The introduction of TMT bars in the late 1990s revolutionized the Indian construction sector in terms of strength and durability. This corrosion-resistant steel type is highly flexible as well as both heat and fatigue-resistant, making it one of the best options against earthquakes. As the Indian construction and real-estate sectors continue to demonstrate significant rise, the growing demand as well as the Indian government’s push for quality and durable infrastructure has been helping the TMT Bar Manufacturing sector experience tremendous growth over the last two decades. The Indian TMT Bar Manufacturing Sector is estimated to grow by $84.39 billion at a CAGR of 4.34 percent by 2027.
A Subsidiary of RS VIRLA Group, RS Virla (RVPL) is a leading TMT bar manufacturer, formed by two sister concerns of the Alliance, Shri Raghuvir Steel (RSPL) and Virla Gold Ispat (VGIL), in 2024. Led by industry leaders with more than two decades of extensive experience in the steel manufacturing sector, both RSPL and VGIL are already emerging TMT manufacturers and the strategic move of combining both firms to form RVPL reflects the management’s dedication to revolutionizing the TMT manufacturing sector in the country.
The Inception Journey
In the ever-evolving landscape of entrepreneurship, the story of the Group stands out as a testament to vision, resilience, and strategic expansion. Founded in 1982 by Ramesh Kumar Sahu and his brothers, the journey began with Ramesh And Brothers, a boutique jewelry venture nestled in the vibrant streets of Bengaluru.
The Group's ascent gained momentum with their foray into the hospitality sector, marked by the grand inauguration of Hotel Rajmahal in Beawar in 2000, under the astute nurturing of Takatraj Sahu. However, it was their astute recognition of the latent potential within the steel industry that set the stage for transformative growth.
In 2006, Dhirajbhai Patel, alongside brothers Alpesh bhai and Amit, laid the cornerstone of Raghuvir Steel Traders in Rajkot, a modest yet pivotal step that would pave the way for future endeavours in steel manufacturing. This initial venture sowed the seeds for the establishment of KRN Alloys, a steel manufacturing firm headquartered in Rajkot, under the seasoned guidance of Takatraj Sahu, Ranjeet Sahu, and Naresh Sahu, with Ramesh Kumar Sahu providing overarching supervision.
The Group's expansion transcended conventional boundaries, epitomized by the inauguration of Ramesh Gold Palace in Bangalore in 2012, breathing new life into their heritage in gold design. The subsequent establishment of Steewo Engineering in Jaipur in 2013, spearheaded by technocrat Mahesh Pareekh, heralded a new era of efficiency and innovation in steel production.
Under the adept management of Ranjeet Sahu, the Group ventured into metal powder manufacturing through KRN Alloys in 2017, marking a significant milestone in their journey. This foray was augmented by a strategic diversification into plastic granule manufacturing under the aegis of Labh Polyplast, led by Dipeshbhai Patel, and the inception of Krishna Jewels in Beawar in 2019, guided by the youthful vigour of Naresh Kumar Sahu.
In 2020, the Group embarked on a bold trajectory of expansion, forging alliances with the formation of Salasar Gases in Barmer, specializing in gas supply, and venturing into TMT steel manufacturing with the establishment of Shri Raghuvir Steel, led by Dhirajbhai Patel. This momentum continued unabated with the establishment of Virla Gold Ispat in 2021, under the visionary leadership of Takatraj Sahu.
The pinnacle of their strategic evolution came in 2024, as the Board orchestrated the merger of Shri Raghuvir Steel and Virla Gold Ispat under the unified banner of RS Virla, symbolizing a harmonious convergence of strengths and a streamlined approach to operations, overseen by the sagacious guidance of Ranjeet Sahu.
The saga of the Group epitomizes the spirit of entrepreneurship – a saga marked by innovation, diversification, and unwavering commitment to excellence. As they continue to chart new horizons and redefine industry standards, their journey serves as an inspiration to aspiring entrepreneurs and industry stalwarts alike.
Priority on Product Quality
In the realm of steel TMT and infrastructure sectors, a significant portion operates within an unorganized framework, primarily due to opacity in the supply chain. This opacity breeds an environment where substandard materials flood the market, driven solely by price advantages. However, the repercussions of this practice are dire, leading to structural issues such as water leakage, electrical problems, short circuits, and uneven floors when inferior TMT is utilized.
Recognizing the critical need for quality and sustainability, RVPL has remained steadfast in its commitment to delivering excellence above all else.
