Andhra Pradesh to Launch Five Mega Industrial Projects Worth Rs 4.8 Lakh Crore

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January 3, 2025

Andhra Pradesh to Launch Five Mega Industrial Projects Worth Rs 4.8 Lakh Crore

Andhra Pradesh is kicking off the New Year with a bold move towards industrial development, as Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu prepares to inaugurate five major projects worth a total of Rs 4.8 lakh crore on January 8, 2025. These projects are part of the state’s long-term strategy to drive economic growth and infrastructure development, and they are also key promises made during the bifurcation of the state in 2014. With a focus on enhancing employment opportunities and creating sustainable industries, these mega ventures are expected to significantly transform the state’s industrial landscape.

The five major projects being launched include the NTPC Green Energy Limited’s Green Hydrogen Park in Pudimadaka, Visakhapatnam, which is the largest of the bunch, with an investment of Rs 1.85 lakh crore. This project is set to position Andhra Pradesh as a leader in green energy, particularly in the rapidly developing sector of hydrogen fuel. Alongside it, the ArcelorMittal/Nippon Steel Integrated Steel Plant in Anakapalli, valued at Rs 1.35 lakh crore, will further strengthen the state’s industrial base in the steel sector. Bharat Petroleum’s new refinery at Ramayapatnam, with an investment of Rs 95,000 crore, will contribute significantly to India’s energy security, while also creating thousands of jobs. A new railway zone in Visakhapatnam, long awaited since the state’s bifurcation, will provide vital connectivity and infrastructural support to the growing industrial hubs. The first phase of Reliance’s biogas plant in Ongole, Prakasam district, adds a green dimension to the state’s industrial diversification, making a vital contribution to sustainable energy solutions.

These initiatives will be inaugurated at Andhra University Engineering College grounds, with Prime Minister Narendra Modi attending to lay the foundation stone for these large-scale developments. The significance of the new railway zone in Visakhapatnam cannot be understated, as it has been a long-pending demand for nearly a decade since the bifurcation of Andhra Pradesh. Chief Minister Naidu views these projects as critical in realising his vision of making Andhra Pradesh an industrial powerhouse. Together, these ventures are expected to create substantial employment, elevate the state’s manufacturing capabilities, and contribute to long-term economic growth. With the state pushing forward with these and many other upcoming initiatives, the industrial landscape of Andhra Pradesh is poised for a dramatic transformation, driving both infrastructure development and economic sustainability.

Gujarat Cabinet Approves Formation of Nine New Municipal Corporations

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January 3, 2025

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Gujarat Cabinet Approves Formation of Nine New Municipal Corporations

On January 2, 2025, a significant step in Gujarat’s urban governance was marked with the approval of the formation of nine new municipal corporations, the first such expansion in 14 years. This decision, approved by the Gujarat cabinet during a meeting chaired by Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel, is set to bring about substantial changes in the state’s urban management and development. With the addition of these new corporations, the total number of municipal bodies in Gujarat will rise from eight to 17.

The newly formed corporations will include Navsari, Gandhidham, Morbi, Vapi, Anand, Nadiad, Mehsana, Porbandar, and Surendranagar. The expansion aims to enhance the state’s urban governance and is expected to bring better planning, governance, and infrastructural development to these growing cities.

This expansion follows a promise made in Gujarat’s 2024 budget announcement, where Finance Minister Kanubhai Desai included these towns for conversion into municipal corporations. As part of the restructuring, cities like Anand and Surendranagar will see several nearby municipalities merged into their new corporation boundaries, aiming to enhance regional governance. For instance, Anand’s new corporation will integrate the municipalities of Anand, Vallabh-Vidyanagar, and Karamsad. The creation of these new municipal corporations will enable better urban planning and management across these cities, which are witnessing rapid population growth and increased demand for infrastructure and services. By coming under the Gujarat Provincial Municipal Corporations Act, 1949, the newly designated cities will gain enhanced powers, governance structures, and financial resources to meet their growing demands.

