Sanitation is one of the most essential blocks of public well-being. Every year, on the 19th of November, the UN highlights the global need for safe sanitation, reminding countries that equitable access is fundamental.

AM Foundation, serving as the CSR arm of AM International, is committed to advancing equitable access to sanitation. This is reflected in its focus on WaSH (Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene) and embedded into every initiative that strengthens hygiene infrastructure across schools and communities. Since 2019, AM Foundation’s programmes have touched the lives of more than 16 lakh people, ensuring that access, dignity and awareness grow hand in hand.

Creating Safe Spaces

Government-run educational institutions in rural India often lack adequate sanitation facilities. AM Foundation has thus focused on creating and upgrading critical sanitation facilities, with particular attention to ensuring separate, private spaces for girls and boys. These upgraded facilities have a huge impact on the school experience of many students, especially adolescent girls.

Clean and accessible structures like these directly influence regular attendance, reduce dropout risks, and provide a sense of security that supports learning. AM Foundation has supported the creation of sanitation infrastructure for over 40,000 students across Tamil Nadu, helping transform environments into safer, more equitable spaces for learning.

In collaboration with MPL and the Integrated Rural Community Development Society (IRCDS), AM Foundation built inclusive sanitation blocks across multiple government schools in the Thiruvallur district. These facilities are designed specifically to support students with disabilities, and serve over 75 students, ensuring that accessibility and dignity remain at the forefront of school infrastructure.

Awareness leads the way

Infrastructure alone cannot yield the desired results. AM Foundation complements all of its infrastructure initiatives with awareness.

It conducts community outreach and school-based programs like hygiene-awareness sessions and behaviour change workshops. They highlight the importance of hygiene, safe practices, and responsible water usage. These sessions help students understand how everyday habits for maintaining personal cleanliness play a vital role in preventing illness and improving long-term health.

One such initiative is the Happy Periods Programme, created in collaboration with Sanitation First India, which played a critical role in breaking stigma. It has encouraged open conversations, and helped students make informed choices.

Making Bharat Swachh

Aligned with the Swachh Bharat initiative, AM Foundation’s sanitation blocks and awareness sessions contribute to India’s broader vision of a healthier, more equitable future. A future where sanitation and health systems are accessible and inclusive for all.

They also promote the essential aspects of dignity and personal well-being. By enabling safe and more hygienic conditions, the Foundation contributes to stronger community health and a cleaner ecosystem.

Mental health is a crucial subject, widely discussed in books, magazines, and across media. However, conversations often remain broad, with little importance given to mental health on an individual level. This neglect can be very concerning. According to the World Health Organisation (WHO), more than 1 billion people live with mental health disorders, with anxiety and depression highly prevalent. Medical researchers have also proven how stress and tension can have powerful physical effects, causing conditions ranging from chronic pain to sudden, life-threatening events like heart attacks and seizures.

Given this, proper mental health ought to be a priority for every individual, regardless of their age. Fortunately,
each individual has the power to nurture their mental well-being. While prolonged illnesses require specialised treatment, awareness can help in alleviating stress and improving one’s overall mental health.

Increase Your Physical Activity

Physical activity can significantly reduce stress levels and prompt the brain to release mood-elevating hormones like Endorphins.

Be it sports, yoga, or simply taking the stairs, any form of physical activity can improve your mental health.

Sleep Well

In our busy and fast-paced lives, we often sleep at odd hours or cut down on it altogether. Regular 6-8 hours of sleep and a disciplined sleep routine are critical for your mental well-being.

Eat Healthy

In an era dominated by junk food, ‘on-the-go’ breakfasts and working lunches, the importance of simple, fresh, home-cooked food cannot be overstated. Healthy eating habits can help cope with stress and are key to a disease-free life.

Cut Down Your Screen Time

We spend an unjustifiable amount of time on our phones. Most often, this obsessive scrolling is brought on by a breakdown in human relations. To avoid loneliness, we spend more time on our phones and try to find refuge inside the screens. This leads to eye strain, headaches, and mental health issues.

Limiting digital exposure, especially in the morning and before sleep, can improve focus, mood and energy.

Think, Don’t Overthink

The information deluge we experience today can cause a lot of stress. Stemming from geopolitical tensions, office politics, or even relationship issues.

While it is natural to think about conflicts and tough situations, dwelling on them for long periods of time
can harm your mental health. A philosophical, ‘this too shall pass’ approach to situations out of your locus of control can help you contend with them efficiently.

