Rajasthan is poised to overtake Andhra Pradesh as India's largest cement-producing state, with Jaisalmer emerging as an important production hub. Between 2026 and 2029, six new cement plants are planned in the desert region, with an estimated investment of over Rs 1,700 crore. The new plants are expected to add nearly 16 million tonnes of cement production capacity to the state.
At present, Andhra Pradesh leads the country with a capacity of 62.5 million tonnes, while Rajasthan is close behind with a capacity of 55 million tonnes. Once the plant in Jodhpur is operational, Rajasthan is expected to overtake Andhra Pradesh as the largest cement-producing state in the country. In addition, several new plants under construction in the Nagaur region will further enhance production in the state. For now, Jaipur (Chittorgarh) remains the bellwether of cement production in Rajasthan, with major plants run by established manufacturers.
According to a senior official at the Investment Promotion Agency, the upcoming plants are not just proposals or memorandums of understanding. "The company behind these new Jodhpur plants is a leading player in the domestic cement industry and has secured the right to mine limestone.". It's only a matter of time before these plants are operational. The official added.
Historically, Jodhpur's economy has been dependent on tourism. Over the past decade and a half, the region has diversified its industrial base by investing heavily in solar and wind energy projects. Today, the addition of cement manufacturing has added a new dimension to Jodhpur's economy, combining industrial activities with the existing energy and tourism sectors.
Rajasthan's limestone reserves are estimated at about 2.5 billion tonnes, or about 26% of India's proven reserves. This rich resource, together with the proximity to major markets in the north and west and a sound transport network, makes Jodhpur an ideal location for cement production. Industry experts say the connectivity and availability of resources in the region will reduce logistics costs and ensure efficient production and distribution. The
state government's emphasis on industrial development is reflected in the provision of permits, mining rights and infrastructure support for these projects. The cement industry is expected to create jobs, attract related industries and contribute significantly to GDP growth in Rajasthan.
With these developments, Rajasthan is positioning itself as a key player in India's cement industry, while complementing its ongoing efforts in renewable energy and tourism. The strategic expansion into industrial production highlights the state's broader economic ambitions and readiness to harness natural resources for sustainable growth.