CityLightBuzz: The Federation of Paper Traders Association (FPTA), the apex body of paper traders in India established in 1959, in association with the Telangana Paper Merchants’ Association (TPMA), commemorated the National Paper Day by bringing together leaders from the paper, printing, packaging and allied industries and hosting a seminar today, at FTCCI, Red Hills, Hyderabad.
The seminar was inaugurated by the Chief Guest Shri Nikhil Chakravarthy, IA&AS, Director of Industries, Government of Telangana. Shri Sushil Agarwal, Managing Director, Deevyashakti India Private Ltd., graced the occasion as the Guest of Honour.
Addressing the gathering, Shri Nikhil Chakravarthy underscored the pivotal role of the paper industry in India’s manufacturing ecosystem and called upon industry stakeholders to embrace innovation, sustainability and technological advancement to remain globally competitive. He said, “The paper industry continues to be an indispensable contributor to India’s economic growth, education, packaging, printing publishing, e-commerce, pharmaceuticals, FMCG, and manufacturing sectors. By adopting sustainable practices, embracing innovation and strengthening collaboration across the value chain, the industry can unlock immense opportunities while contributing to the nation’s vision of sustainable development. Telangana offers a business-friendly ecosystem backed by robust infrastructure, progressive industrial policies and ease of doing business. I encourage the industry to explore opportunities in value-added manufacturing, sustainable packaging, recycling and technology-driven growth. The Government remains committed to working closely with industry associations like TPMA to address challenges, promote investments and strengthen Telangana’s position as a preferred destination for paper and packaging businesses. He appreciated TPMA’s immense contribution to the state’s economy.
Although this is not the kind of event I attend regularly, today has made me realize how important such gatherings are. We often speak about industries like aerospace, agro-processing, manufacturing, and many others, but behind every successful industry are the merchants and traders who market products, build distribution networks, and ensure customers are served efficiently. Their contribution is truly invaluable. I am delighted to be here and grateful for the opportunity to learn more about the paper industry. The insightful addresses by the President, the inspiring words of Dr. Narendra Parchuri, and the enthusiasm of the anchor have made this a memorable experience. I assure you of our government’s wholehearted support for the paper industry.
Shri T. Kishan Singh, President Elect, FPTA; said, National Paper Day is not merely a celebration of the industry’s rich legacy but also an occasion to chart its future. “The paper trade is evolving rapidly with changing consumer demands, digital transformation and sustainability imperatives. FPTA remains committed to empowering traders, encouraging responsible business practices and creating a stronger, more resilient paper industry across the country.
We earnestly request the Government to consider reducing the GST on paper and paperboard packaging to 5%. The current 18% GST has a significant impact on the entire value chain, ultimately increasing costs for consumers and affecting every citizen. On behalf of all TPMA members, we respectfully urge the Government to classify the paper and packaging industry under the 5% GST slab, providing much-needed relief to both the industry and the public, he added.
Shri Abhishek Vijaywargiya, President, TPMA; highlighted Telangana’s growing importance in the paper trade and expressed confidence that greater collaboration among stakeholders would accelerate the sector’s growth. “Telangana has emerged as an important hub for paper, printing and packaging industries. Forums like these enable knowledge sharing, strengthen partnerships and prepare businesses to seize emerging opportunities in the evolving marketplace.
Paper is not merely a product, it is the foundation of knowledge, the keeper of memory, the carrier of ideas, and the silent architect of civilization. Every great future begins with a blank sheet of paper. Technology may shape the future, but paper preserves it. It transforms ideas into knowledge, knowledge into civilization, and possibilities into progress. We don’t merely trade paper; we enable education, preserve history, inspire innovation, and build nations. Every great future begins with a blank sheet of paper. History remembers great civilizations only because someone wrote them down. Paper is not just a product, it is humanity’s most enduring partner in knowledge, progress, and civilization. A blank sheet has a price; a written sheet has value. Paper becomes knowledge, wisdom, authority, and legacy, making it one of humanity’s greatest inventions, he opined.
Shri Ashish Jain Bhansali, Honorary Secretary, TPMA; said the seminar reflected the collective commitment of the industry to remain future-ready. “National Paper Day reminds us of the enduring relevance of paper in education, communication, commerce and sustainable packaging. By bringing together industry leaders and experts, we aim to foster meaningful dialogue and inspire the next phase of growth for the sector.
