How Is The Building Material Industry Contributing To USD 10 Trillion Dream

Take a look at how the building materials industry is evolving, from traditional to more modern and eco-friendly solutions.

For generations, India’s approach to construction materials has been quite traditional. However, the nation is now undergoing change, embracing international trends and adopting a more modern perspective. This change is particularly evident in how we view essential elements like doors and windows. No longer seen solely as functional components, they are now valued for their ability to provide sound insulation and offer a sleek, modern look. This fresh perspective, developing over the past 15 years, shows a dynamic transformation within the building materials industry.

India stands on the precipice of a historic economic transformation. With a projected USD 10 trillion economy by the decade’s end, there are multiple projects and initiatives that presents the building material industry with unique challenges as well as opportunities. 

The upcoming infrastructure boom will necessitate a massive surge in demand for diverse materials. From the solid foundation of Ready-Mix Concrete (RMC), which is expected to grow steadily, to the innovative use of uPVC windows and doors, the industry will play a key role in shaping the future. This demand extends beyond traditional materials and includes sustainable solutions for eco-friendly construction practices. Building a strong transportation network is a key focus. The Bharatmala project aims to construct 44,000 km of new highways, while the Sagarmala project aims to create a string of efficient ports along the Indian coastline. These projects will need large amounts of cement, steel, aggregates, and asphalt.

Similarly, smart city projects coupled with rising urbanisation trends, is expected to drive demand for RMC, bricks, blocks, tiles, uPVC doors, windows, paints, and coatings. Social infrastructure development, encompassing projects like affordable housing and sanitation facilities, will further increase demand for materials for low-cost and sustainable housing units, sanitaryware and piping for sanitation projects.

Sustainability is no longer an afterthought. The building materials industry is continuously innovating to create new products that are not only durable and cost-effective but also minimise environmental impact. Green concrete, energy-efficient insulation, recycled building components, prefabricated construction, and bio-based materials are all key areas of focus. Safety remains paramount, establishing the safety and longevity of built facilities is a major responsibility of the building materials industry. Strict quality control measures, adoption of cutting-edge technologies, and investment in advanced testing facilities are all important to ensure the integrity of materials used in critical infrastructure projects.

The success of India’s infrastructure revolution relies on a collaborative approach. The building materials industry needs to work together with various stakeholders. This means forging strong partnerships to develop sustainable infrastructure policies, streamlining procurement processes for construction companies, fostering open communication, sharing information across the supply chain, investing in skills, and training initiatives to upskill the workforce. By working together on these fronts, the industry can create a strong foundation for India’s future infrastructure development.

With India moving forward, infrastructure development is set to play a key role in steering the nation towards sustainable and equitable growth. By embracing innovation, prioritising safety, and fostering collaboration, the building materials industry can be a key driver of India’s bright future.

Key Quotes on India’s Post-Budget 2024 Reaction

The 2024-25 budget presents a promising roadmap for India’s growth, with a strong focus on infrastructure development in both rural and urban areas. The record-breaking allocation of ₹11,11,111 crore for capital expenditure (3.4% of GDP) signifies a strong commitment from the central government in this area. The budget also encourages private sector participation in infrastructure development. Initiatives like viability gap funding and enabling policies create a supportive environment for companies to contribute their expertise and resources in the infrastructure, housing, and building materials sectors. This renewed emphasis on infrastructure, particularly in rural areas through PMGSY Phase IV, will accelerate the infrastructure works in these regions. We believe that the improved connectivity in rural areas, connecting 25,000 habitations, will create a significant demand for roads, bridges, and power grids etc. This will drive activity for construction companies and create a ripple effect throughout the building materials industry, with increased demand for cement, steel, and other essential materials. Furthermore, improved rural connectivity will act as a catalyst for housing demand. Easier access to markets and services will incentivize people to build new homes or renovate existing ones, leading to increased demand for housing materials and construction services.

Beyond this, the investment of ₹10 lakh crore to address the housing needs of the urban poor and middle class under PM Awas Yojna Urban 2.0 will spur growth in the real estate industry and the demand for construction materials.

By focusing on overall infrastructure development, this year’s budget presents a strategic opportunity for India’s economic growth and strong steps to realise the dream of a developed India @ 2047. 

Union Budget 2024 Expectations from Industry Leaders

As India prepares for the Union Budget 2024, industry leaders, economists, and policymakers share their insights.  The pre-budget estimates present key projections on fiscal policy, economic reforms, tax changes, and sectorial impacts. The budget is expected to push initiatives for various segments of the economy in line with the Viksit Bharat 2047 Vision, along with maintaining its fiscal prudence. The Make in India initiative is a cornerstone of the government’s vision to make the Indian economy a global manufacturing powerhouse. The Budget for the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir will also be presented on July 23.  Here are the key insights shared by the top Industry leader about the Union budget 2024.

