Nandi Papers Private Limited is expanding its presence in the Indian paper industry with the development of a state-of-the-art greenfield kraft paper mill near Chennai, Tamil Nadu.
The project, currently under implementation, is scheduled to commence commercial production by April 2028, with a planned installed capacity of 90,000 tonnes per annum (TPA). The upcoming facility will manufacture high-BF kraft paper above 30 BF, along with value-added paper products. The paper machine will feature a 3,920-mm untrimmed reel width and a basis weight range of 80–300 GSM. Designed with modern machinery, advanced automation systems and energy-efficient technologies, the mill aims to deliver high productivity, consistent product quality and sustainable manufacturing operations.
Speaking about the project, Mr. J. Ramesh Chowdary, Chairman and Managing Director of Nandi Papers, highlighted the company’s vision of establishing a technologically advanced and globally competitive paper manufacturing facility in India. He stated that combining strategic location advantages with world-class machinery and automation would enable the company to deliver high-quality kraft paper products while maintaining operational excellence and sustainability.
As part of the project implementation, Nandi Papers has appointed M/s Aquatherm Engineering Consultants (India) Pvt. Ltd. to provide detailed engineering consultancy services for the utility section. In a separate development, C2C Consultancy has been awarded the detailed engineering consultancy contract for the balance of plant facilities, covering stock preparation, paper machine, winder and effluent treatment plant (ETP). These appointments mark significant progress in assigning engineering responsibilities across the utility and core process sections of the proposed mill.
A major advantage of the upcoming facility is its strategic proximity to a major port near Chennai, which is expected to facilitate efficient transportation of raw materials and finished products. This location advantage will help reduce material handling time and transportation costs while strengthening the company’s competitiveness in domestic and international markets. The company believes that its strategic location will also support its future export plans.
To establish world-class manufacturing capabilities, Nandi Papers has partnered with leading international technology providers for key process systems and machinery. ANDRITZ – International Technology Group will supply the OCC line, approach flow system and white top line. Other important technology partners include ST Macchine SpA, Italy, for the headbox system; IBS for dewatering ceramic tops and EVA vacuum control systems; Kadant Johnson Europe B.V. for the steam and condensate system; ADPAP, Finland, for the starch preparation system; and Shandong Tianrui Maglev Pump, China, for high-efficiency magnetic levitation vacuum pumps. These collaborations are expected to support efficient production processes, improved machine performance and consistent paper quality.
The proposed mill will incorporate advanced Distributed Control System (DCS) and Quality Control System (QCS) technologies to enhance process monitoring, operational efficiency and product quality. These systems will facilitate real-time production monitoring, precise process adjustments and improved production stability. Globe Radio Private Limited will supply the rewinder, while the drying cylinders and paper machine hood will be sourced from reputed manufacturers in China. The paper machine will feature a three-wire configuration, along with wire, press and dryer sections and other critical components sourced from established machinery manufacturers to ensure reliable and high-performance operations.
Nandi Papers is also focusing on energy efficiency and environmentally responsible manufacturing. Discussions with leading suppliers for the effluent treatment plant, boiler system and turbine generator (TG) are currently underway, with the finalisation of suppliers expected shortly. These facilities will play an important role in optimising energy consumption, managing industrial effluents and supporting sustainable mill operations.
The upcoming investment comes amid increasing demand for high-quality packaging papers and containerboard products. Rising quality expectations among packaging buyers, upgraded product specifications and expanding requirements from FMCG, e-commerce and durable goods manufacturers are driving demand for improved kraft paper grades. According to the company, the high-BF kraft paper segment is expected to register annual growth of around 7–8%, creating opportunities for manufacturers investing in advanced production technologies and value-added products.
Nandi Papers aims to establish a strong presence in the domestic market through the production of high-quality kraft paper and plasterboard products, with plans to explore export opportunities at a later stage. With international technology partnerships, advanced manufacturing systems and strategic logistics advantages, the proposed 90,000 TPA facility represents an important milestone in the company’s long-term growth strategy. The project is expected to strengthen Nandi Papers’ position in the kraft paper and packaging board segment while contributing to the continued development of the Indian paper industry.
