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Building a Stronger Tomorrow

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Cement major JSW Cement is increasing installed capacities and moving fast towards becoming a green cement producer and a preferred partner in the construction sector.

JSW Cement, a part of the US$ 13 billion JSW Group, is one of India’s fastest growing cement companies and India’s largest green cement company. It is a fast paving way to emerge as a leader in the construction sector, contributing to national projects and strengthening the nation’s infrastructure.
The company is engaged in the manufacturing of cement, clinker and related products, and is one of India’s top five cement companies with a wide portfolio of diverse products and an installed production capacity of 14 million tonnes per annum (MTPA). It has its manufacturing units in Vijayanagar in Karnataka, Nandyal in Andhra Pradesh, Salboni in West Bengal, Jaipur in Odisha, Dolvi in Maharashtra, as well as a clinker plant in Fujairah, UAE. It had acquired Shiva Cement in 2017.
The company has consistently been increasing its revenue and maintaining a strong financial position, despite the onset of the COVID-19-induced pandemic, and remains well positioned to contribute towards AtmaNirbhar Bharat through its world-class cement products. It is positioning itself closer to being listed on the Indian bourses as it moves towards an initial public offering (IPO) towards the end of CY2022. In its quest to be ranked among India’s top five cement players in India and its focus on increasing share of premium products, the Company is expanding its domestic cement manufacturing capacity. With this, it is set to realise its objective of becoming a 25 MTPA producing cement company by 2023.
Notably, within a span of four years, it has more than doubled its manufacturing capacity from 6 MTPA in 2019 to 14 MTPA currently. The cement major plans to augment its capacity mostly through a combination of setting up brownfield and greenfield projects and through inorganic growth opportunities. Currently, it is in the process of adding two cement plants of 5 MTPA each in Rajasthan and Chhattisgarh.

Attracting strategic investors
The company is partnering with new investors to accelerate growth and has begun diluting minority private equity stakes to select investors to accelerate its manufacturing capacity. In December 2021, State Bank of India picked up stake as a strategic investor through the private equity route, done through compulsorily convertible preference shares linked to its future business performance and valuation during IPO.
Prior to this, it raised Rs 1,600 crore from two global private equity investors – Apollo Global Management Inc. and Synergy Metals Investment Holding Limited through a structured private equity deal. Apart from receiving strategic capital to finance growth, these investments are bringing with them deep validation and brand trust. Financing its growth and expansion strategy also positions the company well for its forthcoming IPO.

Geographical diversification
The company has a strong business model with deep market presence in western, eastern
and southern parts of India. It has established a reputation of having delivered superior
quality products to some of India’s largest and prestigious infrastructural projects in the southern and western regions of the country. With a presence in Telangana, Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, Kerala, Maharashtra, Orissa, and Goa, it has gained a foothold in the relative markets. The cement company draws its key strengths from the Group’s well-established track record in project execution and cost management.

On the path of being a low-cost producer
The company’s state-of-the-art facilities and technological advancements are helping it expand to new markets and target newer customer segments. The acquisition of Shiva Cement’s clinker and grinding units in Orissa will act as a hub to service its manufacturing facilities across the eastern regions of India. It will provide a strategic advantage to service the needs of its customers in the eastern region and strengthen its leadership position as a green cement producer. The acquisition is targeted at turning the company into a low-cost producer of cement per tonne.
Further, it has also commenced a capex plan at the group level – that of expanding its grinding units at Dolvi, Maharashtra, and Nandayal, Andhra Pradesh. Another grinding unit is being added at Salem, Tamil Nadu. When commissioned, the expansion will help provide clinker to its manufacturing units at Salboni, West Bengal and Jajpur, Orissa at competitive rates, thus bringing down its cost curve.

Captive limestone mines
A significant benefit to the cement company is its ability to procure limestone from captive mines at Kurnool district, Andhra Pradesh, with proven reserves of 134 million tonnes. It has acquired limestone mining rights in Rajasthan, Chhattisgarh and Gujarat. Two years ago, it acquired new milestones in Kutch (125 MT) and Nagpur (205 MT). It has another 300 MT limestone reserve at Fujairah plant, UAE. It also has an agreement with steel players for procuring slag at bulk rates.

