CM Rekha Gupta’s Vision at Plastindia 2026: Making Delhi a Global Trade and Industry Hub

Zero-Waste Vision: CM Rekha Gupta Presents the Vision of ‘Responsible Growth’

“Plastic Should Be Turned from a Problem into a Solution,” Says CM Rekha Gupta

New Delhi, February 2026 : Delhi Chief Minister Smt. Rekha Gupta attended the 12th International Plastindia 2026 Plastic Exhibition, Conference and Convention on Thursday. From this globally recognised platform, she outlined a clear roadmap for Delhi’s industrial development. The Chief Minister visited various stalls at the exhibition and closely reviewed innovations in plastic manufacturing, recycling, and the circular economy.

The conference, held at Bharat Mandapam, was attended by Shri Ravish Kamath, President of the Plastindia Foundation; Shri Alok Tibrewal, Chairman of the National Executive Council (NEC) of Plastindia 2026; and Shri Pravesh Wahi, Leader of the House in the Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD), along with representatives from over 80 countries and a large number of entrepreneurs.

Emphasising the goal of developing Delhi as a global city and a strong commercial centre, the Chief Minister said that the Delhi Government is continuously taking concrete steps to strengthen industry and entrepreneurship. To empower the MSME sector, the Delhi Government is providing collateral-free loans of up to ₹10 crore, enabling small enterprises to access financial support without any guarantee.

The Chief Minister stated that Delhi has set a target of establishing 5,000 new start-ups, particularly to promote innovation and sustainable solutions in the plastic industry. She added that policies are being simplified to further improve the ease of doing business, so that Delhi emerges not only as a consumption hub but also as a recognised trading and distribution centre. She made it clear that plastic waste is a major challenge in making Delhi clean and green, and addressing it requires collective efforts using modern recycling and waste management technologies.

Sharing industry data, the Chief Minister noted that in 2025, India’s plastic industry was valued at approximately USD 44 billion, with projections of reaching USD 47 billion in 2026. It is estimated to grow to nearly USD 64 billion by 2030. The sector provides employment to millions of people, and India’s share in global plastic consumption stands at around 6 per cent, ranking third after China and the United States. She said India is rapidly progressing towards becoming a global plastic processing hub.

Recalling the social transformation brought about by the cleanliness campaign launched by Hon’ble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi ji, the Chief Minister said that while plastic manufacturing may be a business, responsible growth must be the vision. Improper recycling and disposal of plastic can have serious environmental consequences. She emphasised that the goal of a ‘Viksit Bharat’ by 2047 cannot be achieved through economic progress alone, but also requires a change in mindset and behaviour.

Speaking on the role of MSMEs and ‘Vocal for Local’, the Chief Minister said that the plastic industry can make a significant contribution in both areas. She appreciated the role played by the plastic industry during the COVID-19 pandemic in supplying PPE kits, medical supplies and essential packaging, noting that the sector not only met India’s needs but also supported the world, helping save countless lives. She added that the industry plays a vital role in positioning India as a reliable global sourcing hub.

What is Plastindia

Plastindia 2026 commenced on 5 February 2026 at Bharat Mandapam and will continue until 10 February. Organised with the support of the Government of India’s Department of Chemicals and Petrochemicals, the Ministry of Commerce and Industry, and the Ministry of MSME, the event is regarded as one of the world’s largest plastic exhibitions. Based on the theme ‘Bharat Next’, the exhibition aligns with the vision of Aatmanirbhar Bharat and Viksit Bharat by promoting manufacturing, employment generation and a strong industrial base. Over 2,000 international exhibitors are showcasing machinery, raw materials, advanced technologies and circular economy solutions. Notably, Plastindia 2026 is being organised for the first time as a zero-waste exhibition, ensuring recycling and reuse of waste materials.