Praj Industries has inaugurated a demonstration facility for biopolymers in Jejuri, Pune. The facility focuses on the production of polylactic acid (PLA) bioplastic, a renewable alternative to traditional fossil-based plastics. The facility, described as the first of its kind in India, aims to support the country’s transition towards sustainable, eco-friendly materials.
The inauguration was conducted virtually from New Delhi by the Minister of State for Science and Technology, Jitendra Singh. According to the minister, this initiative represents a step towards developing indigenous technologies for biopolymer production and contributes to addressing plastic pollution.
India’s bioeconomy, valued at over $150 billion in 2023, is expected to reach $300 billion by 2030, according to government projections. Singh also noted that the country has established 95 bio-incubators and a rapidly growing biotech startup ecosystem, expanding from 50 startups in 2014 to over 8,500 in 2023.
The facility is seen as a step toward integrating biotechnology innovations with India’s broader environmental goals, including the government’s efforts to support a carbon-neutral economy and promote sustainable growth through initiatives such as “Make-in-India.”