“The government’s commitment to infrastructure development, particularly in tier-2 and tier-3 cities, holds immense potential to transform India’s landscape. This focus on inclusive growth through ‘Viksit Bharat’ will unlock new opportunities and propel the nation forward. However, rising costs of raw materials present a big hurdle. The upcoming budget brings a strategic opportunity to address this challenge. Reducing the GST on essential building materials like steel, cement, and aluminum would significantly benefit the sector and contribute to cost-effective infrastructure projects across the country, ensuring rapid and world-class development.”

“Similar solutions can help revitalize the real estate market, where rising construction costs have impacted affordability. Lowering the GST on these materials, coupled with increased domestic production, would incentivize developers and stabilize the supply chain. This would translate into increased consumer demand and a more vibrant real estate sector. Looking towards a sustainable future, we also strongly support increased investment in research and development of eco-friendly construction materials and technologies. Incentivizing companies that prioritize environmental responsibility will be a significant step toward a greener future for the construction industry. By working together, the government and the industry can leverage the upcoming budget to ensure continued infrastructure growth, a thriving real estate sector, and a sustainable future for India,” adds Aparna.

Aparna Enterprises Limited: Innovating for Modern India!

What are the emerging trends of the doors & windows market in the country?
 India’s doors & windows market is witnessing significant changes due to improving income, fast-paced urbanisation, and a growing focus on environment-friendly designs. There is an increasing trend toward energy-saving and eco-friendly products, methods, and materials. Consumers are mindful about material selection, with windows and doors made from uPVC (unplasticised polyvinyl chloride) and aluminium becoming more popular than other conventional materials. This is because they are energy-efficient, can be recycled, durability over conventional materials, and are relatively cheap. There is a spike in requirement for multichambered profile to enhance insulation effectiveness and utilising recyclable materials. Additionally, due to the increasing popularity of smart homes, there is a growing demand for smart windows and doors with superior automatic control, and enhanced security features. This has been further augmented by the demand for functional as well as aesthetic products wherein customers require products that can provide safety, better lighting, noise insulation, and require the least amount of maintenance. As the rate of urbanisation peaks, safety and longevity of products become priority. There is thus, a market for impact-resistant doors and windows, especially in areas prone to extreme weather conditions; this can also be true for high-rises where this property is essential as one ascends floors.

What kind of design innovations are trending in windows and doors?
The design trends in windows and doors are ever-evolving. With modern architectural trends and an increased focus on sustainability, the trends are shifting toward innovative solutions that enhance aesthetics, functionality, and environmental responsibility.

Slim frames and glass surface: Slim frames have become trendier owing to their sleek and modern appearance which gives a classy and modern touch to the space. The decrease in frame sizes leads to increased ratios of glazed areas, which, in turn, contribute to more light penetrating into interior spaces. This acts as a natural light source as well as helps save energy utilisation during the day by minimising the use of artificial lights.

Sustainable and eco-friendly solution: As environmental responsibility and energy efficiency continues to rise, consumers are opting for eco-friendly products that use recyclable aluminium. Many of these solutions incorporate enhanced glazing systems that can improve energy efficiency by limiting the use of energy for heating or cooling.

Integration of modern technology: The incorporation of modern smart technology is transforming doors with features such as keyless entry systems, fingerprint scanners, and remotecontrolled operations. These advancements provide increased security, convenience and control, making them an attractive option for tech-savvy homeowners and developers seeking to integrate cutting-edge technology into their building designs.

Blend of indoor and outdoor space: This design concept aims to create a smooth, uninterrupted transition between indoor and outdoor areas. This design layout will ensure that there is a blend between interior and exterior spaces. This is accomplished by the incorporation of large glass doors and windows and attractive design of the exterior living spaces to ensure that there are no dividing barriers between the two spaces. This design enables people to have the comfort of indoors as well as nature outside thus, providing an excellent harmony of the two. It is most popular among areas with favourable weather conditions throughout the year.

How are various materials taking lead roles in the current doors and windows market?
There is currently a significant focus on the usage of environment-friendly materials and their increased application in the windows and doors segment. Aluminium is gradually becoming the material of choice because of its advantages such as less weight, high strength, resistance to corrosion, and thin profile designs. These characteristics make aluminium windows and doors especially suitable for commercial and industrial applications, while having the potential to accommodate the architectural aesthetics of various commercial, industrial, and residential buildings. Another emerging product in the construction business of India is uPVC, acclaimed for features such as better strength, malleability, low maintenance, and good acoustic and water resistance. There is also a growing trend towards glass in windows and doors mostly used in sliding and pivot designs. Furthermore, fiberglass is becoming a popular choice due to its superior strength, durability, as well as insulation capability. The usage of these materials can be attributed to current trends toward improving the sustainability of construction, the practical function of structures, and appearance of buildings.

