Kolkata Conclave Charts Path for Bengal's Chemical Industry Revival
Kolkata hosted a significant industry gathering on Saturday that focused on reviving West Bengal's chemical and allied sectors. The ChEMEAST 2026 conclave brought together experts who believe the state possesses substantial untapped potential despite past setbacks.
Learning from Past Decisions
The state government scrapped the proposed Petroleum, Chemicals and Petrochemicals Investment Region at Nayachar Island more than ten years ago. However, industry leaders now argue that targeted policy support could still unlock growth opportunities. They emphasize developing an ecosystem driven by micro, small, and medium enterprises alongside startups.
Key Voices from the Event
Padma Shri G D Yadav, president of the Indian Chemical Society, addressed the audience as chief guest. He highlighted Bengal's leading position in MSME growth nationwide. "MSMEs can significantly contribute to chemical industry expansion with proper single-window policy support," Yadav stated. He urged large corporations to collaborate with smaller enterprises to drive sectoral growth.
Yadav further recommended establishing dedicated chemical industry zones in Bengal. "We should look at Singapore as a model for chemical industry development," he suggested. The former vice-chancellor also called for mindset changes among major players to embrace new business strategies and advanced technologies.
Platform for Innovation and Growth
Debashis Ghosh, organizing secretary of the conclave, described the event as a crucial meeting point for industry and innovation. "This platform transforms ideas into growth engines for our region," Ghosh explained. He pointed to several emerging trends creating opportunities:
- Evolving energy transitions toward sustainable sources
- Development of new material economies
- Integration of digital intelligence systems
- Growing emphasis on ESG (environmental, social, governance) requirements
- Infrastructure-led economic expansion
"These factors make it the perfect time to reposition Bengal and eastern India as future powerhouses for chemical industries," Ghosh emphasized.
Emphasis on Sustainable Practices
Biswanath Chattopadhyay, CEO of IVL Dhunseri and chairperson of the organizing committee, stressed the importance of sustainable approaches. "Innovation, circular economy principles, and green integration must guide our energy, oil and gas, petrochemical, and specialty chemical sectors," he asserted.
Collaborative Effort for Regional Development
The Regional Centre of the Indian Institute of Chemical Engineers partnered with the Jadavpur Chemical Engineering Alumni Association to organize ChEMEAST 2026. The conclave attracted academic researchers, policy makers, and industry representatives from diverse fields including green energy, logistics, and supply chain management.
Participants engaged in detailed discussions about practical strategies for attracting both domestic and international investments. The collective vision presented at the event suggests Bengal could reclaim its historical significance in chemical manufacturing through coordinated efforts across multiple stakeholders.
