By focusing on sustainability, we aim to contribute to a cleaner and greener world.
Y R Nagaraja
Managing Director, Ramky Infrastructure Limited
How do you assess India’s infrastructure growth and ongoing developments?
India’s infrastructure sector has experienced a remarkable transformation, leading to the development of top-notch facilities across roads, waterways, railways, airports, and ports. This growth has been driven by urbanization and increased foreign investment, positioning infrastructure as a cornerstone of India's rapid economic rise.
The government has introduced various policies to boost infrastructure development, including the National Infrastructure Pipeline (NIP), which was launched in 2020. The NIP outlines a total investment of Rs 111 lakh crore from 2020 to 2025, averaging Rs 22 lakh crore annually. Public-Private Partnerships (PPPs) have been identified as a key mechanism to accelerate progress and achieve these ambitious investment goals.
Utilizing PPPs strategically can help India meet its infrastructure objectives while ensuring sustainability and inclusivity. These collaborations bridge funding gaps, stimulate competition, foster technological innovation, and set standards for project execution. The synergy between the government and the private sector is critical to building resilient, future-proof infrastructure that will support India's prosperity.
Technological advancements: As of February 2024, the Smart Cities Mission has seen significant success, with 6,753 of 7,991 projects completed. Additionally, rural regions are expected to account for 56% of new internet users by 2025, highlighting the increasing connectivity between urban and rural India.
How is the company playing a major role in the development of India’s infrastructure?
Ramky Infrastructure is a key player in India’s infrastructure sector, executing a diverse range of projects that contribute significantly to the country's growth. The company focuses on delivering sustainable urban solutions through the design-build-finance-operate-maintain (DBFOM) model, ensuring the integration of environmental and infrastructural needs.
Ramky's expertise spans the development of highways, bridges, industrial zones, and essential urban amenities. The company ensures the efficient execution of these projects through its engineering, procurement, and construction (EPC) capabilities. Two notable projects include:
Hyderabad STPS Limited: This project involves constructing six decentralized sewage treatment plants (STPs) with a combined capacity of 480.50 MLD along the southern Musi River under the Hyderabad Urban Agglomeration Sewerage Improvement Project. The project, implemented in a hybrid annuity model, also includes a 15-year operation and maintenance period.
Visakha Pharma City Limited (VPCL): A successful public-private partnership, VPCL is a subsidiary of Ramky Infrastructure. It is a key component in developing the 2,400-acre Jawaharlal Nehru Pharma City (JNPC) in Visakhapatnam, a hub designed to support the pharmaceutical industry with cutting-edge infrastructure.
Through its collaboration with both government and private entities, Ramky remains at the forefront of India’s infrastructure transformation, utilizing new technologies and sustainable practices.
Which are the latest and upcoming projects of the company?
Recently, the company secured contracts worth Rs 131.19 crores in Ladakh for the Power Grid Energy Services Limited. These projects, under the Revamped Distribution Sector Scheme (RDSS), focus on minimizing technical and commercial losses in the Leh and Kargil districts by building seven electricity substations and installing distribution transformers. This project is expected to be completed by 2027-2028.
Additionally, Ramky is undertaking the reclamation of the Kodungaiyur dumping ground in Chennai through bio mining, under two contracts worth Rs 216.65 crores. The project aims to clear 66 lakh tonnes of legacy waste, transforming the 252-acre site. This initiative aligns with Chennai’s efforts to achieve 100% waste segregation by 2030 under the Swachh Bharat Mission 2.0.
These projects highlight Ramky's expertise in urban infrastructure and eco-friendly developments, showcasing their commitment to sustainability and environmental stewardship.
How do you look forward to the emerging opportunities in the Indian infrastructure sector?
The Government of India has prioritized infrastructure in its 2024 budget, allocating 3.4% of the total GDP to the sector, signalling a strong commitment to enhancing the nation's infrastructure. By implementing measures such as viability gap funding and market-based financing, the government is promoting private sector involvement, which is crucial for addressing fiscal constraints and stimulating private capital expenditure on key projects.
These efforts will not only expedite infrastructure development but also generate employment opportunities across various sectors. The influx of private capital and expertise will drive innovation, efficiency, and sustainability, positioning the Indian infrastructure sector as a critical component of the nation's long-term economic growth.
How do you look at India as the third largest construction market globally?
India is poised to become the third-largest construction market globally, contributing up to 9% of the nation’s GDP and supporting the livelihoods of approximately 71 million individuals. According to World Bank estimates, by 2036, 40% of India’s population will reside in urban centres, driving an unprecedented wave of urbanization. This transition will require significant investments in infrastructure, including affordable housing, sanitation, transportation, water supply, healthcare, education, and telecommunications.
The rise of a growing middle class, along with increasing disposable incomes and shifting lifestyle preferences, has fuelled the demand for both residential and commercial real estate. Additionally, the growth of organized retail and the expansion of corporate sectors have further stimulated the construction industry.
India's infrastructure strategy also emphasizes inclusive development, with rural infrastructure projects like the PM Awas Yojana and PM Gram Sadak Yojana receiving Rs 2.66 lakh crores in funding. These efforts are transforming rural landscapes, ensuring balanced growth across the country.
This dynamic environment presents significant opportunities for investment, particularly in the form of Foreign Direct Investments (FDI). As India strengthens its position as a construction powerhouse, this growth will reshape both its physical and socio-economic landscapes for generations to come.
What is your Mission 2025 for the company?
Our Mission 2025 for Ramky Infrastructure is rooted in our vision of becoming a leading global enterprise in world-class infrastructure development and environment management through sustainable growth. By 2025, we aim to expand our reach and influence in both domestic and international markets, cementing our position as a trailblazer in delivering eco-friendly and sustainable infrastructure solutions.
To achieve this, we are committed to ensuring quality, timely, and budget-conscious project deliverables. Continuous technology upgradation is at the core of our mission, enabling us to enhance operational efficiency, reduce environmental impact, and meet the evolving demands of the infrastructure industry. We are dedicated to embracing innovative construction methodologies, smart technologies, and eco-friendly practices that align with global environmental standards.
Our goal is to create long-term value for all stakeholders, including clients, employees, shareholders, and the communities we serve. By focusing on sustainability, we aim to contribute to a cleaner and greener world, while also fostering economic growth. Our Mission 2025 aligns with our vision, driving us to not only grow as a business but also as a responsible corporate entity that leads the way in sustainable infrastructure development.