This World Mental Health Day, let’s promise to do our best in taking care of ourselves and those around us. Let us build a stress-free ecosystem where health and happiness can thrive.

Tuticorin Alkali Chemicals and Fertilizers Ltd. (TFL) is leading the chemical manufacturing sector by example. As one of India’s leading soda ash manufacturers, their acclaimed manufacturing practices are proving how forward-thinking businesses can take decisive climate action through innovation and collaboration.

Expansion for a Greener Tomorrow

At a recent Unilever event in London, Ashwin Muthiah, Chairman, TFL and Founder-Chairman, AM International, shared plans for scaling operations. With the support and encouragement of Unilever, TFL is aiming to expand its soda ash production capacity from 75,000 tonnes to 275,000 tonnes by March 2027, backed by an investment of USD 40 million.

This expansion would enable TFL to meet growing market demand. It will allow the company to support both India’s domestic needs and Unilever’s global sustainability goals.

Shared Ambitions

Under Unilever’s Supplier Climate Programme, TFL is reducing the carbon footprint of materials used in Unilever’s laundry products. The programme encourages suppliers worldwide to adopt low-carbon manufacturing models and integrate innovative climate solutions. This collaboration is helping Unilever meet its sustainability objectives, while setting new benchmarks for responsible production in India’s chemical sector.

Understanding Soda Ash

Soda ash, also known as sodium carbonate, is a key raw material in various industries. It is an important ingredient in detergent production, where it is used to soften water, maintain alkalinity, and enhance cleaning performance.

Soda Ash’s energy intensive production had always been a major source of greenhouse gas emissions. To remedy this, TFL has transformed the process with its climate-positive approach.

This approach entails producing soda ash using natural resources such as lime. At its Thoothukudi plant in Tamil Nadu, the company captures CO₂ from its boilers and reintegrates it into the production process, preventing emissions from entering the atmosphere. It has also integrated biomass as a renewable energy source. These integrated innovations have led to the ground-breaking innovation of green soda ash, making TFL the world’s first company to manufacture soda ash with near-zero carbon emissions.

Partnerships like that of TFL and Unilever are vital to building a cleaner industrial future. Through low-carbon production practices, they are decarbonising global supply chains and delivering a tangible environmental impact.

The heart is more than just a vital organ. It is a symbol of love and life, a silent engine that fuels every moment of our lives. Unparalleled in its workings, it influences all our interactions and choices. Taking care of it is an act of caring for those you care for.

World Heart Day serves as a reminder of the importance of cardiovascular health. Heart-related ailments are increasingly common among adults. In fact, cardiovascular diseases are the world’s leading cause of death, causing more than 20.5 million deaths every year. Largely driven by stress, sedentary work routines, and unbalanced diets.

However, small and consistent lifestyle habits can help in keeping a healthy heart –

Physical activity

Physical activity keeps the heart healthy. To keep cardiovascular fitness, daily walks for 30-45 minutes, and light exercise suited to one’s age is really helpful.

Sleep is of equal importance. Though often overlooked, six to eight hours of quality sleep can help manage stress, regulate blood pressure, and support heart function.

Active work life

Our workdays often feature long hours of sitting, which negatively impacts the heart. Taking a five-minute walk every hour, standing during calls, even scheduling walking meetings can help you remain active.

Small, consistent efforts to reduce sedentary behavior improve circulation, support a healthy weight, and help regulate blood pressure.

Mind-ful activity

Stress has a direct impact on heart health. Managing it through meditation, journaling, or quiet reflection for 10–15 minutes can calm the mind and improve heart health.

Clean food habits

Diet is another key factor in maintaining heart health. Home-cooked meals with limited oil, sugar, and fried foods help reduce cardiovascular risk. A focus on fruits, vegetables, whole grains, legumes, and leafy greens is also recommended. Moderate portion sizes and balanced nutrition contribute to healthy weight management and stable blood sugar levels.

Regular health check-ups

Heart issues can often go undetected for some time, until they become severe. Regular health check-ups, annual or bi-annual, should be done to identify potential problems early. Monitoring blood pressure, cholesterol, and other key indicators allows for timely intervention, which ensures long-term cardiovascular well-being for you and your family.

This World Heart Day, let us all adhere to and integrate simple acts of focus and discipline. Adopting small, consistent habits like moving more, managing stress, eating smart, and regular check-ups can make a meaningful difference.