The formation of these new municipal corporations is expected to significantly boost local governance and improve the quality of life for residents by addressing urban challenges more effectively. Currently, Gujarat’s largest cities, including Ahmedabad, Vadodara, Surat, and Gandhinagar, operate under municipal corporations, which have proven to be effective in improving urban infrastructure, public services, and urban development. By expanding this model to other growing cities, the state government aims to ensure that these regions are better equipped to handle challenges related to urban sprawl, traffic congestion, sanitation, and public health. The new municipal corporations will also provide a platform for more efficient and coordinated governance. This, in turn, is expected to unlock more financial resources, making it easier to build new infrastructure and improve existing amenities. Although the formal notification of these changes will be issued soon, administrators will be appointed to oversee the functioning of these new corporations until elections are held. With these changes, residents can look forward to better-managed urban areas with a greater emphasis on sustainable development and efficient service delivery.

Local Cement Sales Fall by 10.4% in FY25’s First Half, Exports Rise

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January 3, 2025

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Local Cement Sales Fall by 10.4% in FY25’s First Half, Exports Rise

Pakistan’s cement sector faced a challenging first half of fiscal year 2025 (FY25), as local sales saw a significant decline of 10.4 percent, dropping from 20.228 million tonnes in the same period last year to 18.122 million tonnes. This contraction reflects the ongoing struggles within the domestic market, exacerbated by economic pressures and fluctuating demand.

However, the sector found some respite in the form of a sharp 32 percent increase in cement exports, which rose to 4.810 million tonnes from 3.655 million tonnes in the previous year. This export surge helped mitigate the overall decline in total cement despatches, which fell by 3.9 percent, reaching 22.933 million tonnes, compared to 23.881 million tonnes during the corresponding period in FY24. December 2024 saw a 5 percent drop in local cement despatches, with only 3.370 million tonnes dispatched, down from 3.539 million tonnes in December 2023. Despite this, exports surged by 49.35 percent, reaching 783,550 tonnes from 524,656 tonnes in the same month last year.

As a result, total cement despatches for December saw a modest increase of 2.23 percent, rising to 4.154 million tonnes from 4.063 million tonnes in December 2023. The All Pakistan Cement Manufacturers Association (APCMA) has expressed growing concern over the continuous decline in local cement demand. The association has called on the government to take immediate action by reducing duties and taxes on cement, arguing that such measures would not only stimulate demand but also help the industry better utilise its idle capacity. The cement industry has been under pressure due to rising production costs, as well as macroeconomic factors that have dampened local demand. However, with exports offering a lifeline, the sector hopes that a more supportive domestic policy environment could help reinvigorate the local market. The APCMA’s appeal for government intervention highlights the urgent need for measures that can stabilise the sector, ensuring that Pakistan’s cement manufacturers can maintain competitiveness both at home and abroad.

Kazakhstan Mining Sector Gains Boost with Martin Engineering

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January 3, 2025

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Kazakhstan Mining Sector Gains Boost with Martin Engineering

Martin Engineering, a global leader in bulk material handling solutions, has inaugurated a new business unit in Kazakhstan. The new facility, located in Almaty—Kazakhstan’s largest city and economic centre—marks a pivotal expansion as the company seeks to tap into the rapidly growing mining sector of the region.

Kazakhstan, the world’s ninth-largest country, is rich in diverse metal ores and mineral resources, making it a key player in global mining and mineral production. Mining is the cornerstone of Kazakhstan’s economy, contributing substantially to the nation’s export revenues. Given its strategic location and abundant resources, the country has seen a surge in demand for cutting-edge technologies that ensure efficiency, safety, and sustainability in mining operations. Martin Engineering’s decision to establish a business unit in Kazakhstan is driven by the firm’s strong track record in the country. The company has previously supplied advanced conveyor belt cleaning solutions to one of Kazakhstan’s largest copper producers, significantly boosting plant efficiency and productivity.

