Founded in 1936, Orient Paper is one of India’s leading paper manufacturers, known for producing high-quality printing, writing, and virgin tissue papers. With sustainability at the core of its operations, the company has pioneered responsible papermaking and is among the world’s first paper manufacturers to transition to 100% renewable energy, driving innovation for a greener future.
PaperDesk : Orient Paper has been a trusted name in the Indian paper industry since 1936. What values and vision have enabled the company to sustain its leadership across nearly nine decades?
Saikat Basu : Our journey has always been guided by purpose, partnerships, and passion. Since 1936, we have consistently focused on delivering quality products while embracing sustainability and ethical business practices. As part of the CKA Birla Group, we continue to evolve through innovation, integrity, customer-centricity, and responsible manufacturing.
PD : From operating a single paper machine to becoming one of India’s leading paper manufacturers, what have been the most defining milestones in Orient Paper’s growth journey?
SB : Several milestones have shaped our evolution, including becoming India’s first manufacturer of virgin tissue paper, expanding our tissue manufacturing facilities to T2 and T3, technological advancement in our Main machine, Pulp plant and recovery, ECF bleaching, moving to Speciality products, and introducing transformation and CSR initiatives. These achievements reflect our commitment to continuous progress and long-term value creation for our customers & all other stakeholders.
accounts, which strengthened long-term business partnerships with them, and helped our tissue converters as well as OPM grow hand-in-hand in new applications as well as new geographies.
PD : What role does research and product innovation play in expanding Orient Paper’s presence in premium and specialty paper markets?
SB : We already explained our R&D efforts in plastic substitution & speciality products above like Carry Bag, Cutlery Paper, Earbud paper, Bamboo Tissue, Ultrasoft Tissue, Color Tissue, etc.
Innovation enables us to diversify into specialized applications with higher customer value. Our R&D efforts focus on improving product performance, sustainability, and application-specific characteristics, helping us strengthen our position in both domestic and international markets.
PD : What are the key strategic priorities that will drive Orient Paper’s business growth over the next five years?
SB : Our priorities include expanding value-added products, accelerating digital transformation, strengthening customer engagement including BTL schemes meant for secondary channel loyalty, and technological and capacity enhancements in the area of Tissue and Plastic substitution products. These initiatives are designed to create long-term value while supporting responsible industrial growth.
PD : The paper industry is becoming increasingly competitive. What differentiates Orient Paper from other domestic and international manufacturers?
SB : Our long heritage, integrated manufacturing capabilities, technology partnerships, sustainability leadership, and customer-centric approach distinguish us in the marketplace. Continuous innovation and consistent product quality further reinforce our competitive advantage.
PD : What opportunities do you see for the domestic paper industry, and how is Orient Paper preparing for this growth?
SB : The increasing demand for Packaging & Healthcare products, Education & Literacy, Office stationery and sustainable plastic substitute paper solutions presents significant growth opportunities.
Orient Paper is strengthening its manufacturing capabilities exactly in these lines, expanding its product portfolio in all the above growing segments (esp Tissue, Copier paper and Plastic substitution paper products), and investing in technology to meet future customer requirements efficiently.
PD : Sustainability is becoming a major driver of purchasing decisions worldwide. How do you see eco-friendly paper products shaping the future of the Indian paper industry?
SB : Sustainable paper products will play a critical role in replacing single-use plastics and supporting circular economy initiatives. Orient Paper believes innovation in environmentally responsible products, efficient resource management, and sustainable manufacturing practices will define the industry’s future growth.
PD : Looking ahead, which emerging technologies or product segments do you believe will create the next phase of growth for the Indian paper sector?
SB : Advanced automation, digital manufacturing, Specialty papers, sustainable Packaging products, Office stationery, and Premium Tissue products are expected to drive future growth. Companies that successfully combine innovation, operational excellence, and sustainability will be well-positioned to capitalize on these opportunities.
PD : Corporate responsibility today extends well beyond business performance. How does Orient Paper contribute to environmental conservation and sustainable community development?
SB : Orient Paper actively supports initiatives focused on environmental protection, responsible resource utilization, education, healthcare, and community welfare. Continuous efforts to create long-term value for society are carried out thru various CSR activities, employment generation initiatives, Farm Plantations, joint collaborations with local & national NGOs in the state of MP and Chattisgarh.
PD : Employee development is essential for long-term organizational success. What initiatives does Orient Paper undertake to promote skill development, workplace safety, and employee well-being?
SB : The company places strong emphasis on employee training, safety awareness, leadership development, and continuous learning & empowerment. By fostering a safe, inclusive, and growth-oriented workplace, Orient Paper empowers its workforce to contribute effectively to organizational excellence.
PD : Industry exhibitions and business forums provide valuable opportunities for collaboration and innovation. How important are such platforms in strengthening customer engagement and showcasing Orient Paper’s latest developments?
SB : Trade exhibitions and industry events provide excellent opportunities to interact with customers, understand evolving market requirements, and present new products and technologies. We engage in platforms like Paper-ex to help strengthen relationships.
PD : Recognition from customers and industry stakeholders reflects consistent performance. How does such appreciation motivate Orient Paper to pursue continuous improvement?
SB : Customer trust and industry recognition inspire the company to continually enhance product quality, operational efficiency, and sustainability initiatives. Every achievement reinforces the commitment to delivering innovative solutions while maintaining the highest standards of excellence.
PD : As Orient Paper looks toward the future, what message would you like to share with customers, partners, and the broader paper industry?
SB : Orient Paper remains committed to delivering innovative, sustainable, and high-quality paper solutions while building lasting partnerships with customers and stakeholders. Through continuous investment in technology, responsible manufacturing, and customer-centric innovation, the company aims to contribute meaningfully to the future growth of the Indian paper industry.