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Budget 2024: Strategies for Sustainable Growth

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The unveiling of Union Budget 2024 marked a pivotal moment for India’s economic trajectory, blending ambitious growth targets with pragmatic fiscal policies. ICR gets key stakeholders from the cement sector to voice their views about the Budget.

In the Interim Budget 2024-25, the honourable Finance and Corporate Affairs Minister, Nirmala Sitharaman, had declared an 11.1 per cent increase in capital expenditure for infrastructure, raising the outlay from `10 lakh crore to Rs.11.11 crore, or 3.4 per cent of GDP. Based on these revelations, the cement industry was optimistic about significant investments in highways, roads, bridges and urban development projects to be declared in the Union Budget 2024. The industry was not disappointed. Ambitious initiatives such as Bharatmala and Sagarmala are now offering immense growth potential for the sector, provided they receive adequate funding.
The Indian cement industry was eagerly anticipating a considerable boost in budget allocations for housing and infrastructure projects, as together these sectors constitute over 80 per cent of cement demand in the country. Following are the highlights of Union Budget 2024 with regards to these expectations.

Urban development

  • Formulation of Transit Oriented Development plans and strategies to implement and finance 14 large cities above 30 lakh population.

Urban housing

  • Investment of Rs.10 lakh crore, including the central assistance of Rs.2.2 lakh crore in the next 5 years, under PM Awas Yojana Urban 2.0 proposed to address the housing needs of 1 crore urban poor and middle-class families.
    Infrastructure
  • Rs.11,11,111 crore (3.4 per cent of GDP) to be provided for capital expenditure.
    Infrastructure investment by state governments
  • Provision of Rs.1.5 lakh crore for long-term interest free loans to support states in infrastructure investment.
    Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana (PMGSY)
  • Launch of phase IV of PMGSY to provide all-weather connectivity to 25,000 rural habitations.
    We bring you reactions to the Union Budget 2024 by industry experts:

“The Union Budget 2024-25 presents a compelling roadmap for India’s infrastructure and economic growth. Its focus on productivity, job creation, and urban development aligns with our vision for a resilient India. The substantial capital expenditure allocation of Rs.11.11 lakh crore demonstrates the government’s commitment to nation-building, benefiting the construction materials sector, including cement. We commend the `1.48 lakh crore investment in education, employment, and skill development, which will enhance workforce capabilities. The emphasis on sustainability and clean energy, along with the PM Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana, resonates with JK Lakshmi Cement’s green initiatives. As a leading cement manufacturer, we’re prepared to contribute significantly to India’s infrastructure development, leveraging these policies to build a stronger, more sustainable future.”
– Arun Shukla, President and Director, JK Lakshmi Cement

“We welcome the Government’s consistent approach towards Fiscal consolidation, supporting Capex in Infrastructure by reconfirming the allocation of Rs.11.11 lakh crore in the budget as also additional allocations towards improving Urban and Rural Infrastructure. We also welcome the government’s focus on employment generation, skilling, Woman empowerment, MSMEs and climate change mitigation as well as their encouragement to the States to carry out land and labour reforms and improve Ease of doing Business further. We believe this Budget paves the way for the next generation of reforms which we are confident will lead India to its deserved place of being Viksit Bharat.”
– Sunil Mathur, Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, Siemens

“We welcome the government’s strong commitment to inclusive development in this year’s budget with the vision of a ‘Viksit Bharat’. The focus on nine priority areas and employment will entail sustained efforts to generate ample opportunities for all. The government’s decision to maintain the interim capital expenditure target of Rs.11.11 lakh crore — the highest allocation ever at 3.4 per cent of GDP — reflects the sustained reliance on infrastructure development to drive economic growth. Additionally, the allocation of Rs.2.66 lakh crore for rural development, including rural infrastructure projects, will play a remarkable role in transforming the rural economy. The women-first initiatives for enhancing women’s participation in the labour force are also a welcome move. This focus on innovation, infrastructure, and inclusive development will ensure sustainable progress across the nation and also ensure that the impact reaches the common man.”
– Akshat Seth, Managing Director and CEO, HIL (a CK Birla group unit)

“Investments in infrastructure, urban planning, and digitization of land records are crucial steps towards enhancing the real estate sector in Hyderabad. We believe that these measures will not only boost the sector’s contribution to the economy but also address the housing needs of millions, driving inclusive growth and development.”
– V Rajashekhar Reddy, President,CREDAI Hyderabad

