An overview of the glass industry in India is presented by the All-India Glass Manufacturers' Federation. The glass industry in India is estimated to be more than US $2.5BN. The growth of the Indian economy has given stimulus to the growth of the glass industry in India, which has been able to maintain stable GDP growth rate despite the global downturn. Some of the factors which have contributed to such growth are: Huge geographic & demographic spread; Rising middle class population; Increasing disposable income especially in the rural agricultural sector; Increasing employment opportunities in the service sector; Easier availability of finance. Glass being chemically to be used, has resulted in increased popularity & demand among consumers. Some of the key properties such as transparency & recyclability make glass the most suitable medium of packaging of liquor, pharmaceutical/lifesaving drugs & food items. The perception of glass as having a high quality or premium image compared to plastic & metal is also facilitating its growth. The majority of raw materials required by the industry are available indigenously, providing excellent scope for growth & development.
