AI-based process management, automation, critical for Indian steel to remain competitive in the global market

Intelligent automation, digital twins, advanced analytics and process control systems driven by artificial intelligence (AI) will be crucial to ensure that the Indian steel industry remains competitive in the global market and responsible for the environment, Secretary of the Ministry of Steel of India Sandeep Poundrik said on Friday, February 20. in his speech at the India AI Impact Summit 2026, held in New Delhi.

The secretary of the steel ministry said that the country's crude steel production capacity target will reach 300 million tons per year by 2030 and rise to 400 million tons by 2036, up from 200 million tons currently.

This expansion will be supported by parallel growth in mining, logistics networks, processing facilities, and added value. Such rapid scaling requires intelligent real-time monitoring of capacity utilization, efficient energy management, decarbonization strategies, and optimized capital deployment, said Mr. Poundrick.

Therefore, AI is positioned as a strategic tool rather than a peripheral tool, he said.