With this new unit, Martin Engineering is now positioned to offer a broader portfolio of products and services, which include its innovative CleanScrape® belt cleaners, Orion SQC2S™ Secondary Belt Cleaner, and high-performance Air Cannons featuring SMART™ Series Nozzles. These products are designed to enhance material flow, reduce downtime, and optimise the overall performance of mining operations. The new business unit will also provide a host of value-added services to Kazakh customers, including faster service response times, improved supply chain logistics, and bespoke training programmes such as Walk The Belt™ and Foundations™ to help local maintenance teams enhance their skills. These services will not only support Kazakhstan’s established players in the mining sector but also help emerging companies navigate the complexities of bulk material handling in the industry.

Oleg Glukhov, the new General Manager of the Kazakhstan unit, brings with him over seven years of experience at Martin Engineering. His leadership will play a crucial role in driving the company’s expansion efforts across the region. According to Glukhov, “Kazakhstan holds a prominent position as a global source of metals and industrial minerals. The mining industry’s focus on safe, efficient, and profitable processing is where Martin Engineering’s solutions can make a significant difference.” Martin Engineering, known for its industry-leading innovations, has pioneered solutions that improve safety, reduce operational costs, and optimise production efficiency across several key sectors, including mining, steel, cement, and fertiliser production. The company’s decision to expand in Kazakhstan highlights its confidence in the region’s growth potential and its commitment to supporting the country’s mining sector with world-class technological solutions.

Saudi Arabia’s Al Jouf Cement Green Product to Be Used in NEOM City

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January 3, 2025

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Saudi Arabia’s Al Jouf Cement Green Product to Be Used in NEOM City

Al Jouf Cement, one of Saudi Arabia’s leading cement manufacturers, has received approval to use its innovative ‘green’ cement for construction projects within the high-profile NEOM city. This development marks a significant milestone for both the company and the sustainable construction sector. The ‘green’ cement has been developed in collaboration with Asas Al-Muhailb, a prominent ready-mix concrete producer in the region.

The green cement offers a range of benefits that enhance concrete’s performance. One of its most notable features is its ability to improve the durability and longevity of concrete structures. The product is designed to reduce water absorption and permeability, which are key factors that can affect the integrity of concrete over time. Additionally, the green cement is resistant to sulphate and chloride salts, common elements that contribute to the degradation of concrete in harsh environments. What sets this cement apart from traditional alternatives is its superior thermal properties. The green cement provides enhanced heat insulation and fire resistance, making it an ideal choice for projects that require materials capable of withstanding extreme conditions. The product also boasts compressive strength that is equal to or greater than that of ordinary Portland cement (OPC), ensuring its reliability and structural integrity in large-scale construction projects.

The approval for use in NEOM is a major win for Al Jouf Cement, as NEOM is a futuristic city being developed in northwestern Saudi Arabia with a focus on sustainability and advanced technology. The city, which is part of Saudi Vision 2030, aims to become a global hub for innovation, smart cities, and sustainable living. The inclusion of green cement in NEOM projects aligns perfectly with these goals, supporting the development of environmentally responsible and resilient infrastructure. Al Jouf Cement’s move to incorporate sustainable practices into its products comes at a time when the construction industry globally is shifting toward more eco-friendly and energy-efficient solutions. With NEOM poised to set a global example in sustainable urban development, the approval of Al Jouf Cement’s green product underscores the increasing demand for sustainable building materials in the region. As Saudi Arabia continues its push towards sustainability, Al Jouf Cement’s green cement is expected to play a pivotal role in shaping the future of construction in NEOM and beyond.

JK Lakshmi Cement Receives Go-Ahead from BSE and NSE for Amalgamation Plan

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January 3, 2025

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JK Lakshmi Cement Receives Go-Ahead from BSE and NSE for Amalgamation Plan

JK Lakshmi Cement has received approval from leading stock exchanges, the NSE and BSE, for its plan to merge three of its subsidiaries into the company. The amalgamation involves Udaipur Cement Works, Hansdeep Industries and Trading, and Hidrive Developers and Industries, with the goal of simplifying the company’s structure and creating a more commercially meaningful entity focused on cement and cement products.