What are the latest products and solutions offered by the company in doors and windows?
Aparna Enterprises offers a comprehensive range of windows and doors solutions through its diverse brands. Aparna Venster provides durable and energy-efficient uPVC windows and doors systems, including sliding, casement, arch, and specialised designs tailored to various architectural requirements.

Aparna Alteza offers sleek aluminium window and door systems that are strong, versatile, and recyclable. These are suitable for modern aesthetics in both residential and commercial spaces. Additionally, Aparna Ökotech delivers high-quality uPVC profile solutions, ensuring durability and performance.

From survey and design to fabrication, delivery and installation to maintenance, our end-to-end solutions cater to every stage of the project, providing innovative designs and superior quality products to meet the evolving needs of our customers.

How do you look at the future demand trend for doors and windows?
The windows and doors market size is estimated at USD 207.86 billion in 2024, and is expected to reach USD 275.41 billion by 2029, growing at a CAGR of 5.78% during the forecast period (2024-2029). Arising architectural trends impact the windows and doors market significantly, as architects focus on security, sound insulation, and easy operation due to increasing concern with safety and comfort. To meet such demands, manufacturers are incorporating additional features like locks, tempered glass, soundproof glazing, and advanced door operating systems, which are fuelling market growth. This sector is experiencing significant development given the heightened concerns over sustainable designs and safer construction materials with low energy consumption and high impact-resistance characteristics. Hence, manufacturers are coming up with new products such as solar windows, dynamic glass, and adaptive shading systems. Additionally, there is an increase in the demand for uPVC and aluminium for doors and windows due to their eco-friendly and sustainable features. uPVC has been particularly well adopted in India mainly because of the material’s excellent thermal characteristic that entails heat retention during the winter season and resistance to heat during summer. As for the future outlook, doors and windows are expected to experience further growth due to an ever-expanding construction industry, the rising popularity of energy-efficient and environmentally friendly products, the incorporation of smart technologies, enhanced customisation, the rising popularity of uPVC and aluminium, and ongoing renovation and repair jobs in residential construction.

Ready-Mix Concrete Advancing Sustainable Construction

A coordinated approach by the government, industry stakeholders, and regulatory bodies is needed to overcome challenges, implement necessary changes, and propel the RMC sector towards further growth such that RMC continues to play a vital role in India’s infrastructure development and economic growth.

T Chandra Sekhar, Director-Technical, Aparna Enterprises Limited

The construction industry has undergone significant changes recently, shifting towards sustainable materials. With increasing awareness of climate change and environmental issues, consumers, developers, and policymakers seek eco-friendly solutions to minimise carbon footprints. Market research indicates that the demand for sustainable construction materials is expected to exceed $365 billion by 2027 due to enhanced legal provisions, health-conscious customers, and environmental awareness.

Advancements in green building materials represent a leap toward a more eco-friendly construction sector. Products such as green concrete use recycled materials like fly ash, slag/GGBS, and silica fume to reduce cement usage, a known carbon dioxide emitter. Manufactured Sand (M-Sand), made from crushed hard stones, is another innovative product that replaces natural sand, proving both economical and environmentally friendly. This product is being widely used in Indian metropolitan cities like Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai, Kolkata, Bangalore, Hyderabad, and Pune, where real estate is booming

Recycled metals and plastics are now being commonly used. Metals like steel, copper, and aluminium are being melted down and re-formed into new products, saving raw materials and energy. Solar-active buildings are incorporating solar panels into architectural facades, making buildings net energy producers.

Sustainable Measures in Producing Quality RMC

The advent of ready-mix concrete (RMC) has revolutionised sustainable and environmentally conscious construction projects. By incorporating industrial wastes like fly ash and slag into the blend, cement usage is minimized, reducing environmental impact. RMC comes pre-mixed, eliminating the need for extra mixing on-site, which decreases labour costs and shortens construction time. This not only helps in meeting project timelines but also reduces the ecological footprint associated with long construction periods.

Centralised RMC production allows for the efficient use of recycled materials and resources. Quality control is crucial to ensuring RMC meets the challenges of large commercial projects. The process starts with testing materials such as cement, aggregates, water, and admixtures for strength, purity, and gradation. Additional quality control measures include plant and field control, new equipment evaluation, concrete mixture optimisation, research and development testing, specification review, concrete performance evaluation, and failure analysis and prevention.

