August 18, 2024

August 18, 2024

August 18, 2024

August 18, 2024

Leveraging Digital Twin for Optimized Project Lifecycle

August 18, 2024

August 18, 2024

Overview of Gopalpur Industrial Park

August 18, 2024

August 15, 2024

2024 industry trends in the agrochemicals (Fertilizers, Fungicides, Insecticides, and Herbicides) industry?  

Industry trends of the last 6-8 months were not favourable and have gone through fairly difficult times rather difficult times from March 2023 onwards for the agrochemicals industry globally. The prices of almost all technical were drastically reduced & the reductions were varying from 40% to 60%.  

After Covid, since the prices were going up and up slowly & continuously, naturally there was a trend to buy more quantity during 2022-23 and to some extent agro climatic condition and commodity prices were also favourable. However, after March 23, due to normalisation of production world over including China, the prices starting dropping quickly. This has resulted in having high cost inventories of technical & finished products with the manufacturers as well as large traders & distributors world over had  high inventories as well as that also purchased at a high price. 

Since the price of technical & finished goods started dropping around March 23, there was a panic situation and everyone wanted to dispose of their high cost inventory & hence there was a sudden southward drop in prices. 

The situation became even worst because demand in North & South America (especially Brazil) seemed to have almost halved partly because of unfavourable agro climatic conditions and even lack of rain/water in many parts of the world.  Naturally the distributors & dealers then wanted to dispose of their inventory even at cost or even at loss. 

This is evident from many companies’ financial results of year 2023 and 2024. Even today after a gap of 15 months from March 23, the demand seems to be fairly slow in international business.  

As far as Indian Agro chemical market is concerned, it was stable but again the price drop made it bit difficult for most of the Indian manufacturers. What helped Industry was average last year rainfall and good commodity and crop prices hence most companies could manage well around +/- 5 to 10% of their March 23 turnovers. 

However, we are hopeful that from July 2024 things should look better and we expect reasonable turnaround & demand for exports also.  

How has SML Group (SML Limited, SUMIL, R3 Crop Care, and Nourish Ag) performed in terms of revenue and profit during FY 2023-24? What's your revenue and profit forecast for FY 2024-25? 

As already explained above, SML as a group has fared well in comparison to many of our similar industries, specially keeping in mind the market conditions.  However, SML groups export was sizably affected & the export turnover reduction was about 45% during March 24.  Naturally, the SML group’s overall profitability reduced from around Rs. 225 crore (2022-23) to Rs. 175 crore in year 2023-24. 

Capex invested by the company in FY 2022-23 and projects where investments were made? Capex investment for FY 2023-24 and projects where it would be invested?  

SML Group is continuously investing huge sums into R&D, with a completely new greenfield seven acre R&D site for various new compounds. This is one of the only kind of research site which is primarily developed for testing of new molecules which are being developed for the first time by SML group. 

SML also opened a new R&D site at New Bombay for synthesizing new chemical entities (NCE). Of course, this is a beginning but it may be difficult to calculate ROI’s for such large 3 R&D centres now being operated. 

As regards to Capex, the sixth new site at Panoli is under construction with an estimated investment of Rs. 50 crore in the first phase. 

What's SML Group strategy with respect to Biological products (Plant based or Microbial)? Biological products which you would be launching in the first phase?  

We will soon be launching innovative biological products from our own R&D facility. Hopefully, these products will be launched by Oct -Nov 2024. 

SML Group has more than 500 patents (applied and granted). How will these patents help SML Group in terms of revenue and profitability?   

SML has over 500 patents and some of these will be used by SML Group for marketing, some may be licensed or given on a royalty basis.   

Initiatives taken by SML Group for enhancing process safety across all facilities/processes to make operation intrinsically safe?  

All the SML group manufacturing facilities are world class and safety is accorded top priority at SML Group.  

Sustainability roadmap of SML Group and key sustainability initiatives of the company?  

SML has just recently received the FICCI Sustainable Agriculture award on 30th November, 2023 on the initiatives taken for agriculture based decarbonization and reduction in greenhouse gas emissions thereby increasing farm productivity. 