As per the filing made with BSE on 1 January 2025, the exchanges issued their Observation Letters, confirming that there were no adverse observations or objections regarding the proposed scheme. This approval follows the approval of the merger by JK Lakshmi Cement’s board on 31 July 2024. As part of the merger terms, shareholders of Udaipur Cement Works Ltd (UCWL) will receive four shares of JK Lakshmi Cement for every 100 shares they hold in the company. The merger is expected to streamline operations and improve operational efficiencies in the cement sector.

The company’s combined capacity for FY24 stands at 16.5 million tonnes per annum (MTPA), and its revenue for the same year was ₹6,319.77 crore. UCWL, which is set to be merged, reported a revenue of ₹1,163.59 crore in FY24. JK Lakshmi Cement aims to expand its production capacity to 30 MTPA by 2030 through brownfield and greenfield expansion projects. The company currently has ongoing expansion projects totaling 10.80 MTPA, set for completion by FY27. The merger with these subsidiaries is expected to enhance JK Lakshmi Cement’s position in the industry and boost its growth prospects.

Steel Ministry Seeks 15% Customs Duty on Finished Steel Imports to Protect Domestic Industry

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January 3, 2025

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Steel Ministry Seeks 15% Customs Duty on Finished Steel Imports to Protect Domestic Industry

The Ministry of Steel has formally requested the Ministry of Finance to increase the basic customs duty on imported finished steel products from 7.5 percent to 15 percent in the upcoming Union Budget for 2025–26. This move aims to curb the adverse effects of growing steel imports, particularly from China, which has seen a notable rise in the current financial year.

Official data reveals that imports from China now account for 32 percent of the total steel imports in India, putting significant pressure on domestic steel producers. The Steel Ministry believes that raising the import duty will help protect the Indian steel industry from unfair competition, particularly from cheaper Chinese steel products that have flooded the market. The proposed increase in customs duty would act as a safeguard for local manufacturers and allow them to remain competitive in the face of rising imports. It is expected to bolster India’s domestic steel industry, encourage local production, and safeguard jobs in the sector.

The Ministry’s proposal comes as part of a broader strategy to reduce dependency on steel imports and strengthen India’s industrial capabilities. With the domestic steel sector struggling against cheaper imports, particularly from China, the Steel Ministry’s push for a higher customs duty is seen as a critical measure to ensure the industry’s long-term sustainability.

India Takes Steps to Regulate Steel Imports with BIS Standards for All Steel Grades

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January 3, 2025

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India Takes Steps to Regulate Steel Imports with BIS Standards for All Steel Grades

The Indian government has expanded the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) quality control norms to cover all steel grades, ensuring that only steel meeting the relevant BIS specifications is produced domestically or imported into the country. The Steel Ministry, which issues the Quality Control Order (QCO), has mandated that steel products conform to BIS standards, effectively raising the bar for steel quality.

As part of this initiative, steel grades not yet covered by BIS standards will require a No Objection Certificate (NOC) from the Steel Ministry for import. This move is aimed at preventing the entry of substandard steel into the market, which could negatively impact the quality of infrastructure and products in India. A senior official from the Steel Ministry stated, “We are working towards bringing all steel grades under BIS standards within the next year. This will help regulate imports and ensure that poor-quality steel does not flood the market. It’s a non-tariff barrier that we are implementing to protect the domestic industry and ensure its competitiveness.”

The decision to extend quality control to all steel grades aligns with the government’s broader efforts to safeguard the domestic steel industry from unfair trade practices and to promote the use of high-quality materials in infrastructure development. This move is expected to provide a boost to the domestic steel sector and help it remain competitive in the global market.

Global Steel Industry Faces Profitability Challenges as India Sees Rising Demand

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January 3, 2025

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Global Steel Industry Faces Profitability Challenges as India Sees Rising Demand

Tata Steel CEO and Managing Director T.V. Narendran highlighted the significant challenges facing the global steel industry, citing shrinking profit margins due to aggressive pricing by China. In his address at a New Year gathering, Narendran explained how 2023 and 2024 were difficult years for steelmakers worldwide, as the industry struggled with reduced margins and the aftereffects of China’s COVID-19 restrictions. Narendran emphasized that while global geopolitical events have an indirect impact on India, the primary concern remains China’s economic slowdown, which has led to unfair competitive pricing. He urged the Indian government to adopt protective measures, similar to those in place in the US, Canada, and Europe, to safeguard domestic producers from the influx of cheaper steel imports.

