The call for duty protection against Chinese dumping is getting louder from domestic producers of polysilicon, ingot and wafers. China customs data pegs wafer exports alone to India at $318 million in 2023, marking a surge of 91% over the previous year. Cells and modules from China, Taiwan and Malaysia currently attract 20% SGD, which was first imposed at 25% in July 2018. The upstream players also sought protection similar to ALMMS (approved list of models and manufacturers) scheme for cell and module manufacturers mandating locally produced panels in public projects. The presentation called for reorientation of government focus towards the capital and energy intensive upstream manufacturing with Import duty exemption on capital goods and raw material for producing poly silicon, Ingot and Wafers and creation of dedicated funds for the upstream segment of the solar industry. The wishlist for fiscal incentives included a fresh capital subsidy programme, priority lending and interest subvention and other accelerated depreciation on plant and machinery was also suggested.