India has launched the National Packaging Innovation Challenge, a nationwide initiative designed to promote sustainable packaging solutions and enhance the country’s export competitiveness. The program, introduced by the Indian Institute of Packaging (IIP), encourages startups and students to develop packaging that is both environmentally responsible and scalable for industry use.
Sustainability and Self-Reliance Focus
The initiative supports the government’s Aatmanirbhar Bharat vision by helping small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) upgrade their packaging standards. Speaking at the launch event in New Delhi, IIP Chairman Sunil Jain emphasized the need for solutions that reduce environmental impact while meeting international quality and trade requirements.
Participants are being challenged to replace traditional plastics with biodegradable, recyclable, and reusable materials that align with global sustainability trends.
Innovation Through ‘Packathon’
To encourage practical problem-solving, IIP also hosted a live “Packathon”, where teams tackled real packaging issues provided by industry partners. The competition highlighted opportunities for sustainable packaging in key sectors like food, healthcare, and logistics.
IIP Additional Director Tanweer Alam noted that the rising global demand for eco-friendly packaging presents major export opportunities for India, backed by the country’s strong manufacturing ability and skilled talent.
Strong Market Growth Potential
The global biodegradable packaging market is projected to increase from USD 98.7 billion in 2023 to USD 176.9 billion by 2032. At the same time, India’s plastic exports are expected to grow from USD 12 billion to USD 25 billion by 2027. Experts believe that scaling sustainable packaging technologies will play a key role in capturing this growth.
With supply chains worldwide under pressure to reduce carbon emissions, demand for innovative and environmentally responsible packaging is expected to accelerate significantly in the years ahead.