“The 2024 Budget’s emphasis on revising the personal income tax structure and increasing the standard deduction for salaried individuals from Rs.50,000 to Rs.75,000 is a welcome move. This initiative, coupled with the encouragement to states to lower stamp duty and the proposal for reduced stamp duty for women purchasing property, will make home ownership, particularly for first-time buyers, more accessible and financially viable. Additionally, the focus on affordable housing, with a substantial `10 lakh crore investment under the PM Awas Yojana-Urban, aims to address the housing needs of 1 crore urban poor, signalling robust support for residential real estate. The emphasis on industrial parks and infrastructure development will further bolster economic growth, paving the way for a dynamic real estate market.”
– Vishal Raheja, Founder and Managing Director, InvestoXpert

“The Union Budget 2024 was built on the foundation of Viksit Bharat. A strong focus was put on solar energy. The remarkable achievement of PM Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana with 1.28 crore registrations and 14 lakh applications reflected the growing public awareness and alignment with the government’s vision of a solar-powered India. As a leading solar panel manufacturer, this motivates us to make solar energy more adoptable, affordable, and
accessible nationwide.
The exemption of customs duty on lithium, a crucial mineral used in the renewable energy sector, will reduce costs, making lithium-based technologies more affordable. The pumped storage policy which includes pumped storage projects for electricity storage will facilitate the smooth integration of the growing share of renewable energy into the overall energy mix, paving the way for a sustainable energy future. Imposing customs duty on the import of solar glass for solar cell and module production will promote domestic manufacturing and boost the economy. The increase of BCD on non-biodegradable PVC flex banners from 10 to 25 per cent is a commendable step towards environmental conservation. Power projects including setting up of a new 2400 MW power plant at Pirpainti, Bihar will add Bihar in the category of solar powered states, overall enhance the power quotient, add to the existing power capacity and create jobs. Overall, the budget highlighted the remarkable changes that will contribute to the development of a nation we all envisioned.”
– Raman Bhatia, Founder and Managing Director, Servotech Power Systems

“The removal of angel tax is a welcome move for India’s startup ecosystem. This, coupled with the establishment of a Rs.1,000 crore VC fund for the space economy, will foster innovation. The budget’s focus on manufacturing, with the introduction of plug-and-play industrial parks, is progressive. MSMEs will benefit significantly from the credit guarantee scheme, new assessment models by PSU banks and increased Mudra loan limits. The substantial allocation of `11 lakh crore for infrastructure, especially nature resilient is crucial for building a Viksit Bharat. The strategic shift towards nuclear energy as a major power source is visionary. Finally, the emphasis on cultural heritage through the development of the Vishnupad, Mahabodhi temple corridors, Rajgir and Nalanda is a welcome addition.”
– Rahul Garg, CEO and Founder, Moglix

“The recent budget has been highly favourable for the energy sector, with the government setting an ambitious goal of achieving 500 GW of renewable power by 2030. A key component of this plan is encouraging homeowners to adopt solar energy, facilitating a swift transition to solar power. To support this, the government has allocated Rs.70,000 crores in subsidies for homes that switch to solar energy. This is a crucial and forward-thinking initiative for the country’s future, and we express our gratitude to the government for taking this significant step.”
– Saurabh Marda, Co-founder and Managing Director, Freyr Energy

“I would like to congratulate the Government for presenting a visionary Budget that focuses on sustainable and inclusive economic growth. I particularly welcome several announcements that reflect the Government’s continued support for the renewable energy sector. The impetus on PM Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana will help fast track nationwide adoption of rooftop solar, helping expand our overall RE capacity. The proposed investment in Pumped Storage programmes is a much-needed step that will ensure smoother integration of growing RE, leading to more reliable supply of green power and grid stability. The focus on transitioning hard to abate industries to greener alternatives will catalyse the C&I sector’s journey towards net zero. Introduction of a taxonomy for climate finance will help attract much needed capital for boosting climate resilience. Finally, the expanded duty exemptions will also help propel the RE sector ahead. This is a positive budget for the sector that should help continue the momentum of India’s energy transition and Hero Future Energies remains committed to partnering with the Government in enabling this mission.”
– Srivatsan Iyer, Global CEO, Hero Future Energies

Concrete

FORNNAX Appoints Dieter Jerschl as Sales Partner for Central Europe

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FORNNAX TECHNOLOGY has appointed industry veteran Dieter Jerschl as its new sales partner in Germany to strengthen its presence across Central Europe. The partnership aims to accelerate the adoption of FORNNAX’s high-capacity, sustainable recycling solutions while building long-term regional capabilities.

