NCB Collaborates with DTU to Enhance Cement and Construction Skills
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
New Delhi, March 31 (NationPress) The National Council for Cement and Building Materials (NCB) has entered into a collaborative agreement with Delhi Technological University (DTU) aimed at enhancing the partnership between academia and research and promoting skill development in India's cement and construction industry, as stated in an official announcement on Tuesday.
This collaboration seeks to foster joint innovation and research initiatives in cement and concrete technologies. It will also offer valuable training opportunities for students, professionals, and industry stakeholders, aiming to boost skill enhancement and capacity building throughout the sector.
Furthermore, it will encourage the sharing of knowledge between academic institutions and the industry, facilitating the spread of best practices and technical know-how, as highlighted in a statement from the Ministry of Commerce and Industry.
The alliance is projected to make a substantial contribution toward the development of sustainable and resilient infrastructure in the country, thereby fortifying India's construction ecosystem through enhanced technical capabilities and collaborative efforts.
A recent report indicated that a significant increase in public spending has spurred private investments and heightened demand for essential industries like steel and cement.
Government infrastructure spending is expected to benefit capital-intensive sectors such as cement and metals. Total cement demand is projected to grow by approximately 6–7 percent, while steel demand is anticipated to rise by around 8 percent, according to another report.
Profitability for cement manufacturers is expected to improve by about 2.5 to 3.5 percent this fiscal year, driven by higher sales volumes and premiumization amidst stable selling prices and input costs.
Cement volumes are forecasted to increase by 6.5–7.5 percent year-on-year following a 5 percent growth in the previous fiscal year, with a moderate 5 percent growth anticipated in the first half and a projected surge of 8–9 percent in the second half, fueled by pent-up demand and improved liquidity.
Manufacturers reported a 5 percent rise in earnings in the first half of FY26. However, this momentum is likely to taper in the second half, with earnings expected to grow modestly by 0-2 percent, the report noted.
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