Locational advantage
The Company enjoys strategic locational advantage – that of being in close proximity to raw material sources and modes of transport. A majority of its raw materials are manufactured inhouse, and in close proximity to the manufacturing facilities, which gives it greater control over quality and consistency during the manufacturing process. Its target markets of Karnataka, Maharashtra, Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, Kerala, West Bengal, Tamil Nadu, Bihar, Jharkhand, Orissa and Goa are located adjacent to its manufacturing units. Cement being a capital-intensive industry, the locational advantage positively impacts its profitability.

Improving operating efficiency
The Company’s operating efficiency is improving on a consistent basis, largely driven by the sale of portland slag cement and grounded granulated blast furnace slag in southern and western India. The move is likely to result in lower consumption of raw material, power and fuel per tonne of cement. Further, its manufacturing facilities being in close proximity to sources of procuring raw material and its addressable markets also leads to reduction in freight cost. As a result, JSW Cement reported higher EBITDA per tonne of Rs 811 in FY2020 from Rs 700 in the two preceding years. This was facilitated by an increased sale of blended cement and the high-margin ground granulated blast furnace slag. Going forward, driven by improving realisation and receding input prices, the Company is likely to report higher EBITDA per tonne.

Building a greener planet
Strengthened with innovative and sustainable technology, the company is living its vision of being India’s top green cement producer. It has set a strategic roadmap towards achieving best-in-class energy efficiency in production. The company forayed into construction chemicals with the launch of a unique green product range. It has set up a 0.3 million tonne facility at Bellary in Karnataka. It also entered the ready-mix concrete (RMC) market with its first commercial unit in Chembur, Mumbai. This is a part of its larger strategy to increase customer base and offer integrated building material bouquet of offerings comprising cement, construction chemicals and steel with concrete. It maintains a unique focus on green building materials, which positions it as one of India’s leading manufacturers of green ‘sustainable’ cement. It is set to launch its unique eco-friendly concrete for use in commercial construction projects and expand its RMC business in southern and western India.

Growing demand
The demand for cement is set to increase in India owing to the growth in housing, infrastructure, industrial projects. Rise in affordable housing is also set to create rising demand for affordable housing units. Further, as rural housing recovers due to better Kharif season and improved food grain production, demand will further increase.

Benefiting from India’s infrastructure push
The growth potential in the Company is driven largely by the government’s push for large infrastructure projects and a boom in housing construction. India presents an exciting construction and infrastructure story as it goes about significantly increasing its allocation for capital expenditure to support its investment cycle. The Government maintains a continued focus on the infrastructure and construction sector with higher budgetary allocation year-on-year. During the Union Budget 2022-23, the Finance Minister allotted ` 48,000 crore for housing projects under the affordable housing scheme, further boosting the prospects of cement companies.
The Government is working on upgrading the road length of 1,25,000 km under the National Infrastructure Pipeline (NIP) in the next five years. The NIP has expanded to 7,400 projects from the previous 6,835 projects, paving the way for increased demand for cement.

Key risks
However, JSW Cement’s lower capacity utilisation and limited portfolio diversification is a key worry. Also, the substantial capacity expansion planned exposes the company to risks related to project execution. Further, being in the commodity sector, the company is highly susceptible to volatility in input cost and realisation and also to cyclicality in the cement sector. It is also exposed to volatility in input prices for key components including freight, fuel, power and raw material, which has the capability to impact its Operating Profitability Margin.

List of Sources:
https://www.livemint.com/companies/news/jsw-cement-raises-rs1-500-crore-from-global-pe-investors-11627470886355.html
https://www.livemint.com/companies/news/sbi-picks-up-minority-stake-in-jsw-cement-for-rs-100-crore-11640066677872.html
https://www.constructionweekonline.in/uncategorized/18265-jsw-cement-forays-into-rmc-business-with-first-commercial-unit-in-mumbai
https://www.cemnet.com/News/story/171098/jsw-cement-to-sets-its-sights-on-ipo-and-green-cement-leadership.html
https://www.financialexpress.com/industry/interview-jsw-cement-in-talks-to-raise-200-m-by-march-21-to-list-by-dec-22/2136793/
https://www.thehindu.com/business/jsw-cement-eyes-30-mtpa-by-2025/article26314362.ece

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Concrete

Driving Sustainability Through Innovation

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2 weeks ago

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March 25, 2025

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The 15th Cement Expo 2025 will spotlight India’s cement industry’s growth, innovation, and sustainability, showcasing cutting-edge solutions for a greener future.

