GAIL (India) plans to set up an ethane cracker project in Madhya Pradesh with an investment of Rs 60,000 crore. The project, which aims to produce 1,500 kilotons per annum (kta), signifies a move to expand its petrochemical operations, and strengthen its position in the industry.

The natural gas company has submitted its request to the state government to provide suitable enablers for the project. This requires provisioning around 800 hectares of land by the MP Industrial Development Corporation for which the process has been initiated. 

The investment approval from GAIL's board would be sought following a favourable resolution by project enablers. 

Additionally, GAIL plans to develop a 70-hectare township for the project. This new initiative is part of the business diversification strategy. The groundbreaking ceremony is expected to take place in 2025, with commercial production anticipated in FY31.