Major CSR initiatives being undertaken by SML Group in FY 2023-24?  

SML Group spends a sizable amount of CSR money on education and healthcare. The company printed 1.8 million notebooks of 200 pages and distributed them pan-India in more than 3,500 rural schools. Similarly, during two years of COVID-19, SML Group made two million masks and distributed them pan-India free to farming communities, dealers, and employees. 

August 10, 2024

What is the total area and unique features of Kakinada SEZ Ltd?

Auro Industrial City (AIC), situated near Kakinada, Andhra Pradesh, is an expansive port-based industrial park under development by Kakinada SEZ. Covering approximately 5,600 acres, it will be complemented by the Kakinada Gateway Port, which includes a port backup area spanning 1,650 acres. Offering land options within SEZ and DTA formats, the park is designed to accommodate industrial units with a Plug and Play model approach. 

What is the current status of development of Kakinada SEZ?

The industrial park has already received approvals for its operation including Environmental clearance from Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change, Govt of India and Consent for Establishment (CFE) from Andhra Pradesh Pollution Control Board (APPCB). The basic infrastructure such as power, desalination water and construction roads are being developed. The development of specialized infrastructure such as Common Effluent Treatment plants, desalination plants is under process, 400/220/132 KVA substation and black topping of roads are in progress.

What are the main strategic priorities for the company in the next five years?

We aim to develop AIC, a port based industrial park with the advantage of being exports and imports, as a global destination by focusing on attracting domestic and international investments across various sectors by promoting the advantages of locating within the industrial park, such as favorable policies, logistical benefits, and access to markets. 

How do you plan to attract and retain investors in Kakinada SEZ Ltd?

Kakinada SEZ (KSEZ) comes under the PCPIR region. It is located on the central east coast and has a plug and play model. With all these advantages, KSEZ team is vigorously marketing the project in respective state, central and global level by attending conferences, associations and trade 

An upcoming port of Kakinada Gateway Port Limited (KGPL) will add additional advantages to the SEZ industries and will ease export and import business to enjoy long term logistical advantage. Hence, every industry will prefer KSEZ. 

What facilities are provided at Kakinada SEZ? 

The Industrial Park is in the process of development and will feature essential utilities, including a Common Effluent Treatment Plant with a capacity of 80 MLD and the capability to treat 25 MLD of HTDS, a Common marine discharge system, water sourced from a 150 MLD desalination plant, and power provided by a 400/220/132/33 KVA substation located within the industrial park. These utilities are complemented by other amenities and shared social infrastructure. The Park offers seamless connectivity to hinterland of India as well as global locations as deliberated below:

• Bharatmala Road (4 lane access-controlled highway - NH 516F) passes through the industrial park, creating seamless connectivity from NH16 at Annavaram to Auro Industrial City.

• A railway line from Annaravaram station to Kakinada Gateway Port is being developed to cater to the requirements of transporting cargo through Railway. 

• Kakinada Gateway Port is 3-4 km and Kakinada Seaport is about 25 km from the industrial park which shall ease the access of imports and exports. 

• Visakhapatnam airport is 135 km away, providing international air travel access. Rajahmundry airport is 78 km away, allowing additional domestic air travel.

What are the USPs for Kakinada SEZ? 

Strategic Location: Positioned near Kakinada, Andhra Pradesh, with proximity to major transportation routes i.e. National Highways, Railway network and the Kakinada Gateway Port, facilitating efficient logistics and access to both domestic and international markets.

Integrated Infrastructure: The industrial park is well planned with specialized infrastructure such as Common Effluent Treatment plant, Co-generation plant, Desalination plant and marine outfall apart from the basic infrastructure. 

SEZ and DTA Options: Providing flexibility with land options in both Special Economic Zone (SEZ) and Domestic Tariff Area (DTA) formats, catering to diverse business needs and preferences.

Plug and Play Model: The industrial plots earmarked are planned to enable businesses to quickly commence operations.

Government Support and Incentives: Incentives such as tax benefits and single desk clearance by the government supports us to attract and encourage investment within the industrial park.

