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India's building material industry plays a critical role in supporting the country's infrastructure expansion and housing growth aligned with the Viksit Bharat vision, according to Sumit Bidani, chief executive of Knauf India. The sector contributes to safety, durability and environmental performance of construction through advancements in materials such as gypsum-based products. With increasing urbanisation, climate challenges and evolving building standards, demand for high-performance materials is rising. The industry is also shifting towards sustainable practices, including recyclable materials and energy-efficient production processes. These developments are positioned as essential to ensuring long-term resilience and efficiency in residential, commercial and infrastructure projects across India.
India's construction and real estate sectors are increasingly dependent on advancements in building materials to support the country's infrastructure expansion and housing requirements, with industry leaders highlighting the role of material innovation in achieving long-term development goals under the Viksit Bharat vision. Advertisement
According to Sumit Bidani, chief executive of Knauf India, the building material industry remains a foundational component of India's growth trajectory, even though it often operates without significant visibility. As urbanisation accelerates and infrastructure projects expand, the quality, durability and sustainability of materials used in construction are becoming central to project outcomes.
He indicated that trust in construction begins with the materials deployed, as these directly influence structural safety, longevity and environmental performance. The industry has, in recent years, made measurable progress in improving material standards, particularly in ensuring that construction practices align with long-term sustainability requirements.
Modern buildings are also facing evolving challenges linked to climate conditions, including higher temperatures, humidity and variable rainfall patterns. In response, manufacturers have focused on developing high-performance materials capable of addressing these conditions. Bidani noted that gypsum plasterboards and advanced flooring systems are being engineered to offer fire resistance, moisture protection and improved thermal efficiency, contributing to safer and more energy-efficient buildings.
These materials are designed to slow the spread of fire, reduce water absorption in humid environments and support indoor temperature regulation, thereby enhancing occupant safety and comfort. Flooring systems, when installed as per specified guidelines, can also provide fire resistance for extended durations, adding to building safety standards in both residential and commercial developments.
The use of gypsum has gained prominence within the construction sector due to its relatively lower environmental impact compared to conventional materials such as cement. Its production requires less energy and results in lower carbon emissions, while its recyclability supports circular economy principles by reducing waste generation. Additionally, gypsum-based materials are chemically stable and low-emitting, contributing to improved indoor air quality.
Industry participants have also highlighted the role of lightweight materials in reducing transportation-related energy consumption, alongside offering greater flexibility in architectural design. These properties enable architects and developers to balance functional requirements with aesthetic considerations in modern construction projects.
The broader shift towards sustainable and performance-oriented materials reflects changing expectations across the real estate and infrastructure sectors. As regulatory standards evolve and environmental considerations gain prominence, the demand for materials that combine durability, efficiency and compliance is expected to increase.
The building materials industry, therefore, continues to play a central role in shaping India's built environment, supporting the development of residential housing, commercial spaces and infrastructure assets that align with long-term national growth objectives.
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