India is now the world's second-largest market for cement after China, both in terms of production and distribution.

The cement demand will be majorly driven by the housing, individual home builders and the infrastructure sector.

Strategy-wise, focussing on a particular region can work in favour of the cement manufacturers to improve its market share, however, according to Nilesh Narwekar, CEO, JSW Cement, this can happen only with strong network and assured cement demand.

Ready-mix concrete segment is banking on the government's environmental initiatives to take off from the present level of activity in a big way.

The organised segment continues to focus on innovative special concrete, quality and timely delivery, while the unorganised players tend to reduce the operating costs by lower compliances tax evasions and employing unskilled labour at cheaper costs, says Atul Desai.

The steep demand growth in the first half FY19 has increased optimism in the industry earlier, which seems to be tapering after the latest round of fall in prices.

Indian cement industry is among the best in the world when it comes to energy efficiency. However, specialised training is essential to face and overcome certain unique challenges of the Indian cement industry.

Green shoots in IHB (Independent House Building) segment were witnessed in the last fiscal. Further, revival in rural economy is also aiding demand growth.

India has miles to go in terms of cement consumption and there is enough headroom for strong cement demand.