The newly-appointed Indian union steel minister Jyotiraditya Scindia has said that India's steel production will double from the current 120 Mt to 240 Mt in the next eight years, adding that steel plays a major role in the country's economy.
''Today, India is the second largest producer of steel in the world with 120 Mt production.''
Jyotiraditya Scindia, India's union steel minister
"In any country's economic development, steel makes an important contribution. Today, India is the second largest producer of steel in the world with 120 Mt production. I am confident that the target that we have set to double it to 240 Mt in next eight years will be done," Scindia told reporters, 24 hours after taking on the new role.
"I have taken charge of the steel ministry yesterday only and I am not the one who starts lecturing without understanding the sector. I will take some time to understand the ministry and the sector," Scindia added.
The middle and small-scale industries also play a major role in the steel sector, accounting for nearly 50-52 % production through their nearly 3,000 units, he said.
"I will ensure that the production of steel in the country will be enhanced by taking medium and small industries along with the large units."
Jyotiraditya Scindia, India's union steel minister
"I will ensure that the production of steel in the country will be enhanced by taking medium and small industries along with the large units," he said.
When asked about his plans for the sector, Scindia said he will not comment until he discusses the matter with subject experts.
"I don't believe in making comments but on solid work. So far, only 24 hours are over of my taking over the charge and I am not aware of everything. Give me some time, as you have given me when I became the civil aviation minister," he said.