Secretary of the Ministry of Steel, Sandeep Pondrik, stated that India's steel consumption has experienced an unprecedented surge, increasing from 77 metric tons in 2014-15 to 152 metric tons in 2024-25. He made this statement while addressing a session at the Ministry of Steel pavilion at the ongoing India AI Impact Summit 2026 in New Delhi. Mr. Pondrik expressed confidence that India's crude steel capacity is expected to reach 300 metric tons by 2030-31 and 400 metric tons by 2035-36.
The session brought together leading steel producers and iron ore miners to present their forward-looking roadmaps to AI innovators. The interaction fostered meaningful dialogue, identified high-impact use cases, and explored strategic partnerships aimed at accelerating digital transformation across the sector. The AI in Steel Pavilion at the summit is showcasing key industry problem statements, inviting AI solution providers to join the journey of transforming India into a global steel hub.