Concrete

A modest budget boost

Published

1 month ago

February 12, 2025

admin

The Union Budget 2025 presents a measured approach to infrastructure spending, with the Indian government allocating Rs.11.21 trillion ($129.54 billion) for FY26—an increase of less than 1 per cent over the previous year. This subdued hike, especially compared to the robust increments in FY24 and FY25, has left investors underwhelmed. The cement sector, a direct beneficiary of capital expenditure, now faces tempered expectations despite its crucial role in infrastructure and housing projects.

Adding to the concerns, cement production growth plummeted to 4 per cent in December 2024, a stark contrast to the 13.5 per cent recorded in the previous month. This downturn reflects broader sectoral challenges, including fluctuating demand and cost pressures. However, industry players are pinning hopes on the execution of large-scale housing and infrastructure projects to drive demand in the coming months.

A key silver lining in the budget is the Rs.1.5 trillion allocation in 50-year interest-free loans to states for capital expenditure. This measure is expected to provide a much-needed stimulus for infrastructure development, potentially benefiting cement manufacturers in the medium to long term.

As the sector navigates these dynamics, the Indian Cement Review Awards remain a beacon of industry excellence. The Jury convened in Mumbai on January 22 to deliberate and select the most deserving winners for the 8th edition of these prestigious awards. The winners will be honoured in a grand ceremony on March 6, 2025, in Hyderabad, coinciding with Cement Expo Forum 2025 (March 5-6, 2025).

With the industry at a crossroads, the upcoming Cement Expo Forum 2025 will serve as a critical platform for thought leaders, policymakers, and industry stakeholders to chart the path forward. Scan the QR code below to be part of the conversation shaping the future of cement and infrastructure.

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Concrete

Nuvoco Vistas expands with second RMX plant in Nagpur

Published

5 hours ago

March 17, 2025

Roshna

Nuvoco Vistas Corp has expanded its footprint in Maharashtra with the inauguration of its second Ready-Mix Concrete (RMX) plant in Nagpur. Strategically positioned on Kamptee Road, Nagpur-II enhances the company’s reach in key markets, reinforcing its commitment to delivering high-quality concrete solutions for industrial, commercial, and residential projects.
Located just 27 km from Nuvoco’s existing Nagpur-I Mihan plant, the new facility benefits from excellent connectivity via the Srinagar-Kanyakumari Highway, ensuring seamless access to Nagpur city, Koradi and Bhandara Road. Its proximity to key industrial areas like Panchgaon and Hingna further strengthens raw material supply, boosting operational efficiency.
With a production capacity of 90 Cum/hour, Nagpur-II features a Twin Shaft Mixer capable of producing a diverse range of concrete grades, including Nuvoco’s signature brands like XCON, CONCRETO, ECODURE, ARTISTE, and INSTAMIX.
Commenting on the launch, Prashant Jha, Chief of Ready-Mix Concrete at Nuvoco, said that Nagpur-II has strengthened their presence in Maharashtra, allowing them to meet growing construction demands with improved efficiency, faster deliveries, and enhanced support for large-scale infrastructure and commercial projects.

Concrete

Ramco Cements posts financial results

Published

5 hours ago

March 17, 2025

admin

Ramco Cements reported a 97 per cent decline in its third-quarter adjusted profit, impacted by lower cement prices. Profit before exceptional items and tax dropped to Rs.4.35 crore in the October-December period, down from Rs.135 crore a year ago. Revenue from cement operations fell 6 per cent to Rs.1,977 crore, missing analysts’ forecast of Rs.2,019 crore. The company recorded a Rs.329 crore one-time gain from asset sales and investments.

Concrete

JKLC posted net profit of Rs.59.64cr in Oct-Dec

Published

5 hours ago

March 17, 2025

Roshna

JK Lakshmi Cement (JKLC) reported lower profitability for Q3 FY25 due to reduced sales realisation. The company is expanding its grinding and clinker capacities, investing Rs.3,050 crore in projects across India. Sustainability initiatives include increasing TSR and using 48 per cent renewable power. JKLC won multiple awards for CSR, energy efficiency and environmental efforts. With government-led infrastructure growth, the cement sector’s outlook remains positive.

Image Source:www.jklakshmicement.com