RMC – A Game Changer in Construction Industry

India’s burgeoning demand for infrastructure necessitates efficient and reliable construction materials, making RMC indispensable. Its efficiency, quality control, consistency, and time efficiency accelerate infrastructure development. Its use reduces wastage, enhances durability, and ensures superior consistency in large-scale construction projects.

Modern RMC plants use advanced technologies to minimise their environmental impact, along with efficient water usage, dust control measures, and the use of recycled materials. This supports India’s environmental objectives and fosters economic progress through sustainable construction practices.

RMC’s adaptability, efficiency, and eco-friendliness in meeting diverse requirements make it vital across commercial, infrastructure, and industrial sectors, from bridges and dams to roads and multi-storey buildings. The rising number of new RMC plants, particularly in tier II and III cities, highlights their growing demand beyond metropolitan areas.

Key Challenges and Solutions

RMC manufacturers face several challenges, especially in metro cities. These include traffic regulations, supply chain disruptions, competition from smaller players, logistical limitations, machine breakdowns, and environmental regulations. Addressing these challenges requires implementing risk management techniques, quality control practices, logistical efficiency, and environmental consciousness.

A significant issue in the RMC sector is the lack of skilled manpower. To address this, plant owners need to implement extensive training programs to equip personnel with expertise in concrete technology, quality control, equipment operation, safety protocols, and customer service. Skilling the personnel will lead to enhanced productivity, efficiency, and sustainability, driving the RMC sector’s growth and success.

Strengthening the RMC Industry: Government Policies and Regulatory Framework

Government policies and regulations play a crucial role in shaping the RMC sector in India. Efforts to promote RMC in infrastructure projects and smart city missions have significantly boosted the industry. However, further regulatory amendments are needed to simplify the framework, provide financial and tax incentives, and improve infrastructure. Investing in sustainability, research, and technology is essential to enhance RMC’s longevity and ensure a continuous supply of high-quality aggregates.

By addressing challenges, fostering innovation, and leveraging government support, the RMC industry can significantly contribute to a prosperous and sustainable future for India

Building Greener Futures With Aparna Enterprises Limited

The increasing demand for concrete innovation is driven by the urgent need for sustainable solutions in construction. With urbanization and infrastructure development on the rise, there’s a pressing demand for concrete that not only meets structural requirements but also minimizes environmental impact. Innovations in concrete technology are focused on sustainability, incorporating recycled materials, reducing carbon emissions, and optimizing production processes. Meeting this demand requires a concerted effort from manufacturers to invest in research and development, prioritize sustainability, and embrace cutting-edge technologies to deliver innovative, high-quality concrete products for the future. Aparna Enterprises Ltd [AEL] is one such company manufacturing a wide spectrum of building-material products, such as RMC (ready-mix concrete), uPVC windows and doors, Floor and Wall tiles, Aluminium window and door systems and Exterior Facades, Cold Roll form products etc. Most of these products are available in pan India and international markets through an extensive dealer network which constitutes more than 350 vendor partners for different brands.  

Constrofacilitator recently had an exclusive interview with Mr. Gopal Krishna is the Business Head for Aparna RMC. He is overlooking the ready-mix concrete division of the company and its business development. He is a visionary business leader with over 21 years of experience in crafting and executing strategic initiatives to drive top and bottom-line growth. His work in the construction segment, with a focus on cement and RMC, has focused on transforming businesses sustainable and profitable. He has achieved 100% growth in new business setups, revitalised underperforming regions, and implemented successful ERP/SAP projects. He has a remarkable track-record of successful rollout, management, and completion of projects by navigating complex challenges and making high-stake decisions.

During the interview, he shared insights on upcoming trends, innovations in the concrete construction industry, technological advancement, quality control measures  and much more.

Here are the excerpts from the interview. 

1.What do you foresee as the upcoming trends or innovations in the concrete construction industry, especially in terms of materials, technologies, or construction methods?

The dynamics of concrete construction is expected to undergo a dramatic transition as we enter a new era within the construction industry. With technological advancements, better materials, and modern construction methods, we are looking at revolutionising the realm of building materials. 

The future of concrete construction will be on the back of building a sustainable and greener future. Traditional concrete has very adverse effects on the environment with CO2 emissions from concrete production accounting for about 8 percent of global emissions. However, the advent of ‘Green Concrete’ can reduce the impact on the environment compared to conventional concrete. The goal of green concrete is to utilise recyclable materials for production, produce less carbon dioxide, and consume low energy for production, resulting in durable and economical concrete vis-à-vis its conventional counterparts.

