Mr. Vivek Kataruka
Managing Director
Chemshel Enterprises Pvt. Ltd.
PGDM, 2000
EDII President’s Alumnus Award 2023 – Business Entrepreneur
Stepping out from the comfort of a family business to start something of your own requires courage, determination and hard work. EDII alumnus Vivek Kataruka embodies this entrepreneurial spirit. He not only started a business single-handedly but also eventually ventured into multiple domains, scaling them successfully with unwavering dedication and an innovative approach.
After completing his Bachelor’s in Commerce (Honours) from Hindu College, Delhi University, he was determined about carving his own entrepreneurial path rather than joining family business. He joined EDII’s PGDBEM programme to gain the skills and confidence he needed to launch his startup.
Vivek spotted an opportunity in shellac trading — a growing industry in West Bengal. He established Chemshel Enterprises Pvt. Ltd. in January 2004 to offer products like Seedlac, Shellac and Aleuritic Acid, a key ingredient used in the perfume industry.
The initial phase was challenging for Vivek. He faced several challenges such as cumbersome administrative processes & bottlenecks, financial constraints, corruption and the struggle to find skilled labour. Yet, he stood the ground, moving ahead with a plan.
Through effort and innovation, Chemshel grew steadily and today stands tall as the largest manufacturer of Ambrettolide from India, exporting to over 20 countries. With focus on quality and cost-effective production, the company’s operations expanded. Beyond business, Vivek’s work has created a deep social impact. Chemshel supports more than 2,500 tribal families in the Chota Nagpur region by procuring lac ( a natural resin produced by insects) from them, ensuring sustainable livelihoods and community development.
Expanding his entrepreneurial footprint, Vivek founded Alka Agrotech Pvt. Ltd. in 2012 to promote commercial complexes and modern agro-based farming practices; Nextel Buildcon Pvt. Ltd. in 2014 to develop a strong leasing and warehousing business with a pan-India presence and Varv Exports Pvt. Ltd. in 2022, which manufactures aroma chemicals with a current turnover of Rs.40–50 Crore and employs over 40 people. Today, Vivek’s ventures under the Chemshel Group record a turnover more than Rs. 50 Crore and employ 100 people directly. Vivek’svision, resilience and ability to blend innovation with inclusivity, worked magic for him.