COVER STORY: THE STRATEGIC LINK!  The cement industry is at a turning point. As the industry is changing, companies are generating value by concentrating on their micromarkets.   “Influencers play a major role in distribution channels” Nilesh Narwekar, CEO, JSW Cement, speaks on various innovations tried out by the company to make its entire distribution channel an exciting proposition.   “RMC is certainly an important distribution element”  Rajnish Kapur, Business Head-Grey Cement, JK Cement, says that unless there is an economy of scale, RMC will not be successful. Optimising logistics cost through innovations  From learner to leader: See how Shree Cement with the help of automation, machine learning and predictive analysis has optimised its supply chain management.   FEATURE: GRINDING: Clinker grinding technology in cement manufacturing  “Satellite grinding units are cost-effective proposition”  Pratap Kumar Ghosh, Group MD, Ercom Engineers, is of the opinion that we have to study the consumption centres as well as the availability of other additives, cementitious products.   “Ball mills are here to stay”  Makarand Marathe, Director–Cement Division, ThyssenKrupp System Engineering India, says, “Vertical mills are by far the best and most efficient method than semi finished or combicircuit for energy efficiency.   INTERVIEW: “Cement sector growth depends on the infrastructure sector”    Nitin Vyas, MD and CEO, Beumer India, believes that if Indian cement industry adopts inland water transport, the industry can save around Rs 4-5 per bag.   VIEWPOINT: Utilisation of Synthetic Gypsum from FGDs  The article discusses the quality of limestone requirements for FGD with expected quality of synthetic gypsum generated from power plants.