Furthermore, the concrete construction industry is undergoing a pivotal shift towards the production of innovative materials such as Smart Dynamic Concrete (SDC), a revolutionary development aimed at significantly diminishing carbon footprints in the construction process. The use of SDC reduces the carbon footprint of concrete and the construction process through the lower cement content, less energy, and lower in-place vibration requirements. SDC offers several economical and technical benefits, including faster speed of concrete placement with less labour, higher durability, lower energy consumption, as well as higher economy, ecological and ergonomic performance. 

Drones are increasingly used in concrete technology and construction, with applications such as site inspections, progress monitoring, and data collection. Moreover, 3D printing is being used to make sophisticated concrete structures with a shorter turnaround time. This technology is aimed to transform how concrete is poured and cast, leading to faster, cheaper, and more precise construction method.

These trends and innovations have the potential to transform the concrete construction industry by improving efficiency, reducing costs, and enhancing project outcomes.

2.What initiatives or technologies are being explored to make cement production more environmentally sustainable?

Several initiatives and technologies are currently under exploration to enhance the environmental sustainability of cement production to mitigate the adverse effects of traditional concrete manufacturing on the environment. 

The exploration of Carbon Capture technology leads the march. Innovative approaches, such as carbon capture and storage (CCS) technology, help capture CO2 emissions during cement production. CCS results in reduced greenhouse emissions associated with the cement production process by repurposing CO2 for use as concrete additive. Moreover, green concrete and smart dynamic cement are increasingly finding prominence in this bid.

3.How do you ensure the quality control of concrete throughout the production process, from raw materials to the final product?

Aparna RMC undertakes various measures to maintain quality control of concrete from production through delivery. We have 27 plants which are computerised using MCI 360 and Siemens PLCs, which guarantee accurate batching, and continuous production. Aparna RMC employs this technology that helps make custom mixes of aggregates, cement and admixtures that ensures that we remain a reliable partner in the construction industry. Additionally, we have measures to check that the concrete is of high standard so that it meets the industry standards hence, ensuring that RMC supplied at the site continues to be of high grade.

4.What recent innovations in cement technology have influenced the performance and environmental impact of concrete?

Recent innovations in cement technology have influenced the performance and environmental impact of concrete in various ways. A recent study has found that substituting 90% of the coal with Refused Derived Fuels (RDFs) results in saving around 28.6 metric tons per hour of coal, and increasing the Sewage Sludge (SS) fraction in the total heat consumption by 6% leads to a 17 kg of CO2 emission per metric ton of coal. This approach can contribute immensely in curbing the high emission rate associated with cement production. Alternative methods of mitigating the environmental effect of cement production are continuously developed by researchers, engineers, and contractor companies using other cementitious materials like fly ash, slag, and other industrial by-products. Innovative approaches, such as carbon capture and storage technology, help capture CO2 emissions during cement production. This captured CO2 can then be used in concrete production, resulting in a significant reduction in greenhouse gas emissions. Moreover, the use of alternative materials, such as recycled aggregates is being explored to improve concrete performance and reduce the environmental impact. 

5.In what ways does your company incorporate sustainable practices in concrete production, such as the use of recycled materials or environmentally friendly additives?

Aparna RMC incorporates sustainable practices in concrete production in several ways. We incorporate recycled aggregates to the environmentally friendly concrete production, along with SCMs. Aparna RMC’s controlled batch process ensures wastage control and resource conservation through supplementary cementitious material such as fly ash, slag, and other industrial wastes. Our water management strategy involves reduced consumption and recycling water so as to limit their impact on the environment. 

6.What are the key factors influencing the quality and consistency of ready-mix concrete (RMC) during the production process?

To produce high-quality concrete, it is crucial to adhere to several key principles. First and foremost, proper mixing is essential, ensuring a thorough incorporation of cement, aggregates, water, and admixture to eliminate lumps and achieve a homogenous blend. Uniformity of the water to the cement ratio throughout the project is vital since excess water would compromise the concrete’s strength whereas insufficient amount makes the material difficult to work with, leading to a poor final product. The dimensions, form, and size of the aggregates also impact the concreteness of the mix, with the fine aggregates having to absorb more water for better workability. The use of only the best quality cement and aggregates that conform to specified standards is of paramount importance in achieving the greatest outcomes. In addition to that, it is important to note that the adoption of sustainable approaches such as the use of recycled aggregates and Supplementary Cementitious Materials (SCMs) not only minimises environmental burden on cement production but also improves quality of ready- mix concrete.

Aparna Enterprises Limited Featured In EPC World Magazine

The rise of RMC proves its uprising as not just an industry trend, representing a fundamental shift in India’s construction industry. Steering the industry’s philosophy towards more sustainable, efficient and higher-quality building practices with minimal time taken. Ready Mix Concrete plays a key role in supporting environmental priorities, resulting in less wastage compared to on-site concrete mixing.

