Advancements in Cement Industry: NCB’s New Initiatives
On December 23, 2024, the National Council for Cement and Building Materials (NCB) in Ballabgarh celebrated its 62nd NCB Day with significant advancements in the cement industry. The event featured the inauguration of an Advanced Calibration Laboratory and a 500 kWp Solar Rooftop installation. Joint Secretary of the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT), Shri Sanjiv Singh, led the inauguration, accompanied by Shri M K Singhania, Joint Managing Director & CEO of J K Cement Ltd., and Dr. L P Singh, Director General of NCB. The event also marked the release of a Hindi magazine titled “NCB Darpan,” highlighting the council’s ongoing efforts and achievements.
Advanced Calibration Laboratory: A Step Forward
The newly inaugurated Advanced Calibration Laboratory at NCB is a state-of-the-art facility designed to enhance quality assurance in the cement and construction industries. During his visit, Shri Sanjiv Singh interacted with the scientists and engineers working in the lab. This facility specializes in the calibration of various instruments, including Force Proving instruments ranging from 2 to 200 kN, mass measurements from 1 mg to 150 kg, and pressure and volume calibrations from 1.5 to 1400 bar.
This calibration system is one of the first of its kind in the cement and construction sector. It aims to support quality assurance efforts across various stakeholders, including public sector undertakings (PSUs), laboratories under the Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR), and both state and central government agencies. By providing precise calibration services, the laboratory will help ensure that the materials used in construction meet the highest standards of quality and safety. This initiative is expected to significantly benefit the cement industry, which plays a crucial role in national infrastructure development.
Solar Rooftop Installation: A Sustainable Initiative
In line with the government’s push for renewable energy, NCB has installed a 500 kWp Solar Rooftop system at its Ballabgarh campus. This initiative is part of the PM Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana, which aims to increase the share of solar rooftop capacity across government buildings. The installation is expected to reduce carbon dioxide emissions and lower electricity bills for the council.
Dr. L P Singh emphasized the importance of this solar initiative during the inauguration. He noted that the NCB is also assessing its carbon footprint through its startup, “Zero Carbon One,” which aims to help the council achieve a net-zero CO2 campus. The government has set a target for all government buildings to be equipped with solar rooftops by December 31, 2025, making this installation a significant step toward achieving that goal. The integration of solar energy into NCB’s operations reflects a broader commitment to sustainability and environmental responsibility in the construction sector.
Commitment to Research and Development
Shri Sanjiv Singh praised NCB for its ongoing research and development efforts in the cement industry. He highlighted the importance of establishing a Centre of Excellence for Building Materials at NCB, with support from DPIIT and other stakeholders. This center would focus on advancing technology and innovation in the sector, which is vital for meeting the growing demands of national infrastructure and housing needs.
The cement industry not only provides essential materials for construction but also creates numerous job opportunities, both directly and indirectly. It contributes significantly to the national economy. The establishment of advanced facilities like the Calibration Laboratory and the Solar Rooftop installation demonstrates NCB’s commitment to enhancing the industry’s capabilities and sustainability. As the sector evolves, continued investment in research and development will be crucial for maintaining competitiveness and addressing environmental challenges.
About the National Council for Cement and Building Materials
The National Council for Cement and Building Materials (NCB) operates under the DPIIT, Ministry of Commerce and Industry, Government of India. It serves as an apex research and development organization dedicated to advancing technology and education in the cement and construction industries. NCB focuses on research, technology development, and industrial services, ensuring that the sector remains innovative and efficient. For more information about NCB and its initiatives, visit NCB India.
The recent advancements at NCB mark a significant step forward for the cement industry in India. With a focus on quality assurance, sustainability, and research, NCB is poised to play a pivotal role in shaping the future of construction in the country.
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