The cement industry in India, the second-largest in the world, is on the cusp of remarkable growth as it continues its transition toward sustainability, innovation, and expansion. The 15th Cement Expo 2025, scheduled for November 12-13, 2025, at the Yashobhoomi Convention Centre in Delhi, will be the premier event where the industry’s foremost stakeholders converge to explore state-of-the-art technologies and solutions.
Co-located with the 11th Indian Cement Review Conference and the 9th Indian Cement Review Awards, the expo promises to be a pivotal event for professionals in the cement, construction, and infrastructure sectors. This year’s theme, “Driving Sustainability Through Technology,” highlights the sector’s commitment to decarbonisation, efficiency, and technological advancement. With India poised to add 80 to 100 million tonnes of cement capacity by 2024-25, the event will address the urgent need for sustainable, low-carbon solutions to meet the growing demand.
Before we look ahead to the 15th Cement Expo, let’s reflect on the remarkable success of the Cement Expo Forum 2025, held on March 5-6, 2025, in Hyderabad. The event attracted over 500 industry professionals and featured groundbreaking discussions on sustainability, logistics, and decarbonisation. Key sponsors and partners, such as ABB, Gebr Pfeiffer, JK Cement, and Flender Drives, showcased their latest innovations, contributing to the forum’s success.
Pratap Padode, Founder and President of First Construction Council, spoke at the event, noting, “The PPP pipeline is complemented by a provision of Rs 1.5 trillion in interest-free loans to states, earmarked for capital expenditure. With this, we have a solid plan in place. What needs to be done is to ensure that the PPP actually takes off as envisaged. To make this happen, trust must be established, and policies must be investor-friendly. Telangana, in this regard, has demonstrated ease of doing business exceptionally well.”
He added, “These financial injections into the infrastructure sector are expected to create a ripple effect, driving demand for cement as a key material in construction and development projects. The growing demand for cement is evident as infrastructure projects continue to rise across the country.”
The forum also provided invaluable networking opportunities, with attendees gaining insights from over 35 distinguished speakers and connecting with more than 50 exhibitors. The event laid a strong foundation for the upcoming Expo, showcasing the significant strides the cement industry is making toward a greener, more efficient future.
The 15th Cement Expo 2025 will focus on advancing the industry’s next big step toward sustainable growth. With India’s cement sector making significant progress in decarbonisation, a key focus will be on technologies and innovations that support carbon capture, low-carbon cement production, and energy-efficient solutions.
The expo will feature over 50 exhibitors representing all aspects of the cement industry. Whether you are a manufacturer, raw material supplier, technology provider, or logistics partner, the Cement Expo 2025 offers an ideal platform to showcase your products and solutions. Attendees will have the opportunity to explore the latest advancements in cement production technology, automation, logistics, and environmental solutions, all geared toward building a greener and more sustainable future.
Exhibitor profiles will include cement manufacturers, raw material suppliers, technology and automation solutions providers, environmental and sustainability solutions providers, cement packaging and logistics, construction equipment manufacturers, admixtures and chemical suppliers, and concrete reinforcement and structural systems.

11th Indian Cement Review Conference

Held alongside the Expo, the 11th Indian Cement Review Conference will offer delegates invaluable insights into the latest trends and innovations shaping the cement industry. Focusing on sustainability, the conference will address critical issues such as energy efficiency, plant design, and emerging technologies like carbon capture and automation.
Industry leaders will share their expertise in technical forums, while specialised activities, such as plant tours and energy audits, will provide practical guidance on improving operations and efficiency. This is a prime opportunity to network with industry stakeholders, gain hands-on experience with new technologies, and acquire actionable knowledge to enhance your business.

9th Indian Cement Review Awards

The 9th Indian Cement Review Awards will recognise the fastest-growing cement companies and industry leaders for their outstanding contributions to the sector. This prestigious event will serve as a platform to honour the pioneers of innovation, sustainability, and performance within the cement industry, highlighting the sector’s commitment to growth and environmental responsibility.
As we look forward to the 15th Cement Expo 2025, we invite you to join us for two exciting days of networking, learning, and innovation. This event offers a unique opportunity to be part of the next wave of growth and sustainability in the global cement sector.