In this feature, we take a deep dive to look at the innovations and Aparna Enterprises Limited contribution to the nation, the challenges faced and the strategies being deployed to cement RMC’s place as the bedrock of new India

RMC will be a key contributor in India’s ambitious target of $5 trillion economy by 2025. What is your take on this?

The growing economy of India has generated significant demand for ambitious infrastructure projects, thereby creating a need for robust and sophisticated construction solutions. As the construction industry relies heavily on Ready Mix Concrete (RMC), it emerges as a crucial part for driving economic growth by enabling the delivery of high-quality products and services.

The significance of RMC in India’s economic trajectory stems from its unparalleled efficiency and effectiveness in construction projects. With its emphasis on quality control, consistency, and time efficiency, RMC revolutionizes project execution. Further by enabling heightened productivity and meeting stringent timelines, RMC accelerates infrastructure development. It has emerged as a game-changer in the industry, offering improved consistency, reduced wastage, and enhanced durability.

In contemporary times, the widespread adoption of RMC aligns with the government’s emphasis on promoting sustainable development practices. Modern RMC production plants leverage advanced technologies to minimize environmental impact through efficient water usage, dust-control measures, and the incorporation of recycled materials. This commitment to sustainability not only supports India’s environmental goals but also fosters economic progress.

India is taking a giant leap in infrastructure development. What is the role RMC is contributing in this development?

India’s infrastructure development is undergoing a monumental transformation, with RMC emerging as an integral part in this progress. RMC offers unparalleled flexibility to meet diverse end-user requirements, making it indispensable across commercial, infrastructure, and industrial sectors. From bridges and dams to roads and multi-story buildings, RMC plays a vital role in shaping India’s sturdy modern landscape. The new RMC plants nationwide present lucrative opportunities amidst this infrastructure boom. The construction industry’s shift towards complex architectural structures, including commercial buildings, high-rise driveways, and coastal highways, underscores the soaring demand for high-performance concrete. In order to fulfil these ambitious projects and housing demand, RMC plants have gained significant growth.

Moreover, the expansion of the RMC industry to Tier II and III cities signifies its widespread adoption beyond metro projects. This expansion into smaller urban centers and rural areas highlights the growing demand for RMC products nationwide. RMC’s adaptability, efficiency, and eco-friendliness contribute significantly to India’s infrastructure development, aligning with the country’s ambitious construction goals and broader economic growth objectives.

How has your organization performed in the last three years?

Over the past three years, Aparna Enterprises (AEL) has made remarkable strides in the infrastructure sector, emerging as a leading provider of comprehensive building material solutions. Our commitment to innovation and customer satisfaction has been the reason driving consistent growth across all segments of our operations. In the recent past, AEL has witnessed exponential growth, propelled by strategic expansions and penetrating new markets. Last year, we expanded into the North Indian market, specifically the Delhi NCR region, with our uPVC business brand Okotech, which has swiftly established itself as a prominent player in the industry. We further ventured into South Asian markets such as Vietnam, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, and Nepal, leveraging the robust demand for Okotech products. Additionally, our RMC business has experienced substantial growth, with new units being established in key regions, particularly in Maharashtra.

Our performance over the past three years reflects our unwavering dedication to excellence and innovation. In FY23, AEL achieved a remarkable revenue of Rs 1,650 crore, underscoring our strong growth trajectory. Looking ahead, we are poised to sustain this momentum and explore new avenues for expansion. Innovation, strategic investments and a relentless pursuit of superiority are the driving forces behind AEL’s success. As we continue to push boundaries and set new benchmarks in the building materials industry, we remain committed to delivering unparalleled value to our customers and stakeholders, both domestically and internationally.

RMC is largely considered as an unorganized market where these players corner a major chunk of revenue. In light of this, what would be your strategy to increase your market share?

In the largely fragmented and unorganized market of RMC, establishing a prominent presence requires a strategic approach focused on quality control, innovation, and collaborative partnerships. We implement a multifaceted strategy which is aimed at delivering superior products and expanding our reach across diverse regions.

The most important focus for us has been prioritizing our product quality and exceptional customer service. We continuously innovate and enhance our product offerings. By introducing new products and improving existing ones, we aim to differentiate ourselves from competitors and attract customers seeking reliable solutions for infrastructure projects. Additionally, collaborating with trusted suppliers enables us to streamline product access and expand our distribution channels, thereby reaching a broader consumer base across various regions.

Furthermore, by acquiring established leaders in the industry or pursuing mergers with compatible entities, we can consolidate resources, broaden our target audience, and enhance overall competitiveness in the market. Amidst the increasing demand for high-quality products in the Indian market, particularly from multinational companies, we remain steadfast in our focus on quality and innovation which enables us to capture larger market share and driving sustained growth.

