GROWTH STORY TO CONTINUE
Off-Highway Research, a part of KHL Group in their half-yearly report, forecasts that in terms of percentage growth, India is expected to be the most buoyant major CE market in the near-term, with 21 per cent growth this year, and further improvements out-pacing global average growth in 2017 and 2018. It is expected to be the only major construction equipment market to show growth in 2016. In terms of numbers they expect 58,465 units to be sold in the country, while the equipment growth rate has been plus 37 per cent during the first six months of 2016 as compared to similar period last year.

?Infrastructure development is a key economic driver and enjoys an intense government focus that should accelerate demand for construction equipment in the country. India needs an estimated investment of Rs 31 trillion ($465 billion) over the next five years to keep pace with its growth targets, of which over 70 per cent would be needed for power, roads and urban infrastructure segments. The total budgeted outlay for the infrastructure sector for fiscal year ending March 2017 is Rs 2.2 trillion ($33 billion),? said the report.

The general buoyancy of the market is expected to see sales rise to 73,595 units in 2020. That would represent record volumes for the Indian equipment market, the previous high being the 67,898 units sold in 2011.

On the other hand, the government is determined to create an atmosphere of ease in doing business in the country which reflects in much better ratings now being attributed to India, by global analysts. Our Parliament approving the much awaited GST Bill, during the monsoon session is another testimonial to the same.

As a logical consequence to growing economy revival and expectations of large populace to move towards urbanised locations, the realty sector is fast reaching the threshold of turning around in the near future. As a result, and dearth of land in urban areas, construction of high rise buildings will be the order of the day. On the other hand, infrastructure construction in sectors like power is gaining momentum. All these developments will drive the demand and usage of various types, configurations and capacities of tower cranes in the country. Read our cover story on this essential equipment category which significant contributes to mechanising construction in these sectors.

Digressing from the more visible growing equipment sectors, Equipment India features Bulk Material Handling Equipment, an important range of equipment which substantially contributes to construction, mining, ports, aggregate processing and production.

Equipment India welcomes Urjit Patel the new Governor of RBI.

Our regular columns of interest to the readers continue.

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