FORNNAX TECHNOLOGY, one of the leading advanced recycling equipment manufacturers, has announced the appointment of a new sales partner in Germany as part of its strategic expansion into Central Europe. The company has entered into a collaborative agreement with Mr. Dieter Jerschl, a seasoned industry professional with over 20 years of experience in the shredding and recycling sector, to represent and promote FORNNAX’s solutions across key European markets.

Mr. Jerschl brings extensive expertise from his work with renowned companies such as BHS, Eldan, Vecoplan, and others. Over the course of his career, he has successfully led the deployment of both single machines and complete turnkey installations for a wide range of applications, including tyre recycling, cable recycling, municipal solid waste, e-waste, and industrial waste processing.

Speaking about the partnership, Mr. Jerschl said,
“I’ve known FORNNAX for over a decade and have followed their growth closely. What attracted me to this collaboration is their state-of-the-art & high-capacity technology, it is powerful, sustainable, and economically viable. There is great potential to introduce FORNNAX’s innovative systems to more markets across Europe, and I am excited to be part of that journey.”

The partnership will primarily focus on Central Europe, including Germany, Austria, and neighbouring countries, with the flexibility to extend the geographical scope based on project requirements and mutual agreement. The collaboration is structured to evolve over time, with performance-driven expansion and ongoing strategic discussions with FORNNAX’s management. The immediate priority is to build a strong project pipeline and enhance FORNNAX’s brand presence across the region.

FORNNAX’s portfolio of high-performance shredding and pre-processing solutions is well aligned with Europe’s growing demand for sustainable and efficient waste treatment technologies. By partnering with Mr. Jerschl—who brings deep market insight and established industry relationships—FORNNAX aims to accelerate adoption of its solutions and participate in upcoming recycling projects across the region.

As part of the partnership, Mr. Jerschl will also deliver value-added services, including equipment installation, maintenance, and spare parts support through a dedicated technical team. This local service capability is expected to ensure faster project execution, minimise downtime, and enhance overall customer experience.

Commenting on the long-term vision, Mr. Jerschl added,
“We are committed to increasing market awareness and establishing new reference projects across the region. My goal is not only to generate business but to lay the foundation for long-term growth. Ideally, we aim to establish a dedicated FORNNAX legal entity or operational site in Germany over the next five to ten years.”

For FORNNAX, this partnership aligns closely with its global strategy of expanding into key markets through strong regional representation. The company believes that local partnerships are critical for navigating complex market dynamics and delivering solutions tailored to region-specific waste management challenges.

“We see tremendous potential in the Central European market,” said Mr. Jignesh Kundaria, Director and CEO of FORNNAX.
“Partnering with someone as experienced and well-established as Mr. Jerschl gives us a strong foothold and allows us to better serve our customers. This marks a major milestone in our efforts to promote reliable, efficient and future-ready recycling solutions globally,” he added.

This collaboration further strengthens FORNNAX’s commitment to environmental stewardship, innovation, and sustainable waste management, supporting the transition toward a greener and more circular future.

 

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Concrete

Budget 2026–27 infra thrust and CCUS outlay to lift cement sector outlook

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Higher capex, city-led growth and CCUS funding improve demand visibility and decarbonisation prospects for cement

Mumbai

Cement manufacturers have welcomed the Union Budget 2026–27’s strong infrastructure thrust, with public capital expenditure increased to Rs 12.2 trillion, saying it reinforces infrastructure as the central engine of economic growth and strengthens medium-term prospects for the cement sector. In a statement, the Cement Manufacturers’ Association (CMA) has welcomed the Union budget 2026-27 for reinforcing the ambitions for the nation’s growth balancing the aspirations of the people through inclusivity inspired by the vision of Narendra Modi, Prime Minister of India, for a Viksit Bharat by 2047 and Atmanirbharta.

The budget underscores India’s steady economic trajectory over the past 12 years, marked by fiscal discipline, sustained growth and moderate inflation, and offers strong demand visibility for infrastructure linked sectors such as cement.

The Budget’s strong infrastructure push, with public capital expenditure rising from Rs 11.2 trillion in fiscal year 2025–26 to Rs 12.2 trillion in fiscal year 2026–27, recognises infrastructure as the primary anchor for economic growth creating positive prospects for the Indian cement industry and improving long term visibility for the cement sector. The emphasis on Tier 2 and Tier 3 cities with populations above 5 lakh and the creation of City Economic Regions (CERs) with an allocation of Rs 50 billion per CER over five years, should accelerate construction activity across housing, transport and urban services, supporting broad based cement consumption.

