Belagavi: Belagavi-based ISB Infrastructure Pvt. Ltd. has brought national recognition to the region by winning the prestigious “Best Special Structure in Steel 2025” award at the SSMB Awards held on November 27, 2025. The awards ceremony took place during the three-day Steel Expo at the Jio World Convention Centre, BKC, Mumbai.
The SSMB Awards are organised by Structural Steel & Metal Buildings (SSMB) Magazine in association with the Indian Steel Construction Association (ISCA) and are supported by the Ministry of Steel, Government of India. The awards recognise excellence and innovation in steel construction projects across the country.
ISB Infrastructure received the honour for its landmark project — the new building of the Chekiye Village Baptist Church in Dimapur, Nagaland, widely known as the “Sacred Waves” Church. Inspired by the biblical concept of Noah’s Ark, the church is a modern steel structure with a seating capacity of over 5,000 people and stands as a unique blend of faith, architecture and engineering.
The entire steel structure and roofing system were designed, manufactured and installed by ISB Infrastructure. The architectural concept was developed by Mr. Lima Tali of LT Design, Dimapur, while the structural design was executed by ISB’s associate structural designer, Mr. Dileep Kulkarni of Dileep Kulkarni & Associates, Belagavi.
Engineering Excellence Amid Challenges
The project is noted for its complex curved geometry, an impressive clear-span of 57 metres (187 feet), and extensive use of Building Information Modelling (BIM) and digital construction technologies. Executing such a large-scale project in the remote terrain of Nagaland posed significant challenges, including difficult logistics, limited road connectivity, shortage of skilled labour and harsh monsoon conditions.
One of the most striking features of the Sacred Waves Church is its double-curved, half-egg-shaped 3D roofing structure with daylight sheeting. The roofing was executed using cost-effective Galvalume steel standing seam technology, a rare achievement even when compared to premium materials such as aluminium or titanium zinc. This makes the project one of the few of its kind in India.
Triumph Over Industry Giants
ISB Infrastructure emerged as the winner in a highly competitive category, surpassing leading national players. Shapoorji & Pallonji Ltd., a Tata Group company, was declared the first runner-up, while the Pradhanmantri Sangrahalaya Building at Teen Murty Bhavan, New Delhi, secured the second runner-up position.
A Moment of Regional Pride
This achievement marks a historic milestone, as ISB Infrastructure becomes the first company from Karnataka, South Maharashtra and Goa to win this national-level award in the steel construction sector.
Expressing his pride, Mr. Ravindra Ganamukhi, CEO of ISB Infrastructure, said,
“The Sacred Waves Church is not just a structure, but a symbol of faith, resilience and innovation. Winning this award against industry giants is a testament to our team’s dedication, technical expertise and commitment to engineering excellence.”
The award stands as a proud moment for Belagavi and highlights the growing contribution of regional companies to India’s infrastructure and engineering achievements at the national level.
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