In the face of industry challenges, RVPL has undertaken proactive measures to rectify the prevailing issues. Central to RVPL's strategy is the elevation of product standards and the dissemination of TMT quality benchmarks to consumers through various educational channels. By fostering awareness, RVPL empowers consumers to make informed decisions, safeguarding their investments and ensuring the longevity of their structures.
Moreover, RVPL is revolutionizing the supply chain landscape by implementing an organized system that prioritizes transparency and visibility. Through this structured approach, every stakeholder - from manufacturers to distributors, dealers, and consumers - gains insight into the entirety of transactions, fostering trust and accountability at every stage. In essence, RVPL's unwavering dedication to quality assurance and its innovative approach to supply chain management are reshaping the steel TMT industry. By championing transparency, RVPL not only sets a benchmark for excellence but also paves the way for a more sustainable and resilient infrastructure ecosystem.
Amit Patel, Raghuvir Steel Traders, Dipesh Patel, Labh Polyplast & Takhat Raj, Sahu, Hotel Rajmahal
Extensive Focus on R&D
What makes RVPL stand out from the rest of its peers in the market is its extensive focus on R&D as well as cutting-edge technologies. The firm has an in-house R&D department that is focused on enhancing both product and process development. Recently, the firm has filed a patent for PRO-Bond Rib, a much advanced Japanese technology, for which, the firm had to procure German-made machines (HSE Thermex) to ensure a proper and consistent quenching system. The firm also advocates the manufacturing of ribbed bars, one of the latest TMT-bar manufacturing technologies, and has applied patent for the same. The team is also constantly looking out for process automation as well as new equipment that would enhance its current manufacturing process.
After manufacturing, these products further goes through third party inspection to ensure quality. Another USP of RVPL has been its strong network. Ranjeet has always been a huge follower of legendary Indian industrialist Ratan Tata and strongly believes in one of his quotes that says, 'If you want to walk fast, Walk Alone. But if, want to walk far, walk together'. A merger between RSPL Gujarat and VGIL Rajasthan, the firm has a strong Sales & Marketing team that ensures efficient marketing at the ground level.
Ranjeet Sahu,Managing Director & CEO, Mahesh Pareek,
Steewo Engineering, Dhiraj Patel, Shri RaghuvirSteel & Naresh Sahu, Krishna Jewels
Apart from that, RVPL is also actively working on introducing the Industry 4.0 system, a smart production system that is built around process automation as well as intelligent decision-making by integrating AI for troubleshooting. This gradual process automation has been helping the firm in terms of wastage monitoring as well as saving a lot of energy, which, in turn, is helping the firm achieve both profitability and sustainability.
Through their commitment to quality, sustainability, and economic development, they contribute significantly to the growth and prosperity of nation
Giving Back to Society
Driven by strong business ethics as well as superior product quality in terms of Indian market standards, RS Virla Group, since its inception, has built an outstanding reputation amongst its peers, shareholders, and clients across all of its business ventures. As part of its strong conviction in terms of giving back to society, the group has been associated with around eight schools and educational institutions, especially in the rural areas, helping them build infrastructure such as roofs, toilets, and so on, as well as providing necessary equipment and furniture. Apart from education, the group is also actively involved in helping children with intellectual disability.
Accomplishments & Future Roadmap
The group is well known in the Jewelry sector thanks to its craftsmanship and commitment to quality. In the next five years, one of the sister concerns in the jewelry sector, Krishna Jewels has formulated an ambitious scheme to inaugurate 10 retail jewelry stores across Gujarat and Rajasthan. Apart from that, the firm is also working on automating its jewelry ventures through 3D Jewelry Printing.
One of the sister concerns of RVPL, KRN Alloys currently accounts for around 8 percent of the overall supply within the Powder Metallurgy sector. However, considering the escalating demand, which exhibits a year-on-year growth rate of 12 percent, the firm is aiming to further augment its supply to the industry, targeting a substantial 25 percent share soon. Considering the fact that TMT Manufacturing is a low-margin business, RVPL is working on expanding the product volume to compensate for the profit gap. The firm has recently acquired several acres of land to develop a state-of-the-art infrastructure that can meet its manufacturing target both in terms of quality and volume.
Using its in-house R&D department, RVPL has also partnered with Tata Steel's R&D department to do further research on product recycling. “As part of our committed endeavors towards sustainability, in the next year, we are working on transforming both units under RVPL (RSPL and VGIL) to go green with solar and hybrid plants, which we will be commissioning around 2024 mid. Apart from helping the ecosystem, we are hopeful that this step will be helpful in terms of production cost optimization and profitability”, Ranjeet signs off.
.jpg "Artificial Intelligence to Revolutionize Advanced Chip Design")
