India’s Cement Industry: A Global Powerhouse in Infrastructure Development

India ranks second globally in cement production. Not only have Indian conglomerates made significant international acquisitions, but domestic manufacturers have also expanded rapidly—doubling the capacity of the third-largest producer, the United States. China continues to lead the global market, driven by robust internal demand, accounting for nearly 55% of the world’s total cement consumption.

The global cement market, valued at approximately USD 395 billion, is one of the most critical components in infrastructure development, typically representing 15%–18% of total infrastructure project costs.

The importance of cement in modern construction is evident from the fact that, per capita, the only material used more than cement is water. As China’s demand plateaus, countries like India—with increasing infrastructure needs—are building newer and more efficient plants that deliver higher output with reduced environmental impact.

However, the cement industry is also a significant contributor to anthropogenic CO₂ emissions, posing a serious environmental challenge. With growing pressure to meet international climate goals such as those outlined in the Paris Agreement, the focus on efficiency and sustainability has never been higher.

Condition Monitoring is playing a vital role in this transition. Given the harsh operating conditions and continuous nature of cement plant operations, effective monitoring systems are essential to reduce unplanned downtimes, improve equipment lifespan, and minimize environmental impact.