What steps are being taken to ensure sustainable development and environmental responsibility within the SEZ?

AIC is planned by incorporating sustainable practices and environmental considerations into development plans to ensure long-term viability and minimize ecological impact.

How are you engaging with the local community to foster economic growth and job creation?

AIC has taken responsibility for regional growth and development and the CSR team is working towards development of the local community by identifying the needs and strengths of the local community. Special Action Plan is made for the development such as skill development center, training center, etc. Moreover, job opportunities will be available in Industries located in KSEZ and eligible personnel will get jobs in the related fields.

Can you please share some examples of successful projects and partnerships that Kakinada SEZ Ltd has undertaken?

KSEZ is becoming a hub for multiple industries with its advantages, around 10 Aqua processing units operating out of KSEZ and few more adding soon. With this KSEZ has become the largest aqua processing zone in the region/ state. The park is set to host Asia’s Largest Penicillin- G manufacturing unit. Apart, few other pharma-based companies have initiated construction and shall be operational in next 12-18 months. 

How do you envision Kakinada SEZ Ltd contributing to the overall economic growth of the region? 

Kakinada SEZ Ltd has the potential to significantly contribute to the overall economic growth of the region in several ways.  Firstly, it serves as a catalyst for industrial development by providing state-of-the-art infrastructure and a conducive business environment for various industries to thrive. This attracts both domestic and foreign investments, leading to job creation and income generation for the local population.

Overall, Kakinada SEZ Ltd plays a pivotal role in shaping the economic landscape of the region by fostering industrialization, facilitating trade, and promoting innovation, ultimately driving sustainable and inclusive growth for the benefit of all stakeholders.

How do you promote innovation and technological advancements within Kakinada SEZ Ltd?

Collaboration with Research Institutions: KSEZ fosters partnerships with leading research institutions and universities to leverage their expertise and resources. Collaborative research projects enable knowledge exchange, technology transfer, and the development of innovative solutions tailored to the needs of industries within the industrial park. Example: Indian Institute of Foreign Trade and Indian Institute of Packaging are establishing campuses next to the industrial park. 

Open Innovation Platforms: We facilitate open innovation platforms and collaborative networks within the SEZ, bringing together industry players, startups, academia, and government agencies to share knowledge, resources, and best practices. These platforms promote cross-pollination of ideas, facilitate technology scouting, and accelerate the pace of innovation.

How do you prioritize corporate social responsibility within Kakinada SEZ?

Prioritizing corporate social responsibility (CSR) within Kakinada SEZ Ltd is integral to our business ethos and strategic vision.

Stakeholder Engagement: We actively engage with stakeholders, including local communities, government authorities, NGOs, and industry partners, to understand their needs, concerns, and aspirations. This engagement informs our CSR initiatives, ensuring they address relevant social, environmental, and economic challenges faced by the community.

Community Development Programs: We design and implement community development programs that focus on areas such as education, healthcare, skill development, and infrastructure enhancement. These programs aim to improve the quality of life and socio-economic well-being of communities residing in and around the SEZ. 

Environmental Sustainability: We prioritize environmental sustainability by implementing measures to minimize our ecological footprint and promote conservation. This includes adopting green technologies, implementing waste management practices, and undertaking afforestation and biodiversity conservation initiatives.

CSR activities are being carried out in the form of providing breakfast to the government school students, skill development training, and rejuvenation of govt schools.

What initiatives are being undertaken to enhance the skill development and employability of local residents? 

Skill Development Centers: Establish skill development centers within the Industrial Park premises or in collaboration with local educational institutions to offer training programs in sectors relevant to the industries located within the industrial park, such as manufacturing, logistics, and technology.

Industry-Academia Partnerships: Forge partnerships with nearby universities, technical colleges, and vocational training institutes to design curriculum modules tailored to the skill requirements of companies operating within the SEZ. These partnerships can include internships, apprenticeships, and industry-sponsored projects to provide hands-on experience to students.

