Samir Somaiya Becomes First Indian to Receive Plinio Nastari Sugar Excellence Award

Samir Shantilal Somaiya, Chairman and Managing Director of Godavari Biorefineries Ltd. (GBL), has been honoured with the prestigious Plinio Nastari Sugar Excellence Award by the International Sugar Organisation (ISO) at the 34th ISO International Seminar in Westminster, London.

The award, presented under the theme 'Sustainable Solutions for Sugar & Energy', recognises exceptional contributions in sugar, bioenergy, and sustainable industry practices. Somaiya is the first Indian to receive this recognition, marking a significant milestone for India’s sugar, ethanol, and bioenergy sectors on the global stage.

Reflecting on the accolade, Somaiya highlighted the legacy of his grandfather, who established the Somaiya family’s first school in 1942. He underscored the link between economic progress, social development, and sustainable business, stressing the critical importance of soil health, agricultural ecosystems, and small farmer livelihoods in shaping a sustainable future.

“Today, the green transition is essential to mitigate climate change and secure incomes for small farmers,” Somaiya said. “I am humbled to receive this award on behalf of my company, my organisation, and my country. Business must drive social and environmental progress alongside financial growth," he added.

As per the firm, under his leadership, GBL has developed one of India’s most integrated biorefining ecosystems, blending agriculture, green chemistry, renewable energy, and rural development. The company works with more than 20,000 farmers across over 200 villages, enhancing yields, strengthening climate resilience, and promoting regenerative cultivation.

Recent initiatives led by Somaiya include commissioning a multi-purpose specialty bio-chemical plant in Maharashtra to produce renewable, bio-based ingredients for coatings, resins, cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, and fragrances; advancing biotechnology through Sathgen Therapeutics, including research on difficult-to-treat cancers and setting up a US-based entity for global collaboration; and launching a CO₂-to-DME pilot plant with ICT Mumbai to convert industrial emissions into clean fuel and chemical feedstock.

Somaiya has also been recognised with the Rasayan Udyog Ratna Award by the Indian Chemical Society for his contributions to sustainable chemistry. These achievements highlight a leadership approach grounded in scientific innovation, farmer-centric development, and alignment with India’s renewable-energy and bioeconomy priorities.