India’s Ammonia Sector Remains 77% Dependent on Imported Natural Gas, Says FAI
Durgapur (West Bengal): India’s ammonia production sector continues to rely heavily on imported natural gas, with nearly 77 per cent of feedstock requirements being met through imports, according to Dr. Suresh Kumar Chaudhari, Director General of the Fertiliser Association of India (FAI).
He made the remarks during a group discussion on “Operation and Maintenance Problems of Ammonia Plants” being held in Durgapur, West Bengal, from June 3 to 6.
The four-day programme has brought together more than 50 senior engineers and technical professionals representing 25 ammonia plants across 19 locations in India. Discussions are focused on plant reliability, maintenance practices, energy efficiency, process safety and operational performance.
Addressing participants, Dr. Chaudhari said ammonia remains a critical component of India’s nitrogenous fertiliser industry and plays an important role in supporting the country’s food security. He noted that India currently operates 36 ammonia plants with a combined installed capacity of nearly 19 million tonnes.
According to him, ammonia production is among the most energy-intensive industrial processes, making operational efficiency and energy conservation essential for maintaining competitiveness and ensuring fertiliser security.
He also pointed out that while several modern ammonia plants have been commissioned in recent years, many facilities in the country have been operational for 25 to 50 years. These older plants require continuous upgrades, technological improvements and adoption of best practices to maintain efficiency and safety standards.
Dr. Chaudhari highlighted that the fertiliser industry has reduced greenhouse gas emissions by approximately 50 per cent over the past four decades through technology adoption, process optimisation and energy-saving measures.
The discussion programme has been designed as a knowledge-sharing platform for industry professionals to exchange experiences and address operational challenges faced by ammonia plants across the country.
Senior representatives from organisations including Matix Fertilisers & Chemicals Ltd., Hindustan Urvarak & Rasayan Limited (HURL), Indian Farmers Fertiliser Cooperative Limited (IFFCO) and National Fertilizers Limited (NFL) are participating in the event.
The programme also includes a technical visit to the Matix Fertilisers & Chemicals facility at Panagarh, where participants will observe operational and maintenance practices at a modern ammonia plant.
Industry experts believe that improving operational reliability, reducing energy consumption and enhancing technological capabilities will be key factors in strengthening the long-term sustainability and competitiveness of India’s ammonia and fertiliser sectors.
