Plastindia Foundation Working on Breakthrough Approaches for Industry Growth

Jigish N. Doshi

President, Plastindia Foundation

“We provide accurate, reliable and transparent data related to the plastics industry which acts as a guidepost to a number of industry sectors, helping in realistic and meaningful growth,” conveys Jigish N. Doshi, in dialogue with POLYMERS Communiqué.

Q. What are your thoughts on the recent ban on the use of single-use plastic by the government? What do you think will be the impact of this move on the plastics industry at large?

The plastics industry wholeheartedly supports the initiative by the Government of India that is in tune with the betterment of the environment. However, it is also a well-known fact that the plastics industry is one of the biggest sectors in India, which is not only labour intensive, but also involves huge capital investment in terms of plant and machinery, providing employment opportunities and contributing significantly to the national economy. The industry comprises a number of MSMEs that manufacture single / standalone plastic products. These businesses stand to face the brunt of this ban. What the plastics industry collectively believes is that the government should extend support in the form of fiscal incentives and policy building.

Secondly, the industry needs some more time to find the right alternatives to single-use plastic. It is not only about increasing the thickness of plastic carry bags to 120 microns, but also about finding the right alternatives for plastic plates and cutleries. We are looking at viable alternatives for thermocol (polystyrene) based products. However, implementing these changes will require time and

that’s what the industry requests the government to provide. India is a huge country with every region operating in its own way. So, one solution might not work for everyone. We need localised solutions to ensure that plastics waste is collected and treated properly.

A complete ban is not the only solution. Everyone, including the government, the plastics industry and the people need to work together in finding the right alternatives, streamline waste management and improve recycling technology. Through collaborative efforts, we are sure that we will be able to effectively fight plastic pollution.

Q. What is the latest update on the Plastindia International University and what is the vision of the Plastindia Foundation for the next few years?

The Plastindia International University is almost on the verge of completion. We recently appointed Dr. D. D. Kale as the Provost of the university. Most other prominent positions have been gracefully filled with experienced and prominent personalities. We are happy with the progress as the functioning of the university is in good hands. If everything goes as planned, we will be able to start physical classes by April, 2023. The Plastindia International University will provide expert industry knowledge and training to make the students industry-ready. They can go out and make a difference in the plastics industry as they will be well-equipped to do so. The plastics industry also stands to benefit greatly from the university as we will provide the right manpower with appropriate skills. Plastic businesses will not have to spend time, effort and money to train their staff anymore.

Furthermore, the land price in India is too high. Stability in foreign currency rates, export incentive policies on the lines of what our neighbouring countries such as China offers will help exporters with a level playing ground, while competing in the global markets.

Q. What kind of initiatives are being taken by the Plastindia Foundation for furthering the growth of the plastics industry?

Plastindia Foundation is working on several long-term initiatives that will have a huge impact on the growth

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