The first modern factory of cement in India was started in 1904 at Chennai (Tamil Nadu) in which cement was made from mussels. But this endeavour proved to be a failure. After that the first cement factory opened in 1914 at Porbander in Gujarat by Indian Cement Company. Around the same time factories were opened at Lakheri in Rajasthan (by Kilik Nixon Company), at Satna in Madhya Pradesh (by Khatau Company), and at Porbander (by Tata Sons Company).

Rajasthan is the top producer of cement in the country. The cement industry in Rajasthan began with the opening of a factory at Lakheri in 1912-13. This industry is concentrated around Nimbahera, Chittorgarh, Kota, Bundi, Sawai-madhopur in one belt. Some factories are also at Udaipur, Nagaur, Pali and Sirohi. There are 16 large, 5 medium and 130 private cement factories in Rajasthan. Chittorgarh has six large factories of cement and hence it is called the ‘Cement City’ of Rajasthan. Rajasthan produces about 16% of cement produced in the country. About 90% cement produced in the state is Portland cement and 10% is white cement. Factories of white cement are at Gotan (Nagaur) and Kharia Khangar (Jodhpur). Some famous companies have their factories in Rajasthan, e.g. J.K. cement, Mangalam Ceemnt, Binani Cement, J. K. Lakshmi Cement, etc.