Maharashtra Government Takes Action on Hazardous PFAS Production
Synopsis
As concerns mount over PFAS production by Laxmi Organic in Maharashtra, Minister Pankaja Munde announces an investigation by ICT. The halt in production follows allegations of health risks and environmental impact in the Konkan area.
Key Takeaways
Maharashtra government initiates investigation into PFAS production.
Laxmi Organic halts PFAS operations amid health concerns.
Institute of Chemical Technology tasked with thorough site inspection.
PFAS, known as 'forever chemicals', pose long-term environmental risks.
Public protests have influenced government action on hazardous chemicals.
Mumbai, March 16 (NationPress) In light of growing concerns regarding the production of hazardous polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) by Laxmi Organic in the Lote-Parshuram industrial area of Ratnagiri district and its potential implications for health and the Konkan environment, Maharashtra Minister Pankaja Munde announced on Monday that the government has tasked the Institute of Chemical Technology (ICT) with evaluating the production site and its vicinity. A report is expected within 60 days.
Additionally, Munde informed the legislative assembly that the company has halted its PFAS production. These chemicals, often referred to as “forever chemicals”, are notorious for their persistence in both the environment and the human body.
Congress MLC Bhai Jagtap highlighted the unrest in the Konkan region over PFAS production during a calling attention motion. He alleged that a firm previously banned in Italy for PFAS-related activities is operating in Lote-Parshuram MIDC under a different name, with a board member who was imprisoned in Italy over these issues. He called for a complete ban on PFAS production.
Supporting this call, NCP (SP) member Shashikant Shinde urged state government intervention. BJP MLC Niranjan Davkhare claimed that after the Italian government took action against Miteni S.p.A. in 2018, the same production facility was dismantled and relocated to India in 2019, rebranded as Laxmi Organic.
In response, Minister Munde clarified that Laxmi Organic was granted permission to operate because PFAS is not prohibited in India. She stated that the company had produced 31.37 metric tonnes of PFAS, but ceased operations following public protests in late December 2025.
Munde emphasized that while PFAS is not banned, its production is subject to strict regulations. The chemical’s inability to decompose raises significant concerns, prompting the government's decision to engage ICT for a thorough investigation of the production site. She assured the assembly that appropriate measures would be taken following the submission of ICT's report, promising accountability for those involved.
Point of View
It raises questions about regulatory oversight and the implications of allowing such hazardous substances to be produced in the country.
NationPress
9 May 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
Why was Laxmi Organic's PFAS production halted?
Laxmi Organic ceased PFAS production following public protests and concerns over health risks and environmental impacts.
What is the role of the Institute of Chemical Technology?
The Institute of Chemical Technology (ICT) has been appointed to inspect the PFAS production facility and surrounding areas, with a report expected within 60 days.
What actions are being taken by the Maharashtra government?
The Maharashtra government has ordered an inspection of the production facility and has halted PFAS production by Laxmi Organic while investigating the situation.
Is the production of PFAS banned in India?
PFAS is not banned in India, but its production is subject to strict regulations.
