Bengaluru: Newly appointed Steel and Heavy Industries Minister H.D. Kumaraswamy emphasized the need for a steel research centre in Bengaluru to advance the industry’s research and development efforts. In a detailed meeting with top officials from the Steel and Heavy Industries Ministries on Tuesday, Kumaraswamy underscored that such an institution would be pivotal in providing the latest advancements in the steel sector.
Kumaraswamy, who has recently taken charge as the Steel and Heavy Industries Minister, also directed the ministry to enhance the production capacity of crude steel to 300 million tonnes by 2030-31, in alignment with the National Steel Policy (NSP) 2017.
During the meeting, the minister discussed strategies for reviving defunct or struggling iron and steel public sector undertakings. He instructed the officials to draft a proposal outlining the government’s approach to revitalizing these factories.
Highlighting the world-class quality of iron ore deposits in Kudremukh, the officials presented potential opportunities for leveraging these resources. Kumaraswamy stressed the need to increase steel production and urged the department to adopt a ‘Compete with China’ vision.
Furthermore, the minister reiterated the importance of supporting Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s ‘Make in India’ initiative. He emphasized that increasing steel production would not only create jobs but also significantly contribute to making India the third-largest economic power globally.
Kumaraswamy’s assumption of office was marked by the presence of his wife Anita, son Nikhil, brother-in-law and Bengaluru Rural MP Dr. C.N. Manjunath, along with other family members, signifying a momentous occasion for the new minister.
