From Hybrid seeds to Biotechnology and from Paper to Mega food park and from value added paper to industrial chemicals Nath Industry’s activities are diverse and challenging. Both Nath’s concerns and commitments go much beyond business. Adoption of villages, rural development, health care, education and culture As a true corporate citizen, everything we do must contribute to economic, ecological and human equilibrium. Merging nature with mankind. A passion beyond business.
PaperDesk : What inspired the establishment of Nath Group, and how did the founding vision shape its diversified business portfolio across paper, biotechnology, and chemicals?
Anil Sharma : Mr. Nandkishore Kagliwal, the visionary founder of Nath Group, is a true inspiration. From humble beginnings in a farming family in Jalna, Maharashtra, he defied odds to become a first-generation entrepreneur. Starting with Nath Paper, he built an empire spanning seeds, biotechnology, chemicals, healthcare, real estate, and education. His journey is a testament to perseverance and innovative spirit.
PD : As a first-generation entrepreneur, how did Nandkishor Kagliwal overcome early industry challenges while building the group into a multi-sector organization?
AS : Mr. Kagliwal’s gritty determination and can-do attitude have been instrumental in transforming Nath Group into a diversified conglomerate. He consistently seeks new avenues, turning challenges into opportunities, and has successfully led the Group into a multi-sector empire.
PD : How has research-driven thinking influenced the group’s expansion into technology-intensive sectors such as seeds, specialty papers, and industrial chemicals?
AS : Research-driven thinking has been the base for Nath Group’s expansion into tech-intensive sectors. By leveraging cutting-edge research, has innovated and transformed the traditional industries into leading mode.
- Seeds: Developed high-yield, to boost farmer’s productivity.
- Specialty Papers: Investments in advanced paper technologies, creating niche products like Absorbent Kraft for HPL, Giftwrap, Colour Tissues M G Kraft for Pouches and Bags, Core Boards and Thermal Paper.
- Industrial Chemicals: Focus on sustainable, process-efficient solutions, to catering various diverse sectors including Pharma.
This approach has always helped Nath Group stay competitive and future-ready.
PD : Nath Industries produces specialty papers such as core board and thermal paper—how do these products cater to the evolving needs of industries like textiles, packaging, and retail?
AS : The specialty papers are game-changers for various consumer segments and rapidly emerging markets.
- Core Board: Used in textile and packaging sectors for sturdy cores and tubes, offering durability and support.
- Thermal Paper: Widely used in retail for receipts, labels, and tickets, providing instant printing and convenience.
- Absorbent Kraft’s consistent quality and performance are driving efficiencies for HPL (High Pressure Laminate) and laminate manufacturers worldwide.
- Tissue Paper and Kraft Papers are the top picks for giftwrap, lamination, carry bags, and oil-resistant applications, thanks to:
- Consistent quality and reliable performance earns buyers trust.
- Vibrant shades: Bright, eye-catching colors that make products pop.
- Versatility: Perfect for various applications, from gifting to packaging.
These products cater to evolving needs, Customization and Sustainability.
PD : What ongoing research initiatives are focused on developing stronger, lighter, or more sustainable paper grades for high-performance industrial applications?
AS : Nath Industries are always investing and engaging in new R&D projects to enhance product efficiency and production capacity, such as commissioning new coating machines and developing value-added products (VAPs) like some of wrapping Paper and tissues grades with OGR properties and Higher Grade in Absorbent Kraft for niche quality of HPL. Researchers are working on developing stronger, lighter, and more sustainable paper grades for high-performance industrial applications like – Biodegradable Materials: Focusing on biodegradable materials like nano cellulose to reduce environmental impact and promote sustainability.
PD : How does the company integrate automation and advanced machinery in its pulp and paper manufacturing process to enhance efficiency and product quality?
AS : Nath Industries are integrating automation and advanced machinery to boost efficiency and quality in their pulp and paper manufacturing process with – Digitalization to monitor and optimize production in real-time.
- Automated Quality Control: Using advanced sensors and machine vision systems, which help to detect defects and ensure consistent quality.
- Process Optimization: advanced machinery, like high-speed coating machines, to enhance product efficiency.
Energy Efficiency: Implementing energy-efficient technologies to reduce energy consumption and costs.
PD : With increasing demand for specialty papers and packaging materials, how is Nath Industries positioning itself in domestic and international markets?
AS : We are aggressively positioning ourselves in both domestic and international markets to capitalize on the growing demand for specialty papers and packaging materials and accordingly designing the product portfolio to cater to various segments, including laminates, textiles, FMCG and food packaging and processing.
Key Strategies:
- Global Expansion, Product Innovation, Capacity Enhancement, and Sustainability.
- Market Outlook: The Indian paper packaging market is expected to grow at a CAGR of 7.75%, driven by increasing demand from e-commerce, FMCG, and food processing industries.
PD : How is the company investing in innovation to create new value-added paper products foremerging sectors such as e-commerce packaging and sustainable materials?
AS : Nath Industries is investing heavily in innovation to create new value-added paper products for emerging sectors like e-commerce packaging and sustainable materials. They’re leveraging cutting-edge technology, to develop products such as Gold Rust, Masking Paper, and Protection Paper, which are expected to boost revenue and reputation.
PD : What strategies are being adopted to improve product performance through material science and coating technologies?
AS : Nath Industries is leveraging material science and coating technologies to boost product performance. Some key strategies include:
- Bio-based Coatings: Developing coatings derived from starches, proteins, and natural waxes for improved recyclability and compostability.
- Advanced Coating Techniques: Utilizing techniques like curtain coating and size press to achieve uniform, high-coat weights.