The heart keeps us alive, both physically and emotionally. Taking pre-emptive care of it is more than mere self-preservation. It is an act of love for the people who matter most. After all, you need to have a heart to love.

True leadership shapes organisations through vision, action, and a commitment to shared growth.

During visits to facilities in Chennai and Tuticorin, Ashwin Muthiah, Founder & Chairman, connected with employees, appraised strategic plans, and inaugurated key projects; demonstrating a focus on innovation, sustainability, and progress.

Forging a Path to Sustainability

At MPL’s manufacturing facilities, rooftop solar panels were commissioned and the Safety Park inaugurated. Initiatives that highlight the company’s focus on clean energy and workplace well-being. The recently expanded Propylene Glycol Plant and its laboratory complex are enhancing production capacity while supporting the Make in India initiative.

Expanding Operational Capacity

The new Linear Alkyl Benzene Sulphonic Acid (LABSA) facility at SPIC, serving the detergents, soaps, and personal care segments, leverages existing infrastructure to optimise logistics and reduce costs. Commercial production is planned for mid-October 2025, marking a significant step in increasing manufacturing capacity.

At the Tuticorin Plant, plans for TFL’s modernisation journey are advancing efficiency and sustainability through low-carbon products, optimised processes, reduced chemical use, adoption of the Zero Liquid Discharge System, and cleaner energy alternatives.

Interactions with employees across SPIC, Greenstar Fertilisers, and TFL highlighted the company’s vision for growth. Strategic discussions emphasised expanding production capacity, nurturing expertise, creating new career opportunities, and fostering skill development across teams.

Smiles, Celebrations and Achievements

At the TPL Family Day in Chennai, the Chairman, along with Mrs. Valli Ashwin Muthiah, Director of AM Foundation, joined employees and their families in the celebrations. The occasion brought together a vibrant lineup of cultural performances, fostering camaraderie and joyful interactions. A highlight of the evening was the felicitation of the winners of TPL’s Health Is Wealth initiative, recognised for their discipline and commitment to well-being.

In Thoothukudi, at the AM Rising Star Awards held at SPIC Nagar Higher Secondary School, he honoured students for their dedication, discipline, and excellence. The event featured exhibitions, cultural programs, and a unique pixel portrait created from the thumb impressions of students, teachers, and employees. An artistic symbol of unity and collective progress.

A Philosophy of Shared Growth

Inclusive leadership thrives on momentum, motivation, and mentorship. These elements bind an organisation and its people together. By connecting with employees, students, and families, inclusive leadership reinforces a core belief: growth is meaningful only when it is shared.

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is redefining industries worldwide by enabling smarter decisions, improving efficiency, and driving sustainable solutions. The technology is transforming the manufacturing industry by enhancing precision and adaptability in various production processes, particularly within the context of Industry 4.0.

The fertilisers and agrinutrients manufacturing industries, which play an essential role in feeding a growing global population, are no exception.

It is estimated that nearly half of the global population depends on the food production made possible by these inputs, underscoring their importance in global agriculture.

The Increasing Role of AI in Fertilizer Manufacturing

The integration of AI in fertiliser manufacturing contributes to greater efficiency, reduced emissions, and more sustainable production. Further, the technology plays a crucial role in optimising fertiliser production by enhancing process efficiency and reducing downtime.

Given its numerous benefits and immense business advantages, it is imperative for fertiliser manufacturers to integrate the technology into their production processes in order to stay competitive and relevant in the time to come.

AI Knowledge Workshop at SPIC

At AM International, we are committed to learning, evolving, and staying ahead of the curve.

Our industry leadership spanning over five decades is a testament to the success of this knowledge-first culture.

In keeping with this ethos, our flagship company, SPIC, recently conducted an AI Awareness Session for its senior team members, comprising Heads of Departments (HODs) and Functional Heads.

About the Session

The session was conducted in partnership with TrustGrid.AI, an organisation specialising in AI research and deployment.

Besides providing a fundamental understanding of AI and related technologies, the workshop showcased industry-wide use cases and introduced select AI-based solutions from leading global organisations. Further, participants explored successful implementation stories, gained insights into cutting-edge AI-based products, and engaged in discussions on how the technology can add value
to our industry.

A Culture of Continuous Evolution

Earlier in the year, the company launched a dedicated Drone Pilot Training Scheme to train drone pilots and deliver technology-driven crop care solutions.