Logistics and connectivity measures announced in the budget are particularly significant for the cement industry. The announcement of new dedicated freight corridors, the operationalisation of 20 additional National Waterways over the next five years, the launch of the Coastal Cargo Promotion Scheme to raise the modal share of waterways and coastal shipping from 6 per cent to 12 per cent by 2047, and the development of ship repair ecosystems should enhance multimodal freight efficiency, reduce logistics costs and improve the sector’s carbon footprint. The announcement of seven high speed rail corridors as growth corridors can be expected to further stimulate regional development and construction demand.

Commenting on the budget, Parth Jindal, President, Cement Manufacturers’ Association (CMA), said, “As India advances towards a Viksit Bharat, the three kartavya articulated in the Union Budget provide a clear context for the Nation’s growth and aspirations, combining economic momentum with capacity building and inclusive progress. The Cement Manufacturers’ Association (CMA) appreciates the Union Budget 2026-27 for the continued emphasis on manufacturing competitiveness, urban development and infrastructure modernisation, supported by over 350 reforms spanning GST simplification, labour codes, quality control rationalisation and coordinated deregulation with States. These reforms, alongside the Budget’s focus on Youth Power and domestic manufacturing capacity under Atmanirbharta, stand to strengthen the investment environment for capital intensive sectors such as Cement. The Union Budget 2026-27 reflects the Government’s focus on infrastructure led development emerging as a structural pillar of India’s growth strategy.”

He added, “The Rs 200 billion CCUS outlay for various sectors, including Cement, fundamentally alters the decarbonisation landscape for India’s emissions intensive industries. CCUS is a significant enabler for large scale decarbonisation of industries such as Cement and this intervention directly addresses the technology and cost requirements of the Cement sector in context. The Cement Industry, fully aligned with the Government of India’s Net Zero commitment by 2070, views this support as critical to enabling the adoption and scale up of CCUS technologies while continuing to meet the Country’s long term infrastructure needs.”

Dr Raghavpat Singhania, Vice President, CMA, said, “The government’s sustained infrastructure push supports employment, regional development and stronger local supply chains. Cement manufacturing clusters act as economic anchors across regions, generating livelihoods in construction, logistics and allied sectors. The budget’s focus on inclusive growth, execution and system level enablers creates a supportive environment for responsible and efficient expansion offering opportunities for economic growth and lending momentum to the cement sector. The increase in public capex to Rs 12.2 trillion, the focus on Tier 2 and Tier 3 cities, and the creation of City Economic Regions stand to strengthen the growth of the cement sector. We welcome the budget’s emphasis on tourism, cultural and social infrastructure, which should broaden construction activity across regions. Investments in tourism facilities, heritage and Buddhist circuits, regional connectivity in Purvodaya and North Eastern States, and the strengthening of emergency and trauma care infrastructure in district hospitals reinforce the cement sector’s role in enabling inclusive growth.”

CMA also noted the Government’s continued commitment to fiscal discipline, with the fiscal deficit estimated at 4.3 per cent of GDP in FY27, reinforcing macroeconomic stability and investor confidence.

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Concrete

Steel: Shielded or Strengthened?

CW explores the impact of pro-steel policies on construction and infrastructure and identifies gaps that need to be addressed.

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Going forward, domestic steel mills are targeting capacity expansion
of nearly 40 per cent through till FY31, adding 80-85 mt, translating
into an investment pipeline of $ 45-50 billion. So, Jhunjhunwala points
out that continuing the safeguard duty will be vital to prevent a surge
in imports and protect domestic prices from external shocks. While in
FY26, the industry operating profit per tonne is expected to hold at
around $ 108, similar to last year, the industry’s earnings must
meaningfully improve from hereon to sustain large-scale investments.
Else, domestic mills could experience a significant spike in industry
leverage levels over the medium term, increasing their vulnerability to
external macroeconomic shocks.(~$ 60/tonne) over the past one month,
compressing the import parity discount to ~$ 23-25/tonne from previous
highs of ~$ 70-90/tonne, adds Jhunjhunwala. With this, he says, “the
industry can expect high resistance to further steel price increases.”

Domestic HRC prices have increased by ~Rs 5,000/tonne
“Aggressive
capacity additions (~15 mt commissioned in FY25, with 5 mt more by
FY26) have created a supply overhang, temporarily outpacing demand
growth of ~11-12 mt,” he says…

To read the full article Click Here

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