Cement is the backbone of construction, forming the foundation of modern infrastructure. India, being one of the largest cement producers in the world, is home to some of the most innovative and sustainable cement manufacturers. This blog delves into the top 10 cement companies in India, exploring their unique contributions to the industry, sustainability efforts, and their role in nation-building.
India is home to some of the world’s largest and most innovative cement companies, playing a crucial role in building the nation’s infrastructure and driving economic growth. Below, we’ve listed the top 10 cement brands in India that are renowned for their superior performance and commitment to sustainability
1. UltraTech Cement
Overview:
UltraTech Cement, the largest cement manufacturer in India, started as L&T Cement and was later acquired by Grasim Industries (Aditya Birla Group) in 2004. It is the market leader in producing grey cement, ready-mix concrete, and white cement.
Key Highlights:
- Product Range: Ordinary Portland Cement (OPC), Portland Pozzolana Cement (PPC), Portland Blast Furnace Slag Cement.
- Presence: 11 integrated plants, 101 RMC plants.
- Sustainability: Notable efforts to reduce carbon footprints and water usage.
Details:
- Market Share: ~25%
- Price Range: ₹350 – ₹400 per 50 kg bag
- Revenue (FY 2022-2023): ~₹50,000 crores
- Website: UltraTech Cement
2. Shree Cement
Overview:
Founded by B.G. Bangur in 1979, Shree Cement dominates northern and eastern India. It has over 50 MTPA production capacity and is known for its environmentally conscious operations.
Key Highlights:
- Product Range: OPC, PPC, Portland Slag Cement (PSC).
- Sustainability: Utilizes waste heat recovery systems and alternative fuels.
Details:
- Market Share: ~8%
- Price Range: ₹320 – ₹370 per 50 kg bag
- Revenue (FY 2022-2023): ~₹15,000 crores
- Website: Shree Cement
3. Ambuja Cements
Overview:
Ambuja Cement, famous for its tagline “Tootegi Kaise, Ambuja Cement Se Jo Bana Hai,” was founded in the 1980s and acquired by the Adani Group in 2022. It is India’s first water-positive cement company.
Key Highlights:
- Product Range: OPC, PPC.
- Sustainability: Certified water-positive, generates 2.7% of its energy from renewable resources, and is plastic-negative.
Details:
- Market Share: ~6%
- Price Range: ₹340 – ₹380 per 50 kg bag
- Revenue (FY 2022-2023): ~₹30,000 crores
- Website: Ambuja Cements
4. Dalmia Cement
Overview:
Founded by Jaidayal Dalmia in 1939, Dalmia Cement is a pioneer in using alternative fuels and green manufacturing processes.
Key Highlights:
- Product Range: OPC, PPC.
- Presence: 15 plants in 10 states with 44.6 MTPA capacity.
Details:
- Market Share: ~5%
- Price Range: ₹330 – ₹380 per 50 kg bag
- Revenue (FY 2022-2023): ~₹10,000 crores
- Website: Dalmia Cement
5. ACC Limited
Overview:
One of India’s oldest cement manufacturers, ACC Limited was established in 1936 and now operates 17 factories and over 50 RMC plants.
Key Highlights:
- Product Range: OPC, PPC, Ready-Mix Concrete (RMC).
- Sustainability: Focused on innovation and environmentally friendly practices.
Details:
- Market Share: ~6%
- Price Range: ₹340 – ₹390 per 50 kg bag
- Revenue (FY 2022-2023): ~₹15,000 crores
- Website: ACC Cement
6. Ramco Cements
Overview:
Founded in 1957 by PAC Ramasamy Raja, Ramco Cements is headquartered in Chennai, Tamil Nadu, and has a production capacity of 21 MTPA.
Key Highlights:
- Product Range: OPC, PPC, Sulphate Resisting Cement, RMC.
- Presence: 5 integrated plants, 6 grinding units, 1 packing terminal.
Details:
- Market Share: ~3%
- Price Range: ₹340 – ₹390 per 50 kg bag
- Revenue (FY 2022-2023): ~₹6,000 crores
- Website: Ramco Cements
7. India Cements
Overview:
Founded in 1946, India Cements operates eight plants and two grinding units with a total capacity of 15.5 MTPA.
Key Highlights:
- Product Range: OPC, PPC.
- Presence: Tamil Nadu, Telangana, Andhra Pradesh, Rajasthan.
Details:
- Market Share: ~2%
- Price Range: ₹340 – ₹390 per 50 kg bag
- Revenue (FY 2022-2023): ~₹5,000 crores
- Website: India Cements
8. Birla Corporation
Overview:
A flagship of the M.P. Birla Group, Birla Corporation operates 11 plants with a total capacity of 15.5 MTPA. It offers cement products for diverse construction needs.
Key Highlights:
- Product Range: MP Birla Cement Perfect Plus, MP Birla Cement Samrat Advanced.