Initiatives like these broaden our team’s perspectives and create space for strategic thinking. At the broader level, they also position us at the forefront of innovation in the fertiliser industry. By embracing a culture of continuous learning, we are shaping a future where sustainable growth, operational excellence, and industry leadership are mutually reinforcing.

Earlier this month, Singapore marked its 60^th year of independence — a milestone that invited reflection on the remarkable journey of a nation that continues to inspire the world.

A Day of National Pride

Singapore’s National Day, observed every 9^th August, commemorates the country’s independence from Malaysia in 1965.

But this day represents far more than a political separation. It symbolises the strength of a shared identity — the essence of nationhood and self-determination.

This year, as Singaporeans from all walks of life came together for the national observance, the celebrations reflected the ideals on which the nation was built: hope, determination, and a collective vision for the future.

From the spectacular National Day Parade and fireworks lighting up Marina Bay, to heartfelt stories of everyday citizens broadcast on national television, the day served as a joyful yet poignant reminder of the nation’s remarkable journey.

The Values That Shape a Nation

Singapore’s transformation from a small island with limited resources into one of the world’s most advanced economies is a testament to its people’s determination.

This success was built on meritocracy, a strong education system, sound policies, and a culture that recognised and rewarded hard work.

Above all, it is the unwavering spirit of the Singaporean people that has shaped the nation’s destiny.

A Shared Ethos

At AM International, we draw inspiration from Singapore’s drive to excel, its commitment to building something meaningful, and the vision of a bright future supported by purposeful action.

Like Singapore, we strive to ensure that progress and responsibility go hand in hand, integrating these principles into our work every day.

A Future Full of Potential & Possibilities

For Singapore, the road ahead is filled with opportunities and possibilities. By embracing innovation in various aspects of economic development, from green urban solutions to future-ready policies, the nation continues to set a global benchmark in responsible development. At the same time, its progress is rooted in its legacy values of integrity, perseverance, and hard work. AMIH salutes Singapore’s extraordinary journey and looks forward to contributing to the next chapter of its growth story.

The country’s only Propylene Glycol manufacturer, Manali Petrochemicals, expands its production capacity

Manali Petrochemicals Limited (MPL), India’s leading petrochemical manufacturing company and part of Singapore-headquartered AM International, has expanded its Propylene Glycol (PG) manufacturing facility in Chennai. MPL is India’s only domestic manufacturer of the chemical. With this expansion, MPL will increase its PG production capacity by 50,000 tonnes per annum (KTPA), augmenting the existing capacity of 22,000 KTPA. This strategic initiative underscores MPL’s steadfast commitment to the Government of India’s Make in India vision, bringing advanced manufacturing capabilities to the domestic market.

Manali Petrochemicals Limited (MPL), India’s leading petrochemical manufacturing company and part of Singapore-headquartered AM International, has expanded its Propylene Glycol (PG) manufacturing facility in Chennai.

Mr. Ashwin Muthiah, Chairman of MPL and Founder-Chairman of AM International, said:

“Our new state-of-the-art facility is not only a strategic investment in MPL’s future but also a firm step towards reducing India’s import dependency. This expansion reflects our continued commitment to building a stronger, self-reliant India”.

About Propylene Glycol

PG is widely used across various sectors, including pharmaceuticals, food processing, and personal care. With growing demand from both industrial and consumer markets, MPL’s capacity expansion is a strategic investment in supply chain stability, product availability, and national capability.

The new unit will go live once the required the relevant authorities issue the consent to operate certificate.

Background to the Expansion Project

There is a huge demand for propylene glycol in India and a significant quantum of it is fulfilled by imports. The annual demand for PG in the country is estimated at about 100,000 tonnes, of which about 75,000 tonnes are imported from various countries.

In 2020, MPL announced an investment of ₹ 150 crore to ramp up its annual production capacity of propylene glycol (PG) from 22,000 tonnes per annum to 70,000 tonnes per annum. The move was aimed to increase the domestic market of the MPL by reducing the dependence of the country on imports from China and Middle East countries.  The substitution of imports will save significant import bills and will also propel India towards self-sufficiency in PG production capability.

Sharing the larger strategy of the expansion project, Mr. Muthiah had then commented, ‘The investments are in tune with our credo of creating sustainable businesses which are future proof. We are building our plants through indigenous technology and investing in our home-grown R&D efforts with a clear focus on self-reliance and world-class domestic production.’

Built on Expertise, Backed by Technology

The PG plant expansion combines advanced manufacturing systems with the expertise of a skilled local workforce. This approach allows MPL to deliver high-quality products while maintaining strong environmental and safety standards.