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Concrete

Transforming Interior Spaces: Trendy Wall Putty Designs to Enhance Your Home

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3 weeks ago

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March 19, 2025

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When it comes to interior design, walls are more than just structural elements—they serve as the canvas for self-expression, setting the mood and personality of a space. While paint and wallpaper have long been the go-to choices for wall finishes, wall putty is emerging as a game-changer in home décor. With its smooth finish, durability, and versatility, wall putty opens a world of creative possibilities. In this article, we explore trendy wall putty designs that can elevate your interiors, turning ordinary walls into extraordinary design statements.
Wall Putty is a Must-Have in Modern Homes
Wall putty is no longer just a preparatory material for painting; it plays a significant role in modern home aesthetics. It enhances the finish of walls, making them smoother, stronger, and resistant to cracks and moisture. Additionally, high-quality putty like Birla White Wall Putty ensures better paint adhesion, resulting in long-lasting vibrancy.
Beyond its functional benefits, wall putty allows homeowners to experiment with textures and patterns, giving walls a designer touch without the hassle of high-maintenance materials like stone or wood. Whether you’re aiming for a minimalist, rustic, or ultra-modern aesthetic, wall putty designs can help achieve the look effortlessly.
Trendy Wall Putty Designs for Stunning Interiors
1. Textured Wall Putty for a Tactile Appeal
Textured walls are a popular interior trend, adding depth and dimension to living spaces. By using wall putty, homeowners can create a variety of textures, including:
  • Rustic Texture: Mimicking natural stone or aged plaster for an earthy, vintage feel.
  • Wave Patterns: Adding a sense of movement and fluidity to walls, perfect for living rooms and entryways.
  • Sand Finish: A subtle grainy effect that provides a sophisticated touch.
Textured putty walls work exceptionally well in accent areas, such as behind a television unit or as a backdrop for artwork.
2. Sleek and Smooth Walls for a Luxurious Look
For those who prefer a refined and elegant aesthetic, a smooth putty finish is ideal. A flawlessly smooth wall creates a premium appearance, amplifying the impact of high-quality paints. Opting for a high-performance putty like Birla White WallCare Putty ensures a glass-like finish that complements modern and contemporary interiors.
This design is perfect for:
  • Monochrome interiors where walls serve as a sleek backdrop.
  • High-gloss or matte-painted walls that need a seamless base.
  • Spaces with minimal décor where the walls themselves make a statement.
3. Geometric & Abstract Patterns for a Contemporary Edge
Wall putty can be artistically applied to create striking geometric or abstract patterns, adding a unique character to interiors.
Popular designs include:
  • Chevron or Herringbone: A dynamic, sophisticated look that pairs well with both modern and mid-century décor.
  • 3D Raised Panels: Using putty to craft subtle raised patterns, adding a sculptural effect to the wall.
  • Asymmetrical Shapes: For a bold and avant-garde touch.
  • These patterns work best in bedrooms, study areas, or accent walls in open spaces.
4. Venetian Plaster for a Luxe European Aesthetic
Venetian plaster, an age-old technique, is making a grand comeback in modern interiors. With wall putty, you can achieve this exquisite marble-like effect, which exudes luxury and timeless charm.
This design works well for:
  • Statement walls in living rooms and foyers.
  • Elegant dining areas where a touch of opulence is desired.
  • Boutique-style bedrooms with a rich, textured finish.
A high-quality white cement-based putty can replicate this effect beautifully, making the walls look naturally luminous.
5. Dual-Tone or Ombre Walls for a Soft Gradient Effect
The ombre effect, a gradient transition between two colors, is a trendy and artistic way to enhance interiors. When applied over a smooth wall putty base, the gradient blends seamlessly, offering a dreamy, watercolor-like appeal.
This style is perfect for:
  • Children’s rooms or play areas, creating a fun and dynamic atmosphere.
  • Bedrooms with a soothing pastel gradient for a calming effect.
  • Dining spaces where a bold color fade adds character.
6. Metallic & Glossy Finishes for a Chic Look
For homeowners who love glamour and sophistication, combining wall putty with metallic paints or glossy finishes can create a high-end appeal. The smooth base of putty enhances the reflective qualities of metallic shades like gold, silver, or bronze, resulting in an opulent and dramatic effect.
Best suited for:
  • Luxurious master bedrooms and dressing areas.
  • Accent walls in dining rooms or home bars.
  • Commercial spaces like boutiques and salons.
How to Achieve the Best Wall Putty Designs
  • Choose the Right Putty: Opt for a premium wall putty like Birla White WallCare Putty to ensure durability, a smooth finish, and long-lasting appeal.
  • Prepare the Surface: Ensure the walls are clean, dry, and free from loose particles before application.
  • Apply in Layers: Depending on the design, putty can be applied in single or multiple layers for the desired effect.
  • Use the Right Tools: Trowels, spatulas, sponges, or patterned rollers help create specific textures and patterns.
  • Seal with Paint or Polish: Once the putty is dry, finishing it with paint, polish, or protective coatings enhances its aesthetic and durability.
Conclusion
Wall putty has evolved beyond its traditional role, now serving as a medium for creative interior design. Whether you prefer textured finishes, sleek smooth walls, or artistic patterns, wall putty designs can elevate your home’s aesthetics while offering durability and elegance. By selecting the  best putty for wall and application technique, you can transform your interior walls into stunning masterpieces, setting the perfect backdrop for your lifestyle.
For high-quality wall finishes that stand the test of time, Birla White WallCare Putty ensures both beauty and performance, making your dream interiors a reality.