For the benefit of our readers, please share the challenges RMC manufacturers face while executing realty projects in metros

Execution of real estate projects in metro cities is a formidable challenge for RMC manufacturers. The real estate sector downturn weakened by liquidity constraints impacts demand and revenue streams. In addition, the traffic regulations and congestion on the roads do not allow the delivery of cement, which is very important for maintaining the quality of the product and the timely completion of the project. Another challenge is ensuring a constant supply of raw materials such as aggregates, with logistical limitations and supplier dependencies posing the risk of the disruption of the supply chain.

Additionally, the presence of smaller unorganised scale players in the RMC industry complicates the competitive scenario. Traffic regulations and city-space restrictions pose challenges for establishing commercial plants. These challenges call for the RMC manufacturers to come up with innovative ways such as diversifying the marketing efforts to semi-urban areas and improving the logistic operations. Collaboration with the stakeholders and advocacy for simple regulatory procedures are equally crucial for the smooth operationalisation of realty projects in metro cities.

What are the other challenges faced by RMC manufacturers while commissioning infrastructure projects in India?

Besides the mentioned issues, manufacturers of RMC also face multiple other impediments while deploying infrastructure projects in India. Throughout the whole process, from preparation to transportation and use of RMC, a large number of risks are present and some of them will lead to a lack of consumer confidence and diminished profits unless managed properly. Besides the internal factors, including the incorrect choice of admixture, machine breakdowns, and transportation accidents rank high among the external factors that call for sound management strategies for a streamlined flow of operations and effective completion of the projects.

In addition, factors such as the wrong mix formula, unjustified specifications for quality standards, and the transportation lag time contributed by the road traffic introduce unforeseen inconveniences to infrastructure projects. Furthermore, environmental issues may add up to more complex problems. Adhering to the regulations for the environment and minimising the environmental impact of the production and utilisation of RMC should be prioritised. 

Resolving these problems should be done through a solution that consists of risk management techniques, quality control practices, logistical effectiveness, and environmental consciousness so as to achieve the successful outcomes of RMC projects in India.

There is a paucity of skilled manpower in the RMC industry? What are the steps you are taking to increase skill manpower in the RMC sector?

The lack of skilled manpower in the RMC industry is a major problem in its growth and efficiency. Recognising this issue, we have implemented several steps to increase skilled manpower in the RMC sector. We have internal programs where extensive training are provided aimed at giving people the skills and the expertise needed for different positions in the RMC sector.

We equip them with knowledge on concrete technology, quality control, operation of equipment, safety protocols, customer service, etc. Our skill development helps in skill improvement and career development of the workforce .We invest in the training of professionals with the aim of improving the productivity, efficiency, and sustainability of the RMC sector, and in so doing, fuelling its growth and success in the long run.

Your take on the government policies and regulations and the tweaks required to propel the RMC sector

Policies and regulations of the government are integral in determining the evolution and growth of the RMC sector in India. Efforts by the government such as advocating the use of RMC in infrastructure projects and pushing its benefits in smart city missions has greatly helped the industry to grow.

Regarding the RMC sector, more amendments should be made. These include simplifying the regulatory framework in order to promote a friendly business environment for RMC manufacturers, financial and tax incentives to promote the use of RMCs, and improving infrastructure to stimulate construction activities that are the major drivers of demand for RMC.

Furthermore, sustainability, research and technology investment towards increased longevity of RMC, and a continuous supply of high-quality aggregates are critical for the sustainable growth of the product in India. All in all, a coordinated approach among government, industry stakeholders, and regulatory bodies is needed to overcome challenges, implement applicable changes, and take the RMC sector to the next level towards sustainability.

What are your expansion strategies for the fiscal year 2024-25? Are there plans to launch new products or is a Greenfield or Brownfield facility in the offing?

In the fiscal year 2024-25, our expansion strategies are twofold, to strengthen market presence in the North region of India and expand our reach beyond regional confines and actively engage in large and government infrastructure projects. Diversifying our market penetration in North India is a multiple strategic action process.

In line with this, we intend to create a more viable sales and delivery network by placing new sales offices and distribution centers at strategic points across the region. Our reputation will enable us to develop alliances and distribution networks in these regions, ensuring that our products and services cater to the specific needs and preferences of different markets. Along with market expansion attempts, we also aim to be part of government ambitious infrastructure projects.

We will keep on investing in modern production facilities and also upping the efficiency of our current units to remain steadfast and cater the burgeoning demand of the infra sector.

