New Delhi | Special Correspondent: Deepak Sagar

Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta on Tuesday said that plastic should no longer be viewed as an environmental liability but as a solution-driven resource, provided innovation, recycling and circular economy principles are effectively implemented. She emphasised that sustainable plastic manufacturing can simultaneously support environmental responsibility and economic growth.


Addressing the 12th edition of PlastIndia 2026—an international exhibition, conference and convention—at Bharat Mandapam, Pragati Maidan, the Chief Minister reiterated the government’s commitment to positioning Delhi as a global trade and industrial hub.


Make in India and Sustainable Manufacturing Key to Viksit Bharat
Highlighting India’s long-term development goals, CM Rekha Gupta said that achieving the vision of Viksit Bharat requires strong emphasis on Make in India, sustainable manufacturing and technology-driven industries.


The exhibition showcased cutting-edge innovations in plastic manufacturing, waste management and recycling technologies, reflecting India’s growing role in next-generation industrial solutions.


Participation from Over 80 Countries
The Chief Minister noted that delegates from more than 80 countries participated in PlastIndia 2026, underlining India’s expanding industrial capability, technological innovation and global relevance.


She said such large-scale international platforms help strengthen India’s position on the global industrial and manufacturing map.


Major Boost for MSMEs
Rekha Gupta highlighted that the Central Government has taken several measures to strengthen the MSME sector, including:
Collateral-free loans


Simplified access to finance
Investment incentives for manufacturing and start-ups
She informed that loans of up to ₹10 crore are being made accessible to small and medium enterprises, providing a significant push to entrepreneurship and industrial expansion.


Target of 5,000 New Start-ups in Delhi
Stating that Delhi must evolve beyond being a consumption-driven city, the Chief Minister said the government aims to transform the capital into a major innovation and start-up hub.


“Our goal is to support at least 5,000 new start-ups in the coming years, which will generate employment, boost production and strengthen exports,” she said.


India’s Industrial Future on Global Stage
Expressing confidence in the impact of such international events, CM Rekha Gupta said that platforms like PlastIndia 2026 play a crucial role in showcasing India’s industrial strength and sustainability-focused growth model to the world.


She added that innovation-led, responsible manufacturing would be the cornerstone of India’s journey towards becoming a global industrial powerhouse.