Statement — The Indian cement industry witnessed strong consumption growth: Apr–Dec 1999 cement consumption grew by ~17.5% over the same period in 1998.\n\nConclusions —\nI. There was a marked growth in civil construction in 1999.\nII. Repair works were carried out on a massive scale in 1999.

Introduction / Context:
Cement is a primary input for construction (buildings, infrastructure). A sharp jump in cement consumption plausibly signals increased construction activity. We assess which conclusion necessarily follows.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• 17.5% YoY growth in cement consumption (Apr–Dec period).
• No split given between new construction vs repair/maintenance.

Concept / Approach:
I follows reasonably: overall civil construction activity (housing, infrastructure, commercial) typically drives cement demand; a broad increase is consistent with a “marked growth.” II claims “massive scale” repairs specifically; the data does not isolate repairs, so this is not necessarily true.

Final Answer:
Only conclusion I follows.