Uttar Pradesh CM Lays Foundation Stone for India’s First Biopolymer Manufacturing Unit
Kumbhi, Lakhimpur Kheri, Uttar Pradesh – February 22, 2025 – Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath laid the foundation stone for India’s first biopolymer manufacturing facility, marking a major step toward eco-friendly alternatives to single-use plastics.
The integrated biopolymer plant, owned by Balrampur Chini Mills Ltd. (BCML), the largest sugar producer in Uttar Pradesh, aligns with India’s net-zero emissions target. The facility will produce biodegradable alternatives to conventional plastics, including packaging materials, biomedical applications, food service ware, textiles, and industrial products.
CM Yogi emphasized: “This plant will further the vision of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s ‘Make in India’ and ‘Atmanirbhar Bharat’ initiatives. It will serve as a significant milestone in reducing environmental pollution and creating employment opportunities.”
Key Highlights of the Project
- Investment: Rs 2,850 crore
- Technology Partners: Alpine (Austria) and Sulzer (Switzerland) for technology transfer
- Raw Materials: Sugar, corn, and tapioca
- Products: Biodegradable cups, plates, cutlery, and straws
- Sustainability: Operates on renewable energy
- Initial Production Capacity: 80,000 tonnes per year
- Expected Launch: December 2026
Potential Market Impact
Uttar Pradesh Chief Secretary Manoj Kumar Singh highlighted that global Polylactic Acid (PLA) production stands at 21 lakh tonnes, presenting a significant opportunity for India to capture market share and lead in sustainable biopolymer production.
Avantika Saraogi, Executive Director of BCML, explained that current technology requires 1.6 kg of sugar to manufacture 1 kg of PLA. Ongoing advancements are expected to reduce this to 1.2 kg, making production more cost-effective.
With an investment of Rs 2,880 crore, this facility will be India’s first integrated biopolymer plant powered by renewable energy. The company plans to scale up capacity beyond the initial production once operations begin in December 2026.
This initiative reinforces India’s commitment to sustainability, innovation, and industrial growth, paving the way for a greener future.