Lafarge plans to set up R&D facility in India

MUMBAI: French cement major, Lafarge, is mulling over to set up a research and development (R&D) facility in India for developing solutions and products to suit the growing demand of 'green' infrastructure and affordable housing, a senior company official said.

"Demand for new infrastructure and housing in India is increasing rapidly. This growth, however, must be met through new, innovative approaches to construction that take into account social, economic and environmental imperatives. We are mulling setting up a complete R&D facility in India," Lafarge Director (R&D), Pascal Casanova, told reporters here today.

The company, which has four cement plants in India, has, however, not yet finalised any plan on setting up a facility in India, he said, adding "we are currently studying the demand pattern of India."

Lafarge has already tied-up with IIT Madras, IIT New Delhi, IIT Bombay, Indian Institute of Science (IISc) at Bangalore for carrying out research in concrete quality, life and durability, Casanova said.

"Developing solutions to meet the specific needs of the Indian market requires close partnerships with local actors in the construction chain. We will continue to collaborate with more institutes for conducting scientific researches to address sustainable construction and global warming challenges in the country," he said.

Casanova also announced the launch of 'Lafarge Invention Awards 2011' to reward innovative projects for sustainable construction in the country.

"We are seeking to strengthen our collaboration with Indian construction innovators, through the awards," he added.