Attendees included senior officials from leading steel companies, defence experts, and government representatives. Discussions centered on leveraging India's rich resources and technological prowess to fortify the defence sector. The conference emphasized the role of steel in building a self-reliant and technologically advanced defence infrastructure, vital for national security and economic growth.
Keynote speakers highlighted India's strides in steel production and its applications in defence. Sh. Amarendu Prakash, Chairman and Managing Director of Steel Authority of India Limited (SAIL), stressed the need for increased steel consumption in infrastructure projects without compromising quality. He noted that initiatives like PM Awas Yojana and the significant capital expenditure in the fiscal budget are driving domestic steel demand, vital for the nation's development trajectory.
The event also showcased India's ambitious infrastructure projects, such as the Dedicated Freight Corridors (DFC), which have significantly boosted steel demand. Sh. Ravindra Kumar Jain, Managing Director of Dedicated Freight Corridors Corporation of India Limited, detailed the extensive use of steel in these projects and the future plans for expanding India's rail infrastructure. The Eastern and Western DFCs, recently inaugurated by Prime Minister Modi, were highlighted as pivotal in easing logistics and enhancing the transportation infrastructure.
Innovative applications of steel in defence manufacturing were a focal point, with discussions on the integration of advanced materials and technologies to enhance the durability and performance of defence equipment. Experts called for increased collaboration between industry and academia to foster innovation and address the evolving needs of the defence sector.
The conference concluded with a consensus on the critical role of steel and metals in securing India's defence future. Stakeholders agreed on the need for sustained investment in research and development to maintain a competitive edge in global defence markets. The event underscored India's commitment to becoming a leading player in the global defence materials industry, driving forward the vision of a self-reliant and technologically advanced defence sector.