Vocational Training Programs: Offer vocational training programs in collaboration with government agencies, industry associations, and NGOs. These programs can focus on specific trades or skills needed in industries within the SEZ, such as welding, electrical work, machine operation, and quality control, etc.

Can you please outline the company's plans for expansion and diversification in the future? 

KSEZ may plan to expand its infrastructure to accommodate more industries and businesses. This could involve acquiring additional land, developing new industrial zones or parks, and upgrading existing facilities to attract a wider range of companies.

However, KSEZ's group company Auro Infra Pvt Ltd is well diversified into various businesses, including EPC, construction, realty, port development, mining, manufacturing of chemicals, etc. 

August 02, 2024

An overview of the core services offered by Shiva Engineering Services?

Shiva Engineering Services (SES) is proud to be recognized as one of India’s premier engineering and construction service providers. Our core focus lies in delivering end-to-end solutions across a diverse range of industries, including chemicals, specialty chemicals, agrochemicals, inks & adhesives, paints, pigments, food processing, FMCG, polymers, biofuels, and more.

From the conceptual stage till the plant commissioning, we offer a full spectrum of services, encompassing engineering, procurement, and construction. Our expertise begins with providing support for Front-End Engineering Design (FEED), cost estimation, basic and detailed engineering, procurement, and fabrication, construction and installation and extends till commissioning of the plant.

At SES, we differentiate ourselves by integrating cutting-edge solutions such as Laser Scanning and Drone Surveys into our projects. These technologies enable us to achieve unparalleled levels of accuracy while significantly reducing project timelines and costs. Our commitment to innovation ensures that we consistently meet and exceed the evolving needs of our clients.

How has the overall performance been for Shiva Engineering Services in 2023 -24 and what is the expectation from 2024-25? 

In FY 2023-24, Shiva Engineering Services (SES) experienced robust performance across various metrics, reflecting our commitment to excellence and client satisfaction. Despite the challenges posed by the global economic landscape, we maintained steady growth and delivered outstanding results in terms of project execution, client engagement, and financial performance.

Additionally, SES's international presence was strengthened as we were awarded multiple projects by leading conglomerates for their expansions outside of India. These achievements highlight our growing reputation as a trusted partner for global engineering and construction solutions.

Looking ahead to FY 2024-25, we are poised for even greater success. Building upon the momentum of the previous year, our strategic priorities include further expansion into emerging markets, diversification of our service offerings, and continued investment in technology and talent. We aim to capitalize on new opportunities, enhance operational efficiency, and strengthen our position as a leader in the engineering and construction sector.

Furthermore, SES remains committed to sustainability and environmental stewardship, integrating eco-friendly practices into our operations, and supporting our clients' sustainability goals. By embracing innovation, fostering strategic partnerships, and staying attuned to market dynamics, we are confident in our ability to achieve sustained growth and deliver exceptional value in the upcoming fiscal year and beyond.

What is the total number of orders received by Shiva Engineering Services in 2023 and what is the worth of these orders? What is the execution status of these orders?

In 2023, Shiva Engineering Services achieved remarkable success by securing a substantial number of orders, which reflects the trust and confidence placed in our capabilities by our valued clients. Our efforts resulted in securing orders with a planned capex exceeding 2000+ crores, encompassing both repeated and new customer bases, where we provide EPCM services to clients, within India and internationally. These achievements underscore SES's commitment to expanding our global footprint and penetrating new markets. By enhancing our capabilities and increasing our global reach, we were able to capitalize on emerging opportunities and solidify our position as a preferred partner for engineering and construction solutions. These orders signify a significant mutual trust and commitment between ourselves and our clients towards successful project execution, delivering excellence that exceeds expectations.

Regarding the execution status of these orders, we are pleased to report that a substantial portion of these projects has been successfully initiated and is progressing according to schedule. Our dedicated project management teams, skilled workforce, and robust infrastructure have played pivotal roles in ensuring the timely and efficient execution of these projects. While some projects are still in the early stages, we remain fully committed to delivering on our promises and meeting our clients' expectations. SES's track record of on-time delivery and adherence to project timelines continues to be a hallmark of our service excellence.