- Presence: Major plants in Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan, Maharashtra.
Details:
- Market Share: ~3%
- Price Range: ₹330 – ₹380 per 50 kg bag
- Revenue (FY 2022-2023): ~₹6,500 crores
- Website: Birla Corporation
9. JK Cement
Overview:
Founded in 1975, JK Cement is a leading manufacturer of white cement and wall putty, with a production capacity of over 18 MTPA.
Key Highlights:
- Product Range: Grey cement, white cement.
- Presence: Plants in Rajasthan and Fujairah (UAE).
Details:
- Market Share: ~4%
- Price Range: ₹330 – ₹380 per 50 kg bag
- Revenue (FY 2022-2023): ~₹8,000 crores
- Website: JK Cement
10. Orient Cement
Overview:
A CK Birla Group company, Orient Cement began production in 1982 and operates with an 8 MTPA capacity.
Key Highlights:
- Product Range: OPC, PPC.
- Presence: Adilabad District, Telangana.
Details:
- Market Share: ~1.6%
- Price Range: ₹320 – ₹370 per 50 kg bag
- Revenue (FY 2022-2023): ~₹3,000 crores
- Website: Orient Cement
Factors to Consider While Purchasing Cement
When purchasing cement for construction projects, there are several key factors to consider to ensure quality, durability, and suitability for the intended application. Here are the main factors to keep in mind:
1. Type of Cement
- Ordinary Portland Cement (OPC): Most commonly used, suitable for general construction work.
- Portland Pozzolana Cement (PPC): Ideal for environments exposed to high moisture, it’s more resistant to chemical attacks.
- Rapid Hardening Cement: Used where early strength is required, such as for roads or pavements.
- Sulphate Resisting Cement: Best for construction in areas with high sulphate content in the soil or water.
2. Strength Grade
- Cement is available in various grades, such as 33, 43, and 53 grades, indicating the compressive strength (in MPa) the cement can achieve after 28 days of curing. Choose the grade based on the strength requirements of the structure being built.
3. Brand Reputation
- Opt for trusted and reputable cement brands with a track record of consistent quality. Well-known brands often offer better quality control and durability, which is crucial for safety and longevity.
4. Storage and Packaging
- Ensure that the cement is stored in moisture-free conditions and in well-sealed bags to prevent early hydration. Cement should be fresh, as it tends to lose its strength and effectiveness if stored improperly or for too long.
5. Workability
- Consider how easy it is to mix and work with the cement. The right workability ensures smoother application and reduces wastage.
6. Chemical Composition
- The chemical properties, such as the percentage of lime, silica, alumina, and iron oxide, can affect the cement’s performance in terms of setting time, durability, and resistance to environmental factors.
7. Cost
- While price is a significant factor, it shouldn’t compromise quality. Sometimes, opting for a slightly higher-priced but durable cement can result in better long-term value and fewer maintenance issues.
8. Setting Time
- Depending on the project, you may need cement that sets quickly or slowly. Cement with a controlled setting time is often required for large pours or complex casting processes.
9. Environmental Considerations
- Eco-friendly cement options, such as PPC, are made with supplementary cementitious materials like fly ash, which can reduce environmental impact. If sustainability is a priority, look for these options.
10. Local Availability
- Consider the availability of cement in your local market. Availability might affect delivery timelines and costs, especially in remote areas.
11. Compliance with Standards
- Ensure the cement complies with national and international standards, such as IS 269, IS 8112, or ASTM, depending on the location and type of cement.
Choosing the right cement is essential for ensuring the strength, durability, and safety of any construction project.
IS Codes Related to Cement
The Indian cement industry adheres to stringent quality standards outlined in various IS codes, such as:
- IS 269: Specification for Ordinary Portland Cement (33 Grade).
- IS 1489 (Part 1 & 2): Portland Pozzolana Cement.
- IS 12269: Ordinary Portland Cement (53 Grade).
- IS 455: Portland Slag Cement.
- IS 8041: Rapid Hardening Cement.
- IS 8112: Ordinary Portland Cement (43 Grade).
Download our IS code App for all kinds of Is codes in Civil engineering.
Benefits of Choosing Indian Cement Brands
- Cost-Effectiveness: Indian cement is affordable and widely available.
- High Quality: Adheres to rigorous IS codes ensuring superior durability.
- Eco-Friendly Options: Many companies now produce green and sustainable cement.
- Diverse Applications: Suitable for infrastructure, housing, and specialised projects.
Conclusion🎯
In conclusion, selecting the right cement is a critical decision that directly impacts the strength, durability, and safety of construction projects. Factors such as the type of cement, strength grade, brand reputation, and workability must be carefully considered. Additionally, the chemical composition, setting time, cost, and environmental considerations play significant roles in ensuring the cement meets project requirements. By choosing cement that adheres to recognized standards and is stored properly, you can ensure the long-term performance and reliability of the construction work.