ASHOK DHANDH of Deepak Traders has been in dealer since 35 years. "Initially we would sell cement to Bombay builders and retailers, but since the last 10 years we have shifted our focus to infrastructure projects across India. The advantage in infrastructure projects is that the quantum of cement/RMC is high and the transaction is financially secure," said Dhand. The company distributes cements of UltraTech, Gujrat Sidhee, Saurashtra, Vasavdatta, Kesoram and CCI. The largest selling cement from the company is UltraTech cement. When asked about the largest selling cement Dhandh replied, "OPC cement commands high demand in the western zone. Blended cement is sold more in other regions. The reason being, India is seeing a transition to multistoried towers which requires high grade cement". Dhandh said, "Volatility leads to a disconnect between the cement manufacturer and the end user. Not only do constant rate changes lead to brand attrition, but also forbid the client from getting into medium term contracts". The company’s monthly dispatch is 20,000 million tonnes. "The infrastructure segment is growing at 30 per cent annually leaving ample room for growth of sales to this segment. Also, better logistics will help reduce the bottle necks currently faced by the industry," suggested Dhandh when asked about his views to increase sales. About packaging, Dhandh explained, "dependence on paper bags should reduce. There needs to be lesser dependence on hooks for loading and unloading, which leads to seepages. The HDPE bags are more cost effective than paper bags and more efficient as well". "Setting up more rail heads and rail lines would be very beneficial. Three months of the year rakes are utilised mainly to move food grains and other essentials. As regards toll naka, we have a highly inefficient tolling system, causing unnecessary delays and hassles," said Dhandh. When asked about his opinion on Budget 2011-12 Dhandh replied "It seems as though the government is trying to make a genuine effort to reduce the prices and help rein in inflation. It is a welcome move, as regards the input cost. Excise duty needs to be simplified and the burden on the consumer reduced.