Major Contributions as Union Minister of Chemicals and Fertilizers
Fertilizers:
- Instrumental in preparing a long-term fertilizer policy that would chart the future course of the fertilizer industry by involving all stakeholders.
- Set up joint ventures with countries having reserves of Potash, marking a new chapter in India's quest for self-sufficiency.
Chemicals:
- Prepared a bill on Chemical Weapons Conventions.
- Set up separate environmentally friendly Chemical Estates for the chemical industry.
Pharmaceuticals:
- Played a pivotal role in formulating a new drug policy with an emphasis on encouraging competition while ensuring an adequate supply of drugs at affordable prices for the people.
- Proposed raising the automatic approval limit for the pharmaceutical sector from 51% to 74% to increase foreign direct investment (FDI).
Petrochemicals:
- Played a proactive role in the early commissioning of key infrastructure to improve the country's self-reliance in petrochemicals.
