The company has already invested R230 million in two manufacturing facilities at its chemicals complex in Rajasthan as well as an R&D centre focusing on high value-added fluorochemicals, commissioned in 2003-2004.

The two manufacturing facilities are currently undergoing trial runs. One of these will be dedicated to manufacture trifluoroacetic acid, while the second will be a multi-purpose plant to produce a wide range of pharmaceutical chemicals and intermediates.

SRF plans to set up another R&D centre in Chennai to focus on process development on advanced intermediates. The company proposes to recruit about 50 scientists during 2004-2005.

SRF also plans to take advantage of its R&D capabilities to get custom synthesis and contract manufacturing for US and EU-based pharma firms, according to a Business Line report.