India's steel sector keeps up growth momentum in April-June: Govt
New Delhi, July 24
India's production of finished steel during June this year went up to 13.5 million tonnes, which represents a 3.8 per cent increase over the corresponding figure of 13 million tonnes in the same month last year, according to data released by the Ministry of Steel on Friday.
The country's production of finished steel for the April-June quarter of the current financial year now works out to 40.6 million tonnes which reflects a 4.9 per cent rise from 38.7 million tonnes in the same quarter of 2025-26, the figures showed.
India's production of crude steel during the April-June quarter touched 42.1 million tonnes, up 3 per cent from 40.8 million tonnes in the same quarter last year.
The country's consumption of finished steel shot up by a robust 25.6 per cent during June compared with the same month last year as demand from big ticket infrastructure projects taken up by the government in the highways, railways and ports sectors fuelled demand, the official data showed.
India's production of crude steel was recorded at 14.1 million tonnes in June, which is 4.5 per cent higher compared with the corresponding figure of 13.5 million tonnes in the same month of the previous year.
India's total crude steelmaking capacity reached approximately 222 million tonnes per annum (as of June 2026), keeping the industry on track to achieve the National Steel Policy target of 300 million tonnes per annum by 2030, according to an official statement.
During May, the government-owned steel giant SAIL announced its FY2025-26 financial results, reporting record sales volume of 19.93 million tonnes and revenue of Rs 110,810 crore. Sales volume increased by 11.4 per cent year-on-year, reflecting strong market demand and improved operational performance.
SAIL and NMDC are actively exploring coking coal asset acquisitions, nickel supplies in Russia following a May 2026 delegation visit. SAIL has formed an internal committee to assess potential opportunities, while NMDC is evaluating overseas coal assets to strengthen long-term raw material security, the statement said.
SAIL's Bhilai Steel Plant received Environmental Product Declaration (EPD) certification for its TMT Bars, reinforcing its commitment to sustainable steelmaking. The plant's 15 MW floating solar project generates approximately 34.25 million units of clean power annually, supporting lower carbon emissions and energy sustainability.
The certification enhances the product's environmental credibility and aligns with growing demand for green steel in domestic and global markets. These initiatives reflect SAIL's broader strategy to integrate renewable energy and environmentally responsible practices into its steel production operations, the statement added.
— IANS
Reader Comments
Impressive numbers from India's steel sector. The 4.9% quarterly growth in finished steel is solid, especially while global steel demand is sluggish. The SAIL EPD certification for TMT bars and the 15 MW floating solar project show India is serious about green steel. I work in construction in the US, and we are increasingly looking for certified low-carbon steel – this could open export opportunities. Hope the 300 million tonne target by 2030 is achieved without compromising environmental standards.
I'm genuinely excited about the 25.6% rise in consumption! Means our economy is humming and people have jobs. But we shouldn't ignore the environmental cost. The floating solar project at Bhilai is a good start, but steel is a dirty industry. Also, the SAIL revenue of Rs 1.1 lakh crore is great, but why is the profit margin not shared? Let's demand more transparency. My family's village near a steel plant still has polluted water. Sustainability isn't just about certificates!
Solid growth numbers from India. The crude steel capacity of 222 million tonnes per annum is impressive and puts India well ahead of the US. The National Steel Policy target of 300 million tonnes by 2030 is ambitious but achievable if infrastructure spending continues. However, I worry about global oversupply – China is still dumping steel. India needs to ensure its plants are efficient and cost-competitive. The SAIL move to secure coking coal from Russia is a hedge against price volatility.
A very positive report! My only thought: despite growth, why are steel prices still so high for common people? Housing construction costs remain prohibitive. The government should ensure increased production translates to affordable prices for domestic consumers. Also, the Russia coking coal deal smells of political compulsion – we need to diversify sourcing from Australia, Mozambique, and Canada for energy security. But overall, good to see SAIL and others performing well. Keep the momentum!
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