Moving forward, we are determined to build upon this success and further strengthen our position as a leader in the engineering and construction industry, both domestically and internationally.

How does Shiva Engineering Services differentiate itself from competitors in the industry?

At SES, we differentiate ourselves in the industry through a combination of comprehensive services, technical expertise, diverse field experience and a commitment to innovation and client satisfaction.

As a one-stop-solution engineering and construction services company, SES offers holistic approach to the project, providing seamless experience to the client. Our multidisciplinary in-house team of over 200+ engineers across Process, Mechanical, Civil Structural & Architectural, Electrical, Instrumentation and Control, Project Management collaborate closely throughout every stage of the project, ensuring optimal results and client success. SES's commitment to technology-driven decision-making sets us apart.

We leverage world-class software and tools for process simulation, engineering calculations, 3D modelling, and more, to achieve greater levels of accuracy in shorter timeframes. Integration of cutting-edge technologies such as Laser Scanning further enhances our capabilities, allowing us to achieve unparalleled levels of accuracy while significantly reducing project timelines and costs. Our commitment to innovation ensures that we consistently meet and exceed the evolving needs of our clients.

Are there any plans for expansion, either in terms of geographical reach or service offerings, in the near future?

Yes, indeed. We are currently strategizing expansion initiatives both in terms of geographical reach and service offerings. Soon, we plan to increase our manpower to enhance our capacity for serving a wider range of clients and projects. Additionally, we aim to expand our geographical footprint beyond India to cater to international markets.

While we already have a strong presence and working experience in over 20 states in India, we are also looking to leverage our expertise and experience to enter new markets abroad. With a successful track record in over 10 countries across the globe, we are confident in our ability to adapt and thrive in diverse international environments.

Expanding our reach both domestically and internationally aligns with our vision of becoming a leader in engineering and construction services. By broadening our horizons and diversifying our client base, we aim to strengthen our position as a trusted partner for delivering excellence in projects worldwide.

What sort of investment have you planned for the expansion?

As part of our expansion plans, we are committed to making necessary investments to support our growth trajectory. Our focus is on strategic investments aimed at expanding our operations, enhancing capabilities, and better serving our clients. These investments will enable us to grow exponentially in terms of both geographical reach and service offerings, positioning us for long-term success.

How does Shiva Engineering Services prioritize customer satisfaction and maintain strong client relationships?

We are 100% dedicated to our customers’ success. We believe in prioritizing customer satisfaction and maintaining strong client relationships at the core ethos of our business. We achieve this by placing constant communication and responsiveness, ensuring that we are always available to our client to answer their concerns promptly. Furthermore, we tailor our solutions to meet the unique requirements of each client, offering personalized attention and customized strategies to deliver results that align with their goals and objectives. We tailor our solutions to meet the unique requirements of each client, offering personalized attention and customized strategies to deliver results that align with their goals and objectives.

Can you discuss any specific initiatives or programs implemented by the company to emphasize sustainability and minimize environmental impact?

At SES, we are committed to sustainability and minimizing our environmental impact through concrete initiatives and programs. We have started several awareness programmes for our employees to reduce the use of plastics and paper in day-to-day operations.

To achieve our goal of Zero-Use plastic, we have implemented measures such as replacing single-use plastic with sustainable alternatives. Additionally, we are actively exploring solutions to further eliminate plastic from our operations and supply chain. In parallel to reduce the use of papers we are implementing digitalization strategies across our organization including transitioning to electronic documentation and communication systems. By proactively addressing environmental challenges and embracing eco-friendly practices, we are working towards a greener, more sustainable future.

Where do you see Shiva Engineering Services five years down the line?

In five years, we aim to envision SES as one of global engineering and construction services partner from India, renowned for its innovation, excellence, and commitment to sustainability. Our strategic roadmap includes expanding our geographical reach, diversifying our service offerings, and further enhancing our technological capabilities.

We look forward to solidifying our position as a preferred partner for clients across various industries, both domestically and internationally. Through strategic investments in talent acquisition, technology, and infrastructure, we seek to strengthen our competitive edge and deliver even greater success stories to our clients.