Indian sugar industry leader wins Global Excellence Award
Samir Somaiya, Chairman and Managing Director of Godavari Biorefineries Ltd., has become the first Indian to receive the Plinio Nastari Sugar Excellence Award from the International Sugar Organisation. The award was presented at the 34th ISO International Seminar in Westminster, London, on December 11, 2025.
The ISO instituted the award to recognise outstanding achievement in sugar and bioenergy under the theme “Sustainable Solutions for Sugar & Energy.” Somaiya’s recognition marks a significant milestone for India’s sugar, ethanol and bioenergy sectors in global forums.
Under Somaiya’s leadership, Godavari Biorefineries has built an integrated biorefining operation that combines agriculture, green chemistry, renewable energy and rural development. The company collaborates with over 20,000 farmers across more than 200 villages to improve yields and support sustainable cultivation practices.
Recent initiatives include commissioning a speciality bio-chemical plant in Maharashtra for renewable, bio-based ingredients and launching a CO₂-to-DME pilot plant with ICT Mumbai to convert industrial emissions into fuel. Somaiya also received the Rasayan Udyog Ratna Award from the Indian Chemical Society for contributions to sustainable chemistry.
At the ceremony, Somaiya emphasised the connection between economic growth and social progress, citing his grandfather’s establishment of the family’s first school in 1942. He stressed the importance of the green transition for climate goals and farmer income security in countries with large smallholder farming populations.
Published on December 12, 2025
