Introduction
The iron and steel industry is integral to many other manufacturing sectors, being a feeder industry that provides essential raw materials like steel. This industry comprises several stages, starting with the extraction of raw materials and culminating in refined, usable products.
Inputs and Processes
Key inputs for the industry include iron ore, coal, limestone, skilled labor, and capital for machinery and infrastructure. The iron ore undergoes a smelting process in blast furnaces where it is combined with coal and limestone, resulting in purified steel. This steel can then be shaped and used to manufacture various items ranging from machinery to buildings.
Historical Location Dynamics
Historically, the ideal location for iron and steel production shifted. Before 1800, factories were situated near the resources. However, as technology advanced and production increased, steel mills relocated near coal fields and, post-1950, adjacent to seaports. This shift was largely due to the need for larger spaces to accommodate expanded steelworks and the reliance on imported iron ore.
Indian Context
In India, significant steel hubs emerged in regions such as Jharkhand, Odisha, and West Bengal, benefiting from local resource availability and infrastructure. Tata Iron and Steel Company (TISCO), established in Jamshedpur, exemplifies the development of this sector.
Conclusion
Today, the iron and steel industry remains a cornerstone of modern economic activity, essential for building infrastructure and supporting a variety of industries.