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Women in Home Ownership

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Vinita Singhania, discusses the importance of home ownership amongst women as a crucial step towards financial independence.

Financial independence is the ticket to a life of personal choice. For women, the idea is more than just income and savings and includes the possession of assets that yield long-term security. Financial inclusion has expanded, with more women taking charge of their investments. Women now represent over 25 per cent of individual investors and hold 33 per cent of the total individual assets under management (AUM). Notably, participation in mutual funds is also growing beyond the top 30 cities, as highlighted in the AMFI Factbook 2024.
Among all the investments, real estate is the most unique. Homeownership is independence, protection against uncertainty, and a foundation for future stability. Throughout the globe, successful women have identified property as a great wealth builder. Oprah Winfrey, the self-made billionaire, has continued to make property investments, which is a testament to having an appreciation of long-term worth. In India, professionals and businesswomen are defying conventional stereotypes by actively making property investments, thereby changing the narrative from reliance to economic independence.

Rise in women’s involvement in real estate investment
For decades, homeownership was considered a male-dominated domain. That is changing dramatically now. Women across all income groups are entering the real estate purchase business, looking at this activity not as a secondary option but as a main means of achieving financial independence. Industry data in recent years indicate that over 30 per cent of property buyers in urban India are women—a figure doubled in the last decade.
Policy incentives, such as lower stamp duties for women buyers and tax relief on home loans, are helping drive this trend. Section 80C of the Income Tax Act allows first-time female homeowners to claim a deduction of up to `1.5 lakh on the principal repayment of their home loan. Additionally, under Section 24(b), women can deduct up to `2 lakh on the interest paid for a home loan, provided they own the property entirely.
Above all, it is a shift in attitude—women are actively making their own financial security instead of waiting passively for it to happen.

Importance of home ownership to women
Home ownership is a financial foundation that no other investment can offer. In contrast to rental property, whose value fluctuates based on market trends, a home is a steady asset that gains value over the years. It accumulates wealth from generation to generation and provides a haven in times of need. Furthermore, women who are homeowners can avail themselves of more financial opportunities either by using the property as collateral for business expansion or by accessing education loans.
Apart from economic advantages, home ownership is a step towards autonomy. It guarantees that women have a place where decisions are theirs alone, without interference or social control. In a world where women’s economic independence is still questionable, homeownership is a revolution. Real estate investment strongly supports a woman’s social standing. Some banks provide women homebuyers with loans covering up to 90 per cent of the property’s value, compared to 80 per cent for men. Others offer extended repayment tenures of up to 30 years, easing the financial burden and making homeownership more manageable.

Challenges that still persist
Despite progress, several challenges persist. Financial literacy gaps remain a major issue. Many women are not introduced to financial planning early in life, which results in hesitation when making large investments like home purchases. Income inequality is also an issue. With the pay gap between men and women, still an issue in most industries, women will tend to be granted smaller loans than men, which reduces their purchasing power.
Social and cultural biases are also barriers. Economic choices in the majority of households are still within the purview of male household members, whereas independent investment choices by women are disapproved.
Moreover, legal and administrative complexities such as property title verification and mortgage approval processes can make it so difficult for first-time buyers.

Overcoming obstacles: Road to property ownership
Empowerment starts with awareness. Women need to give top priority to financial literacy, investment education, loan terms, and property laws. Banks and organisations now provide courses and online resources to make home buying easier. Accessing the policy incentives is a crucial step. The different states offer a lower rate of stamp duty to women buyers, and the banks provide differential rates of interest on housing loans. These incentives may significantly lower the cost of property ownership.
Maintaining and building a strong credit profile is of the utmost significance. Timely payment of loans, proper use of credit, and paying off current debts improve one’s loan-worthiness and better interest rates. There needs to be meticulous research. Women must research a variety of financing opportunities, compare homes diligently, and consult an attorney to discuss ownership papers prior to buying.
Consulting professional guidance from property and finance specialists can increase knowledge, thus making informed decisions in accordance with long-term financial goals. An informed strategy allows for an easier and more satisfying path to homeownership.

Conclusion
Women in India and across the world are redefining financial independence through real estate investment. Purchasing a property is a symbol of independence, planning and determination. While challenges remain, proactive steps, supportive policies and a determined mindset can help more women claim their rightful place in the real estate landscape. A home is an investment in empowerment, security and a future shaped by one’s own choices.

About the author:
Vinita Singhania, Chairperson and Managing Director, JK Lakshmi Cement Limited, is a businesswoman, and an industrialist, with diversified and rich business experience.

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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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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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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…

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