Plastic – Delhi Pushes Sustainable Innovation at Global Plastics Industry Forum
Plastic – Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta on Thursday called on the plastics industry to accelerate innovation and adopt cleaner production methods, stressing that long-term growth must be anchored in environmental responsibility. Addressing industry leaders, policymakers, and entrepreneurs, she underlined the importance of aiming for complete recycling of plastic waste while developing products that are both commercially viable and environmentally sound.
Sustainability Positioned as Industry Priority
Speaking at a major international industry gathering, the chief minister said sustainability can no longer remain a parallel objective and must instead shape the core vision of the plastics sector. She noted that innovation in materials, manufacturing processes, and recycling technologies would determine how effectively the industry responds to environmental challenges in the years ahead. According to her, responsible growth is essential not only for environmental protection but also for maintaining global competitiveness.
Delhi’s Global City and Business Ambitions
The remarks were made during the 12th International Plastindia 2026 exhibition, conference, and convention, where participants from across India and abroad showcased new technologies and solutions. Gupta said the Delhi government is actively working to strengthen the city’s position as a global city and a robust commercial hub. She highlighted ongoing efforts to create an ecosystem that supports industry expansion, innovation, and entrepreneurship across sectors.
Financial Support for MSMEs and Start-ups
Focusing on small and medium enterprises, Gupta said the government has introduced collateral-free loans of up to Rs 10 crore to improve access to capital. The move is intended to remove long-standing financial barriers faced by smaller businesses and encourage investment in advanced manufacturing and sustainable practices. She also announced that Delhi has set a target of establishing 5,000 new start-ups, with a special emphasis on innovation-driven and sustainability-focused ventures within the plastics value chain.
Simplifying Policies to Boost Ease of Doing Business
The chief minister added that regulatory frameworks are being streamlined to make it easier for businesses to operate and expand in the capital. She said simplified policies would help position Delhi not only as a major consumption market but also as a recognised centre for trade and distribution. According to her, predictable regulations and faster approvals are key to attracting investment and encouraging industries to scale operations responsibly.
Addressing Plastic Waste Through Technology
Gupta acknowledged that plastic waste remains one of the biggest obstacles to making Delhi cleaner and greener. She said tackling the issue requires collective action from government, industry, and citizens, supported by modern waste management and recycling technologies. Emphasising collaboration, she urged industry players to invest in advanced recycling systems and circular economy models that reduce waste generation at the source.
Industry Growth and Employment Potential
Sharing industry data, Gupta noted that India’s plastics sector was valued at around USD 44 billion in 2025 and is projected to reach approximately USD 47 billion in 2026. Longer-term estimates suggest the industry could expand to nearly USD 64 billion by 2030. She pointed out that the sector provides employment to millions across manufacturing, processing, and allied services, making it a critical contributor to the national economy.
India’s Position in the Global Market
The chief minister said India currently accounts for about 6 per cent of global plastic consumption, ranking third worldwide after China and the United States. With rising domestic demand and increasing exports, she said the country is steadily moving towards becoming a global hub for plastic processing. Gupta concluded by urging industry stakeholders to align growth ambitions with environmental responsibility, stating that sustainable innovation would define the sector’s future success.