Alteza’s Elegance and Aesthetics Now in Pune

Aparna Enterprises has entered in the Pune market through its B2C aluminium windows and doors brand, Alteza.
The company later plans to expand its reach

 across the state, targeting key cities like Nagpur, Kolhapur, Nashik and Aurangabad. In the first year of its operations, it aims to capture 5% market share in the state.

Launched in 2019, the Alteza brand has created revenue of Rs 80 crore and has presence in all southern Indian states.

The company is planning to increase the revenues from the brand to Rs 150 Crore by FY 25 through expansion, and expects it to contribute to 15% of the revenue by FY27.

Aparna Enterprises has reported a topline of Rs 1850 Crore in FY24. The Hyderabad-based Company operates in the construction materials space such as ready-mix concrete, floor and wall tiles, aluminium window and door system, cold roll form products and elegant bath space and kitchens. 

Progress with Passion, Ms Aparna Reddy’s Vision

Why is Inclusion Important for businesses?

As a woman leader in the Indian business field, I truly think that an organisation’s diversity and inclusion are not just a moral obligation but a strategic necessity for the business’s success. Diversity contributes to a robust set of viewpoints, experiences, and talents in the team, which enables innovation and creative solutions for emerging problems.

Women, often underrepresented in leadership roles, bring unique insights that contribute to holistic decision-making. Empowerment of women through inclusion enables them to show their best qualities, to overcome gender differences, and to break stereotypes. A diversified workforce not only reflects the rich mosaic of society but also promotes flexibility in a business atmosphere with continuous changes.

On the other hand, inclusive practices not only improve a staff’s morale but also their productivity and commitment. The employees’ willingness to commit more towards the organisation’s prosperity is strengthened when they feel heard and taken into account. In this context, inclusion is a real game-changer when it comes to shifting the dynamic and positioning women for positions of leadership in every industry, with the eventual goal of businesses being run by women, even on the global level.

What steps can be taken to inspire inclusion in the Indian business landscape?

In the realm of building material manufacturing, inspiring inclusion requires a multifaceted approach. Companies can offer mentorship programs, workshops, and courses and train the leaders about the benefits of diverse perspectives, in the workplaces. As an organisation, we can induct women for more technical jobs and train them equally for niche engineering requirements. Once they conquer such techniques we must entrust them with respective responsibilities, with belief and with support, so that they get opportunities to showcase their unique achievements that will inspire others to follow as well.

The business associations and government bodies could shape the process by establishing policies that promote gender equality within business services. This could be done by granting tax breaks or other financial bonuses to business entities that show a clear intention to have women in top leadership positions.

Organisations, especially start-ups, must emphasise on an inclusive culture by offering equal opportunities to women entrepreneurs. Initiatives like establishing funding schemes for women-led startups, organising networking events for women founders, and providing startup incubators exclusively for this group would help to fill the gap. Established female entrepreneurs can also initiate such programs, provide mentorship and outreach, and guide the women wishing to start their own businesses.

By implementing such an approach we will not only promote a wide range of talents but also strengthen the development and vibrancy of the industry.

What’s your message for womenfolk across India, on International Women’s Day?

On this International Women’s Day, I want to send a message of resilience, empowerment, and unity to the incredibly strong women of India. Through this venture together to attain our ambitions and aspirations, let us be one while breaking the barriers and becoming inclusive. Embrace the uniqueness of yours, because they are the source of your significance. The collective force of women’s resilience and grit has the ability to forge societies. Let us keep backing each other up, pushing gender equality, and crafting an atmosphere where every woman achieves as much as she wishes. The power of our unity as women is beyond measure and as such, we look forward to a time in the future when everyone will appreciate and celebrate the immeasurable value women can create in various fields.

A Woman’s Vision Powering Progress

She believes that women are capable of anything in life and they should be given leadership and responsibilities in organisations since they excel at designing and conceptualising business ideas. She not only oversaw the company’s outstanding growth, but she also advocated for measures to increase the number of women in senior roles.

“My tenure at Aparna Enterprises Ltd. has been distinguished by a dedication to transformative leadership and an unwavering pursuit of innovation. After entering the organisation, I intended to instill a new perspective on our company and try to transform it to look beyond the immediate present. In 2012, I decided to open an urban outlet for kitchen and bath spaces in Hyderabad, which proved to be a watershed moment in our diversification efforts and demonstrated our commitment to meeting the market’s increasing expectations. Throughout the years, as we expanded our brand to include a variety of product such as Aparna Venster, Okotech, and Vitero Tiles among others, the brand evolved from a traditional ready-mix manufacturer to a large building material
conglomerate.”

“Another aspect I sought to change was the attitude towards women in leadership roles,
particularly the construction materials business. It was not only through my actions that I was able to break the norms of gen-der, but I also led empowerment efforts for women within our organisation.”