Despite these global challenges, Narendran pointed to India’s steel demand, which is growing at a rate of 8 percent. Tata Steel has thrived in this environment, thanks to its competitive positioning and strong domestic market. However, he acknowledged the pressure on margins and stressed the importance of value addition and innovation within the sector to maintain profitability. He also emphasized the potential of India’s mineral-rich states such as Jharkhand, Odisha, and Chhattisgarh. These regions offer untapped opportunities for creating industries that can drive wealth and employment. Narendran called for further incentives to attract investment into these areas, noting that the steel sector in India already invests between ₹40,000 crore and ₹50,000 crore annually.

Among Tata Steel’s notable achievements, Narendran highlighted the commissioning of the country’s largest blast furnace at the Kalinganagar plant in Odisha, despite the challenging global environment. He also praised the company’s ongoing initiatives to improve employee and community welfare, such as the construction of housing and schools for staff and their families. Narendran also noted that Tata Steel is engaged in discussions with the new government in Jharkhand to explore ways to leverage the state’s vast reserves of iron ore and coal. He emphasized Jharkhand’s potential to become a hub for steel and automotive industries, supported by focused efforts on value addition and creating sustainable industries that benefit local communities.

Thane Civic Body Takes Action Against 39 Builders for Violating Air Pollution Norms

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January 3, 2025

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Thane Civic Body Takes Action Against 39 Builders for Violating Air Pollution Norms

Thane Municipal Corporation (TMC) has issued show cause notices to 39 builders for failing to adhere to air pollution control norms. The builders, who were initially directed to follow dust pollution control guidelines, have been warned that their work could be halted if they do not provide satisfactory responses to these notices.

The TMC’s efforts to combat construction-related air pollution are part of an ongoing campaign to safeguard the environment and reduce harmful emissions. As part of this initiative, the TMC had earlier instructed 297 builders to comply with guidelines designed to limit dust pollution at construction sites. Out of the total, 31 builders have fully complied, while fines totalling Rs 4 lakh have been imposed on 151 builders for minor violations.

The notices were issued after a comprehensive review by the TMC’s environmental department, which is led by the Additional Municipal Commissioner Sandeep Malvi. The meeting, attended by TMC engineers, representatives from the Maharashtra State Road Development Corporation (MSRDC), metro rail officials, and the police, evaluated the effectiveness of the measures in place. In an effort to track air quality more closely, the TMC has installed air quality measuring devices at 50 construction sites across the city. This initiative is part of the broader plan to reduce pollution levels and ensure compliance with air quality norms. Additionally, the TMC has taken action against the burning of plastic and garbage, imposing fines of Rs 20,000 following nine complaints. The use of firewood in restaurants and hotels has also been banned as part of the efforts to control air pollution. Between March and November 2024, the TMC successfully collected and recycled 7,414 tonnes of construction and demolition debris as part of its waste disposal project. Builders are now required to transport debris in vehicles equipped with GPS tracking systems to ensure transparency and accountability.

In addition to the construction site measures, the TMC, in partnership with the Regional Transport Offices (RTOs), has acted against over 5,900 vehicles carrying debris without proper coverage and has fined 4,008 vehicles for lacking valid pollution under control (PUC) certificates. Chief Environment Officer Manisha Pradhan has stated that all builders must use green nets at construction sites to further control dust. In total, fines of Rs 1.7 lakh have been imposed on various entities following complaints related to air pollution. This decisive action taken by the TMC highlights its commitment to improving air quality in the city and holding builders accountable for environmental regulations. As part of its long-term vision for a greener and cleaner Thane, the municipal corporation is intensifying its efforts to enforce pollution control measures across various sectors, from construction to transportation.

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