- Sustainable Materials: Focusing on biodegradable, eco-friendly materials for reduced environmental impact.
PD : Nath Group operates across multiple sectors including paper, chemicals, seeds, and foodprocessing—how does diversification strengthen the company’s long-term business strategy?
AS : Nath Group’s diversification across paper, chemicals, seeds, and food processing is a solid long-term strategy. Here’s why:
- Risk Mitigation: Multiple sectors mean less dependence on one industry, making them more resilient to market fluctuations.
- Synergies: Shared resources, tech, and expertise across sectors boost efficiency and innovation.
- Growth Potential: Tap into diverse market opportunities, for stable and consistent growth.
- Brand Strength: A diversified portfolio builds a robust brand, trusted across industries.
This diversification lets us to innovate, and thrive.
PD : What operational strategies help the company maintain cost efficiency while delivering high-quality industrial paper products?
AS : Nath Industries maintains cost efficiency while producing high-quality paper products through several operational strategies such as :
- Optimized Supply Chain: ensuring timely delivery, optimize sourcing and reduces logistic costs.
- Energy Efficiency: Investments in energy-efficient technologies lower operational costs.
- Quality Control: Rigorous quality checks minimize defects and ensure consistent product quality.
- Vertical Integration: Controlled raw material sourcing and production processes leads to balanced integration.
PD : How does cross-industry research within the group support innovation and technology transfer between different business verticals?
AS : Shared R & D, Resource Pooling, and synergistic Solutions, do ensure Nath Group’s cross-industry research fosters innovation and tech transfer between verticals. Addressing common challenges across sectors leads to breakthroughs.
PD : How do you view the current technological transformation happening in the Indian pulp and paper industry?
AS : The Indian pulp and paper industry is undergoing a significant technological transformation, by the need for sustainability, efficiency, and cost-effectiveness.
The industry’s main focus is on shifting towards eco-friendly products, automation, and advanced technologies, and biotechnology. The trends mainly followed are, – Sustainability, Automation, Recycling and Waste Management.
PD : How can Indian paper manufacturers leverage research collaborations with academic institutions to develop next-generation sustainable paper materials?
AS : Indian paper Industry can leverage research collaborations with academic institutions to develop next-gen sustainable paper materials by:
Shared R&D, Access to Talent, Funding Opportunities, and Knowledge Sharing.
This exercise will yield the benefits like Innovation Boost: and cost effectiveness.
PD : What are the key growth opportunities for India’s pulp and paper industry over the next decade, particularly in packaging and specialty papers?
AS : India’s pulp and paper industry is destined for significant growth, driven by increasing demand for packaging and specialty papers. Here are the key growth opportunities:
Packaging Papers:
- The expansion of e-commerce is driving demand for corrugated boxes, paper bags, and various other packaging segments.
- The ban on single-use plastics is boosting demand for eco-friendly paper-based packaging.
- Specialty Papers:
- Rising awareness of hygiene and sanitation is driving demand for tissue paper and other specialty products.
- Growing demand for thermal paper in receipts, ATMs, and other applications.
- Growing demand for packaged food is rapidly increasing the need for specialty packaging papers.
PD : What investments in digitalization, smart manufacturing, or AI-driven quality monitoring could transform the paper industry in the coming years?
AS : The paper industry is poised for a significant transformation with investments in digitalization, smart manufacturing, and AI-driven quality monitoring.
Adoption of AI-Driven Quality Monitoring system can detect defects in real-time, reducing waste and improving product consistency. Creating digital models of production processes can simulate and optimize operations, reducing energy consumption and improving efficiency.
PD : Nath Group has been involved in rural development, education, and healthcare initiatives—how do these activities reflect the company’s broader social vision?
AS : Nath Group’s committed involvement in rural development, education, and healthcare initiatives reflects its social responsibility and sustainable development. Key steps initiated are :
- Nath Group’s focus on improving quality of life in rural areas, promoting education, and enhancing healthcare facilities on grass root level.
- These efforts empower communities, creating opportunities for society development and improving living standards.
- Nath Group’s social vision aligns with its business goals, establishing a positive impact on society.
PD : How is the company exploring environmentally sustainable technologies such as water recycling, waste utilization, and renewable energy in its manufacturing operations?
AS : Nath Industries are exploring environmentally sustainable technologies in its manufacturing operations through various initiatives like leveraging water recycling, waste utilization, and renewable energy to reduce its environmental footprint.
PD : How can innovation in recycled fibers, alternative raw materials, and eco-friendly chemicals reshape the future of paper manufacturing in India?
AS : Innovation in recycled fibers, alternative raw materials, and eco-friendly chemicals significantly contribute to reshape India’s paper manufacturing Industry. Here is how :
- Recycled Fibers reduce Environmental Impact.
- Cost-Effective: Recycled fibers can be cheaper than wood pulp.
- Sustainability: Materials like bamboo, bagasse, and agricultural waste affect environment adversely.
- Eco-Friendly Chemicals: Reduce pollution, minimize environmental harm and Meets global sustainability standards, boosting exports.
PD : Nath Industries has received National Productivity Awards—what operational practices contributed to achieving such recognition?
AS : Nath Industries’ National Productivity Awards win can be attributed to several operational practices, such as 100% production capacity Utilization, Producing Eco friendly and Value added Products, Continuous R & D and innovativeness, Quality and Customer service and Export Excellence, With exports to more than 22 countries, Nath Industries has demonstrated its ability to compete globally, earning them the FIEO Export Excellence Award consecutively for three years in row.
These practices have contributed to Nath Industries’ recognition and success in the industry.