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Concrete

Dalmia Bharat to add 6 MnTPA Cement Capacity in Maharashtra and Karnataka

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3 weeks ago

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March 19, 2025

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  • Investment in alignment with the strategic goal of becoming a PAN India company and achieving 75 MnT capacity by FY28
  • Increases capacity primarily to meet growing demand in Western India along with existing regions

Dalmia Bharat Limited, one of India’s leading cement companies, through its subsidiaries, has announced a strategic investment of approximately Rs 3,520 Crore in the states of Maharashtra and Karnataka. As part of this initiative, the company will establish a 3.6 MnTPA clinker unit and a 3 MnTPA grinding unit at its existing Belgaum plant, Karnataka coupled with a new greenfield split grinding unit with a capacity of 3 MnTPA in Pune, Maharashtra. The capex will be funded through a combination of debt and internal accruals. With this expansion, Dalmia Bharat’s total installed cement capacity will increase to 55.5 MnTPA, after considering the ongoing expansion of 2.9 MnT at Assam and Bihar. These new units are expected to be commissioned by Q4 FY27.

The Belgaum Grinding Unit will cater to the underserved Southern Maharashtra markets while enhancing share in the existing region by improving penetration. On the other hand, Pune Grinding Unit will entirely cater to the untapped Western Maharashtra markets. The initiative is a part of the company’s vision to be a PAN India player and achieve 75 MnTPA capacity by FY28 and 110-130 MnT by 2031.

Speaking on the development, Mr. Puneet Dalmia, Managing Director & CEO, Dalmia Bharat Limited, said, “This investment is a significant step in our Phase II expansion strategy, bringing us closer to strengthen our position as a pan-India player and to reach intermittent goal of 75 MnT capacity by FY28. The increase in our production capacity is primarily to meet the growing infrastructure demand in Western India.” He further added, “We remain committed in realising our goals of capacity expansion, while staying focused on operational excellence and creating long-term value for our stakeholders. The capacity additions will also continue to be in line with Dalmia Bharat’s sustainability-driven approach and its commitment to supporting India’s infrastructure and development goals.”

About Dalmia Bharat: Founded in 1939, Dalmia Bharat Limited (DBL) (BSE/NSE Symbol: DALBHARAT) is one of India’s pioneering cement companies headquartered in New Delhi. With a growing capacity, currently pegged at 46.6 MnT, Dalmia Bharat Limited (including its subsidiaries) is the fourth-largest cement manufacturing company in India by installed capacity. Spread across 10 states and 15 manufacturing units.  Dalmia Cement (Bharat) Limited, a subsidiary of Dalmia Bharat Limited, prides itself at having one of the lowest carbon footprint in the cement world globally. It is the first cement company to commit to RE100, EP100 and EV100 (first triple joiner) – showing real business leadership in the clean energy transition by taking a joined-up approach.

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