Group Legrand India and the Maharashtra government have launched the HiiVE Legrand Innovation Challenge, a programme focused on developing sustainable packaging solutions and reducing single-use plastics.

The initiative is being implemented by IICARE Foundation and the Environmental Forum of India, with support from Dr Babasaheb Ambedkar Technological University (DBATU) and Shivaji University, Kolhapur.

The challenge brings together students, researchers, startups and innovators through the HiiVE platform, aiming to connect industry, academia and government to accelerate the development of scalable packaging solutions.

A key target of the programme is to develop a Made-in-India alternative to single-use plastic with more than 90% biodegradability, while supporting commercially viable applications across industries.

The launch also included the signing of a Joint Declaration of Cooperation between DBATU, Group Legrand India, IICARE Foundation and Shivaji University to promote collaboration in research, innovation, incubation and commercialisation.

Tony Berland, CEO and Managing Director of Group Legrand India, said the initiative reflects the company’s focus on using innovation and partnerships to develop practical alternatives to single-use plastics.

The programme highlights a growing trend in packaging: moving beyond material replacement alone and focusing on solutions that combine sustainability, technical performance and commercial scalability.

Last Updated on 23/09/2026 by Jota Machinery