India’s crude steel production during 2023-24 stood at 144.30 million tonnes (MT). Meanwhile, four years ago i.e., 2019-20, crude steel production was at 109.14 MT. Steel is a deregulated sector. Government acts as a facilitator by creating a conducive policy environment for the development of the steel sector. Steel plants are set up by the steel companies based on the market dynamics, logistics for raw material and other commercial considerations. Government as a facilitator has taken various measures to promote the steel industry in rural areas.
Government’s push for infrastructure development including through Gati-Shakti Master Plan, ‘Make in India’ initiative for the manufacturing sector and other flagship schemes of the Government provide impetus for the demand and consumption of steel in the country including in rural areas. Ministry of Steel has undertaken a project for development of Type Designs of Aanganwaadis and houses using Structural Steel as part of the Pradhan Mantri Aawas Yojana towards enhancing use of Steel.
Steel CPSEs viz Steel Authority of India (SAIL) and RashtriyaIspat Nigam (RINL) have appointed rural dealers and also engage in various promotional activities specifically aimed at educating rural India on the advantages of using steel. Iron Ore mining activities required for steel making are largely in rural areas and are an important source of employment to the locals.