It also supports the ‘Make in India’ vision by strengthening domestic industry with world-class infrastructure and regionally rooted capabilities.

A Shared Milestone

This expansion reflects the collaborative spirit of MPL’s people, partners, and the broader community. The company thanks all stakeholders—internal teams, supporters, and regulatory authorities—for their role in turning this project into reality.

MPL will continue to scale with purpose: building capacity, driving innovation, and delivering value responsibly. The expanded PG plant is another step in that direction—grounded in long-term thinking, local strength, and global-quality outcomes.

Recently, Tamil Nadu Petroproducts Limited (TPL) and Indian Oil Corporation Limited (IOCL) signed a long-term agreement for the supply of Benzene.

TPL is India’s leading manufacturer of intermediate industrial chemicals and a part of AM International’s chemical segment of businesses.
The company was established in 1984 with the goal of manufacturing Linear Alkyl Benzene (LAB), a key ingredient in the production of cleaning agents and detergents.

High-quality Benzene is essential in the production of LAB. As part of the partnership, the Benzene will be sourced from IOCL’s refinery complex in Panipat, Haryana.

Enabling Future Growth

This milestone was celebrated in a formal ceremony attended by senior leaders from both TPL and IOCL.

The contract was signed by Mr. Senthi Kumar Dharmar, Managing Director of TPL, and Mr. Rajesh Kumar Bhagat, DIBH – Chennai DO, IOCL, in the esteemed presence of Mr. Manoharan Annadurai, Executive Director, TNSO – IOCL. On the other hand, TPL was represented by Mr. Murugan Natarajan (VP, Operations), Mr. Ramakrishnan R (AGM, Operations), Mr. Parthiban C (CFO), and Mr. Shyamsundar Rajaraman (Head of Procurement).

The event provided an opportunity to reaffirm their shared vision for India’s industrial growth.

A Strategic Agreement for Sustainable Growth

Here’s how:

To cater to the continually rising demand for LAB and related chemicals, TPL has recently upgraded its production facilities, enhancing both capacity and operational efficiency. By ensuring a steady supply of critical raw material, the agreement with IOCL ensures operational continuity for TPL.

On the strength of this partnership, TPL is now poised to scale up its operations and expand its manufacturing footprint. This will enable the company to expand its market reach to new domestic and international markets, as well as explore innovative product lines.

Thus, the long-term contract is a testament to the strong trust and strategic alignment between IOCL and TPL.

Conclusion

By aligning business success with India’s broader development goals, TPL and IOCL are contributing to the creation of a resilient and prosperous future for the country.

As India continues to secure its place on the global chemical stage, partnerships like these will be crucial in driving innovation, creating opportunities, and shaping a brighter future for all.

Manali Petrochemicals Limited (MPL) has taken a significant step in its growth journey by establishing its very own in-house library. The initiative was formally inaugurated by Mr. Chandrasekar Ramaswamy, Managing Director and CEO.

A New Step Forward

At MPL, core values extend beyond professional excellence. The organisation recognises that true progress is rooted in the knowledge and learning of its people. By encouraging reading and self-development, MPL aims to foster an inclusive environment where employees think critically and innovatively.

Fostering Intellectual Growth

Addressing Digital Fatigue

A Culture of Learning

Fostering Intellectual Growth

This initiative underlines the importance of continuous learning—both within and beyond the workplace. As a science-led organisation, MPL understands the value of staying informed, not only for technical expertise but also for personal and professional growth.

The in-house library has been thoughtfully curated with a diverse collection of books spanning personal development, leadership, and technical subjects. Employees are encouraged to explore their interests and take advantage of the library as a space for daily discovery and growth.

Addressing Digital Fatigue

In addition to promoting learning, reading also offers a much-needed break from screens. With most of our workdays spent in front of digital devices, the library provides a mindful alternative—encouraging deeper focus, reflection, and reduced digital fatigue.

Unlike short-form digital content, books require undivided attention and engagement, helping develop concentration and cognitive depth.

A Culture of Learning

MPL’s investment in this initiative is more than the creation of a physical space—it’s a commitment to building a culture of learning, curiosity, and empowerment. By encouraging reading, MPL is nurturing well-informed, thoughtful, and collaborative employees who are equipped to contribute meaningfully to the organisation’s journey.

This library is a step toward creating a workplace that values knowledge as much as productivity—a place where every day is an opportunity to learn something new.