INDIAN CHEMICAL INDUSTRY SCENARIO

Chemical Industry is one of the oldest industries in India , which contributes significantly towards industrial and economic growth of the nation. It is highly science based and provides valuable chemicals for various end products such as textiles, paper, paints and varnishes, leather etc., which are required in almost all walks of life. The Indian Chemical Industry forms the backbone of the industrial and agricultural development of India and provides building blocks for downstream industries.

Chemical Industry is an important constituent of the Indian economy. Its size is estimated at around US$ 35 billion approx., which is equivalent to about 3% of India 's GDP. The total investment in Indian Chemical Sector is approx. US$ 60 billion and total employment generated is about 1 million. The Indian Chemical sector accounts for 13-14% of total exports and 8-9% of total imports of the country. In terms of volume, it is 12th largest in the world and 3rd largest in Asia . Currently, per capita consumption of products of chemical industry in India is about 1/10th of the world average. Over the last decade, the Indian Chemical industry has evolved from being a basic chemical producer to becoming an innovative industry. With investments in R&D, the industry is registering significant growth in the knowledge sector comprising of specialty chemicals, fine chemicals and pharmaceuticals.

Source: chemicals.nic.in