly realize they weren’t alone. When we treat head and neck cancer, we’re not just addressing a medical condition – we’re helping rebuild shattered confidence and restore families torn apart by fear. Today, I watched hope being reborn in real time.”

 The comprehensive health talks by leading experts including Dr. Ambesh Singh, Professor Dr. Amit Gupta, and the holistic support sessions led by chief physiotherapist Dr. Jayaprakash Jayavelu and senior psychiatrist Ms. Sandhya Sharma provided attendees with both cutting-edge medical insights and practical coping strategies.

 A Day That Changed Perspectives
The event’s cultural performances by Ms. Priya, Ms. Chhavi, Ms. Neha, and Mr. Saurabh brought moments of pure joy, proving that life’s beauty persists even through cancer’s challenges. Families were seen laughing together, some for the first time in months.

 Dr. Prahlad Prasad Agrawal, Director of Operations, who delivered the closing vote of thanks, was visibly moved: “I’ve been in healthcare for decades, but days like today remind me why we do this work. Watching patients who entered feeling isolated leave with phone numbers of new friends, seeing families who felt helpless gain practical tools for support – this is medicine at its most profound. Every patient here reminded us that behind every diagnosis is a human story of incredible courage.”

 Building Lasting Connections
Perhaps the most significant outcome was the formation of an ongoing support network. Attendees exchanged contact information, planned future meetups, and several volunteered to mentor newly diagnosed patients. The poster and slogan competition winners were celebrated, but the real victory was the community that emerged.

 Looking Forward
The overwhelming response has prompted Dharamshila Narayana Hospital to announce plans for monthly support group meetings, ensuring that the connections and healing that began on World No Tobacco Day will continue throughout the year.

 As one attendee shared, “I came here feeling broken and invisible. I’m leaving knowing that my battle matters, my story has power, and I’m not fighting alone anymore.”

Johnson Controls Marks 140 Years, Boosts Sustainability Focus in Middle East & Africa

DUBAI, UAE June 2, 2025 – Johnson Controls , the global leader for smart, safe, healthy, and sustainable buildings, is celebrating 140 years of achievements and industry-firsts. Since its founding in 1885, Johnson Controls has continuously improved the built environment, delivering the first automatic sprinkler and then the first room thermostat shortly thereafter. Today, Johnson Controls is serving customers throughout the building lifecycle with one of the largest portfolios of heating, ventilation and air conditioning equipment and controls in the world, coupled with a world-class fire protection and smart security portfolio. The company is laser focused on enhancing and protecting essential buildings ranging from data centers to advanced manufacturing, education to hospitals to pharmaceutical labs, creating environments that improve society and help customers run mission-critical operations.

Johnson Controls continues to innovate with our ever-growing portfolio of nearly 8,000 patents and billions of dollars invested in engineering, research, and development in recent years. While portions of the business have been around longer, with its Grinnell and York brands celebrating more than 150 years in existence, the company is united in its inventive spirit and end-to-end partnership with customers. From original engineering and design of equipment to installation, service and ultimately replacement and upgrade, the company is about trust and deep commitment to customers.

“As we mark Johnson Controls’ 140th anniversary, this moment serves not only as a celebration of our global legacy, but also as a powerful reflection of our journey and growth in the Middle East & Africa (MEA). Over the years, we’ve proudly supported the region’s transformation through cutting-edge building technologies, energy efficiency solutions, and smart city innovations that are helping realize the bold ambitions of national development strategies. Our presence in the region is more than a business footprint—it is a long-term commitment to empowering local talent, nurturing strategic partnerships, and co-creating solutions that enhance sustainability, resilience, and digital readiness across industries,” said Devrim Tekeli, vice president & general manager, MEA, Johnson Controls.

”As we look ahead, we remain steadfast in our mission to accelerate technology-driven innovation, support decarbonization efforts, and contribute meaningfully to the future of smart infrastructure. Together with our customers, we are excited to shape the next phase of growth starting right here in the heart of one of the world’s most dynamic and forward-thinking regions,” added Tekeli.

Looking ahead, Johnson Controls has a more simplified portfolio serving customers over the lifecycle of a building. Combined with world-class service teams reaching more than four million customers anywhere and at any time, our customers are saving money, energy and time. The portfolio is further enabled by digital, integrating IoT and connecting equipment, harnessing award-winning AI and machine learning, and offering enhanced real-time analytics – making buildings smarter than ever before. Whether it’s protecting from extreme weather conditions, mitigating rising energy prices, or developing the latest technology, Johnson Controls is a trusted partner with global expertise and local presence to serve customers now and in the future.

FSSAI delay in issuing licences could leave India’s PET Recycling Industry on the brink of bankruptcy, warns APR Bharat

New Delhi, June 02, 2025: The delay in granting of licences by FSSAI, to the factories set up by recycled PET manufacturers is likely to push a majority of these companies into bankruptcy, the Association of PET Recyclers (Bharat) – APR Bharat, said.

The industry has set up a total capacity of 4 lakh MT at an estimated investment of Rs 7500-8000 crore to produce recycled polyethylene terephthalate (r-PET) for generating food-contact packaging material. Companies have adopted state-of-art technology and set up their factories adhering to standards approved by the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) and US Food and Drug Administration (FDA).

While a handful of them have received the FSSAI nod, as many as 15 plants, which are fully commissioned, are still awaiting clearance from the regulator to commence commercial production.

It is to be noted that the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEFCC), had in 2022, issued guidelines on the mandatory usage of 30 per cent recycled food-grade plastic content into PET packaging bottles by beverage manufacturers, which were to come into effect from April 1, 2025. In the same year (2022-23), FSSAI came out with guidelines for recycling of post-consumer PET for food contact applications and five licences were issued and r-PET supplies have been used by brand owners since then, providing for a field validation on the use of r-PET, as was also acknowledged by FSSAI.

The revised FSSAI guidelines, which should have been in place at least 2-3 months before 1st April’25, were actually notified only in the last week of May 2025, which has further extended the timelines for licence issuance to more than nine applications pending with FSSAI since Dec’24/Jan’25.

“Following regulatory guidance by MoEFCC and FSSAI in 2022, and based on the understanding that this would give a huge impetus to the demand for r-PET in packaging bottles by beverage manufacturers, the industry started building capacities and a majority of them have been fully commissioned since January 2025. The nine applications pending with FSSAI has resulted in capacities lying idle. A majority of these investments have a significant component of debt and any delay in commencing operations could force these companies into bankruptcy,” Shailendra Singh, Director General, APR Bharat said.

Close to 50 per cent of the new investment is funded through bank debt. “If commercial production does not commence soon then these companies may face a huge fund crunch and may find it difficult to service the loan leading to most of these accounts turning into NPA (non-performing asset),” Singh added.